Language Schools

Language schools come in all shapes, sizes, locations, costs, and qualities. Some offer exceptional language training at little cost while others teach little and ask a lot. Let's see if we can't steer you clear of the bad ones by giving a few tips on how to pick a good language school.

Immersion: Be careful that an immersion program doesn't put you in an environment surrounded by English-speaking fellow students. Even in France, your learning can suffer if you don't speak French at every opportunity. By the same token, be careful that the immersion program truly immerses you in the target. Some attempt to isolate you in a French-speaking "bubble" but allow you to do your shopping, laundry, etc., in a non-French local community.

Fit: Make sure that the school and its course fits your abilities. If you already know some of the target language, talk to the program leaders before selecting a course. As a rule, aim below your present abilities. Better to review things and reach new skills at a running start than to struggle from the beginning. Immersion courses typically are able to move much faster than classroom instruction "back home".

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