French classes in Paris for Expats and Their Families
Live, connect & thrive in Paris with confidence! Master French with engaging, personalized, and practical French lessons in Paris designed specifically for expats. Thanks to our proven methods and expert tutors, you'll progress faster, gaining real-world language skills to navigate life in Paris with ease.
Browse our French classes in Paris
380+
Expat Students
4.89/5
global satisfaction
87
net promoter score*
100%
pass rate in exams
Who am I ?
I'm Fabienne Defaux
I'm a passionate French teacher and French certifications examiner with 14+ years of experience dedicated to helping expatriates and their families thrive in Paris.
Since 2017, my husband, Pierre-Yves, and I have been running novexpat with a clear mission: to offer bespoke French lessons that empower expats to navigate Paris confidently and fluently.
At novexpat, we focus on real-life situations and practical skills that help you progress quickly – whether at work, in social settings or managing everyday tasks.
✨ Why our students love their French classes in Paris: Every lesson has an immediate impact – what you learn in class, you use in real life. Plus, our immersive approach, our growing passionate team of 10+ expert French tutors, and tailored support make learning both effective and enjoyable!
I personally ensure that you get the right French teacher, the right support, and the right learning path to achieve your goals.
Let's work together to accelerate your French learning journey and help you feel truly at home in Paris!
Browse our French classes offer and book a video call with me when you're ready to make French a natural part of your Parisian life!
French Classes for Absolute French Beginners to Advanced French Speakers
Whether you're starting as a complete beginner or refining advanced French skills, our tailored French classes in Paris are designed to meet you exactly where you are, ensuring rapid progress and real-life results.
Our personalized approach is built around real-world scenarios. You'll not only learn French grammar and French vocabulary but also apply your French skills in day-to-day conversations, from ordering a croissant at the boulangerie to discussing work or news-related topics.
Whether it's preparing for business meetings, socializing with colleagues, neighbors, new friends, or mastering French for everyday tasks, we ensure that your learning is directly applicable to your Paris life.
Our FLE French lessons in Paris (Français Langue Étrangère) follow the official Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (A1 to C1), but we add something extra: you'll see tangible results fast. With over 10,000 hours of lessons delivered, our students typically advance one language level every 30 hours.(1)
We can help you prepare for official French exams like the DELF or DCL, whether you're applying for a visa, naturalization, university admission, or aiming to showcase your French skills to potential employers and boost your career opportunities.
(1) Average progress observed among the 260+ alumni of our private French classes between the placement test and the end-of-course evaluation.
Available French classes in Paris, according to your French level
French for Absolute Beginners
Just starting out in French?
Great news: at this level, your progress can be very fast! The key is to move at your own pace and have plenty of space to practice. That's why, for your level, we exclusively offer private lessons or semi-private sessions (if you'd like to learn with a friend or partner).
French for Beginners
You have some basic knowledge but lack confidence when speaking, or maybe your foundation feels too “textbook”? Do you need to learn how to apply your French in real-life situations? Our conversation class will help you improve your spoken fluency and feel more at ease in everyday interactions. And if you're ready to take the next step toward an intermediate level, our 1-on-1 FrenchUp course is perfect for you!
French for Intermediates
You can handle everyday small talk—ordering at a restaurant, chatting at the bakery, talking about the weather—but you'd like to go further: socialize effortlessly, express your opinions, take part in discussions on current topics, or navigate professional conversations with ease. Our intermediate courses, available in mini-groups or private sessions, will help you move beyond the basics and develop a more natural, idiomatic French for all your regular interactions.
French for Advanced
You're ready to refine your French, express your ideas with ease, and dive into lively lunchtime debates with colleagues or your French in-laws! Our conversation course will help you sharpen your spontaneity on a variety of social topics and expand your vocabulary for more nuanced discussions. And if you're aiming for structured progress toward a C1 level or boosting your writing skills, our 1-on-1 FrenchUp program will be your best ally!
French for Absolute Beginners
Just starting out in French?
Great news: at this level, your progress can be very fast! The key is to move at your own pace and have plenty of space to practice. That's why, for your level, we exclusively offer private lessons or semi-private sessions (if you'd like to learn with a friend or partner).
French for Beginners
You have some basic knowledge but lack confidence when speaking, or maybe your foundation feels too “textbook”? Do you need to learn how to apply your French in real-life situations? Our conversation class will help you improve your spoken fluency and feel more at ease in everyday interactions. And if you're ready to take the next step toward an intermediate level, our 1-on-1 FrenchUp course is perfect for you!
French for Intermediates
You can handle everyday small talk—ordering at a restaurant, chatting at the bakery, talking about the weather—but you'd like to go further: socialize effortlessly, express your opinions, take part in discussions on current topics, or navigate professional conversations with ease. Our intermediate courses, available in mini-groups or private sessions, will help you move beyond the basics and develop a more natural, idiomatic French for all your regular interactions.
