Course content & levels

Our courses are built around the needs of learners, according to the European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Four skills are covered in each level: listening, reading, speaking and writing.
This dynamic program covers a wide range of subjects, and favors a linguistic approach based on communication and play. Students are encouraged to act and interact in French, whatever their level. 

A1

Level A1 in French corresponds to a beginner's level, where the learner acquires the essential basics of the language. At this stage, the learner becomes familiar with simple words and short sentences, enabling him or her to communicate in very basic everyday situations.

In French, at A1 level, you'll learn to introduce yourself, and talk about yourself, your family and those around you. Basic notions such as greetings, numbers, colors and everyday objects are explored. Grammar at this level includes simple structures such as verbs in the present tense, definite and indefinite articles, and personal pronouns.

Oral and written comprehension and expression skills are gradually developed. We practice understanding simple announcements and short instructions, and writing small texts such as personal messages or simple notes.

Overall, level A1 is a crucial initial stage where the learner becomes familiar with the sound, basic vocabulary and first structures of the French language. It's an exciting stage, because it's where everything begins on the journey towards mastery of this beautiful language.

A2

Level A2 in French represents a stage after the beginner's level (A1) where learners begin to consolidate their basic knowledge and broaden their language skills. At this stage, we deepen the knowledge acquired at the previous level, while exploring new concepts to better interact in everyday situations.

At A2 level, we continue to develop vocabulary by exploring more varied themes such as leisure, travel, work and so on. Sentences become a little more complex, and we learn to express simple opinions on familiar topics. Grammar is enriched with the introduction of new verb tenses (such as passé composé), adverbs, prepositions and complementary pronouns.

As far as communication skills are concerned, the focus is on listening to simple dialogues, announcements and everyday conversations. In writing, we begin to draft more elaborate texts, such as personal e-mails or simple descriptions.

Overall, level A2 represents a phase in which learners strengthen their linguistic foundations and familiarize themselves with more complex concepts, while continuing to progress towards more fluent, autonomous communication in French.

B1

At level B1 in French, the intermediate stage is reached, where language learning becomes more advanced. At this stage, the learner begins to feel more at ease communicating in a variety of everyday and professional situations, even if this still requires some support.

At B1 level, vocabulary is considerably enriched, and more complex subjects such as society, culture, health, the media, etc. are covered. We learn to argue, express opinions and debate on familiar subjects. Grammar becomes more elaborate, with mastery of new verb tenses, subordinates and nuances of language.

As far as comprehension is concerned, progress is made in the ability to understand longer discussions, radio broadcasts or simple press articles. Oral and written expression becomes more precise and fluent, enabling you to write more detailed texts and take part in more complex conversations.

All in all, level B1 marks a significant advance in mastery of the French language. Learners feel more comfortable interacting in a wider range of situations, and begin to acquire a certain autonomy in their use of the language.

B2

At level B2 in French, learners reach an advanced stage where they are able to communicate much more fluently and precisely. At this level, the language is mastered to a degree that enables more sophisticated interaction in a variety of personal, professional and academic contexts.

At level B2, vocabulary is further enriched, covering more complex and specialized topics. Topics include politics, economics, literature and more. Grammar becomes more subtle, with advanced use of verb tenses, grammatical subtleties and a better understanding of the nuances of the language.

Oral and written comprehension at this level enables the learner to grasp longer, more complex content, such as speeches, TV programs or in-depth press articles. Oral and written expression is more refined, enabling the writing of structured texts, essays and active participation in complex debates and discussions.

Overall, level B2 represents advanced competence in French. Learners are able to communicate independently and fluently, understand a wide variety of texts and express themselves with ease in most situations. It's a level that opens the door to more advanced academic, professional and cultural opportunities in the French language.

C1

At level C1 in French, the learner reaches a level of advanced competence, very close to complete mastery of the language. At this stage, communication is highly sophisticated and precise, enabling nuanced and complex expression on a wide range of topics.

At C1 level, vocabulary is very extensive, covering a wide range of specialized topics. Complex subjects such as philosophy, science, international politics, etc. are explored. Mastery of grammar is advanced, with fluent and precise use of verb tenses, grammatical structures and a fine understanding of linguistic nuances.

Oral and written comprehension is highly developed, enabling you to grasp long, complex speeches, academic presentations, debates and in-depth literary texts. Oral and written expression comes almost naturally, enabling us to adapt to different language registers, write complex texts and argumentative essays, and participate actively in demanding academic or professional discussions.

In short, level C1 represents a high degree of proficiency in French. Learners at this level are able to express themselves with ease, precision and nuance in a wide variety of contexts, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the language and its associated culture. This level opens the door to advanced academic and professional opportunities in the French-speaking world.

C2

At level C2 in French, the learner achieves the highest degree of linguistic competence. This level represents an almost complete mastery of the language, enabling virtually native communication in all contexts, whether academic, professional or social.

