French

Why learn French?

French is today spoken by about 350 million people around the world as either a native or a second language, with significant French-speaking populations in 54 countries. Most native French speakers live in France, where the language originated, or in Canada, Belgium or Switzerland. French is the only language other than English spoken on five continents. French as a foreign language is the second most frequently taught language in the world after English. French, along with English, is the official working language of the United Nations, UNESCO, NATO, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the International Olympic Committee, the European Community and the International Red Cross.

France has the sixth largest economy in the world after the U.S., Japan, Germany, China and England. France is the second largest exporter of agricultural products, defense products and services in the world but is also strong in production of luxury goods, automobiles and industrial & high technology products. The world invests in France as well: in 2006, France was the third largest recipient of foreign investment in the world. Also, more tourists visit France each year than any other country in the world.

Where can you learn French?

If you want to learn French, there is no better solution than to study abroad in a French-speaking country where you’ll be living in French all day every day. Whether you’re in French class with students from all over the world or just walking around town, you’ll always be surrounded by native French speakers. With constant practice, you’ll be amazed how fast you’ll learn French while studying abroad.