To learn French in France, a first-rate school with an excellent track record

Learn French in Paris or Dijon

Quality French tuition and premium customer service.

 

The École Suisse Internationale welcomes students all year round to study French in a friendly and conducive learning environment. Our teaching methods are effective and we offer programs that can be adapted to accommodate your needs.
 

• Two intimately-sized French language schools designed to optimize networking, connection and communication opportunities.
• A warm family atmosphere in two spacious, comfortable settings.
• Small-sized French classes for each proficiency level.
• Flexible French language program options.
• Individual support mechanisms adapted to each student’s profile.
• Highly qualified and experienced teaching and administrative staff.
• Our teaching approach is verified and certified annually by the Swiss EduQua quality label.
• Our school in Paris is a private higher education establishment (Etablissement d'Enseignement Supérieur Privé).
   

Discover the pleasure of learning and expressing yourself in French. Enjoy an authentic French experience.

 

• Full immersion in French language and culture.
• Opportunities for spoken exchange and intensive conversational practice both inside and outside class-time.
• Active, participative teaching methods.
• Methodical, concrete French tuition.
• Original course materials developed entirely by our teaching staff.
• Individual educational support to tailor the learning experience to your personal needs and objectives.
• Native French language teachers to assist you with making solid, rapid progress.
   

► DISCOVER OUR FRENCH CLASSES IN PARIS

► DISCOVER OUR FRENCH CLASSES IN DIJON

► DISCOVER OUR ONLINE FRENCH CLASSES

 

A long history of teaching French and hosting cultural exchanges.

 

The École Suisse Internationale is the primary activity of the Cercle Commercial Suisse, a nonprofit association founded in 1881 in Paris. We first inaugurated our French school in Paris in 1933, and then our school in Dijon in 1995. Over the course of all these years, the École Suisse Internationale has established a solid track record in teaching language learners from a range of different backgrounds (students, professionals, teachers…) and who hail from different nations around the world.
 

► DISCOVER OUR HISTORY

 

► FIND ALL THE NEWS ABOUT OUR SCHOOL IN PARIS

► FIND ALL THE NEWS ABOUT OUR SCHOOL IN DIJON

Our students share their experience

 

 

 

Yadira C.P.

 (Translation) It is a language school with a methodology that allows you to learn French very quickly and in a very pleasant way. It has the following characteristics that make it unique: 1. Work on the 4 linguistic competences through a variety of activities in groups of no more than 8 people. 2. The cultural outing which allows an approach to the French culture and a space to practise French. 3. A very familiar environment, so to speak, in which you have the opportunity to interact with your classmates and teachers in French inside the school, either during the break, at lunch or in the spaces where you don't have classes, but you have access to study areas and a very complete library. 4. Personalised follow-up that allows you to know your opportunities for improvement, and to ask for reinforcement in subjects that are of interest to you. I recommend it! (October 2024)

 

Christina L.

  (Translation)  I was in École Suisse International Paris for several weeks, and I am very satisfied with the courses and the school. The courses were very instructive and my French improved quickly. The lessons are very interactive and you get the chance to talk and ask all questions during the lesson. All the students and teachers also helped to make the experience better. The teachers and principal are amazing and you get to know everyone and they are very welcoming. The school itself felt almost like a small family, as the classes are small and you get to know people during breaks and lunches. I have gone back to the school several times to take more courses, and I am sure I will go back again in the future! (September 2024)

 

Linda N.

 (Translation) I studied French for two weeks in September 2024, at beginner level. I can highly recommend the school to anyone who wants to learn French!

I had studied foreign languages before, including at university in Sweden, but didn't feel that I had learnt to actually speak - which I certainly learnt here. The focus is on learning to actively speak the language, and French is spoken from day one even at the beginner level, which is very good for learning.

The group was small which meant you were active all the time. I combined studying French in a group in the mornings with having private lessons in the afternoons, which was a good arrangement.

Compared to other language courses I have taken, this course was by far the best. The teachers are very knowledgeable, dedicated and helpful, and the atmosphere at the school is very cosy. I had a great time at the school and would love to go back again!  (September 2024)

 

Katie C.

 If you're considering —just go for it. Choose this school.

If it helps other overthinkers, here’s why I chose Ecole Suisse: I wanted a quality language program with a well rounded student body, not one aimed at only study-abroad students or retirees. I was also looking for a non-traditional curriculum—somewhere I wouldn’t be handed a basic textbook and left feeling like I could have studied on my own. I also wanted flexibility so I could start and stop when I needed. Ecole Suisse ticked all those boxes and more.

I swear I learned more French here in 2 months than I ever did in middle/high school. The dynamic nature of the school pushed me to learn a lot about myself as a learner. Every week, new students would join, bringing new energy, strengths and weaknesses to the group so you’re constantly learning from each other and adapting which made me feel engaged. The instructors also vary week to week and had their own unique approach, which also helped me figure out what worked best for me. The focus here is on building real conversational skills, so you’re learning how to have natural, everyday conversations in French—not just reciting textbook phrases like a robot. The staff is fantastic—warm, responsive, and always there to help. Whether it was changing my schedule or giving me extra resources, they were super accommodating.

But the deciding factor for me were the reviews about the sense of community—I am telling you, it's the most unique and valuable thing about this school. Unlike other programs where people leave right after class, here, students stay. We’d have lunch, help each other with homework, or just hang out. It wasn’t forced—it just happened naturally. Even during breaks, people would chat outside their class groups. Every Wednesday, there’s a free cultural outing for all levels, which is a great way to meet new people, especially with new faces arriving each week. Honestly, you’d have to go out of your way not to make friends here!

There are countless language courses in Paris but this place is special. Ecole Suisse became so much more than just a school for me. I’m deeply grateful for their help on my French journey, but even more so for the life-changing opportunity to meet people from all over the world in such a supportive and warm environment. (September 2024)

 

Molly B.

