Did you know that there are around 300 million Francophones around the world? Learning the French language can open a great number of new cultural and professional horizons for you. So take advantage of your stay in France to learn French!
Why learn French?
First of all, nearly 300 million people speak the French language around the world, in approximately 30 countries where it’s the official language, either by law or in practice.
In addition to this, French is the language of diplomacy: for instance, the UN uses French as one of its work and official languages, just like many other organizations such as the EU (European Union) or the the Olympic Committee.
Therefore, speaking and writing French will be useful and practical not only inside of France in your everyday life, but also outside of it. You will be able to use it in 30 other different countries!
Since there are several higher education programs available in English in France, learning the French language wouldn’t be a requirement to get accepted or obtain your degree from the university. However, learning it while living in France will enable you to easily integrate the community, be more in touch with the locals and enjoy the thrilling experience.
How to learn French in KSA ?
The Alliance Française in Saudi Arabia is one of French Embassy and Campus France’s close partners and a main destination for anyone interested in learning French or exploring French culture in Saudi Arabia. It is the leading center in the Kingdom for teaching quality-based French and spreading Francophone cultures today. Each year, more than 2800 students, Francophones and Francophiles, are welcomed in their 4 branches (based in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar) with the main goal of learning and discovering the French language and culture.
How to learn French in France ?
Besides learning the French language in Saudi Arabia, you can learn it in a large number of training centers in France. Going from beginners to higher levels, whether it’s for a short or a long stay, you will be able to find the most suitable class adapted to your needs.
In order to find your language center, a list of centers are available on the catalogue of short programs and summer schools published by Campus France.
The French Embassy and Campus France also recommend you to study French in the French Alliance Française Network. You can find the most suitable Alliance Française Branch for you on their website.
For more information regarding learning French in France, make sure you download the mobile application Immersion France.
Complementary French lessons online
- To become familiar with French and the French culture, watch TV5 Monde, the international Francophone channel. On the Apprendre platform, it offers interactive exercises adapted to all levels of French learners.
- RFI Savoirs, the Francophone radio station, has exercises, informative dossiers and shows to help you learn and teach French.
- The Association Française pour la Formation des Adultes (French Association for Adult Learning) offers MOOC (Massive Online Open Courses), in particular on French as a Foreign Language (FLE) to teach beginners the basics.
French Language Tests & Certificates
There are several French tests and certificates to prove your level of French. They may sometimes be required when you enroll in a higher education institution.
- The TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français Test of Knowledge of French) is the official test of the Ministry of National Education. Designed by the Centre International d’Etudes Pédagogiques (CIEP - the International Center For Studies in Education), some tests may be taken online and by correspondence in certain countries. The TCF scores are valid for two years.
- The TEF (Test d'Evaluation du français French Assessment) is an international reference created and distributed by the CCI of Paris Ilede-France. It assesses the level of knowledge and skill in French on a scale of 0 to 7. It is available in an electronic version, and the result is immediate. You can sit the TEF as many times as you like.
- The DELF and the DALF (Diplôme d’Etudes en Langue Française (French Language Study Diploma) and the Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française (Further French Language Diploma) are official diplomas awarded by the Ministry of National Education. They incorporate six independent diplomas that certify to the holder's ability in the four areas of language competence. They are valid indefinitely. Unlike the tests, the DELF and DALF are acquired for life.
Alliance Française branches in KSA
You can contact or visit the Alliance Française branches:
- Alliance Française Riyadh, Assafarat: 011 281 65 40 – info.assafarat@af-ksa.com – Al Kindi Plaza Gate 14, Diplomatic Quarter.
- Alliance Française Riyadh, Arrabih – 011 281 65 39 – info.arrabih@af-ksa.com – Spring Center, King Abdulaziz Road, Ar Rabih.
- Alliance Française Jeddah: 056 609 3603 /055 762 88 90 - info.djeddah@af-ksa.com – Al Olaya Tower, 6th floor, Prince Sultan Road.
- Alliance Française Al Khobar -05 34 54 71 44 - info.alkhobar@af-ksa.com – Macro Twin Towers, Tower A, 5th floor, office 301, King Salman bin Abdulaziz street
Website: www.af-ksa.com
