France: IFALPES Semester


CCIS Study Abroad in Annecy or Chambéry, France

Program Overview

IFALPES, the Institut Français des Alpes, with two sites -- Annecy or Chambéry -- specializes in the teaching of French language courses. The methodology is direct and communicative, and the program is intensive -- four hours or more daily. The student body is drawn from countries around the world, not just American students. The academic program is under the supervision of the Université Catholique de Lyon and is identical in Chambéry and Annecy.

Annecy is located on the Lake of Annecy, not far from Geneva. The city boasts cultural and sports activities all year long. Because of its proximity to the lake and the Alps, it is a summer resort as well as a ski resort in winter. Classes are held in a modern facility overlooking the lake.

Chambéry is a mid-sized city of about 100,000 inhabitants. It is also in close proximity to the mountains and national parks. Classes are held in the Château de Boigne, a historical building near the center of Chambéry.

Students may opt for a French homestay or for student residence/dormitory-type accommodations.

 
Academic Profile

IFALPES in Annecy or Chambery

Annecy is located by the lake of the same name, Greater Annecy. Because of its proximity of the lake and national parks in the summer and the ski resorts in winter, it provides students with cultural and athletic activities within a pleasant urban environment. Chambéry is located in the French Alps, near Geneva and Lyon. It is a city of art and history and the historical capital of Savoie (Savoy). Classes are held in the Chateau de Boigne, housing the classrooms and administrative offices of the Institute Français des Chambery (IFALPES). Both Chambery and Annecy are located near the town's medieval center and have approximately 100,000 inhabitants.

Course Offerings

Institute Français des Alpes (IFALPES) is a leading French language-training institute. It operates in cooperation with several universities and institutes, both in France and abroad. It has an international student body, not just American students. The Institute is open all year round. French language courses: beginning, intermediate, advanced are specifically designed for those interested in learning or becoming more proficient in the French language. The teaching methods are based on active participation by students (Communicative Method) and the scope of the program includes understanding, speaking, reading, writing and cross-cultural studies. The academic program is under the supervision of the Université Catholique de Lyon. The goal of the Institute is to encourage the use of spoken French by students outside of classes.

 

Activities and Opportunities
Activities and Opportunities

Student Life

A meal plan, usually breakfast and evening meal, is available in “demi-pension” arrangement in the French homestay. Students in dorms are normally responsible for meals. International student body. Planned excursions at extra cost. Summer program offers hiking, boating, visits to historical and cultural sites, led by an IFALPES staff member.

Alumni Feedback

"I had the time of my life in the beautiful city of Chambery and found my semester abroad not only to be an academically enriching experience but also an extremely enjoyable time. IFALPES has great teachers and does an excellent job organizing a whole host of exciting excursions from amazing ski trips to weekends in Venice. I came away with a greater understanding of the French language, many strong friendships, and many wonderful memories of all I was able to do while I was there."
- Noel Sterett, Truman State University

 

IFALPES Semester Program Details

Duration

Anticipated Dates
Fall: Sept-Dec
Spring: early Feb-late May

Application Deadline(s)

Fall: July 1
Spring: November 15

Eligibility Requirements

Minimum GPA 2.5 on 4.0 scale; freshman standing or higher; transcript; two letters of recommendation and statement of purpose.

Costs

$2,790 (CCIS members)
$2,990 (non-members)

Costs Included

Instructional costs and fees abroad, orientation, insurance, $150 non-refundable housing deposit

Costs Not Included

Airfare ($800-$950), personal costs, textbooks ($70), room and board (appr. $520-$850/month), daily commuting expenses

All costs, fees, and dates are subject to change without notification. Please contact the appropriate individual to verify all costs, fees, and dates for this program.

Related Links

 

Your Adventure in the French Alpes Begins Here

Submit Application Materials To:

Eva Fernandez, Study Abroad Assistant

(305) 237-3580
efernan1@mdc.edu

Magnolia Hernández, Program Manager

(305) 237-3008
mherna14@mdc.edu

Miami Dade College
Office of International Education
300 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 1450
Miami, FL 33132
Fax : (305) 237-7439

- or -

Alci Arias, Assistant Director

Center for International Education Abroad Truman State University
Kirk Building 114
Kirksville, MO 63501
(660) 785-4076
(660) 785-7473 (Fax)
aclidean@truman.edu

How do I apply?

Start the CCIS Study Abroad application process by downloading and printing the following forms. These PDF documents are viewed using Adobe's Acrobat Reader plug-in, which is available free. If you don't have Acrobat Reader installed on your computer, click here.

CCIS APPLICATION PACKAGE AND INSTRUCTIONS

All costs, fees, and dates are subject to change without notification. Please contact the appropriate individual to verify all costs, fees, and dates for this program.