Academic Year Abroad

Immerse yourself in French and achieve your language goals. 

Study French for Longer, Succeed for Life!

Ready for a life-changing language year abroad?

Spend between 6 and 11 months becoming fluent in French, living like a local, and building friendships that'll last a lifetime.

Our Academic Year Abroad in France or Switzerland gives you real immersion and hands-on experience — everything you need to succeed at university or in your career. You'll walk away with genuine confidence and practical skills that work in the real world.

Thousands of students take this step every year. Ready to make it yours?

Download Academic Year Abroad brochure
Academic Year Abroad with Kaplan
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Why choose an Academic Year Abroad with Kaplan 

97%

Student recommendation worldwide

87+

Years of excellence

100% icon

Accredited in France and Switzerland

5 and more

Exam Preparation options to advance your academic career

1.2m

Students have reached their goals with Kaplan Inc. each year.

Choose from 3 vibrant French-speaking cities

Study in Lyon - France's second city and a foodie's dream. Or head to Nice on the French Riviera for sun-soaked culture. If Switzerland is for you, pick Montreux - a picture-perfect city right on Lake Geneva. You can even split your year abroad between two cities - build your ideal study abroad package.

Master French. Reach your goals

Tailor your program and start your academic adventure. Choose 6, 9 or 11 months to become fluent and learn practical French, taught by experts and guest speakers

Intensive

Want to master every aspect of French? This program sharpens your skills in speaking, reading, writing, listening, grammar, and pronunciation, while also expanding your vocabulary for effective communication in real-world settings. 

 

Key facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 30 lessons per week 

  • 20 Language Foundation = 15 hours​
  • 5 Language in Action Workshops = 3.75 hours​
  • 5 Specialist Skills Courses = 3.75 hours

Destination available: Lyon, Nice and Montreux

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: Elementary

Class size: Average 12, maximum 14

Semi-Intensive

Build a strong foundation of the French language while also having enough free time to explore your chosen location and have fun with friends! Take part in our social activities, immerse yourself in the city, and make the most of this adventure!

 

Key facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 25 lessons per week

  • 20 Language Foundation = 15 hours​
  • 5 Language in Action Workshops = 3.75 hours​

Destination available: Lyon, Nice and Montreux

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: Elementary

Class size: Average 12, maximum 14

Multi-Destination Year

Students travel the globe to create their own dream Academic Year Abroad by combining two, three or four locations, each destination with a minimum of 12 weeks.

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: : 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Minimum age: 16

Entry level: Elementary

Class size: Average 12, maximum 14

Why should I choose a long-term program?

Quarter 1: Building your foundation

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Quarter 1: Building your foundation
  • Build strong French skills, whatever your starting point
  • Gain confidence through interactive activities, conversations, and writing practice
  • Learn the academic and professional French you'll actually use

Quarter 2: Growing your fluency

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Quarter 2: Growing your fluency
  • Express yourself naturally in everyday situations as your fluency takes off
  • Dive deeper into your specialised track, with lessons tailored to your goals
  • Settle into city life and connect with the local culture

Quarter 3: Levelling up

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Quarter 3: Levelling up
  • Strengthen your French language skills and see your goals get closer
  • Choose from 100s of activities and practice independently or with others
  • Start your final project and earn certificates that boost your résumé

Quarter 4: Ready for what's next

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Quarter 4: Ready for what's next
  • Finish your final project and prep for language exams or university applications
  • Practice with mock tests, master exam strategies, and apply to universities through our placement program
  • Celebrate at your exclusive graduation ceremony

What do Kaplan students think?

If you're still wondering whether an academic year abroad is right for you, don't just take our word for it: hear from students who have been there, and done that. 

Why study French abroad with Kaplan?

Affordable tuition and accommodation

Affordable tuition and accommodation

Get competitive rates on all our courses, even at popular times, along with special rates on housing - with no extra charges.

A strong network of friends

A strong network of friends

You'll be with the same cohort of students throughout your course, establishing strong connections with new friends from different cultures.

Morning class guarantee

Morning class guarantee

Your lessons will always be in the mornings, so you can spend the afternoons exploring your new home.

Academic support team

Academic support team

Receive personal guidance and support from dedicated academic advisors and staff throughout your course.

Welcome city tour

Welcome city tour

Seemless integration, with a tour of your new city to help you feel right at home.

Graduation Recognition Event

Graduation Recognition Event

At the end of your course, celebrate your success at a special graduation ceremony for you and your new friends.

Frequently asked questions about an Academic Year Abroad

How much does it cost for an Academic Year Abroad?

How much an Academic Year Abroad costs vary based on how long you study, the type of accommodation you choose, and any extra activities or trips. But this isn’t just about price—it’s an investment in your future. You’re gaining language skills, life experience, confidence, and global connections that last a lifetime. And that kind of growth is priceless. Get a free, personalized quote here

Do all the Kaplan schools offer the same courses?

Not exactly. All schools offer the Language and Culture program, but the University Preparation and Professional Preparation programs are available at select destinations. You'll need to check in the individual fact files which schools offer the program that fits your goals. That said, every Kaplan school is in a location chosen for its cultural richness, iconic appeal, and student-friendly atmosphere

Will I get a certificate after my Academic Year Abroad with Kaplan?

Yes! When you complete your Academic Year Abroad, you’ll receive an official Kaplan certificate of completion at graduation. If you’re on the Professional Preparation program, you’ll also earn individual certificates for each module you complete... perfect for boosting your CV and showcasing your skills. 

Does Kaplan offer accommodation for long-term students?

Yes! Kaplan offers a range of comfortable, vetted accommodation options for long-term students, including student residences and homestays. Whether you prefer independent living or a more local, immersive experience, we’ll help you find a place that feels like a true home away from home—so you can focus on studying and enjoying your time abroad. 

Will I learn quicker if I take a semester instead of a year?

It depends on your goals. If you're looking for faster progress in a short time, our Intensive 6-month program is a great option. But the longer you study, the more deeply you’ll absorb the language and build lasting confidence. A full year (11-month program) gives you more time to practice, grow, and connect—both personally and academically.

What’s the difference between each quarter?

Each quarter builds on the last. In the First Quarter, you will settle in, explore your new surroundings, and build a strong English foundation. The Second Quarter focuses on growing your skills and confidence through targeted learning, depending on which program you’ve chosen. In the Third Quarter, you feel fully immersed, and you’ll be speaking more naturally and connecting deeply with others. Finally, in the Fourth Quarter, you put it all into practice through final projects, exam preparation, and planning your next steps. Every quarter takes you closer to fluency, and a more confident, capable you. 

Is the 11-month program worth it?

Absolutely! Whether you’re looking to boost your career or increase your chances of getting into your dream university, our 11-month program gives you the time needed to build stronger language skills. The longer you study, the more you get out of the experience—not just in language fluency, but also in personal growth, confidence, and meaningful connections. It’s an investment in both your education and your future! 

Can I speak with someone without any commitment or obligation, for free?

Yes! You can speak to one of our advisors for free today. There’s no commitment or obligation—just an opportunity to get all your questions answered and start planning your Academic Year Abroad journey. We're here to help you every step of the way! 

The best year of your life starts here

Get friendly and professional advice about our French Academic Year Abroad, schools and prices.
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