FIND THE RIGHT FRENCH COURSE FOR YOUR LEVEL AND INTEREST

Winter Term: January 5 — March 14, 2026

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The Alliance offers group classes well as private instruction. Select from a variety of options to enhance your French language skills, including 10-week specialty and French culture courses, core classes, 4-week mini courses, or unique 2-hour workshops. Learn French online or immerse yourself with in-person classes. Group classes are available in the mornings, afternoons, evenings, and  occasionally on Saturdays. Private class schedules are arranged directly with each student.  

Enroll now in our Winter Term classes, offered online or in person. Use code EARLYBIRD for 10% off or SENIOR for 15% off when you enroll by December 15, 2025.

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 Registration open for winter Term January 5-March 14, 2026

Enroll now in our Winter Term core language, specialty and cultural classes available online or in person. Explore French language, literature and culture in a fun and engaging environment for all levels.

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 Join our kick-start intensive classes

Get a head start on the next level, have an in-depth review and practice!
The Kick-start French Program is a 4-day intensive brush-up class, 2.5 hours per day, offered for A1, A2 and B1 level students.
November 16-20, 2025.

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Fall Mini Online Class Highlight:

The History of Wine B2/C1

Journey through France’s famed vineyards and discover how centuries of tradition shaped its winemaking heritage. Explore the origins of wine, its evolution across regions, and its deep connection to French culture, from the art of living to the art of the table.

Fall Minis Session 2:   December 4-18, 2025

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French Class Types for Every Level

Core Skills

Learning French grammar, pronunciation and speaking skills

Core classes move students through well-defined coursework toward fluency. They are organized in five levels, with regular or accelerated pacing available for lower-level courses. 

  • Beginner - A1 level classes, 101 through 106
  • Lower Intermediate - A2 level classes, 201 through 206 
  • Intermediate - B1 level classes, 301 through 306
  • Lower Advanced - B2 level classes, 401 through 406
  • Advanced – C1 level classes, 501 through 506

Learn all about level progression and classes for adults.

Beginning students new to the Alliance: please read information about true beginners classes on this page.


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Specialty And Cultural Classes 

Discussion-based classes in arts, history, language mastery, etc.

 Cultural classes are discussion-based classes exposing students to different aspects of French arts, history or current events. 

Specialty classes offer students the opportunity to improve their French while concentrating on specific skills like grammar, phonetics, or conversation.


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Mini Classes 

Pressé? Opt for our mini sessions

Mini Classes
Our curriculum includes a diverse range of new Mini Classes each quarter. Minis are the perfect opportunity to keep studying French without a long commitment with 90-minute weekly sessions for four weeks.

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Intensive Program 

Maximum Progress in Just 4 Days

Kick-start French
You can also accelerate your language skills with an intensive class: a four-day brush-up class (2.5 hours per day) right before the current term classes begin. 

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Seasonal Workshops 

End the Year with New French Adventures

Try Something New Week
During the long winter break, the Alliance offers French learning experiences that go with the holiday spirit. Treat yourself to something exclusive and entertaining, or try something you haven't had a chance to do this year, before it's over.

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Registration

 You have four ways to filter classes to suit your interests

  1. Unsure of your level? Click here to take a free placement test.
  2. Select by Level to view all classes in that level.
  3. Or select Type of class to see all Core, Specialty & Cultural Classes or Mini Classes.
  4. Or select Pace to find Accelerated or Normal-paced classes.
  5. Select Location to see whether classes are online or in-person.

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Click on the gray box with the day and time to register.

 Teacher information

To see the teacher of a class, hold your cursor over the circled exclamation point in the class date/time box.

Beginning students

Students new to the Alliance: please read information about true beginners classes on this page.

 All students

Plan to pick up books before your first class, or arrange shipping for additional fee with our office. Books are not automatically shipped.

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Level
Location
Type
Pace

Unsure of your level?  Click here to take a free placement test.

A1 - Beginner

101-102 Accelerated

Core Classes
This is a beginning French class designed for highly motivated language learners and/or those who have taken French in the past or had some exposure and need to cover the basics. The class combines True Beginner 101 and Beginner 102 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into Beginner 103.
Pace: Accelerated

101

Core Classes
Our 101 Core Class is for true beginners wishing to master A1 level. If you studied French before, please look into 101-102 Accelerated class. Défi 1 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. 
Pace: Regular

102

Core Classes
Our 102 Core Class is for beginners having completed 101 class and wishing to master A1 level. Défi 1 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. 
Pace: Regular

103-104 Accelerated

Core Classes
This is a beginner French class designed for highly motivated language learners. It combines Beginner 103 and Beginner 104 into one term, selectively exposing students to the necessary content.
Pace: Accelerated

104

Core Classes
Our 104 Core Class is for beginners having completed 103 class and wishing to master A1 level. Défi 1 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. 
Pace: Regular

105-106 Accelerated

Core Classes
This is a beginning French class designed for highly motivated language learners. It combines Beginner 105 and Beginner 106 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into Lower Intermediate 201.
Pace: Accelerated

105

Core Classes
Our 105 Core Class is for beginners having completed 104 class and wishing to master A1 level. Défi 1 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 month (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 month unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

A1 to A2 Bridge

Core Classes
Cross the bridge from A1 to A2 in this transition class where students will gain confidence in their spoken communication skills through review of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation learned in the DEFI A1 sequence.
Pace: Regular
A1/A2

In Depth: French Grammar for Conversation A1/A2

Specialty & Cultural Classes
In this class, we’ll revisit the Grammaire en Dialogues A1/A2 book, making full use of its recorded dialogues while adding activities to sharpen your listening, writing, and conversational skills which are all centered around key grammar points. Each dialogue presents grammar in the context of real-life conversations, helping you understand spoken French at a natural pace and engage more confidently in discussion. Whether you’re returning for a second round or joining for the first time, this course offers an opportunity to review, reinforce, and deepen your mastery of A1/A2-level French.
Pace: Regular
A2 - Lower Intermediate

201-202 Accelerated

Core Classes
This is a fast-paced class offering an opportunity to advance into lower intermediate level twice as fast as a regular class. The class combines lower intermediate 201 and 202 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into 203.
Pace: Accelerated

201

Core Classes
201 class is the first step for students wishing to master the A2 level. Our A2 level Core Class is for students progressing from A1 level and wishing to master the A2 level.
Défi 2 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 months (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 months unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

202

Core Classes
Our A2 level Core Class is for students progressing from A1 level and wishing to master the A2 level.

