In short: French as a Foreign Language (FLE) refers to the teaching and learning of French by people for whom it is not their native language and who are learning it outside of a context where French is the everyday language. It is at once an educational discipline, a group of learners, and a professional field, structured around proficiency levels (A1 to C2) and recognized certifications (DELF, DALF, TCF, TEF).
1. Definition of FLE
French as a Foreign Language( FLE) encompasses all the approaches that enable non-French-speaking learners to learn French: methods, teaching materials, courses, and assessments.
The term “foreign language” is important: it means that the learner usually lives in an environment where French is not the language of everyday communication. A Brazilian student learning French in São Paulo, a Japanese professional taking online courses, or a Spanish high school student choosing French as a second modern language all fall under the category of FLE.
FLE is also a field of research (language pedagogy) and a profession: FLE teacher, trainer, instructional materials developer, and academic director at a language center.
2. FLE, FLS, FLM: What Are the Differences?
These three acronyms are often confused. However, they refer to distinct learning situations.
| Acronym | Meaning | Audience | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| FLM | French as a native language | Children and adults whose native language is French | French is the first language acquired |
| FLE | French as a Foreign Language | Non-French-speaking learners | French is learned as one language among others, often outside French-speaking countries |
| FLS | French as a Second Language | People living in a French-speaking environment where French is not their native language | French is essential for daily life (school, work, administrative procedures) |
For example, FLS is intended for non-native French-speaking students enrolled in schools in France, or for people from countries where French is the official language or the language of instruction. FLE, on the other hand, is more of a personal choice or a specific goal: further education, travel, a career, or cultural interest.
3. Who learns French as a foreign language?
The FLE student body is very diverse:
- Students who wish to study at a French-speaking university or school;
- Professionals who need French to work with French-speaking partners or to move to France;
- Adults planning to relocate or settle in a new place, who are preparing for a stay, an administrative procedure, or a citizenship application;
- Travelers and enthusiasts of French culture (film, literature, cuisine, history);
- Young learners, whether in a school setting or in after-school programs.
Since motivations and goals vary, teaching approaches are tailored accordingly: general French, academic French, French for Specific Purposes (FOS), or Exam preparation.
4. FLE Levels According to the CEFR
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) divides language learning into six levels, ranging from beginner to proficient.
| Level | Category | What the learner can do (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Introduction | Introducing Yourself, Understanding and Using Very Common Phrases |
| A2 | Survival | Communicating in simple, everyday situations (shopping, basic errands) |
| B1 | Basic Level | Get by in most travel situations, describe an experience, give your opinion |
| B2 | Advanced / Independent | Argue effectively, understand complex texts, interact with ease |
| C1 | Independent | Express oneself spontaneously and in a structured manner in social, academic, or professional contexts |
| C2 | Proficiency | Effortlessly understand virtually everything that is read or heard, and express oneself with nuance |
These levels serve as a common reference point for institutions, employers, and universities around the world.
5. FLE Certifications and Diplomas
There are several official diplomas and certifications available to demonstrate a level of proficiency:
- DELF (Diploma in French Language Studies): Levels A1, A2, B1, and B2. A lifetime certificate issued by the French Ministry of National Education.
- DALF (Advanced Diploma in French): Levels C1 and C2. Also valid for life.
- TCF (Test de connaissance du français): a standardized test that places candidates on the A1–C2 scale. It is available in several versions depending on the purpose (education, citizenship, immigration to Canada, etc.). Its results are valid for a limited period.
- TEF (French Proficiency Test): a test offered by the Paris Île-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), also used for educational purposes, immigration, or citizenship.
The choice depends on your specific situation: applying to college, completing administrative procedures, or advancing your career. It is recommended that you check the specific requirements of the relevant organization before registering.
