Best Ways to Learn French Online in 2024

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Thinking of learning a new language, confused about which language to choose? 

Want to widen your career opportunities and open a world of options for yourself…

Want to travel the world and explore and experience the French arts and culture. 

Well, then, don’t think too much and cut the first turf, my friend.

Because the French will surely come to your rescue. In this blog, I will share some of the best ways to learn French online. With around 80 million native speakers and over 275 million speakers worldwide, French is undoubtedly, one of the most popular languages in the world. As a matter of fact, French is the official language in over 29 countries and is the sixth most-spoken language in the world. Well, before we learn more about the spread of the French language, let us dig deeper into its past, its origin.

 

History of the French Language

French is one of the five main Romance languages that evolved from Latin, the other four being Italian, Portuguese, Romanian and Spanish, belonging to the Indo-European family. Some people like to believe that since French and its words sound “romantic”, it is called a romance language, however; that is not true. The phrase ‘romance language’ comes from the latin term, “romanica loqui” which literally means ‘to speak in Roman fashion’.

French is basically an evolution of Gallo-Romance dialects and primarily a conglomeration of three laguages namely Celtic (spoken notably by Gauls), Vulgar Latin (spoken by Romans) and Germanic languages. The French language like all others has evolved tremendously over the years due to multiple influences like the Romans and Germans.

 

Importance of the French Language Today

• The French language, today, is the second-most widely learned language after English and is taught in every continent.  
• It also holds the honour of being one of the six official languages of the United Nations.
• Knowledge of French opens doors of French companies in France and other French-speaking parts of the world. Being one of the world’s largest economies and a leading destination for foreign investment, learning French is win-win situation for any job-seeker.
• Knowing French offers access to great works of art and literature like that of Victor Hugo, Molière, Jean-Paul Sartre to name a few and also gives us the opportunity to learn about the rich culture and heritage of not only France but many other Francophone countries.
• French has gradually become the language of international diplomacy, a global business language and a top internet language to reckon with.

Friends, if there is one skill that is being learned around the world today, with enrollments growing by 50% in Asia and Africa, it is learning the French language. You can also do so by taking up French language courses online or even by going through informative tutorials or websites and apps in today’s tech-driven world. So let us dive into knowing some interesting options of how we can learn this beautiful language online sitting within the comfort of our homes.

Best ways to learn French online

1. The French Language Course from Henry Harvin Language Academy   

A great way of learning the French language online is by taking up The French Language Course from Henry Harvin Language Academy. It is the immersive and practical approach at Henry Harvin that makes learning here from industry experts all the more fun. Henry Harvin Education is a global Edtech company with a reputation of providing top-notch, industry-relevant upskilling courses for professionals. The French Language Course at Henry Harvin is a complete guide for beginners to learn and hone their French language reading, writing and speaking skills. 

The course provides a comprehensive approach towards learning as it includes

*Live online Training sessions, 

*Internship opportunities, 

*boot camps and hackathons

*E-learning portal for access to course content and videos

*GoI approved Certification and placement assistance.

The curriculum of the French language online course is designed in accordance with the guidelines of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) which further enables students to excel in important French Language Proficiency Exams such as DILF, DELF etc. The course is divided into 6 levels accordingly.

Beginners level (A1 and A2)

A1: The Beginners Level- This level encompasses Basic French Vocabulary, Greetings in French and Basic Grammar concepts. (30 hours of live training)

A2: The Upper Beginners Level- This level includes making of basic sentences along with correct tense usage and advanced grammar concepts. (30 hours)

Intermediate Level (B1and B2)

B1: The intermediate Level -This level involves learning and developing writing, reading, and listening skills. Candidates learn how to structure sentences and convey their views in the French Language. (40 hours of live training )

B2: The Upper Intermediate Level- This level introduces extra learning in French Dialects and Complex Texts. Candidates gain the skills and knowledge required to write long speeches in French and smoothly explain complex thoughts. (40 hours)

Advanced Level ( C1 and C2)

C1: The Advanced Level- This level equips candidate with a sound understanding of longer texts and their implicit meaning. Candidates will be able to express themselves spontaneously and fluently in the language. (40hours of live training)

C2: The Proficiency Level- This level will enable the candidates to understand everything that is being virtually heard or read in the French language. The candidates will be able to summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstruct arguments and accounts in a coherent fashion. (40 hours)

In addition to the above, students will also get two complimentary modules in Soft Skills development and Resume Writing.

