When many travelers dream of studying French abroad, their minds often wander to lamplit Parisian bistros overlooking the iconic Eiffel Tower. But did you know France is not your only option to study French abroad? In fact, is a unique experience that will give you all the romance of Paris and more.
Québec, Canada, screams French influence with a uniquely Canadian twist. Imagine walking down cobbled streets, sipping espresso at quaint cafes, exploring European-style basilicas, while also having access to all the poutine, maple syrup, and epic summer festivals of your dreams.
Enjoy maple syrup directly from the source while learning French in Canada!
From Québec City to Montréal, Canada is home to the second-largest French-speaking population in the world, which means you can travel just 50 miles over the United States border if you’re interested in learning French in Canada. Here are the benefits of instead of crossing oceans to learn French abroad.
Can I learn French in Canada for free?
When it comes to selecting language courses abroad, every student wonders if it’s possible to learn French in Canada for free. The Canadian government offers government-subsidized French language classes for immigrants and Canadians over 16 years old; however, this often doesn’t apply to international students or tourists.
The good news is even if you aren’t eligible for free classes, there are plenty of cheap options to learn French in Canada. For international students with an intermediate level of French, you can join for $75 per session to help improve fluency. If you’re a French newbie, you may be eligible for study , or consider setting up a to help raise money to take you abroad.
If all else fails, you can cut down on language course fees by practicing on Duo Lingo or getting a French conversation buddy - two of the best ways to help you learn French in Canada for free!
11 benefits of learning French in Canada
Beautiful, adventurous, and the perfect place to learn French without going very far.
has many perks. When choosing the best destination to improve French language skills, Canada is often overlooked, but this beautiful country offers a truly immersive, one-of-a-kind experience. Here are the top benefits of learning French in Canada.
1. You’ll learn unique French Canadian slang.
The French you’ll learn in Canada can be used all over the world with any French speakers, but it will also be truly unique compared to the French you’ll learn anywhere else. By learning French in Canada, you’ll pick up phrases that are uniquely Canadian, learn the subtle nuances of the French-Canadian language, and develop a distinct French-Canadian accent. Who would choose to study French in France when learning French in Canada makes you stand out from the crowd?
2. There’s minimal culture shock.
While you’re bound to experience some degree of culture shock when traveling internationally, the culture shock is much more minimal when you learn French in Canada. For international students from the US, you’ll find Québec a little more European than America, while international students from Europe will find it a little more American than Europe. It’s the perfect blend, offering an experience that is unique and different, without the overwhelm experienced from studying elsewhere.
3. It’s close to home.
You might not even have to take a flight to get there!
If you’re traveling from the United States, learning French in Canada means a short drive over the border. If you’re intimidated by the long travel time or expensive international flight costs, this is an excellent option while still gaining the benefits of learning French abroad.
4. It’s affordable.
Saving money on flight costs is only one of the benefits of learning French in Canada. You can also save money on your education and general living expenses by choosing Canada as your destination to study French. On average, you’ll find cheaper rent, food, transport, and excursions in Canada when compared to France. You’ll also have access to excellent educational institutions for much lower tuition fees, which means you can stay longer and have more fun!
5. It opens up job opportunities in Canada.
Studying a second language is always a great way to open up job opportunities in an international market. If you’ve ever dreamed of , learning French is almost essential.
Looking for a job? You’ll have options after learning French in Canada.
Because French is one of two official languages of Canada, jobs throughout the country often require you to be proficient in both French and English. The benefits of learning French in Canada are that , and it can even land you an $800 government stipend if you reach bilingualism and choose to immigrate.
6. It gives you extra points towards residency.
Speaking of immigration, Canada continues to be a top destination for expats. If living in Canada as a resident is on your bucket list, learning French in Canada should be too. While basic French is a requirement if applying for residency, Canadian residency also works on a points system. Strong French language skills can give you access to 50 additional points and the potential to apply for express entry.
7. It gives you access to top-notch education.
Some of the best educational institutions in Canada are French language-based, which means if you’re thinking of , starting with a French language course in Canada should be your first move. With a competitive admissions process and high standards for applicants, learning French in Canada can be your ticket to being admitted to some of the top Canadian universities.
8. It opens up Canadian travel opportunities.
Have you seen how gorgeous the Canadian landscape is? Canada is the second-largest country in the world, featuring rainforest, beaches, glaciers, and some of the most beautiful mountains you’ll lay eyes on. One of the top benefits of learning French in Canada is the ability to travel the diverse country, whether that means road tripping through the Canadian Rockies, witnessing the Northern Lights, hiking through the west coast, or exploring Old Québec.
9. Its food and architecture rival Paris.
While learning French in Canada, you’ll find all the things that are typical of France like fresh baguettes and impressive basilicas. Québec, however, offers so much more! In addition to its French infusion, you also have access to everything that is classic Canada.
Think hipster bars, Jewish delis, Kamouraska lamb, Arctic char, and some of the most breathtaking European-style churches in the world. When you’re standing beneath Old Montréal’s Notre-Dame Basilica with a bowl of delicious poutine, you’ll feel silly for considering studying French anywhere else.
10. Christmas is magic.
There are few places where wintertime is more charming.
Montréal at Christmastime is magic. Sugar Shacks, abane à sucre, pop up as a Canadian winter tradition, where you can feast on traditional Québec food and sugary maple treats.
The city transforms into a Winter Wonderland, featuring cozy fireplaces, mulled wine, a blanket of powdery-white snow, and city squares boasting Christmas lights, musical performances, outdoor bars, and holiday mascots. If you’re learning French in Canada during Christmas, you’ll have the opportunity to go ice skating, watch the Christmas fireworks, and truly embrace the holiday spirit.
11. The excursions are legendary.
will be in heaven when learning French in Canada. Check off your bucket list by skiing through sky-high, powdery mountains, sleeping in ice hotels under the stars, and visiting the incredible Niagara Falls. Indulge in rafting, fishing, cycling, snowmobiling, or anything to get your adrenaline pumping. The surreal landscape offers some of the most exciting excursions around the world, all in one place.
Is learning French in Canada your next adventure?
Learn French AND hike Lake Louise! Are you in?
When considering learning French abroad, Canada is often overshadowed by daydreams of the Eiffel Tower and Parisian romance, but Canada offers an experience that is truly unique. With its beautiful landscape, French-infused food and culture, and endless opportunities for growth, there’s no doubt that learning French in Canada should be next on your travel bucket list. Are you ready to make the leap?
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