6. How does a French as a Foreign Language (FLE) class work?
A French as a Foreign Language (FLE) course provides a balanced focus on the four language skills:
- Listening Comprehension: listening to dialogs, news reports, and conversations;
- Reading Comprehension: reading articles, emails, and authentic documents;
- Oral expression: speaking, conversing, presenting, debating;
- Written Expression: Write a message, a letter, or an argumentative essay.
In addition, there is vocabulary, grammar, phonetics, and Francophone culture. The dominant approach today isthe action-oriented approach: learners acquire language by completing concrete tasks (booking accommodations, participating in a meeting, writing a resume) rather than by memorizing isolated rules.
There are a variety of formats: in-person classes, group or private lessons, online courses, language immersion programs, and hybrid programs.
7. Why learn French?
French is spoken on all five continents and has more than 300 million speakers worldwide, making it one of the most widely spoken languages on the planet. It is also an official or working language of many international organizations.
The benefits for the learner are tangible:
- Education: admission to recognized universities and schools in France, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, and French-speaking Africa;
- Career: an asset in the luxury, tourism, aviation, diplomacy, culture, and international trade sectors;
- Mobility and settling in: essential for living, working, or integrating into a French-speaking country;
- Cultural outreach: direct access to Francophone literature, film, music, and thought.
8. How do you choose a French as a Foreign Language (FLE) program?
Here are a few criteria to help you make the right choice:
- Set your goal: an exam, school, work, travel, or fun;
- Take a placement test to assess your level and join the right group;
- Check the teachers’ qualifications: master’s degree in French as a Foreign Language (FLE), practical experience, and knowledge of Exams;
- Take a look at the method: it emphasizes oral communication, hands-on practice, and real-life situations;
- Compare the different formats (in-person, online, intensive, hybrid) based on your schedule;
- Look for quality certifications, such as the “Qualité français langue étrangère” certification issued by the French government for FLE centers.
9. Learn French as a Foreign Language in Tours with the Institut de Touraine
Tours, in the heart of the Loire Valley, has long been a popular destination for learning French: a city on a human scale, with a lively student life, exceptional heritage (the châteaux of the Loire, the Loire Valley designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and a reputation as a city where people speak clear French that is pleasant for learners to hear.
The Institut de Touraine welcomes students from around the world and offers French as a foreign language courses tailored to each student’s goals: general French, intensive courses, DELF/DALF/TCF preparation, business French, language study abroad programs…
What the immersion program in Tours offers:
- Daily practice of French outside the classroom (shops, public transportation, cultural activities);
- Opportunities to meet learners of many different nationalities, with French as their common language;
- Discover French culture through cuisine, history, and tours of the region;
- Personalized support: placement test upon arrival, progress tracking, and guidance toward your desired certification.
What does FLE stand for?
FLE stands for French as a Foreign Language. The acronym refers to the teaching of French to people for whom it is not their native language.
What is the difference between FLE and FLS?
FLE is intended for learners who generally live in a non-French-speaking environment. FLS is intended for people immersed in a French-speaking environment where French is necessary for daily life, but is not their native language.
How long does it take to learn French?
It depends on the learner’s native language, their pace, their exposure to French, and their target proficiency level. As a general guideline, several hundred hours of instruction are usually needed to progress from A1 to B2. Regular practice is the most important factor.
Which FLE degree should you choose?
For a certificate that is valid for life, choose the DELF/DALF. For administrative, immigration, or application purposes with specific requirements, the TCF or TEF may be required: check with the relevant organization.
Why learn French in Tours?
Tours offers an ideal setting for learning: a quiet and welcoming city, a French-speaking environment in everyday life, a rich cultural scene, and easy access to the Loire Valley region. The Institut de Touraine provides support tailored to your level and goals.
French as a foreign language is much more than just a language course: it is a structured discipline, an internationally recognized proficiency framework, and a valuable asset for studying, working, and traveling in the French-speaking world. Whether you’re a beginner or preparing for a degree, the key is to clearly define your goal and choose a program that suits your needs.
Ready to improve your French in Tours? Contact the Institut de Touraine to assess your level and discover our courses tailored to your goals.