In-person or online French classes: which should you choose?

Learning French is an exciting project, and thanks to the various options offered by the Alliance Française de Lyon, everyone can find the formula that best suits their goals.

Whether you choose a face-to-face French course or an online French course, the key is to remain consistent and motivated in your learning.

Good to know: Regardless of the option you choose at our school, all students have access to the Apolearn platform, which centralizes the content covered in class, collaborative activities, and a group discussion space to encourage interaction, even outside of class hours.

In-person or online: which option is right for you?

Before making a decision, ask yourself the right questions:

• What is my schedule like?
• Do I need flexibility?
• How important is social interaction to me?
• What are my goals?
•  How much time can I devote to studying French?

Important: The number of hours of learning required to progress is defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from level A1 to C2. The Alliance Française de Lyon supports you every step of the way, with personalized monitoring and the same textbook for both formats.

Comparison: Face-to-face French courses VS online courses

Criteria	Face-to-face coursess	Online courses
Human interaction	Strong interaction, spontaneous exchanges, motivating group atmosphere	Interaction possible via chat, video conferencing, sub-group classroom activities, forums
Flexibility	Fixed schedules, specific location	Very flexible, you can take the course from anywhere as long as you have good internet access.
Group size	8 à 18 people	Small groups (8 max) for a more personalized approach
Social integration	Immersion in France, ideal for practicing with native speakers	Fewer opportunities for integration. Importance of using the camera to encourage interaction and integration
Progression	Several paces possible: Immersive (80 hours/month), Intensive (32 hours/month), or Hybrid (20 hours/month)	A pace adapted to the course modality: Extensive courses (20 hours/month)
Technical issues	Very rare	Depends on the quality of the student’s computer equipment and Internet connection
Materials needed for the course	Cell phone, pen, notebook	Laptop, camera, microphone, good internet connection

The advantages

✅ The advantages of face-to-face classes

• Immersive learning in a 100% French-speaking environment
• Natural and spontaneous interaction with native teachers
• Dynamic and friendly group activities
• An environment conducive to studying
• Opportunities for networking and face-to-face oral practice

Ideal if you are already in France or want to experience true linguistic immersion.

✅ The advantages of online courses

• No geographical constraints: learn from home, wherever you are
• Smaller groups (maximum 8 people) for more individualized support
• Ability to review content via the Apolearn platform
• Saves time and transportation costs

Ideal for people with busy schedules or who live far away.

Limitations to consider

In person

• Less flexible schedule
• Requires traveling 5 times a week (Immersive French Course), 4 times a week (Intensive French Course), or 2 times a week (Extensive French Course).
• Larger groups

Online

• Risk of digital distractions
• Fewer spontaneous social interactions
• Dependence on a good Internet connection

Tips for success, whatever your learning style

• Follow a study schedule that suits your pace and goals
• Keep a vocabulary and grammar notebook (handwritten notes are very effective!)
• Test your French level online or make an appointment with our educational coordinator
  
• Be consistent: regularity is the key to lasting learning

Take advantage of Apolearn to review lessons, interact with your group, and more!

Conclusion: What if the right choice was yours?

Ultimately, whether you opt for an online or face-to-face course, you will benefit from the same quality of teaching, the same educational content, and support from your FLE teacher and via the Apolearn platform.

The Alliance Française de Lyon offers both formats to meet your needs, constraints, and goals. Our mission remains the same: to help you master French at your own pace, in the format that suits you best.