At C2 level, vocabulary is extremely extensive and varied, covering highly specialized topics. Grammar is virtually perfect, with fluent and precise use of verb tenses, the most complex grammatical structures and a deep understanding of linguistic subtleties.

Oral and written comprehension is highly advanced, enabling understanding of highly complex speeches, academic lectures, specialized debates and dense literary texts. Oral and written expression is highly refined, enabling the learner to adapt to any language register, to produce elaborate texts and in-depth analyses, and to participate proactively in high-level discussions.

In short, level C2 represents near-native mastery of French. People who have reached this level are able to express themselves with an ease, precision and linguistic richness comparable to that of native speakers. It is the highest level of linguistic competence and opens the door to the most advanced opportunities in academic, professional and cultural fields in the French language.

Terms and conditions of sale

Article 1: Admission Requirements

Minimum age: to be admitted to the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole, students must be at least 18 years old (or, in exceptional cases and subject to acceptance by the teaching department, at least 16 years old with parental authorization).

Visa : the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole cannot be held responsible for any difficulties in obtaining a residence permit upon presentation of proof of enrolment in one of its courses. 

Article 2: Registration Procedures

Regardless of the registration method chosen, non-beginner students must take a placement test online or at the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole headquarters (2 rue Bernos, 59800 Lille) at the time of registration, so that the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole teaching team can place them in the course that matches their level. Once this test has been completed and the course determined, the registration process is as follows:

  1. The learner fills in the online registration form received by e-mail or at the reception desk of the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole.
  2. The learner acknowledges and accepts the General Terms and Conditions of Sale. 
  3. The learner receives an e-mail with his or her schedule and an invitation to his or her first lesson the week before the start of the course (for group lessons), or a connection link (for individual online lessons). 
  4. The learner must arrive on the first day of the course, either face-to-face or online, with the necessary equipment (notebook and pen).

Article 3: Learning Objectives – Progression

The courses offered by the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole are designed to help students learn and improve their French language skills.

The level achieved by the end of the course is not guaranteed, as it depends largely on the student’s attendance, independent study, and active participation in class.

The academic placement assessment conducted at the time of registration is based on a placement test and does not guarantee specific results.

Training programs can be tailored to learners’ skill levels, needs, and attendance to ensure educational consistency across groups.

Article 4: Quality Policy

The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole is committed to a quality assurance process that complies with the national quality standards applicable to vocational training organizations.
As such, it may be subject to audits and inspections as part of the Qualiopi certification process.

The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole ensures the traceability of training activities (attendance sheets, evaluations, training contracts, absence reports, etc.) in accordance with the requirements of the Qualiopi quality standard.

As part of its quality assurance efforts, the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole may ask students to participate in satisfaction and progress surveys. These surveys help ensure the continuous improvement of our courses.

Article 5: Financial Terms

Participation in courses at the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole requires payment in euros of the fees set out in the school's promotional material (brochures, leaflets, website). 

Group course sessions (day and evening) : 

  • A one-time registration fee of €40. This fee must be paid on the day of registration. It is non-refundable. It covers administrative costs and the placement test. Students must pay for the textbook and workbook for their current level. If they progress and move up to the next level, they must pay for the textbook and workbook for the next level, but will not have to pay the registration fee again.
  • Training fees: A deposit calculated as a percentage of the total training cost is required on the day of registration. The balance is due no later than 30 days after the registration date. 
  • Loyalty Discount: A 5% loyalty discount for a second course session, 7% for a third, 10% for the fourth, 12% for the fifth, and 15% starting with the sixth session will be applied only to the purchase of a full course session. Loyalty discounts apply to courses funded by individual learners. They do not apply to courses funded by companies or institutions.

Please note! In order to comply with the requirements of the Lille Prefecture for the issuance of a residence permit, students holding a long-stay visa to study in France must pay the full tuition fees at the time of their final registration.

Article 6: Payment Terms

The initial registration fee and tuition fees are payable in cash, by check drawn on a French bank in euros, by credit card (Visa, Eurocard, MasterCard), or online (credit card or bank transfer).

Section 7: Right of Withdrawal / Cancellation (Private and Group Lessons)

The student has a 14-day cancellation period without having to provide any reason. This cancellation period begins on the date of registration (first payment or upon signing the course reservation contract). Registration implies the student’s unconditional acceptance of the General Terms and Conditions of Sale (available on the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole website or upon written request). 

If the training begins before the end of the statutory withdrawal period, the learner acknowledges that they have expressly requested that the service begin before the expiration of that period. If the right of withdrawal is exercised within this period, the learner shall be liable for an amount corresponding to the services actually provided up to the notification of their decision to withdraw, calculated on a pro rata basis of the total price of the training.

