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French Language & Culture
Aix-en-Provence, France
About the Program
Immerse into French language and culture as you attend class alongside other international students. Choose from a range of elective courses that deepen your understanding of French culture and complement your language learning; along with your language course, you’ll choose from elective courses in subjects like culture, European politics, literature, music, phonetics, translation, and writing workshops. Designed for students at beginning to advanced French language levels, all courses are taught in French in order to help hone your language proficiency, increase your understanding of French culture and history, and enhance your immersion experience.
Requirements
Overview
Aix-en-Provence
1/8/25 - 5/3/25
$16,295
13.5 - 15
Deadlines
Closed
11/1/24
Requirements
Eligibility
All Levels
2.5
High School Graduate
Where You'll Study
Aix Marseille University
Aix Marseille University, one of the oldest universities in France, boasts many prominent government leaders among its alumni. The university is centrally located near the famous Cours Mirabeau.
Aix Marseille University
Aix Marseille University, one of the oldest universities in France, boasts many prominent government leaders among its alumni. The university is centrally located near the famous Cours Mirabeau.
You’ll take courses through the Service Universitaire des Langues (SUL), the university’s French language school. Founded in 1953, SUL (previously known as Service Universitaire de Français Langue Etrangère, SUFLE) is regarded as one of the best French-language teaching centers in the country and hosts about 1,000 students from 65 countries.
SUL offers instruction in French at all levels—from beginning to advanced—and prepares students for the diplomas of the Paris Chamber of Commerce and other diplomas and certificates. At SUL, you won’t just learn French language: you’ll also gain an understanding of and appreciation for France's literature, history, and culture.
Credit Transfer Information
Aix Marseille University awards credits based on the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) system. CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations are based on the following conversion: 2 ECTS credits equals 1 U.S. semester credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Transcript Information
Students receive a transcript from Aix Marseille University upon successful completion of the program.
Accreditation
Aix Marseille University is recognized by the French Ministry of National Education as a degree-granting institution.
Grading
Grade conversions from CEA CAPA partner institutions abroad to a US grading scale are determined in consultation with our School of Record and benchmarked with other peer institutions in the field.
Please note that CEA CAPA can only recommend grade conversions to students’ home institutions—it is ultimately at the discretion of the home institution to convert grades from abroad to students’ academic records.
For further information or details about grade conversion for a particular host institution, please reach out to our Registrar at registrar@ceacapa.com.
Please note that CEA CAPA can only recommend grade conversions to students’ home institutions—it is ultimately at the discretion of the home institution to convert grades from abroad to students’ academic records.
For further information or details about grade conversion for a particular host institution, please reach out to our Registrar at registrar@ceacapa.com.
Classroom and Information
- Language and elective courses are taught by international faculty at Service Universitaire des Langues (SUL), an extension of Aix Marseille University for international students who wish to learn French.
- Periodic exams, homework assignments, and final exams are administered.
- Attendance of classes is mandatory and monitored by each professor.
- Class size ranges between 10 to 30 students, allowing for personalized attention.
- You’ll take classes with other international students of an equivalent language level, not with native French students.
- The French style of teaching may differ from that in the U.S. Be prepared to adapt to different classroom structures and coursework expectations for your school.
Amenities
Clubs & Organizations
Student Health Services
University Library
Computer Lab
Student ID
Internet Access & Wi-Fi
Language Learning Services
Student Sports Teams
Cultural Engagement
Dining Facilities
14.5
Credits
Program Structure & Courses
Each semester, beginning French speakers enroll in 2 language courses and 1-2 elective courses. High-beginner, low-intermediate, and high-intermediate speakers enroll in 2 language courses and 1-3 elective courses. Advanced and above speakers enroll in 1 language course and 2-4 elective courses.
Language courses meet for 26-182 contact hours/2-12 credits; elective courses meet for 26-40 contact hours/2-3 credits per semester. You may earn 12-18 credits (up to 260 contact hours) per semester and 24-36 credits (up to 530 contact hours) per academic year. Language courses meet 4-5 days per week; elective courses meet once per week.
