See you in France to learn French

French, an international language

The new edition of the “La langue française dans le monde” (French language in the world) from the Observatoire de la langue française (Observatory of French Language) of the OIF has just been released, and new figures confirm the continued increase of the French language worldwide since 2018.

With 321 million speakers in 2022, French is the 5th most spoken language in the world after English, Chinese, Hindi and Spanish.

French is the second most learnt foreign language in the world with 51 million learners, and it is still growing on all continents.

French is also the 4th language in the world on the Internet (after English, Spanish and Arabic), and the second most used language in information media, including through RFI, France 24, and TV5 Monde.

French is also a language that is a synonym of professional activities. France is the most visited country in the world, the first country in Europe for foreign investments, with world-class higher education system that is gaining momentum in international rankings.

Learning French in France

You can learn French in many training centres in France. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced learner, for a short or long stay, you will easily find the right course for you. To ensure that you learn French in good conditions, choose centres with the “Qualité FLE” (French as a Foreign Language Quality) certification. This certification system for FLE centres guarantees you quality language training. You can also choose to learn French at university, in a university centre belonging to the Campus FLE network (ADCUEFE university centres for French as a foreign language).

Tests and degrees in French as a foreign language assess your level of French. They may be required for enrolment in a higher education institution. Many language schools, Alliances françaises, French institutes, etc., in France or abroad, offer quick familiarisation courses with French as a foreign language tests (TCF, TEF). The DELF and DALF exams require more structured and better planned preparation, but guarantee a good level of French for diplomas acquired for life.

When you choose to prepare in France for French as a foreign language tests or degrees, you guarantee higher scores and greater chances of success thanks to cultural and linguistic immersion.

Obtaining level B1 or B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is preferable for studies in French higher education, particularly for humanities and social sciences.

Campus France supports you in your studies in France

Campus France helps you define and implement your study project in France.

• To find a course to learn French: check out our catalogue of short stays and summer schools
• To find out about French language tests and degrees: read our “French as a Foreign Language tests and diplomas” sheet
• To learn French in a scientific and innovative environment: discover the French + Sciences programme
• From a tablet or a smartphone, prepare your language stay in France with the Immersion France application
• In your area, Espaces and Antennes Campus France (Campus France spaces and local offices) offer you information and personalized advice.