Fee structure of the above mentioned courses:

(A1- A2)   (B1-B2) (C1-C2)

₹22500 ₹37500 ₹60000

2. French Courses at Alliance Française, India

Another terrific option for learning French online is Alliance Française easily one of the most trusted names in the field of French language learning. Alliance Française centres are spread all over India and it is a part of a worldwide network created more than 135 years ago, distributed across 133 countries, with nearly 500,000 learners every year. Enrolling at Alliance Française not only  provides students with the opportunity to learn the French language, but also discover and experience the culture and essence of France.

Alliance Française offers a wide array of French classes from beginner to advanced levels, for children, teenagers and adults (individuals and professionals). The teaching methods are action- oriented, focusing more on communication and engaging the learners through authentic content and role-plays. Courses are available both online and offline. Alliance Francais has been recognised as the official organization for conducting DELF-DALF examinations (French proficiency tests) by the Embassy of France in India.

The Alliances Française centres are located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Trivandrum, Goa, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Pondicherry, Chandigarh and Bhopal in India. They act as a conduit for bilateral exchanges in education, arts, and culture between India and France.

Fees for the different levels with study hours are given below:

#Basic User (A1-A2) – 162 hours, ₹20150-₹23,150/-

# Independent User (B1-B2) – 270 hours, available on enquiry.

# Proficient User (C1-C2) – 216 hours, available on enquiry.

3. Learn French for Beginners: The Ultimate 80-Lesson Course from Udemy

Learn French for Beginners by Udemy, a global destination for online learning is an ideal way to get a hang of the French language online for starters. Through its 80 high-quality beginner video lessons, it takes the learners step-by-step through the nuances of the French language. The video lessons include sessions on pronunciation, conversation and comprehension, thereby giving learners a complete, immersive experience in the French language.

By the end of this self-paced course, learners will be able to

• Read and Write French
• Sound like a Native Speaker
• Learn Basic French Conversation Skills and interact using common phrases
• Sharpen their Listening skills and understand basic conversations.

Course fee is ₹525/-

Udemy also provides a huge array of intermediate and advanced French language courses which can be found on the Udemy website.

4. eLearning French

Besides enrolling yourself into courses, you can also learn French online through websites like the eLearning French Website.

The website offers 2 main courses in the French Langauge, one for beginners and the other for intermediate learners. Each course includes 12 free French lessons. Students can learn to speak in French by listening to French words, phrases and dialogues delivered during these classes.

Each lesson is furthermore reinforced by simple explanations of French grammar along with examples of how to use the grammar rules. Quizzes and practice exercises are also available to keep a check on one’s progress. The courses on offer include:

• Free French Language Course for Beginners
• Free Online Intermediate French Course
• Learn French Grammar Online
• Learn French Sayings and Proverbs Online
• Learn French Slang and Idioms Online
• Learn French with Online Flashcards
• Learn French Online Through Songs

People interested in learning more about French slang, proverbs, and songs can also learn immensely from these free online classes or tutorials. It can be said that it is the best ways to learn french online.

5.FluentU

Another user-friendly website is FluentU. It is basically a language learning site that literally gives visitors the ‘real language Immersion’ experience online through its innovative use of real-world videos, interactive subtitles, and audio samples.

The videos used for teaching French include advertisements, music videos, interviews, etc. Accompanying quizzes give users the chance to practice the language used in these videos.

 

FluentU teaching functions on the central idea that exposure and interaction with native content is the best way to learn a language. FluentU is also available as an Android app on Google Playstore. It brings language learning to life in the true sense. One can also learn languages like Spanish, German, Mandarin Chinese, and Japanese through this app.

After a 14-day free trial, users can purchase any one of the two subscription options. Subscriptions grant access to all FluentU languages.