You'll take a written and oral language placement exam before you arrive in Aix. Based on the results, you'll be placed in a language class and select electives at your particular language level. It is in your best interest to have multiple alternative courses approved by your home university prior to your departure due to course availabilities. To ensure that you receive credit for the language level you place into, have your home school pre-approve courses at several levels before you leave for France. Please consult with your academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Language courses meet for 26-182 contact hours/2-12 credits; elective courses meet for 26-40 contact hours/2-3 credits per semester. You may earn 12-18 credits (up to 260 contact hours) per semester and 24-36 credits (up to 530 contact hours) per academic year. Language courses meet 4-5 days per week; elective courses meet once per week.
You'll take a written and oral language placement exam before you arrive in Aix. Based on the results, you'll be placed in a language class and select electives at your particular language level. It is in your best interest to have multiple alternative courses approved by your home university prior to your departure due to course availabilities. To ensure that you receive credit for the language level you place into, have your home school pre-approve courses at several levels before you leave for France. Please consult with your academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Beginner Level Course Structure
Available Levels
Courses
The host institution has offered the following courses in the past. Please note that course listings will not be finalized until the start of the term.
*Courses with an asterisk indicate that the course has been associated with multiple subject areas.
Please click on the course title to view additional subject areas and detailed course information.
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner French | 100 | Fr | 188 | 12 |
| Phonetics for Beginners | 100 | En | 19 | 1 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT01 Jeux de rôle, dialogues et conversation 1 | 100 | Fr | 26 | 1.5 |
| AT04 Lire et écrire au quotidien 1 | 100 | Fr | 26 | 1.5 |
| AT06 Renforcement de l'écrit 1 | 100 | Fr | 26 | 1.5 |
| Français dans la ville (Jeux 1) | 300 | Fr | 26 | 1.5 |
| Jeux de rôle, oral et créativité | 300 | Fr | 26 | 1.5 |
Interested in taking your career to the next level?
Where You'll Stay
*Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.
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Mirabeau Student Residence - Shared Studio
Available:
Semester
Summer
An ideal apartment choice for students living in France for the first time. The Residence Mirabeau complex is located in the center of town, in the historical Quartier Mazarin a 2-minute walk from the main street, the Cours Mirabeau and a 15-minute walk to CEA CAPA's partner schools in Aix. Residence Mirabeau is made up of forty studios on three floors. CEA CAPA manages a handful of studios - the other studios are occupied by French and international students studying in Aix. You will be sharing a studio with another CEA CAPA student.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Office in Aix-en-Provence: 10 minutes on foot
- IAU College: 10 minutes on foot
- Aix Marseille University: 15 minutes on foot
Meals Included
- N/A
Roommates
- 2 students per room
- 40 studios in building housing French and some international students
Unit Amenities
- Small kitchen
- Shared bathroom
- Partial bed linens included
- Internet Access
- In-building paying laundromat
- Fans Provided
Apartment - Shared Room
Available:
Semester
Summer
All CEA CAPA students studying in Aix-en-Provence have the option of living in apartments while abroad. Located in or near the city center, these apartments cater to the independent, do-it-yourself type students who want to experience Aix just as the locals do. Cook tasty French meals with your roommates in your kitchen, explore the personality of the neighborhood that surrounds you and make your new Provençal apartment a home.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Office in Aix-en-Provence: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
- Aix Marseille University: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
- IAU College: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
Meals Included
- N/A
Roommates
- 2 students per room
- 3-5 students per apartment
Unit Amenities
- Shared Full Kitchen
- Shared bathroom
- Partial bed linens included
- Internet Access
- Washer Only
- Fans provided
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: $400 - $900
- Semester: $700 - $1,500
Shared Apartment - Single Room
Available:
Semester
Summer
All CEA CAPA students studying in Aix-en-Provence have the option of living in apartments while abroad. Located in or near the city center, these apartments cater to the independent, do-it-yourself type students who want to experience Aix just as the locals do. Cook tasty French meals with your roommates in your kitchen, explore the personality of the neighborhood that surrounds you and make your new Provençal apartment a home. Students choosing this option will have a single room in a shared apartment with 1 to 4 other CEA CAPA students. (Single rooms are subject to availability and additional fees apply).