 I loved my experience at École Suisse. Before I attended, I had studied French in school, but I was not confidently conversational. After I took lessons for 4 weeks, I was comfortable in my interactions around Paris - ordering at restaurants, shopping, and discussing daily life with new acquaintances. I found the small class format really helpful because I was frequently speaking and receiving feedback from my instructors and classmates. The class content is enjoyable and I was interested in coming back for lessons each day. One of my favourite aspects of attending school was the Wednesday outings where an instructor takes us to a new neighbourhood and introduces us to a different part of the city. The outing is conducted in French in a casual, social way, and you have an opportunity to speak to other students at the school of various levels. During class and out the outings, I found myself enjoying myself and often laughing at the topics and stories that naturally come up during class. This format was a really joyful way to learn French. I hope I have an opportunity to return to the school again in the future. I know it would advance my French at any level. (September 2024)

 

Doris D.

 I had a wonderful experience here despite only 3 weeks of learning. The staff and teachers were extraordinarily good and attentive. I felt significant progression in a very short amount of time. Glad I found the school and will definitely be back. (August 2024)

 

Claire McD.

 I spent 5 weeks at École Suisse in April 2024 and it was the best French learning experience I have had! Excellent teachers, lovely and welcoming atmosphere, really helpful admin support.
I particularly enjoyed the structure of the classes - every lesson the teacher and focus of the class changed - from grammar, to comprehension, to vocab etc - which helped me stay focused and engaged.
I have been living in Paris for 4 years and have tried many different formats for learning French (including 3 other schools in Paris). My time at École Suisse has been my favourite learning experience by far and gave my French learning a great boost.
I loved all of the teachers I had, each one of them truly dedicated to making the classes engaging and pitched at the right level - which can be difficult with varying levels sometimes in a class. It felt seamless and I could see my progress week by week.
I truly have only good things to say and highly recommend this school. I hope to be back one day soon myself!

Merci École Suisse! (July 2024)

 

Carla G.

   (Translated) I couldn't have wished for a better place than Ecole Suisse to do my three-week intensive French course! The super nice team of teachers provide varied lessons that are never boring and where you learn a lot. The atmosphere at the school is really pleasant - you eat lunch together, go on excursions, etc. Ecole Suisse is 100% recommended by me! I would love to come back 😍🤩 (July 2024)

 

David T.

 I chose L’Ecole Suisse based largely on the glowing reviews of prior students. After spending a few weeks at the school, I can now add my own unqualified recommendation. It really is a great place for anyone to improve their French… from complete beginners to advanced students…  from teenagers to seniors.

The teachers are second to none in their ability to make learning a fun and interesting experience: games, readings, roleplays, and discussions of the events of the day. You can’t help but improve your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills while expanding your vocabulary and improving your grammar. Everything is in French, including the lunchtime conversations and the Wednesday cultural outings. You will use (and improve) your French so much more than you ever could as a tourist.

The administrative staff and the teachers all go the extra mile to ensure that all students feel welcome and supported. The whole team is very good at what they do.  Highly recommended. (July 2024)

 

T.Y.

   (Translated) I studied at Ecole Suisse for about three months.
I am very happy that I chose this school because it has a very homely atmosphere and the teachers are excellent.
The teachers change every day, but with high quality teachers, you can learn French at a fast pace, with a full range of grammar, oral expression, writing and listening!
Every Friday you will submit a questionnaire and reflect on the week. The content of the classes is flexible and can be changed according to your wishes and level.
The age range of the students is wide, but many of my classmates are in the same age group (around 30s), so I was able to make friends quickly and enjoy my time at the school. There is time for lunch with teachers and students at the school after class and weekly cultural walks, which allow you to improve your French outside of the classroom.

We stayed in an apartment above the school, which was clean and very comfortable. (It is recommended to apply early as the number of rooms is limited).

Highly recommended if you want to learn French in Paris! ☺︎ (July 2024)

 

Sabina H.

  (Translated) My husband and I have just completed a three-week language course at the Ecole Suisse in Paris. Our experience was positive all round! We had originally signed up for the two-week standard course (daily from 9:15 to 12:35), but then had so much fun that we immediately extended for another week. I can't say enough positive things about this school! The professors are all first class. Each of them focuses on different teaching areas (e.g. oral expression, listening comprehension, grammar, etc.) and you usually have three different teachers per week. The classes are small - we had between four and seven people. So you have lots of opportunities to get involved in the lessons. The whole atmosphere at the school is super informal and warm. We are very happy to have had this experience and will definitely be back! Many thanks to the whole team! (June 2024)

 

James M.

 I recently spent an incredible four weeks at Ecole Suisse in Paris, and I can confidently say that it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life!!
I joined in May 2024 as a 26yo Australian with very basic French skills and absolutely no confidence speaking the language, however thanks to the fantastic teachers and immersive pedagogy at Ecole Suisse, I left feeling so confident in (and truly amazed at) my new French language skills!

I think the school was so great for a few different reasons, none more so than because of the exceptional teaching staff/administration. I found that all the teachers were not only extremely knowledgeable with backgrounds in education and a strong understanding in current pedagogical practices, but also because they were all incredibly caring+supportive and ensured the learning was varied/catered to our needs/interests. I expressed through the end of week learning surveys that I really wanted to learn the conditionnel and the futur simple, and the school was great at accommodating that into my learning program.
The full immersion approach was fantastic for accelerating my learning and vocabulary development. As somebody who had not done French at school previously- nor had done any sort of group French classes- the immersion approach to learning was extremely helpful for me as my general oral comprehension and personal pronunciation both were quite poor, but I feel as they both really improved thanks to constant French exposure at the school. Importantly, the school fostered a relaxed environment where I wasn't afraid to make mistakes and as a result, I felt comfortable participating in conversations each day at morning tea/lunch as well as throughout my classes. I feel as though the support from all the teachers and focus on comfort truly helped my French flourish!

I also loved the social aspect of the school. The teachers created opportunities for us to connect with classmates, and I made some great friends during my time there. Attending classes each morning was the highlight of my trip to Paris. I could still explore the city in the afternoons and evenings, but each morning offered a chance to actively improve my French, make friends, and have a great time learning. Each Wednesday the school offers cultural excursions of the city for free, which were great fun and an awesome chance to see cool/interesting things I might not have known about without the guidance from some actual Parisians.

I plan on returning to the school after Summer and I highly recommend Ecole Suisse to anyone else visiting Paris who wants to improve their French language skills. I can't thank the school, teachers, staff, and my classmates enough for making this such a fantastic experience for me!!!! (June 2024)

 

Tatyana

 I studied French for 2 weeks in the school and I was very happy with the level and the lessons. The teachers were great and we all learned a lot.
The location was also very convenient.
One small drawback for me: The school uses printed material based on the current needs of the students, which allows the teachers to focus on the current needs of the students in the group, which is great. However, I myself prefer to work from a book with consistent structure + workbook. (June 2024)

 

Andrea C.

 (Translated) To cut a long story short: If I had known how much I would enjoy learning French at the Ecole Suisse, I would have gladly booked 2 weeks! The family atmosphere, learning French in mixed-age international groups, was a lot of fun! The concept and the method of the school totally convinced me and I am very motivated to continue learning at home;-) and maybe to give myself a study trip to Paris again, because 1 week was really short. All the students had to deal with different teachers, which I also found very special. Language style, pronunciation, humour, speed of speaking are all individual characteristics that could therefore be trained on the part of the students. On Wednesdays, there is always a joint voluntary excursion to a special neighbourhood where all participants can exchange ideas on other topics. Very worthwhile!
I am already recommending the school to others! And thank you again! (June 2024)

 

Isabelle F.

 (Translated) I spent 2 months at the Swiss School and I have nothing but good things to say. I took the intensive course and I learnt more French in those two months than in my whole life. The classes were in French and that really forced me to practise. All the teachers are friendly and really want to help you improve. The atmosphere at the school is very pleasant too. During the break and at lunchtime, everyone can sit at the table with the teachers and students to practise their French. Also, every week there's a cultural outing with the school where you can discover different areas of Paris. Even my mother, who is from Paris, discovered new things. So, if you're looking for a good school to learn French, the Swiss School is perfect for you. (June 2024)

 

Luan

 (Translated) Taking classes at École Suisse was one of the best decisions I've made in my life. In the four weeks I was there, I improved my French significantly thanks to the help of a brilliant team. Each member of the team has unique life stories and interests, and they all share several qualities: they are sweet, intelligent, polite, curious and empathetic. Every day, this team gives its best to each of its students. As well as creating great experiences, the consequence is tangible: in one month of classes, I learnt more than I had learnt in a year studying in my home country. I highly recommend it - and I'll certainly be back, as will many of the students I met there! (May 2024)

 

Kiek

(Translated) Very nice school with friendly and good teachers! Small classes and a lot of attention is paid to talking and individual improvement. In the middle of Paris in a nice neighbourhood! (April 2024)

 

Regina

  (Translated) I studied at this school for a month and it was a great experience! I met a lot of people, I learned a lot and I loved the system of the school, everything is very well organized, the classes have no more than 8 students, so I felt that I learned faster and I could express my doubts easily. I liked that every week is a different classroom and the teachers change, so you don't feel stagnant and you learn in different ways with each teacher. I would love to come back in the future and continue learning French! (April 2024)

 

Anzu

 (Translated) This language school is perfect for those who are looking not only to learn French, but also to meet new people.
The small class size (maximum 8 students) means that you will always get on well with your classmates and the teachers will always remember your name. You may feel discouraged when you go abroad because you don't speak the language, but you won't feel that way as long as you stay at this school.

The best things about this school are...

... the quality of the students.
In some language schools, there is an uneven age distribution of students and retirees, but during my time there (10 weeks), the students were well spread out, ranging from their 20s to 70s, with a wide range of professions, including fashion, lawyers, IT, doctors, police officers, etc. Even though the level of French was different, we could have conversations during breaks and on Wednesdays during the extracurricular activities. Even though we had different levels of French, we enjoyed talking during breaks and during the extra-curricular activities on Wednesday afternoons.

Teachers.
The teachers change randomly every day, rather than one teacher being in charge of a particular class. The teachers change randomly every day, which is a good way to learn how to listen to different genders and age groups, as well as to keep the class interesting.

Questionnaires.
Every Friday, all students are given a questionnaire to fill in, which is immediately shared with the teachers so that they can make improvements in the following week's lessons.

Textbooks
No specific textbooks are used, but the teachers prepare their own materials according to the level of the students at the time.

Accommodation
Three single rooms are available in the same building as the school, so if you are looking for a place to stay while you are in Paris, you should definitely inquire. But don't delay, as they are very popular. (March 2024)

 

Isabelle C.

(Translated) Over the last three months, I've been perfecting my French at the International Swiss School Paris. After nine weeks of classes, my language skills and my way of expressing myself are much better than they were at the beginning. As I've already spent three months at another language school, I can compare the Swiss School with other options.

This school has many unique features that allow language students (in my opinion, especially those who already have a certain basic level and can converse in French) to absorb the French language and culture in a way that is not possible elsewhere. This is particularly important for the DALF exams, because as well as correct language, cultural understanding and linguistic finesse also determine success or failure.