Students wishing to exercise their right of withdrawal must notify us by email at pedagogie@aflille.org or by mail at Alliance Française de Lille Métropole, 2 rue Bernos, 59800 Lille. 

7-1: Group Classes: Cancellation/Rescheduling More Than 10 Days in Advance 

In the event of cancellation more than 10 days in advance, the course fees will be refunded. However, the initial registration fee (€40) will be retained by the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole and is non-refundable under any circumstances. The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole will deduct any applicable bank fees from the amount to be refunded. The student will be entitled to postpone their course registrationfor a deferral until December 31 of the current year and for a maximum period of 6 months. Only one deferral is permitted per calendar year, subject to the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole receiving a written request no later than 10 days after registration.

Article 8: Cancellation by the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole

The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole reserves the right to cancel a class no later than 48 hours before the start of the course.

8-1: Policy in the Event of Insufficient Enrollment for Group Classes

The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole offers group classes with 6 to 12 students per class. 

The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole reserves the right to cancel a class if enrollment is insufficient (fewer than 6 people). The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole may offer an equivalent course in a small group (4–5 people) at the same price, adjusting the course duration accordingly. If new students enroll in the group during the session, the originally scheduled duration will be restored. 

The learner has the right to accept or refuse this proposal. In the event of refusal, all payments will be reimbursed, with the exception of the initial registration fee. 

Article 9: Force Majeure 

Once classes have begun, if you miss one or more classes, no rescheduling or refunds will be granted for any reason, except in cases of duly justified force majeure. 

9-1: Force majeure on the part of the student for group classes

In the event of force majeure preventing a student from attending classes for a period of more than three consecutive weeks, the student may request a refund of tuition fees on a pro-rata basis for the classes not attended (excluding the registration fee, which is retained by the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole) upon presentation of supporting documentation. Cases of force majeureinclude: serious illness or accident resulting in immobility, death in the family, or any other circumstance recognized as force majeure under French case law.

9-2: Force majeure for the Alliance Française de Lille regarding group classes

In the event of force majeure, the Alliance Française de Lille reserves the right to schedule online classes in place of in-person classes on the same days and at the same times, should the situation require it (health conditions, transportation strikes, weather conditions, damage to the building, etc.). In such cases, the student will be required to continue the courses until the end of the session, as agreed.

Article 10: Absences

At the start of the course, the learner undertakes to follow all the courses on offer.

10-1: Absences from group classes

At the time of registration, students may notify the administration of the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole of any classes they plan to miss (due to travel, work commitments, administrative obligations, etc.). This absence must be indicated on the absence form at the time of registration. The session fee will be adjusted based on this information. However, only one full week per session will be accepted under these circumstances. Thus, for a 7-week session, the student will pay for only 6 weeks. This deduction applies to courses funded by individual students. It does not apply to courses funded by companies or institutions.

In the case of training funded by a third-party organization, including through the Personal Training Account (CPF), a skills operator (OPCO), France Travail, or any other public or pooled funding program, the trainee’s absences—whether excused or unexcused—must be reported in accordance with the funders’ requirements. The trainee agrees to notify the training organization as soon as possible in the event of an absence and to provide any necessary supporting documentation.

Each funding agency has its own rules and may impose sanctions or adjust funding based on reported absences. We advise trainees to contact their funding agency directly to find out the specific consequences of their absences.

If a student is absent, they should notify the office as soon as possible by email (info@aflille.org) and inform their instructor.

10-2: Absences from Private Lessons

Only private lessons canceled at least 48 hours in advance via email sent to the administration (info@aflille.org) and to the instructor may be rescheduled for a later date in agreement with the instructor, up to a maximum of two reschedules per block of five lessons. 

Lessons cancelled less than 48 hours in advance will be charged.

Article 11: Insurance

Health, accident and civil liability insurance are compulsory and at the learner's expense.

Article 12: Attendance Certificate

A certificate of attendance and/or training summary will be issued on request.

Article 13: Exclusion

In the event of a breach by the student of the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole's internal rules, which can be consulted at reception, the Alliance Française reserves the right to interrupt the student's training, without reimbursement of the course fees.

Article 14: Image

As part of its activities, the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole may take photographs or videos in which students may appear (classes, events, cultural outings). These materials may be used for communication purposes (website, social media, brochures).

Learners may consent to or refuse this use by checking the box provided for this purpose during registration. This consent may be withdrawn at any time by sending a written request to info@aflille.org. Withdrawal of consent does not affect the lawfulness of any use made prior to such withdrawal.

Article 15: Complaints

All complaints must be submitted in writing no later than two weeks after the end of the course. These complaints are recorded, analyzed, and addressed as part of our ongoing efforts to improve the quality of our training services.

In the event of a dispute and if an amicable resolution cannot be reached, the matter may be brought before the competent courts, in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure regarding territorial jurisdiction.