French for Advanced
You're ready to refine your French, express your ideas with ease, and dive into lively lunchtime debates with colleagues or your French in-laws! Our conversation course will help you sharpen your spontaneity on a variety of social topics and expand your vocabulary for more nuanced discussions. And if you're aiming for structured progress toward a C1 level or boosting your writing skills, our 1-on-1 FrenchUp program will be your best ally!
French Classes for Kids Too!
Did you know we also offer fun, age-appropriate French classes for children and teens? Whether your child is just starting school in France or you'd like them to feel more confident speaking French with friends, our French for Kids lessons are designed to help young learners thrive. With playful activities, supportive teachers, and a focus on real-life communication, your little expat will build language skills with joy and confidence.
Discover our French classes for kids in ParisWhich French Class is Best for You?
Take Our Quiz!
Private French classes or small group French classes? FrenchUp class, French conversation classes or the FrenchBooster Program?
Still unsure? Take our quiz to find out which French learning program in Paris is the best fit for you!
Classes Organization
Our French Classes in Paris Are Structured
We combine interactive, real-time lessons (1) with engaging self-study activities (2) to help you progress quickly and effectively. Our structured approach ensures that you can immediately apply what you learn in everyday-life situations.
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1
Private & Small-Group Lessons, guided by an expert teacher
1 to 2 weekly sessions lasting 1 to 1.5 hours
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In-person sessions, either at the office, at home, or in a café in Paris, La Défense, and nearby suburbs.
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Online sessions via video conference.
1-on-1 or small group of learners at a similar level, face-to-face with a dedicated teacher
Monday > Saturday, from 8am to 8pm
Our live sessions focus on active participation, balancing practical conversation, structured learning, and personalized feedback to ensure you get the most out of every class.
Typical 1h30 French Lesson Breakdown
1h30Warm-up & Topic Introduction
Ease into your French lesson with a casual chat over coffee, review recent exercises, and discuss any challenges. Your teacher then introduces the day's theme interactively.
Focus & Refresh
A quick activity to re-engage with past concepts, ensuring a solid foundation before moving forward.
New Key Concept
Through real-world scenarios, discover or reinforce essential language structures to enhance fluency.
Practical French Vocabulary & Expressions
Actively engage with relevant, up-to-date vocabulary and commonly used phrases, fine-tuning pronunciation and cultural nuances.
Hands-on Practice
Through guided conversations, structured exercises, and real-life simulations, apply what you've learned with personalized feedback.
Wrap-up & Next Steps
A summary of key takeaways, tailored recommendations for self-study, and a preview of the next lesson. Additional online challenges and cultural insights are shared to reinforce learning between sessions.
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2
Between Sessions: Self-Paced Online Challenges
To deepen your understanding and reinforce learning, you access exclusive resources and challenges on our custom-built learning platform.
Every resource is designed to be completed in under 15 minutes, making it easy to fit into your daily routine. Plus, you'll have lifetime access to your learning materials, so you can review anytime—even after your French course ends!
Our Pedagogy Approach
Enjoy Tailored Support Throughout Your French Learning Journey in Paris
- Practice French based off real-Life situations that you experience in Paris, in your daily life, and at work
- Learn from qualified, passionate, caring, and highly adaptable affiliated teachers
- Proactive support from a pedagogical coordinator to help you stay on track and motivated
- Modern tools for modern learners: access Slack, customized platforms, and digital tools to track your progress
- Flexible learning to fit your life and constraints
French Classes That Fully Immerse You in the Language, Culture and Life of Paris
Learning French in Paris isn't just about studying: it's about living the language. As an expat, your days are packed with work, errands, and social commitments, leaving little time to truly discover Paris and connect with the locals around you.
Each lesson is a moment to pause, connect and immerse yourself in the city, going beyond just grammar and vocabulary. For example, we take learning out of the classroom, practicing over coffee in cozy, conveniently-located cafés.
Your teacher, a Parisian local, is there to share insider tips, cultural insights, and the practical skills you need to experience the city to its fullest. Plus, each French class includes cultural resources designed to help you confidently engage in your next conversation with Parisians.
Flexible Locations – Learn French Anywhere in Paris
We offer private French classes in all 20 arrondissements of Paris.
Each Paris neighborhood brings a unique experience, and we know the best cafés and spots to practice your French in real-world settings
Whether at your home, office, or in carefully selected Parisian cafés, our lessons are designed for maximum immersion.
Prefer French group learning? Join our in-person conversation-driven mini-group sessions or the FrenchBooster Program at a cosy coworking space near Châtelet-Les Halles.
We also offer flexible options for students in nearby suburbs like Boulogne, Courbevoie, Issy-les-Moulineaux, Neuilly-sur-Seine, Puteaux, and even further out in Saint-Germain-en-Laye and Versailles.
Not in Paris yet or willing to learn from home? No problem! We also offer online French classes via video call, so you can learn from anywhere in the world. It's a great option if you travel often, work from home, or just prefer learning remotely.
