French Language Course Options

Whether you only know how to say "Bonjour!" or already have some more advanced knowledge of French, we encourage you to take advantage of your time at the American Graduate School in Paris to learn French. This is a unique opportunity to gain what is both cultural enrichment and a highly valuable skill for your future career. In the case of students in the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in International Relations and Diplomacy, it also allows you to meet the graduation requirement.

We offer optional French language courses to the students enrolled in our International Relations programs, in partnership with the world-renowned French language school Alliance Française Paris-Ile de France. Courses take place in the same building where AGS is located and are taught by the experienced Alliance Française instructors.

Note that we organize these French language courses only for students enrolled in one of our International Relations and Diplomacy programs.

Course format and teaching methods

We propose a six-month course fitted to your level based on an assessment test performed at the start of your program. Classes typically meet three mornings a week over 24 weeks, usually broken down into two three-month periods, which usually takes place from the start of your program. Depending on your work and motivation, this course may allow you to progress up two or three levels on the CEF level scale , allowing you to reach an A2 level if you start as a beginner. You are welcome to take more classes beyond this first course if you wish to further improve your proficiency.

The teaching methods of Alliance Française promote the sole use of French language during class. Students in the classroom come from all around the world, which enhances the international atmosphere of your AGS classes. You can use the Alliance Française phonetics lab and multimedia resource center, which includes a well-stocked French film library. More information here .

Cultural activities

Along with your French courses, you benefit from the wealth of cultural activities offered by Alliance Française Paris-Ile de France: cinema club, museum visits, walks around Paris, exhibitions, etc. More information here.

Additionally, as an Alliance Française student, you are entitled to purchase the "Culture Pass", which costs 9 Euros for a one-year validity and gives you access to exclusive offers and preffered rates with a large number of theaters, movie theaters and other cultural partners around Paris and France. More information here .

Diplomas and Certifications

At the end of your studies at AGS, you have the opportunity to take an exam to obtain the DELF or DALF diploma of French language. It is not mandatory but AGS highly recommends taking it as it provides you with a widely recognized and valued credential. The DELF (Diplôme d'Etudes en Langue Française) or DALF (Diplôme Approfondi en Langue Française) - depending on your level - are diplomas issued by the French Ministry of Higher Education and accredited throughout Europe. They remain valid for life. More information here .

Tuition and fees

Tuition for the 24-week course is 2,200 Euros (note that this is a preferred rate over regular Alliance Française tuition.)

Other classes are charged at a 12% discount by Alliance Française Paris-Ile de France upon showing of your AGS student card.

The cost of the DELF or DALF exam ranges between approximately 100 and 250 Euros, depending on your level.

Note that French courses billed through AGS still fall under Alliance Française rules and policies regarding grading, withdrawal, and all other regulations.

See video of Alliance Française Paris-Ile de France: