This French language immersion program offers a broad range of classes taught by accomplished faculty, where Paris will be your classroom. You will experience French society through a varied and dynamic academic program, hospitable homestays, cultural activities, internships, and conversation clubs. In addition, faculty members integrate local, course-related trips into all classes.
Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
With its grand boulevards, world-famous monuments, unparalleled literary and artistic history, and simple joie de vivre, Paris is a city that will change you forever. As a multifaceted metropolis, Paris offers a doorway to a variety of different cultures. And as a growing center of business and innovation, many scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs from around the world call this city home.
Reflections on my semester abroad and how I’m feeling about leaving.
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences.
We offer unique courses that explore French language, history, and culture through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our world-class professors and course options at prestigious local universities enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class. Meet one of these professors, Dr. Anaïs Frantz de Spot, in this faculty spotlight interview.
From its establishment during the Middle Ages, through its restructuring in the late 1960s, Sorbonne Université (Paris IV) has remained a prestigious institution, attracting scholars from around the world. The "Faculté des Lettres" department is open to IES Abroad students who have tested into the required French language level (FR 401). A wide range of classes, including, but not limited to musicology, philosophy, history, French literature, sociology, English, geography, art history and linguistics are offered by the university. First year art history classes are not available for enrollment and students should remember that credits may vary per course. Students must choose a department of study prior to arriving in Paris and taking at least one class in the department of choice is non-negotiable. Sorbonne Université classes are taught across a range of sites located throughout the city of Paris
Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following program components. You take 15-19 credits per semester; all courses are taught in French.
Language Pledge
Our Paris faculty take great pride in the quality of their language training. In order to create a French language environment, you are required to observe a rigorous language pledge while at the IES Abroad Paris French Studies Center.
To learn more about IES Abroad’s innovative theoretical and pedagogical approaches to teaching language abroad, refer to the IES Abroad MAP for Language & Intercultural Communication.
NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.
| Course name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AH 325 - History of Photography | Fall, Spring | French | 3 |
| AH 275 - Paris Museums | Spring | French | 3 |
| AH 315 - Revolutionizing Art by Breaking the Rules: From Manet to the Surrealists | Fall | French | 3 |
French Universities DO NOT provide syllabi prior to the start of classes. IES Abroad may have samples of past syllabi, but cannot guarantee that a specific course will be offered at a partner university. Students who enroll with a partner institution are encouraged to keep all documents provided during the semester, including: readings, graded assignments, PowerPoints, etc.
Most Licence 1, 2 & 3 level courses at the Sorbonne are open to IES students. However, Art History courses are only available to IES Abroad Students at the Licence 2 & 3 level.
*Medicine, Science & Engineering, Education, and CELSA disciplines are NOT available for IES Abroad students.
Most courses at ICP are 3 credits. You can select from French-taught courses in:
Spring or Academic Year** students who qualify may take vocal or instrumental performance courses at the École Normale. A chamber music course* is available to Academic Year students who are willing to stay beyond the Paris French Studies official spring term length. Certain instruments, such as percussion, are not taught at the École Normale.
*Carries an additional cost
**Academic Year enrollment status pending audition results
*Students must test into FR401 or FR 451 in order to enroll at either the Institute Catholique de Paris or the Sorbonne Université, compose a one-page letter of motivation in French, and are limited to one course unless they receive special home school approval.
The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.
The IES Abroad Paris Center has two sites where students classes, study, meet with professors and staff, or enjoy the garden. Visit nearby sites like the bustling street market by the Cimetière du Montparnasse, or any number of shops in the area. Regardless of which location is part of your commute, the Center is your study abroad hub.
A limited number of single and shared apartments are available for an additional cost. Apartments include private bathroom and kitchen en-suite. Laundry will be available on site. Meals are not included. Internet is available.
Even though your adventure starts in Paris, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Travel to a historic Renaissance château renowned for its art galleries, gardens, architecture, horse stables, and world-famous whipped cream, la crème Chantilly!
Visit artist Claude Monet’s home in the beautiful village of Giverny and walk through the spectacular gardens that gave him so much inspiration. Monet’s water lily paintings and many others were painted here.
Tour the D-Day beaches, the Mémorial de Caen, and the American Cemetery.
Experience history in this fortified medieval town that hosted trading fairs, markets, and jousting tournaments for centuries in the heart of the Brie region.
Take a guided tour of the Cathédrale Notre Dame and visit a Champagne producer to learn how the wine is made, and enjoy a tasting.
Did you know that, while in Paris, you can intern as part of your study abroad experience? With a part-time internship, you’ll gain global work experience that will increase your job readiness and give you an advantage after graduation. With an internship, you will:
All of our internships are supervised and earn IES Abroad credit. You participate in a 3-credit seminar to complement the practical experience you gain during the internship for a greater understanding of work life in your host country.
When you volunteer in Paris, you have the chance to make a difference in the local community while meeting new people and gaining a new perspective on the world. If you are passionate about volunteering abroad, just let the on-site staff know at the beginning of your term.
Past volunteer opportunities in Paris include:
Promoting diversity at cultural centers in Paris
Tutoring elementary and middle school-aged children
Facilitating outdoor activities for children and adults with disabilities
We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.
With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.
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