In my opinion, the Swiss School stands out from its competitors in the following respects:
1. Courses divided by theme: each course is dedicated to a specific theme or discipline (such as vocabulary, listening comprehension or grammar). This is more effective for learning progress than a mixed course and it also gives you the feeling each day that you know exactly what you've learnt during the day (great for morale :) ).
2. change teachers: you have several teachers every week. This is a big advantage, especially for long stays! Different personalities and teaching styles make it impossible to get bored, which, in my experience, is very likely in other language schools.
3. ‘Homework: Hard as it may be to believe, not all language schools have homework to correct. That's why I include them in my list. The positive effect is self-evident and even if you don't do it on time, nobody at the Swiss School will hold it against you. So don't be afraid! You can also ask teachers for worksheets at any time if you want to work on a subject at home.
4. Atmosphere: the small size of the language school and the incredibly friendly and well-trained team create a family atmosphere in which you don't have to be afraid of making mistakes. It also makes it very easy to feel at home in the Paris metropolis. The mix of serious work and hearty laughter at the Swiss School is something special!
5. Location: this is not a unique selling point (there are also other language schools in Paris located in larger areas). However, I would like to stress that the school is located in a wonderfully lively and authentic part of Paris. The public transport links are also excellent. Even within walking distance, you can access almost everything that's going on in Paris. Don't be fooled by the supposedly great distance between the school and the ‘tourist centre’ on the city map -> the centre of Paris is much smaller than you might think and the school is very central! The proximity of the Gare du Nord and the Gare de l'Est also makes the 10th arrondissement a ‘station district’. As a native of Frankfurt, this made me think before I arrived. But there's absolutely no reason to worry here. On the contrary: it's very convenient for those travelling to and from Germany!
In short: come to the Swiss School; you won't be disappointed! (March 2024)

Mike

  (translated) I took a two-week intensive course at the Swiss School Paris and was very enthusiastic. The courses are structured and the teachers respond to the individual needs of the participants. The school is well organised, the teachers and the ladies in the administration are all very kind and competent. It was a very pleasant atmosphere, the interaction between teachers and students was respectful and on an equal footing. Thanks to the intensive courses, I was able to make good progress. I received the information I needed from the school in advance, in a competent and timely manner. My accommodation was also very well organised.
It's certainly possible to go back to school to consolidate your knowledge. I can therefore recommend the school 100%. (February 2024)

 

Rachel

 (Translated) I spent a total of 14 perfect weeks at the Swiss School. The teaching, the atmosphere and the teachers are simply unbeatable, and there's not a negative point I could mention here.
The classes are small, with a maximum of eight students, and you really learn a lot because the teachers are attentive to everyone and look after them individually. I had a lot of fun in every class and with every teacher, and as well as being serious, we always laughed a lot.
The atmosphere at the school is really unique. Every lunchtime, I was able to have lunch at the school with other students and teachers. In the mornings, during breaks, someone always brought little things to eat, so that there was a good atmosphere every day and you felt like you were in a small family and in good hands.
My French developed really well at the Swiss School. So I arrived without really being able to construct sentences, and now I've gone and I can have serious conversations in French in any situation in life. It's all down to this great language school and its management.
I can really recommend this school to everyone, it's perfect for learning French and having a good time in Paris. (February 2024)

 

Tarjei

(Translated) I can highly recommend École Suisse to anyone who wants to learn French in the best of Paris. And we definitely have a strong need for more Norwegians who know French! I spent a total of over 3 months here, an extension (which is always possible, given that there is space) of over 2 months on top of the 4 weeks originally intended, a testament to how much fun it is to learn French at this school. Their pedagogy is as follows: (1) you are divided into small groups (max. 8) at different levels (if you progress, you move up to the next level); (2) each group has three different teachers who change every week, each teacher with a different methodology, background, age, manner of speaking, etc; (3) you are always encouraged (the school's "golden rule") to speak French at school. There is also a free "sortie" every Wednesday where you visit various more or less hidden treasures in Paris, which usually ends with a glass (or two, or three). In addition, you are always welcome to have lunch at the school, where the teachers are happy to chat ("free" French lessons)! The "students" at the school are of a wide age range, with a slight predominance of people in their mid to late twenties, from many different countries. Furthermore, "everyone" is motivated to learn and have fun both in and out of class, which has made French a dream come true! The same goes for the teachers, who always push us to be better; you get a clear sense that they care about our development. I can highly recommend École Suisse to anyone who wants to learn French in the best of Paris. And without a doubt, we have a strong need for more Norwegians who know French! I can't help but realise that École Suisse must be the best French school in Paris, which just has to be tried! (January 2024)

 

Svea

(Traduit) Je recommande de tout cœur l'École Suisse. Mon séjour à Paris a été vraiment spécial grâce (Translated) I can wholeheartedly recommend the École Suisse. This school really made my stay in Paris something special. I spent a total of three months there and made considerable progress in my language development. This was mainly due to the unique atmosphere at the school. The small group sizes allow for an intensive individual focus. A special feature of the school is the rotation of teachers, which sets it apart from other language schools. This structure allows students to learn from different experts with different teaching styles, but who all follow the same learning philosophy of the school. This helps to capture the different facets of the language. The learning content, which is also very topical and perfectly suited my interests, was taught in a creative and varied way using a mix of different materials. The school is particularly characterised by its community. The team was exceptional! The teachers are not only highly qualified, but also very warm and open-minded and always ready to support you. Even outside of lessons, they took the time to teach us personally and get to know us better. All of this creates a feel-good atmosphere at the school and contributes significantly to learning success, as you are not afraid to make mistakes. It also helps you to feel at home in this city. Coffee and tea is offered in the morning, which you can enjoy together in the school's "living room" before school starts or during the first break. You are also welcome to stay for lunch at the school and continue to get to know each other in a group, which is especially great as the school is so centrally located and therefore offers access to many of the best places to eat. Thank you for this offer. It has enabled me to make friendships that will last beyond my time at school. My favourite day was always Wednesday, when the school offers a joint excursion led by a teacher. This excursion is not only another easy way to get to know classmates better, but also to see the city through the eyes of its inhabitants. I have visited places that I would not have discovered otherwise. Thank you for that! In addition, I particularly appreciate how individually the team responds to the needs of each student. I couldn't have imagined a better school for my language study trip. I'm sure I'll be back :) If you really want to have fun learning French and experience the best team, École Suisse is the ideal choice! (January 2024)

 

Annie

(Translated) I think the Ecole Suisse is the best language school in Paris! They have their own textbooks, the grammar material is very detailed and clear, and the listening and reading material is interesting and constantly updated (they won't become obsolete as quickly as traditional textbooks). As far as spoken French is concerned, the teacher will carefully correct each student's pronunciation and analyse sentence structure and vocabulary errors after discussion. All homework will also be carefully revised. The atmosphere at the school is also very good: free outings are organised every Wednesday and the teachers show all the students around Paris. During break time, everyone chats in French in small groups (I really like this too: unless they have no basic knowledge of French, all students have to communicate in French at school, which can be considered a truly immersive French environment). The teachers are not only very interesting in class, but also join in the students' conversations as friends during breaks (sometimes even continuing to correct grammatical errors...). Because of my experience at other language schools and my personality, I had always been sceptical about language schools and thought that self-study was better, but this school has completely changed my point of view! In the three months I've been here, my French has improved enormously. Thanks again to all the teachers who helped me! Whether you need to prepare for the DELF exam like me, or you want to integrate more quickly into French life like some of the other students, I recommend studying here. (December 2023).

 

Iñigo

(Translated) I have been with them for three weeks and the experience has been magnificent, it has exceeded my expectations. The quality of the classes and the involvement of the teachers is excellent. Their approachability, politeness and friendliness are second to none. The whole team works perfectly, teachers and administrative staff. I stayed in one of the school's studios and the experience was also very positive, they are very economical considering the prices of accommodation in Paris. In short, they have been my family in Paris and I will always remember them with great affection. I have just come back and I miss the classes already! (December 2023)

 

AJ

I studied French here for four weeks in October and everything exceeded my expectations. The groups are small, the staff and teachers are very friendly and helpful. The school is well organised, teaching skills are excellent and I enjoyed being taught by different teachers throughout the week. I know at some schools you have the same teacher for a month or two. Teachers join students in the breaks and at lunch, offering many opportunities to ask questions and speak French. I was encouraged to use the French language skills I had and be willing to make mistakes and on doing this I certainly made more progress. Overall the school has a feeling of kindness and generosity. The teacher-led optional outings on Wednesday afternoons were great fun, informative and intensified relationships between students. The school's location is very convenient. The metro is a two minute walk away and Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est ten to fifteen minutes. Based on my wonderful experience at Ecole Suisse only two months ago, I have already booked my return trip for nine weeks of study in 2024. I think it may become an annual pilgrimage. It is probably obvious that I thoroughly recommend Ecole Suisse! (December 2023)

 

Xanthe

My five weeks in Paris attending École Suisse were the highlight of my year. Remember French class in high school? Well, École Suisse is nothing like that! I learned more in five weeks than I did in all the years in high school, and I did not have to memorize meaningless dialogues or verb conjugations without context. For the first time I had real conversations about things relevant to me.
The curriculum is expertly created to maximize learning. The students are all engaged and eager to learn. But what takes the classes to the next level – what makes the classes so fantastic, are the teachers. They are dedicated, engaged, dynamic, funny, and really really good at their jobs. They work hard to understand even the most broken and misstated student statements, correcting just enough to promote learning but not so much as to cause discouragement. I would leave each day feeling that I’d actually conversed in French. I felt empowered and ready to try and engage with the Parisian public.
The teachers listen carefully to each student’s goals. I wanted to work on conversational French, while others wanted to pass important written exams or write graduate level dissertations. In the afternoons we could book one-on-one sessions specially tailored to our goals to make sure we each achieved the level of success we were striving for. Then there are the once-a-week field trips – they were so much fun. Each week one of the teachers would lead a group of us on an exploration of hidden gems in Paris and other nearby towns we might not think to visit. Typically, these excursions would end at a café where we would all sit and chat – in French! I left École Suisse feeling like I’d made friends and I’d learned a lot of French. Now all I have to do is figure out how soon I can go back. (December 2023)

 

Tarek

I had a wonderful experience at Ecole Suisse (Paris) and I can say without hesitation that it was the best experience I've had across many other schools including others in Paris and Washington DC. The teachers are really good, friendly and genuinely care about the students. They also have great materials plus an unusual format that brings in a different teacher several days per week. At first I thought that was going to problematic (mostly because I wasn't used to it), but it works very well and exposes you to the talents and expertise of several teachers in a short amount of time. Another thing that I found rare about Ecole Suisse compared to other schools is their ability to build community. I made several lasting friendships during my 6-week term at Ecole Suisse. It's partly because of how they run their classes (e.g., good, well thought-out group/paired activities) and partly because of the environment. The school is situated in a fantastic space/building that is very conducive to building community -- between students and teachers. During the breaks, the space makes it easy to talk to others and you will get some great, less formal practice that way. Plus they offer coffee/tea and other students often bring in food to share. You have to see the space and ideally give it a try to truly appreciate that rare component of the school. (December 2023)

 

Sutedjo

(Translated) Hello everyone. I spent three weeks at the Ecole Suisse Internationale learning French last September. It was the most incredible language learning experience I've ever had. All the teachers are wonderful and excellent at teaching French. I've taken a few French courses before and the instruction I received at this school was superior to any other school I've been to. Most importantly, the school provided me with an excellent learning environment and made learning French easier to understand for such a difficult language and a lot of fun. The three weeks went by very quickly. I would highly recommend the Ecole Suisse to anyone wishing to learn French in Paris at any level and you will never regret or forget the experience. (November 2023)

 

Teodora

 I spent 2 weeks at the school in September. It offers all levels of French and the timeline is flexible - you can spend from one week to a few months depending on your preference and availability. The teachers are great professionals and after only 2 weeks I saw a drastic improvement of my level of French. The classes are engaging and dynamic, the atmosphere is really friendly and promotes cooperation between the students.
Studying at Ecole Suisse is also a great way to immerse in the French culture and explore Paris with the weekly organized cultural outings. I made wonderful new friendships here with people from all around the world. I believe this is one of the greatest things about the school - you meet a lot of like-minded, kind people who share the same passion for learning new languages and exploring new cultures.
I will definitely come back to the school for the next level of French. (October 2023)

 

Mercedes

      (Translated) It was a very good decision to choose this institute to improve my French. The teachers are very fun and know a lot, the classes are dynamic and the academic material is constantly renewed. They are also very attentive and interested in the tastes and needs of their students, and they bring exercises accordingly. One of the reasons I chose them was because of the cultural outings on Wednesdays and I was not disappointed. The teachers do their "homework" and prepare the activity as if it were just another class (as well as being fun because of the relaxed atmosphere). It is also the perfect opportunity to get to know your classmates, who vary greatly in nationalities and rotate every week.
I always felt very welcome and would choose them again if I could. Merci beaucoup a vous ! (September 2023)

 

Julia

 I attended Ecole Suisse Internationale for 10 days in June, as I wanted to have a complete francophone immersion to improve several aspects before a DALF exam. I was fully satisfied with my choice, as the methodology was just what I needed, and both the teachers and classmates were so supportive and fun, that the hours passed rapidly and everyone kept on talking in French during breaks. Special thanks to Veronique, who went out of her way to provide support in exercises, as she wanted to make sure that I’d succeed on the exam.I wouldn’t have succeeded at DALF without their classes and this total immersion.
I recommend it 100% and I will go back for additional months of practice whenever they have my level again. (June 2023)

 

Manon

     (Translated) I spent several months at the École Suisse and can wholeheartedly recommend it! Not only did my French level improve drastically, but I also made many nice encounters with different students through the school.
Every single teacher is passionate about their job, which makes learning a lot of fun. The atmosphere of the team was very warm and informal, which immediately made you feel welcome. Even with personal concerns/problems, the team didn't shy away and always helped you.
The Wednesday excursions were very original every week and revealed an authentic, non-touristy side of Paris.
To summarise, if you want to have fun learning French with the best teachers, you should definitely go to École Suisse. (April 2023)

 

Kelsey

 Ecole Suisse is a fantastic school. The teachers are exceptionally skilled. They use a great mix of methods, have tremendous patience, and are very dedicated to student learning. The vibe is welcoming and cosy, and the class sizes are small. You could not ask for a better school experience. Tops! (June 2023)

 

Heidi

 Over the years I tried out several language courses in the heart of Paris, but none of them marked me like this. I tried to book a class, level C 1, and at this time there weren’t any other students my level. So the principle sat down with me to build a special program where we transformed a regular group course into private lessons, a perfect offer, by the way. Furthermore, they let me completely choose and create my own schedule, waited for my wishes + suggestions and from there found the perfect teacher for every one of my preferred topics. In my case they gave me a complete insight in the french culture, including literature, cinema, poetry, theatre, philosophy, gastronomy, songwriting + music with specialists on each subject, leaving me with a different, perfectly prepared, prof every day. Another student from Istanbul was there to study architecture + interior design, same thing, they found someone to exactly fit her professional needs!
I’d like to add, how I talked to practically all the international students present at that moment, and every single one declared how happy and thrilled they were with the class, courses, teachers, excursions offered every week and the facilities inside this school, which really is located in the heart of Paris!
Every Wednesday we went out to visit different expositions, art galleries .. included in your course. The familiar atmosphere and the large space inside makes it super easy to socialize and meet new friends from all over the world. Also the teachers are always around to help + to even upgrade your experience! A large library where you will find practically every genre, including tourist guides, proverbs, semantic insights, free coffee and a large space to work on your projects.
Hard not to notice, I was absolutely thrilled by my experience and I thank those guys for a fantastic stay, for transmitting the french culture with such fun and profound insight and for always being at hand for whatsoever questions and wishes.
If you’re looking for a place to get your french going, you’ll find no better in all of Paris!
Enjoy Paris everyone!!! (March 2023)

 

Nelly

   (Translated) My experience with the school was extremely positive. Thanks to the excellent method and experienced teachers, I was able to develop in 5 weeks what would have taken much longer with conventional schools. It's a pleasant environment that encourages you to develop in French. I'm very happy with my progress. Congratulations and I highly recommend the school. Au revoir !!!!  (June 2023)

 

Karen

 My husband Jay and I attended L'ecole Suisse for three weeks, February-March this year and we loved every minute of it. Situated in a lively energetic area of residential Paris, it is a small school with a big heart. From the moment we arrived each morning, until we left after lunch, we were supported academically and personally to achieve the very most that we were looking for individually.

The class numbers were perfect between 6-8 students, with a mix of ages and backgrounds which Jay and I found particularly enjoyable (we are 64 and 71 years young). Our superb teachers and administration team bent over backwards to offer a fun, interactive and encouraging environment in which to improve our intermediate level french skills. I cannot imagine the larger language schools are able to offer such flexibility and personalised attention to their students.
Class five mornings a week, followed by an optional lunch together and then Wednesday afternoon cultural excursion open to the entire school (all 23 students!), usually concluding with a glass of wine of cup of coffee together - it really was everything we anticipated and so much more!! Thank you l'Ecole Suisse, on reviendra! (March 2023)

 

Lauren

 THE ABSOLUTE BEST FRENCH LANUGAGE SCHOOL IN PARIS! I cannot not say enough good things about this school. The teachers and staff are simply fantastic and have really created a community culture and an easy learning environment. The way the courses are taught, in my opinion, allow you to really develop all skills in the French language: speaking, reading, writing and more! I spent several months taking classes with them and I can honestly say it changed my life here in France (getting emotional just thinking about my time there and wanting to go back to take more classes). The teachers really gave me the confidence to speak and I was able to get to a level to apply for jobs in French which was HUGE for me since I am planning to stay in France permanently. If you need to learn French, this is the school to go to! (September)

 

Elena

  (Translated) I have spent two weeks at this school and I highly recommend it. They have a very good methodology and this makes learning French easy and fun. I would have loved to continue learning with them, but it was not possible. Even so, in these two weeks I have significantly improved my level of French. Both the teachers and the administrative staff are friendly and pleasant.  And their excursions on Wednesdays are great. (May 2023)

 

Tosca

 (Translated) I attended the ecole suisse courses 8 weeks and I couldn't be more satisfied and happy.
Not only did my level of French improve a lot in a short time, but above all the school's familiar and positive atmosphere made my stay in Paris very pleasant. (May 2023)

 

Jan

(Translated) Very good experience :
- Very good value for money
- small groups
- Many different and very good teachers
- very helpful secretary
- friendly, family atmosphere
- weekly cultural excursions
- Support for my Master's assessment (help with covering letter, CV, etc.)

From September last year until March, I went to the Ecole Suisse to learn French. My aim was to reach a B2 level so that I could start a Masters in Paris from September this year. I heard about various language schools on Facebook and decided to write to them one by one. The secretariat at the Ecole Suisse answered my questions quickly and in detail and I was able to spend the same week looking around the school. During this appointment I was also able to take a written test and have a longer conversation with Thierry to determine my current level.
During the six months I was allowed to attend the school, I was never in a class with more than eight people. We were generally between four and six per class. The teachers changed every day. As a student, I benefited from the many different teaching approaches of the teachers, all of whom had their own style and were very good. On the whole, the Swiss School places great emphasis on the applicability of what has been learnt, the necessary grammar is applied directly in oral exercises and, on the whole, people are encouraged to talk a lot in class. So you've learned the most by talking a lot and asking your teachers to point out your mistakes. As well as grammar, you also learn thematic vocabulary through exercises, you read and discuss French texts together, you listen to radio reports together and answer comprehension questions, and you are given writing tasks. The Swiss School offers appropriate and useful work materials for each language level. I was amazed at how quickly we could read complete texts together in class.
Classmates came from all over and of all ages, and during the many discussions and conversations in and outside the classroom, we got to know each other very well. A special feature of the Swiss School is the large common room. All the students and teachers meet here during the morning coffee break.
You talk as if you were at a party. The shyness that everyone feels about speaking French usually disappears on the first day. You can quickly speak French to each other and improve your skills outside the classroom. I particularly enjoyed the school lunch. Everyone brings something to eat, then we sit together at the big table and have various conversations with teachers and classmates. You'll be surprised to discover what you can already speak in French and what you suddenly understand. This friendly, family atmosphere is also enhanced by the joint cultural outings every Wednesday. Here, of course, we don't go to the Eiffel Tower or any other very touristy place, but to the real Paris, if you please. When the weather's fine, you'll explore the city together and discover places like the covered passages or the coulée verte. When the weather's bad, we go together to exhibitions and different studios...
At the Ecole Suisse, I also received a great deal of support in my application for the Master's degree. Right from the start, I was able to talk to the teachers about the different universities and they made them aware of the very early application deadlines. When I finally started writing my application, I met Véronique almost every day, with whom I wrote my first cover letter and translated my CV. (April 2023)

 

Johannes

(Translated) The best language school I've ever been to! Everyone was incredibly nice. There is a very special atmosphere. I felt welcome from the first second. I took a two-week language course at an advanced level.
I thought it was great that the learning groups were so small (4-6 people), so you really had a lot to talk about. The course content was also very well structured and thought out, so that all language skills were covered. I learned a lot and now I feel much more confident in the French language because I spoke a lot. The topics were very varied, topical and interesting. It was fun to discuss and I also learned a lot about French society.
I also liked that in the advanced courses you had different teachers from time to time. So the classes were very varied and during the breaks together you felt like you were totally integrated into the language school community because you knew everyone.
The joint excursions that take place every Wednesday afternoon are particularly enjoyable. The language teachers always offer an interesting programme that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions. Since some of the teachers grew up in Paris or lived there for a long time, you get an excellent insight into life in Paris and lots of insider tips. After the trip, you always go out for a drink together, so you can practice your French and socialise in a relaxed atmosphere.
It was really a great experience. Thank you all! I will be back! :-) (April 2023)

 

Ed

 If you go to the Ecole Suisse, you will find the most attentive and kind teachers and the best students. As a result, you will be "An Mhucais" (Irish expression). I would recommend it to anyone - thank you very much!
Delightful school with delightful people, noted for attention to detail and lovely ambience. Class sizes are small and every Wednesday there is the opportunity to partake in "une petite sortie culturelle". Charming place :) (April 2023)

 

Ikuko

(Translated) This is the best school! The teachers are very nice and friendly, and they are great people who are close to each of you.
The students are of various ages and you can not only learn a language, but also learn French from people who have had careers in different countries. Full of human charm, you can develop friendships with adults eager to learn and adventure. The young students were full of energy and I really enjoyed interacting with them.
The classes are small and intimate. My favourite part was having lunch with the teachers and other students after class. There is also a café area where you can practice what you have learned while relaxing. (The school only speaks French. I think this is the best environment for those who want to learn languages).
Going to museums, picnics and bars after school and at weekends is also a wonderful memory.
The Ecole Suisse made me fall in love with France. I learned not only the language but also the culture, history and how to communicate with the French, and I was able to integrate into French society.
I am grateful to my wonderful teachers and best friends. Coming to this school has broadened my horizons and given me many opportunities. I am really grateful to you.
I highly recommend this school to anyone who wants to learn French. Please do not hesitate to contact the Ecole Suisse Internationale (April 2023)

 

