General French

Build real, confident French for everyday life, further study, and future opportunities in France, Switzerland or Canada no matter your starting point.

Whether you’re preparing for life in a new country, building a foundation before an exam course, or simply want to communicate with confidence, General French gives you the everyday skills to speak, understand, and connect. Open to all students aged 16 and above, no upper age limit.

Classes cover the four core skills speaking, listening, reading, and writing with a strong focus on real-world communication: everyday conversations, understanding native speakers, and expressing yourself with confidence.

Five levels, so you’re always learning at the right pace:

  • Beginner starting from the basics
  • Pre-Intermediate building everyday vocabulary and confidence
  • Intermediate holding longer conversations, understanding native speakers
  • Upper-Intermediate reading and writing independently, discussing opinions
  • Advanced near-fluent expression, ready for exam-level or academic French

Your placement test determines your starting level — no guesswork, no wasted time in the wrong class.

Big class sizes for real speaking practice

Part-time and intensive options available

Qualified, experienced French teachers

Entry Requirements

  • Minimum age: 16 at the time of registration
  • Open to all levels a placement test determines your starting point, from beginner to advanced
  • Some nationalities may require a visa to study in your chosen country, we’ll guide you through this as part of your application

Average class size: 25
Maximum class size: 30
Days per week: Mon – Fri
Lesson times: 9:00 – 12:15 and/or 13:00 – 16:15
Hours per week: 15 or 21


Where this course leads

General French is often the first step in a longer journey. Many CAINU students move on to DELF/DALF or TCF/TEF exam preparation once they’re ready, or transition into a vocational training program once their French is strong enough for their chosen field.

Available in