Monthly Subscription: $30/month

Annual Subscription: $240/year ($20/month)

6. Babbel

Apps like Babbel are also a popular and fun way of learning the French language. Babbel developed in 2007 was among the world’s first language-learning apps and also the best-selling. Its intuitive lessons are based on learning the French language through real-life conversations.

Crafted by experts, Babbel has French language courses to suit all your needs. It offers several courses for beginners, pre-intermediate, intermediate, independent, advanced, and refresher levels. It also has specialized courses in grammar, Business French, Listening and Speaking, Country and Traditions, and Words and Sentences to name a few.

Babbel’s monthly subscription comes at $12.95 and ranges upto $83.40 for annual plan.

7. Duolingo

Talking about Apps for language learning, one can definitely not ignore the Duolingo app. It is undoubtedly one of the world’s most trusted ways to learn French online. It makes learning the French Language as easy and fun as playing an online game through its gamified levels. Whether you want to start learning the basics or you are looking to acquire and hone your reading, writing and speaking skills in authentic Parisian French, this is just the perfect app for you.

Duolingo offers bite-sized French lessons and is 100% free, fun and science-based. You can simply use your Google or Facebook profile credentials to register on the website or download the app from play store. Both Babbel and Duolingo are available on both AppStore and Google Play store.

8. Podcast: FrenchPod101

With the advent of podcasts or episodic series of digital audio files, it has become even more easy and convenient to learn a language while you are doing other activities in the house. And we all know that we can listen to Podcasts wherever and whenever we want, from our phones or tablets. 

One of the best podcasts for learning the French language is The FrenchPod101: this podcast is specially designed for beginners. FrenchPod101 has everything from simple exercises to more complex ones with complementary PDFs.It also has an online community where you can discuss the exercises with other people. Some other popular French podcasts are the Coffee Break French, the French Podcast, and One Thing in a French Day.

Things to keep in mind while picking a French Language course 

Numerous factors need to be considered before enrolling yourself in a French language course.

1. Level of learning: Knowing your own level of learning is extremely important in making the right choice for pursuing the right course or tutorial. One also needs to be clear about the motive behind doing a course in the French language.  You need to be sure about your goals and the ways to learn French online. Is it purely out of love for the language or for professional reasons or if you want to work overseas or even travel to France or Francophone countries? The purpose should be clear.

2. Affordable Fees: The fee part too should be considered and compared while deciding a course. It is not necessary that a course with a higher fee will always be better. Many free or more affordable courses also allow for better self-learning. Course or app reviews, testimonials, and faculty expertise should also be checked before taking the final decision. The payment method and fees should also be kept in mind.

3. Learn while you earn: Constant upskilling is the need of the hour in today’s busy Business world. So, the option that you choose for studying the French langauge should allow you the time to work and study simultaneously. Weekend courses or capsule courses can be a viable option in such a scenario.

Recognised Diplomas and exams in French Language 

The French Ministry of Education certifies French language proficiency of non-native French speakers with 2 diplomas for adults above 17:

• DELF: Diplôme d’études en langue française (Diploma in French Language Studies) from level A1 to level B2 (beginner to independant users)
• DALF: Diplôme approfondi en langue française (Advanced French Language Diploma) Levels C1 and C2 (autonomous and mastery levels)

Both diplomas are valid for lifetime and recognised worldwide as a proof of your proficiency levels in French. They can prove to be an added advantage in your resume while applying for a new job.

TCF TOUT Public

• The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF) is a test that assesses a non-native French speaker’s French language skills. It is administered by France Education International (FEI), the French Ministry of Education. The validity of this test is only 2years.
• Requirement of TCF Tout Public : To apply for Higher studies in French universities
• Accredited centres in India : Alliance Francaise (Af) Bengal and Af Bhopal.

The TCF is also required for immigration to foreign countries.

Conclusion:

It is evident that learning a language is a skill in itself and learning a foreign language on top of that, is the ultimate skill/booster you need to jumpstart your career and improve your chances of landing that dream job or moving abroad for further studies. This could be the best way to learn French online.

As discussed at the onset of this blog, there are many advantages of learning the French language. 

