Learn French (Français)

The language of diplomacy, culture, and 300+ million speakers — coached by qualified specialists

French is one of the most strategically valuable foreign languages for African students. It's the official language of 29 countries (including 21 in Africa: Senegal, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, DRC, Madagascar and more), a working language of the UN, EU, African Union and International Olympic Committee, and the language of access to top universities in France, Belgium, Switzerland and Quebec, Canada. For Kenyan students, French opens academic pathways (IGCSE/IB French, university study in France/Quebec via DELF certification) and career pathways (diplomacy, international NGOs, Pan-African business, tourism).

Why learn French

Strategic for African careers

French is the working language across much of West and Central Africa. Pan-African organisations (AU, ECOWAS), NGOs and trade across the continent all use French extensively.

University pathway to France & Quebec

Most undergraduate programmes in France require DELF B2; postgraduate often DALF C1. Quebec universities require French proficiency. Tuition in France is often €170-650/year for public universities — exceptionally affordable with strong French.

IGCSE, A-Level and IB curricula

French is offered as IGCSE First Language (for native), Second Language (most common), A-Level, and across all IB levels (Language B Standard/Higher, Language ab initio).

Cultural and diplomatic prestige

French remains a working language of major international organisations (UN, EU, NATO, IOC, Council of Europe). Strong French opens diplomatic, multilateral and prestigious media careers.

Gateway to other Romance languages

After French, learning Spanish, Italian, Portuguese or Romanian becomes significantly faster — shared vocabulary roots and grammatical patterns.

Who it is for

Levels

Exam preparation

Fees

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to become fluent in French?

For English-speaking learners, achieving conversational fluency (CEFR B1-B2) typically takes 350-600 hours of instruction. At Smartious pace (2-3 sessions per week), this is roughly 12-24 months of consistent study. Reaching advanced fluency (C1-C2) requires an additional 200-400 hours.

Why is DELF important?

DELF (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) is the official French government certification of French proficiency. It's required for: university entry in France (B2 for undergraduate, C1 for postgraduate), French citizenship applications, professional registration in France, and demonstrating French proficiency for jobs. Unlike most language tests, DELF is valid for life — no expiry.

Can I take DELF in Kenya?

Yes — DELF is administered in Kenya by Alliance Française Nairobi (multiple sittings annually). We help students register and prepare. Test fees vary by level (typically KSh 4,000-12,000 paid to Alliance Française directly).

Is French difficult for English speakers?

French is rated Category I by the US Foreign Service Institute — the easiest category alongside Spanish, Italian and Dutch. English speakers benefit from substantial shared vocabulary (about 30% of English words have French roots due to Norman influence). Grammar requires effort (gendered nouns, verb conjugations), but pronunciation and reading are manageable.

Can I learn French for IGCSE or IB?

Yes — we offer focused IGCSE French (First or Second Language), Cambridge A-Level French, and IB French (Standard, Higher, ab initio). Each programme follows the specific syllabus and examination requirements.

Online or in-person?

Both work well. Online live sessions are most flexible (any location, on your schedule). In-person sessions at our Parklands or Upper Hill centres work for Nairobi students who prefer structured environment. Home tutoring also available in select Nairobi areas.

What materials are included?

Smartious provides core textbook recommendations, structured workbooks, audio practice materials, written feedback on all written exercises, and pronunciation practice through recorded sessions. Examination preparation includes past papers and marking scheme analysis.

Can I learn French alongside other commitments?

Yes — we work around school, work and other commitments. 2 sessions per week is most common for steady progress; 1 session per week for casual learning; 3-4 sessions per week for accelerated learning or exam preparation.

Do you teach Quebec French or France French?

Primarily France French (Metropolitan French), which is the standard taught globally. We can adjust pronunciation guidance for Quebec or Belgian variants based on student goals — relevant for students targeting universities or immigration in those specific regions.

What if I miss a session?

Sessions can be rescheduled with 24-hour notice. For students with frequent schedule changes, we offer flexible booking options.

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What parents say

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“Smartious eSchool is exceptional. Professional, caring tutors who truly understand their students and deliver results. Lessons are engaging, personalized, and well-structured, creating a supportive environment where learners thrive. If you want quality education and real academic progress, this is the place to go.” — Derrick A., Google review

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