How to Choose an Intensive French Course: 9 Factors That Matter
With so many schools, programs, and destinations available, choosing the right intensive French course can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to reach a higher level quickly, the right choice will determine how fast and how well you learn.
In this guide, we’ll cover the 9 most important factors to consider before enrolling in an intensive French course, so you can make the best decision for your goals, budget, and lifestyle.
1. Course Intensity and Hours per Week
Intensive French programs vary from 15 hours per week (semi-intensive) to 30+ hours per week (super-intensive).
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If you’re short on time and want fast results, choose a 25–30 hour/week course.
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If you prefer more balance, a 20 hour/week program allows study plus free time.
đź’ˇ Tip: Check if lessons include homework, workshops, or conversation clubs.
2. Class Size
The fewer students per class, the more interaction and speaking practice you’ll get.
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Small groups (8–12 students) = more personalized attention.
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Large groups (15–20+) = cheaper but less individual focus.
3. Level Placement and Curriculum
A good school should offer a placement test before you start, ensuring you’re in the right level (A1, A2, B1, etc.). Look for a curriculum based on the CEFR framework (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
4. Teacher Qualifications
Not all teachers are trained the same way. Choose schools where teachers are:
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Native or near-native French speakers
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Certified in teaching French as a Foreign Language (FLE)
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Experienced in working with international students
5. Accreditation and Reputation
Accredited schools guarantee quality. In France, look for accreditations like:
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Label Qualité FLE (official French government accreditation)
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Membership in international networks (IALC, Campus France, Alliance Française)
Always check reviews from past students to get an honest idea of the school’s reputation.
6. Location and Surroundings
Do you prefer to learn French in:
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Paris: cultural hub, but expensive
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Lyon: student-friendly, affordable, authentic
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Nice: seaside lifestyle on the Riviera
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Smaller towns: immersive, less English spoken, more affordable
Your environment will shape your learning experience, so choose a location that matches your personality and goals.
7. Price and Value
Intensive courses range widely:
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€200–€350/week for standard intensive (20h/week)
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€300–€500/week for super-intensive (25–30h/week)
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€40–€80/hour for private lessons
💡 Tip: Compare what’s included in the price (materials, cultural activities, accommodation support).
8. Accommodation Options
Language learning doesn’t stop after class. Staying with a French host family gives you extra speaking practice every day. Other options include:
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Student residences
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Shared apartments
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Independent rentals
Choose accommodation that supports your language goals and budget.
9. Cultural Activities and Immersion
The best intensive courses go beyond textbooks. Look for schools offering:
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Cooking or wine workshops
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Guided tours of the city
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Movie nights or conversation clubs
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Weekend trips (to nearby cities or regions)
These activities help you live the language, not just study it.
Conclusion
Choosing an intensive French course is more than just comparing prices. You’ll need to consider class size, intensity, teacher quality, and location to find the right match. By keeping these 9 factors in mind, you’ll set yourself up for a rewarding experience and fast progress in French.
👉 Ready to find your course? Explore our recommendations and start your French journey today!
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