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Office in Aix-en-Provence: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
- Aix Marseille University: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
- IAU College: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
Meals Included
- N/A
Roommates
- 1 student per room
- 2-4 students per apartment
Unit Amenities
- Shared Full Kitchen
- Shared bathroom
- Partial bed linens included
- Internet Access
- Washer Only
- Fans provided
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: $400 - $1,200
- Semester: $1,000 - $1,900
Aparthotel - Shared Studio
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
An ideal housing choice for students living in France for the first time. The Aparthotel complex is located just outside the center of town, in the university district, within walking distance from the CEA CAPA Office and partner schools in Aix. The Aparthotel is made up of 172 studios and apartments on five floors. CEA CAPA manages a handful of studios - the other studios are occupied by students and tourists. You will be sharing a studio with another CEA CAPA student.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Office in Aix-en-Provence: 15 minutes on foot
- IAU College: 20 minutes on foot
- Aix Marseille University: 5 minutes on foot
Meals Included
- N/A
Roommates
- 2 students per room
- 172 studios in building housing French and international students and tourists
Unit Amenities
- Kitchenette Available
- Shared bathroom
- Bed linens and towels included
- Internet Access
- In-building paying laundromat
- A/C
- Gym
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: $300 - $800
- Semester: $400 - $1,100
Homestay
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
Engage in Aix-en-Provence’s vibrant culture firsthand when you live in a homestay with a French family. For the culture-seeking type whose study abroad goals include improving French language skills and cultural understanding, homestays provide the opportunity to dive headfirst into the daily lives of Aix-en-Provence locals. (Additional Fees apply)
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Office in Aix-en-Provence: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
- Aix Marseille University: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
- IAU College: 10-40 minute walk or bus ride
Meals Included
- 2 meals per day – Breakfast & Dinner (M-F)
- Breakfast served on Weekends
Roommates
- 1 student per room
- 1-3 students per Homestay
Unit Amenities
- Limited Kitchen
- Shared-co-ed bathroom
- Bed linens included
- Internet Access
- Washer Only
- Central heating or space heaters
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: $500 - $1,800
- Semester: $1,700 - $2,900
Excursions
Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You'll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we've offered in the past.
What's Included in your Program
From housing to excursions, our programs include a variety of inclusions to enhance your study abroad experience! Here are examples that may be available in Aix-en-Provence. Inclusions vary by program – please contact our Enrollment and Advising team to find out what options are available for you.
- Personalized Pre-Departure Advising
- Visa & Immigration Advising
- Financial Advising
- Tuition and Registration
- Airport Pick-up
- Onsite Orientation
- City Tour
- Onsite Staff Support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
- Travel Medical Insurance
- International Emergency Service Support
- Welcome & Farewell Events
- Centrally Located Housing
- Cultural Engagement
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Excursions
- Host Institution Services & Amenities
- Official Transcript(s)
Sample Calendar
Below is a tentative itinerary for your program. Please note, dates and events below may change without prior notification. Contact CEA CAPA before purchasing airline tickets.
You will receive a finalized itinerary once you arrive onsite.
Note: Additional cultural activities/excursions or required course-related activities may be incorporated into your final itinerary. You are advised not to make personal travel arrangements until you have the final dates.
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
|
January 08
|
Arrival/Program Begins
Official Program Start Date. Students must arrive at the Marseille Provence airport on this date in order to be eligible for airport pickup. Students will then be transferred to their assigned housing. |
|
January 09 - 10
|
Orientation
Mandatory CEA CAPA Orientation sessions will be held. |
|
January 13 - 17
|
Orientation
Mandatory AMU Orientation will be held. |
|
January 20
|
Classes Begin
Classes begin at Aix Marseille University on this day. |
|
February 17 - 21
|
School Break
AMU is closed for Spring Break. No classes will be held. |
|
April 07 - 11
|
School Break
AMU is closed. No classes will be held. |
|
April 21
|
Holiday
Easter Monday. No classes will be held. |
|
April 28 - May 02
|
Final Exams
Final exams will be held at AMU. |
|
May 01
|
Holiday
Labor Day in France. No classes will be held. |
|
May 03
|
Program Ends/Move-Out
Official Program End Date. Students must move out of housing no later than this day. |
Sample Budget
This budget contains costs that you can take to your financial aid office. Please note that amounts may fluctuate; we've included a range of costs.
Federal law allows the use of financial aid to cover "reasonable" costs of study abroad including round-trip transportation, tuition and fees for the program, living costs, passport and visa fees, health insurance, and more.
Please note that all costs and charges listed below are subject to change without notice. With the exception of Program Price, all costs are estimates and may vary.