Vittoria

I have a love case with the Ecole Suisse! I love the methodology, the professors, classmates…such a great environment! Very worth it.(March 2023)

 

Tavi

(Translated) I was here for a few weeks and I liked it a lot. I say I made a lot of progress, especially in "speaking". I found it interesting that there were many different teachers, which allowed me to see different points of view and teaching styles. In general, there is a lot of discussion in class and everyone participates. The maximum class size is 8 students, but often only 3 or 4. I guess it depends on the level. The most sought-after classes seem to be A2-B1 (February 2023)

 

Nicole

I attended this school and absolutely loved my experience there! The teachers were very helpful, attentive and kind; they created a collaborative and supportive environment for learning and practicing French. The class sizes were small, and I enjoyed getting to know my fellow students. They use good educational materials, and their feedback on speaking and writing in French helped me improve. I highly recommend this program! The school is also in a great location. I enjoyed my walk to class every day. It was a memorable experience. (February 2023)

 

Gregory

Fantastic language school. Very highly recommended if you are looking to learn French in Paris.
Advantages:
- Small class sizes (my classes varied between 2 and 6 students).
- Reasonably priced.
- Flexible course structure, customised for your requirements. (From mastering a particular grammatical form to exam preparation.)
- Wonderful, friendly teachers who genuinely care about their students.
- Facilitated Wednesday "cultural outings" to apply your French around Paris and see some of the city.
- Efficient support and warm welcome from an amazing administrative team.
- You'll learn with a small group of students at your level.
- The classes are great fun, with a variety of exercises and learning methods.
- You will make friends with other students and maybe with the teachers too!

Disadvantages:
- Eventually you'll have to leave and then you'll miss the school and all the friends you made. :)(February 2023)

 

Ana

(Translated) It's just one month since I left the school and am back in Spain. It's a good time to look back and thank the school, the teachers and the students for the great 7 weeks I spent there. I spoke yesterday with a French friend of mine in French and she said that I speak very fluently... :-) Thank you because it's largely thanks to you! I'll see you later! (January 2023) 

 

Baopu

 (École Suisse was one of the best educational experiences I’ve had in my life and I am so happy I chose to go there to learn French. Located in the bustling 10th arrondissement, École Suisse offers a dynamic and engaging language teaching pedagogy which really improved my French - even though I was only there for three weeks!
Unlike most language schools, classes here are not rigidly structured, but are instead more of a fluid dialogue between the professors and students. For example, maybe while discussing how to use the past tense in French a student starts talking about the museum they visited last weekend - before you know it, the whole class is discussing their favourite museums in Paris! The professors really encourage these “detour” discussion and they use them to teach the class new expressions and grammar (as opposed to coming in with a checklist of pre-selected grammar points). I found this approach so refreshing and helpful - it really encourages you to develop natural conversation skills, which is probably the most important thing at the end of the day. Of course, that is not to say École Suisse shies away from teaching grammar, vocabulary etc - it just does so mostly through interesting, spontaneous interactions as opposed to boring exercises and drills. École Suisse is able to do this because class sizes are very small - none of my classes had more than 6 people. If you can, I would also recommend going to the afternoon classes as well - those ones are essentially a big discussion in French around a certain theme (ie. Education systems, pop music, movies etc) and they really push you to improve.

All this could not be possible without the teaching staff at the school, who are not only experts in what they do, but also very pleasant to be around. For all the stereotypes of tyrannical French teachers who explode into anger if you misgender a noun, there was absolutely none of that here. While classes were no doubt challenging, I always felt well-supported and encouraged by the patience and understanding of the professors. All of them are actually very funny as well, and you will definitely laugh as you learn!

Overall, I would highly recommend École Suisse to anyone looking to spend some time in Paris learning French. The memories, friends and language skills I gained while I was there I will carry with me for a lifetime. (January 2023)

 

Vivian

 I had a great time at Ecole Suisse which encourages students to communicate in French during and after class. We learn better when we have fun! (December 2022)

 

Costanza

 (Translated) I attended the Ecole Suisse Internationale for 4 weeks and I am very happy with the choice and the results. The teachers are prepared and extremely helpful, the groups are very small (max 8 people) and this helps to improve your French because you have the possibility to talk a lot in class. Moreover, the atmosphere in the school is very pleasant, we often eat together, students and teachers, and we have constant opportunities to speak French, according to their motto "à l'École on parle que français". The Wednesday afternoon trips to discover Paris are also a good opportunity to continue speaking and listening to French and to get to know the people at the school better (all very motivated!)
Super recommended for those who want to learn French well! (December 2022)

 

Juliana

 (Translated) I took a two-week intensive course at the end of October as a "Bildungsurlaub" (German option to take a training holiday) and I found it a great experience where I managed to make friends of different nationalities.
I feel that my level of French has improved a lot and now I feel more comfortable speaking, plus my acquaintances in France say that they can make a difference. I really liked the teaching system and the possibility to have classes with different teachers. The building is very nice and for me very well located near the Gare de Nord. All the teachers, including the administrative staff, are super friendly and ready to help you with anything you need, and you can tell they do their job with pleasure. I think it's great that they encourage you to speak French all the time and even encourage everyone to have lunch together (teachers, students, administrative staff) to practice French.
The Wednesday afternoons offer very interesting cultural outings as they invite you to discover Paris from a local point of view.
I totally recommend this school! (November 2022)

 

Sarah

 (Translated) I spent 3 months at the Ecole Suisse Internationale and I can only say that the school is really great! I can recommend them to everyone, whether they are beginners or advanced, young or old. All the teachers are very nice, open and helpful and it's always fun to go to the school. As the groups are very small, the teachers can focus a lot on individual problems, which allows for rapid progress.
The Wednesday afternoon excursions are also only recommended, as they are not the 0815 attractions of Paris, but hidden places that are a bit less known :-)
I had a great time in Paris and I am very happy to have discovered this school! (November 2022)

 

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