Eligibility
- 18 years of age or above
- Good academic and disciplinary standing at Penn State
- 2.75 cumulative GPA or better at the time of application
- Sophomore standing or above at the start of the program
- 4 semesters of college-level French language or equivalent required
- Enrolled in a French course within the year prior to the program start date
Program Description
This program combines rigorous study of the French language at an advanced level with a broad range of classes taught in French by accomplished faculty. You can also experience what life is like for French students by taking one or more courses at a local university— we have five options you can choose from. Tutoring is available if you need help with the transition to higher education in France.
Paris will be your classroom. This program facilitates full immersion in the French language and in French society through a varied and dynamic academic program, excellent homestays, cultural activities, internships, and conversation clubs. In addition, faculty members integrate course-related trips into all courses. You can also add international work experience to your résumé while earning credit by participating in an internship placement and accompanying academic seminar.
Dates
Academic Year: early September - early May
Fall: early September - mid December
Spring: mid January - early May
Refer to IES Abroad's website for the specific dates, if available.
Location
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. The Paris of today is a multifaceted and multicultural metropolis that offers a doorway to the cultures of the world. It teems with populations from former French colonies like Senegal and Morocco, with Asian and European immigrants, and with business people and scientists from around the globe.
Get to know the City of Light on a personal scale—from the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame to your favorite boulangerie (bakery) or bookstore: this magnificent city will become your second home when you study in Paris. Walk or take the bus through the city’s vibrant streets, or hop on the Métro to get to work. Lunchtime means quiche or a sandwich au jambon in a nearby café, followed by an espresso or tea.
Education Abroad in Countries with a Penn State Restricted Travel Designation
In order to comply with Penn State’s International Travel Policy, students interested in studying abroad in countries that Penn State has designated as “restricted” for travel, a petition for a waiver must be submitted. Once a petition is complete, and if the student is approved for study on the program in question, the student may be asked to meet with the Director of Education Abroad and the petition will be reviewed by the Penn State International Restricted Travel Committee (IRTC). The necessary petition will be included in the online application process for this program. To see if your program is taking place in a restricted travel country, please visit the Penn State Global website.