• Its reach and scope: As French is part of La Francophonie , an organisation comprising 88 member countries which share a common language (French), it automatically becomes one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Some of the member countries (spread all over the 5 continents) are Belgium,Cameroon,Canada, Congo, France, Haiti, Luxembourg, Monaco and Switzerland. Hence, learning this language makes complete sense to stay relevant in the future.
• For pursuing higher studies: France has many prestigious world- class Colleges and Universities. So, if you want to study engineering, business management or the arts, this is the perfect choice for you.
• The language of culture: French is the international language of culture, fashion, theatre, visual art, dance, architecture and gastronomy. Studying French will allow you to immerse yourself and experience these first hand yourself.  
• The analytical language : Not only is the melodic language of French, the language of love but it also an analytical language that enables us to structure our thoughts and develop critical thinking, which is a valuable skill for job discussions and negotiations.
• For travel and tourism: France is the world’s top tourist destination and attracts more than 87 million visitors every year. Imagine the kind of ease and fun, it would add if you could converse in French while visiting the country or other French-speaking parts of the world.
• A good base for learning other languages: If you know the best ways to learn French online and if you learn French, you will be creating the sound foundation for learning other Romance languages like Italian and Spanish. 

Career Options

French opens up a world of interesting job opportunities for you and can help you find careers in diverse fields globally.

• As we are all aware that France is the World’s 5th Largest Economy and its MNCs are spread all over the globe, expertise in the French language will qualify you to work in reputed French brands like BNP Paribas, Louis Vuitton, L’ Oreal, Groupe PSA, Chanel Carrefour, Michelin to name a few.
  • One can also find langauge jobs in many BPO,KPO, IT and Call Centres.
  • Jobs in Foreign Embassies: as translator, interpretor and other administrative jobs.
  • Freelance interpretors, proofreaders, editors and content writers.
  • Jobs in travel,tourism, leisure and hospitality industries.
  • As a teacher, lecturer and corporate trainer.

• Import and export business with Francophone countries.
  • Coveted jobs in international relations: the knowledge of French will help open doors for you in International institutions like the UN, the IMF and the European Union.
  • Language blogger and youtuber
  • Journalism 
  • Linguistic Tour Guide.

This list could be endless. So don’t delay your plans of learning this beautiful language and giving a new dimesion to your life. Not every job offers a high-salary, thrilling and satisfying experiences, the opportunity to travel, flexible work timings from anywhere and a platform to explore your language skills. So what are you waiting for, go ahead and live your dreams, my friends!

 

Henry Harvin also provides these courses

• Spanish Language Course
• German Language Course
• Six Sigma Course

Henry Harvin Provides French Language Course in these Cities:

Delhi,Noida, Mumbai, Patna, Pune, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Kanpur, Online

Media Coverage

Henry Harvin French Language Course Ranks #1 in India by Education World

 

 

Recommended Reads

Top 10 French Language Course in Delhi

Top 10 French Language Course in Mumbai

Top 10 French Language Course in Kolkata

Top 10 French Language Course in Pune

 

FAQs

Q1. Who is a Francophone?

Ans: A French-speaking person or nation is referred to as Francophone in both English and French.

Q2. What is TCF?

Ans: The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF), designed by the CIEP (Centre international d’études pédagogiques) and accredited by the French Ministry of Education, is a language proficiency test for non-native French speakers. You can take this test as a way to evaluate and certify your level of proficiency in French for professional or academic reasons.

Q3. Is French easy to learn for English speakers?

Ans: French is considered as one of the easiest languages to learn for English speakers as it is closely related to English. Besides, the common alphabet, the two languages also share upto 27% of their words or lexical similarity according to lingustic studies.

Q4. How long does it take to learn French?

Ans: According to the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) , it would take an English-speaker approximately 23-24 weeks or 575-600 hours of study to become proficient in the French language.

Q5. What are the top 3 tips to learn French faster?

Ans: (1) Surround yourself or immerse yourself in the French language. Watch French TV shows/videos, listen to their podcasts or audios/French radio, read French newspapers. All this will help you in thinking, structuring sentences and speaking in French. 
(2) Learn the French language with songs. Music aids in learning faster and enjoying the entire process.
(3)  Practise speaking French everyday and don’t be afraid of making mistakes. Afterall, practise makes us perfect.

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