Sharing our love for Paris
As teachers who are totally in love with Paris, it's hard for us not to share all the amazing things the city has to offer. Paris isn't just a place we live – it's a place we truly cherish, and we love showing you that side of it. From the latest exhibitions at the museums of the Ville de Paris to the trendiest rooftops in the city, from the hidden windmill on Butte Montmartre to the peaceful Parisian spots where it's great to take a walk, there's so much to discover.
Are you into fashion? Paris is gearing up for the next Fashion Week, so let's make a lesson just for you, teaching the phrases and vocabulary you'll need to talk about it naturally and with ease! Or maybe you're having French friends over for dinner tonight? Let's do a class on how to impress them with your French!
You'll see, Paris is more than just a city: it's our home. And we want everything in our lessons to help you feel just as comfortable and at home here as we do.
Visit our blog for free resources to help you navigate Paris and improve your French!
How to Get Started
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Browse our FrenchUp Class, French conversation classes or FrenchBooster program dedicated pages to get all the details (pre-requisites, syllabus, course organization, testimonials, tuition fees)
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Pre-apply online for your preferred French course (no payment, no commitment)
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Get a video call interview with Fabienne, our enrollment advisor
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Receive a detailed training agreement to sign and start learning French in Paris!
Still not sure about what French class in Paris would best fit you?
Book a video call with Fabienne
FAQ
Your questions answered
We offer private lessons for 1 or a small group of learners and small group classes like our conversation class and the FrenchBooster Program. All our courses are designed specifically for expats and are practical, immersive and flexible.
Yes! We work with complete beginners all the way up to advanced speakers. You'll learn at your own pace, with plenty of support to help you build confidence and use French in real-life situations. Check out our available French classes, sorted by level.
We offer lessons for all levels, from complete beginner (A1) to advanced (C1), following the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your skills, we have a program that fits.
Absolutely. Many of our students begin their lessons online before relocating to Paris. This gives you a head start with basic conversation skills and cultural tips so you can feel more confident from day one.
It's the perfect time! Our classes are designed to help you settle in quickly. We support you in everyday situations – understanding French administration, chatting with your neighbors, or simply navigating the city. You can begin your lessons upon arrival or plan ahead.
We specialize in real-life, contextual learning designed specifically for expats. Whether you're ordering coffee, chatting with neighbors, or preparing for a job interview, your lessons are tailored to fit your everyday life in Paris. You'll be supported by a team of experienced and passionate French teachers who genuinely care about your progress. On top of that, your learning journey is personally guided by a dedicated pedagogy coordinator — and everything is organized through our easy-to-use online platform.
Pricing depends on the course format. You'll find pricing details for each French class on the dedicated page of each French course. We also offer custom packages to suit your needs.
Yes! Some learners may be eligible for CPF funding or employer support. We've created a dedicated page to explain all options. Check out financing options here.
We offer private lessons in all 20 arrondissements, as well as in nearby suburbs, like Saint-Germain-en-Laye or Neuilly-sur-Seine. Whether it's at a café, your home, or your office, we'll meet you where it's convenient. Our group classes are located in a cozy coworking space near Châtelet-Les Halles.
Yes! We're happy to teach in your preferred location in Paris, whether that's your home, workplace, or even your favorite Parisian café.
Yes. We also offer online lessons via video call, either as a complement or alternative to in-person classes. It's a great option if you travel often, work from home, or just prefer learning remotely.
Of course! We offer semi-private lessons, which are ideal for couples or friends who want to learn together at a similar pace.
Yes, we do! Our scheduling is flexible, and we'll do our best to find a time that works with your availability, even outside of typical working hours.
It varies depending on your goals, frequency of classes, starting level and learning profile. On average, our students progress one CEFR level every 30 hours of lessons through our FrenchUp course. We'll guide you step by step.
Consistency is key! We usually recommend 1–2 lessons per week, but it really depends on your goals, pace, and availability. We'll create a plan that fits your life and learning style.
Definitely. We help learners prepare for official certifications and offer personalized coaching to ensure you're ready for both written and oral components.
Yes, we do! We offer lessons for children (from age 4) and teens, with fun and age-appropriate teaching methods. Lessons can be private or in small groups of siblings with similar French level, either in-person or online. Find out more on our French classes for kids page.
That's exactly what we're here for! During your initial video call, we'll ask you a few questions to understand your needs, goals, and learning preferences. Based on that, we'll pair you with the teacher who's the best fit in terms of teaching style, personality, and availability.
And throughout your learning journey, a dedicated academic coordinator stays by your side to make sure everything runs smoothly—and to make adjustments if needed.
It's easy! Start by browsing our programs online to find the one that best suits your level, goals, learning style—and budget. We explain everything in detail!
Not sure which course is right for you? You can take our course matching quiz or book a free discovery call with Fabienne.
Then, simply fill out a short pre-application form to express your interest and schedule a video consultation with Fabienne. During the call, we'll discuss your level, needs, and goals, and answer any questions you may have. From there, you'll receive a personalized proposal to kick off your learning journey.
5.0 / 5 – 54 reviews
