Why French Classes Are Not Always Enough for Expats (and How to Learn More Effectively)

Many expats, when they arrive in France, immediately start looking for French courses for expats, a native teacher, or a reputable school. The idea seems logical: the faster I speak, the faster I integrate, the faster I make friends.On paper, it makes sense. In reality, motivation often fades quickly.

Imagine this: you join a school, a class with at least six students, a native teacher who talks about croissants, Paris, and baguettes. You smile, you take notes, you dream of speaking like Victor Hugo or Arthur Rimbaud.And yet… something doesn’t click.

A true story from one of my students

One of my students, a brilliant 28-year-old engineer, signed up for every possible class. She did her exercises, memorized endless vocabulary lists. But at work, she couldn’t open her mouth without fear.After six months of courses, she gave up in total discouragement.

Was she the problem? Not at all. The problem was the format of the classes.

• The teacher never really explained the difference between passé composé and imparfait.

• Mistakes were left uncorrected.

• The group rhythm created pressure.

• Seeing others speak more easily only made her more insecure.

The result: frustration, blockages, a sense of failure.

How to actually make progress

So, how can you regain confidence and really improve? Here are six key steps:

1. Let go of illusions: a “big school” doesn’t guarantee fast integration.

2. Identify your blocks: everyone has their own rhythm, fears, and needs.

3. Discover your learning style: do you remember better by speaking, writing, or reading?

4. Set clear goals: for example, aim for level A1 and take the test.

5. Stay in constant contact with your teacher: personalized feedback is essential.

6. Cultivate curiosity: taste, explore, read, watch films. In France, everything can become a classroom: a recipe, a walk, a romantic comedy, a museum.

And above all: no school can give you curiosity. Only you can spark it.

P.S.

With this student, we managed to prepare and pass the DELF B2 in just 2 months. Within 5 months, she had found her dream job, started sharing conversations with her colleagues, and even traveled with them. Today, our lessons are finished, but I know she is on the right path.

👉 If you want to learn French in Paris or are hesitating between different French courses for expats, remember: the most important thing isn’t the school itself, but the method, the personalization, and your curiosity.nnalisation et votre curiosité.