French Language & Culture
In Paris, find the perfect balance of structure and independence, giving you the freedom to explore France and yourself before heading off to college.
Perfect your French in a city that has inspired countless masterpieces and world-changing ideas. From the soaring spires of Notre Dame to the cozy glow of sidewalk cafés, Paris offers the perfect backdrop for a transformative gap year filled with language, art, and self-discovery.
During the week, take 15–20 hours of immersive French classes with native instructors and classmates eager to hone their fluency. Afternoons and weekends are for immersing yourself in Paris’s rich culture and village-like neighborhoods. Explore the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, marveling at masterpieces by Monet and Da Vinci. Stroll through the Latin Quarter, retracing the steps of literary icons like Hemingway and Sartre. Savor buttery pastries, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet French cuisine that transforms every meal into an exquisite experience.
Living with a welcoming host family, you’ll practice French, share meals, and embrace the rhythms of daily Parisian life.
Why Choose This Program?
Live the Language
Take 15-20 hours per week of French language classes designed to improve real world skills. A final proficiency test (STAMP) will showcase your rapid language growth.
Strike a Balance
Benefit from CIEE's global support and cultural expertise, while exploring the world at your own pace.
Develop Skills
Build a strong foundation in the core components of intercultural learning. Come home with a better understanding of the world and skills for a globalized workforce.
96%
of alumni said their language skills improved
94%
said they learned to interact with different cultural backgrounds
89%
said their level of independence increased
The Destination
Every corner of Paris whispers the charm of French culture, making it the ultimate destination for die-hard Francophiles. To start, there are the archetypes: the cuisine—flaky pastries, rich sauces, and decadent desserts; the café culture—all-hour people-watching as well-dressed Parisians stroll by; and the art—masterpieces waiting in the countless museums and galleries. Beyond that, the 20 arrondissements are at once endlessly exciting and warmly approachable, offering the perfect balance for everyday life and exploration.
Each neighborhood has its own rhythm: shop for fresh produce and artisan goods at the bustling Marché Bastille, hunt for treasures at the world-famous flea markets of Clignancourt, or wander Montmartre’s artistic streets and marvel at contemporary art in Le Marais. Annual events bring Paris to life in spectacular ways, from the dazzling all-night art festival of Nuit Blanche to the festive Marché de Noël holiday markets.
Spending your gap year in Paris means discovering the world and yourself, just as countless others have done before you.
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. No matter where you choose to study abroad with CIEE, our staff will be on hand throughout your program to provide advice, resources, and support.
Sample Itinerary
Top Rated Activitives
Monet’s Paradise in Giverny
The scent of blooming flowers fills the air as you stroll through the lush, vibrant gardens of Claude Monet’s home in Giverny. The iconic water lily pond glimmers under the sunlight, its surface dotted with reflections of the surrounding willows—a scene straight from Monet’s most famous masterpieces. As you explore, you connect these enchanting surroundings to the Impressionist movement, sparking a deeper appreciation for art and its roots.
Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Impressionism, where galleries of light-filled landscapes and vibrant portraits bring this revolutionary art form to life. Gather with new friends for a delightful lunch of traditional Normandy dishes, enjoying the regional flavors as you share impressions of the morning’s sights.
This immersive experience will leave you inspired, offering a hands-on understanding of Impressionism that goes far beyond the classroom. For any aspiring artist, historian, or Francophile, it’s a chance to connect creativity, history, and culture in a way that reshapes your perspective.
The History of Champagne in An Overnight Trip to Reims
The rolling vineyards of the Champagne region stretch into the horizon as you arrive in Reims. At a local winemaker’s estate, inside the cool stone cellars, the air is thick with the rich, yeasty aroma of champagne in the making. You’ll learn how the centuries-old méthode champenoise transformed French winemaking. You’ll explore historic squares like Place Drouet-d’Erlon, lined with cafés, and visit the Palais du Tau to uncover treasures tied to French coronations. The city’s Art Deco architecture reveals its post-war resilience, adding to its vibrant story.
This overnight journey is a glimpse into winemaking and a lesson in craftsmanship. In Reims, you’ll see how the French take pride in elevating their food, drink, and traditions to the level of art, inspiring you to pursue your own passions with the same dedication and creativity.
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Eligibility
- Program open to recent high school graduates (no more that 1 year post-graduation) who:
- Are at least 18 years old at the time of their departure
- Are in good academic standing
- Demonstrate—through the application and interview process—flexibility and maturity.
- No previous language experience required.
- Please note that participants may volunteer at local organizations with prior authorization from CIEE. Participants are not authorized to take any job or seek employment during their stay.
For more information, refer to our detailed GAP essential eligibility criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$50
Priority deadline discount
Apply to a fall semester or academic year program by June 1 and automatically get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by October 1 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from the final balance.
Insurance
The program fee includes iNext travel insurance. Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Spring 2026 12 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $14,000 | |
| Program Academic Year 2026 31 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2026 13 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2027 11 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
Ready to change your life?
Our Staff
Delphine Mauny
Center Director
A born-and-bred Parisian, Delphine has extensive experience in international education, having worked with American high school students, college students, and adults traveling to France.
Berit Nelson
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Berit joined CIEE Paris in 2016 and is responsible for high school, GAP year and internship programs. She is an alumna of CIEE Rennes and received a Master's degree from...
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