Going on a language stay in France is a variable investment: from €500 for a short immersion to more than €8,000 for a full semester with accommodation and activities included. The price depends mainly on the duration, the city chosen, the type of accommodation and the format of the courses (group or individual).
For a short immersion (1 to 2 weeks): count €500–1,200. This rate usually covers 10–20 hours of group lessons, sometimes accommodation with a family or hostel, and some cultural activities. Budget programs offer fewer activities and larger class sizes, while premium stays include private lessons and excursions.
One-month stay (2–4 weeks): €1,000–2,500. This is the most common length of time to progress. Schools in the provinces are often cheaper than in Paris. Homestay accommodation remains an economical option (full board); Student residence or shared accommodation costs a little more, but offers more independence.
Long-term stay (3 months and more): €2,500–8,000+. For an academic term or a semester, plan for registration fees, intensive courses, accommodation and daily life. University programs or accredited schools cost more, but often guarantee better supervision and recognized certificates (DELF/DALF).
Details of the items of expenditure to be anticipated:
– Language course: 150–600 € per week depending on the intensity and format (group vs individual).
– Accommodation: €150–800 per week depending on family, residence or apartment.
– Catering: €100–300 per week if you cook, more if you eat out.
– Local transport: €20–80 per week (monthly city transport card).
– Travel/student insurance and administrative costs: €50–400.
– Activities and excursions: €50–300 depending on the program.
Practical advice to reduce the cost: opt for off-season stays, favor university cities (Lyon, Montpellier, Nantes) rather than Paris, share an apartment, and choose group lessons. Also check the possible aid (scholarships, regional funding or company aid) and compare accredited schools (QUALIOPI, EAQUALS).
What is best not sacrificed: the quality of the teachers, the size of the classes and the administrative support (visa, insurance). Staying too cheap can limit real progress. In summary, a real language stay in France generally costs between €500 and several thousand euros depending on your objectives: the more you invest, the more the experience is supervised and rich in learning.
