paris photo
I remember my first day of my flute lessons at the Schola Cantorum vividly. I was still adjusting to my new lifestyle in Paris and then I had new repertoire to learn right off the bat. What a way to be thrown in!
– Melissa Saternus
Bradley University

academic affiliate university

The Paris program is designed so that students can choose an experience that best suits their language level and academic interests. Students enroll at the Catholic University of Paris' Institute for Language and Culture (ILCF) for required language study and course electives.

The Catholic University of Paris

The Catholic University of Paris is a private university located in the Latin Quarter. Central College Abroad students enroll in university's Institute for Language and Culture (ILCF) alongside other international students. The institute features:

  • small class sizes
  • hands-on instruction from French faculty
  • a cafeteria for quick meals and snacks
  • library and internet facilities
  • informal French conversation groups open to all students.

Students earn 10-19 credits per semester, depending language level and the semester of study. Please use our French language guide for more information about determining your French language level.

Beginning level


Students at this level are discovering and practicing grammar, vocabulary and phonetics basics. Students will participate in a minimum of 12 hours/week of general French language. Beginning level courses include:

  • French language
  • Phonetics
  • Spoken French

Elementary level

Students at this level are acquiring grammar structures and vocabulary. In addition to required elementary level French language and phonetics courses, students choose one elective from the following areas:

Anthropology Literature
Art history Theatre
History Spoken and written French

Please see the course catalog for more course details.

Intermediate and advanced levels

Students at these levels may be developing spoken and written skills in language and communication or even undergoing a systematic review of their knowledge and skills in these areas. In addition to required intermediate or advanced level French language and phonetics courses, students may choose two to three electives from following areas:

Anthropology Linguistics
Art history Literature
Communications
Philosophy
Economics
Political Science
Fashion
Spoken and written French
French for business 
Theatre
History

Please see the course catalog for more course details.

Near-native speakers

Students with near-native language skills may take up to two classes at the Catholic University of Paris alongside French students. Please contact your Central College Abroad representative if this option is of interest to you.

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