Défi 2 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presentedthroughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook.Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through EspaceVirtuel for 12 month (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 month unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. Moreinformation about Espace Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged orrefunded.
Pace: Regular

203-204

Core Classes
This is a fast-paced class offering an opportunity to advance into lower intermediate level twice as fast as a regular class. The class combines lower intermediate 203 and 204 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into 205.
Pace: Accelerated

204

Core Classes
204 class is the fourth step for students wishing to master the A2 level.Our A2 level Core Class is for students progressing from A1 level and wishing to master the A2 level.
Pace: Regular

The Essentials of A2 Grammar

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Strengthen your French foundation and gain confidence in key grammar structures essential for communication at the A2 level. Using Grammaire Progressive du Français – Niveau intermédiaire (A2/B1), this class offers a clear, step-by-step approach to mastering French grammar through engaging lessons and targeted exercises. Each class combines explanation, practice, and speaking activities to help you use grammar naturally in conversation. Perfect for learners who want to feel confident using French grammar in real conversations and take their language skills to the next level. Prerequisites: 201 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular
A2/B1

Speak with Confidence: French Conversation Mastery A2/B1

Specialty & Cultural Classes
In this lively conversation class for levels A2–B1, we’ll start by reviewing key grammar and vocabulary before moving into engaging speaking practice. With personalized guidance in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, your instructor will help you feel comfortable and confident expressing yourself in French. Whether you’re preparing for a trip, practicing for a presentation, or simply wanting to strengthen your conversational fluency, this class will help you speak with greater ease and assurance.
Pace: Regular

The Essentials of A2 Grammar

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Strengthen your French foundation and gain confidence in key grammar structures essential for communication at the A2 level. Using Grammaire Progressive du Français – Niveau intermédiaire (A2/B1), this class offers a clear, step-by-step approach to mastering French grammar through engaging lessons and targeted exercises. Each class combines explanation, practice, and speaking activities to help you use grammar naturally in conversation. Perfect for learners who want to feel confident using French grammar in real conversations and take their language skills to the next level. Prerequisites: 201 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular
B1 - Intermediate

301

Core Classes
301 class is the first step for students wishing to master the B1 level. Our B1 level Core Class is for students progressing from A2 level and wishing to master the B1 level.
Défi 3 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 months (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 months unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

302

Core Classes
302 class is the second step for students wishing to master the B1 level. Our B1 level Core Class is for students progressing from A2 level and wishing to master the B1 level. Défi 3 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 months (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 months unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

304

Core Classes
The 304 class is the fourth step for students wishing to master the B1 level. Our B1 level Core Class is for students progressing from A2 level and wishing to master the B1 level.

Défi 3 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. Two options are offered: paperversion of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 months (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 months unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about EspaceVirtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

305

Core Classes
305 class is the fifth step for students wishing to master the B1 level. Our B1 level Core Class is for students progressing from A2 level and wishing to master the B1 level.
Défi 3 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 months (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 months unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

DELF B1 Preparation

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Part 1 This class will interest you if: 1. You are planning on passing DELF B1 exam and need to prepare for it. 2. You’ve completed B1 level and wish to consolidate the newly acquired skills, all the while evaluating your strengths and weaknesses before jumping to next level. The class has a double goal: preparing you to DELF exam structure and work on all of the aspects one needs to master in order to validate a level to successfully start the next one. A partial simulation of the DELF exam (except oral production part) in the end of the 10-week series will allow students to have a comprehensive evaluation of their skills.
Pace: Regular

Essential Everyday French Intermediate

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Chapters 25-31. This class aims to bring your conversational French to the next level. Learn how native speakers communicate on a day-to-day basis. Interaction and exchanges between students are facilitated by the instructor following weekly thematic topics that include essential vocabulary and grammar. This course is designed with flexibility in mind—each chapter focuses on a distinct topic, so lessons can be taken in any order without requiring prior participation. This class is open to students who have successfully completed DEFI 206. If you haven’t completed DEFI 206, verify your level on our website under, “Find Your Level”.
Pace: Regular

Speak with Confidence: French Conversation Mastery B1

Specialty & Cultural Classes
In this conversation class, we'll begin by refreshing essential grammar and vocabulary before diving into speaking practice. Our experienced teacher will offer tailored support in grammar, vocabulary, and phonetics to help you feel at ease and enthusiastic about speaking. Whether you're getting ready for a presentation, planning a trip, or simply looking to enhance your conversational skills, this class is designed to help you reach your goals with confidence and ease.
Pace: Regular
B1/B2

Defining Moments in Art

Specialty & Cultural Classes
For visual arts enthusiasts and those simply curious about the art world. Each week, examine several artworks to learn about the events, personalities and works that have had the greatest impact in their time. This is a highly interactive class using art as a vehicle of conversation. In winter 2026, this class will focus on the theme of women in art. 
Pace: Regular

French Ripped From The Headlines Intermediate

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Want to speak with a rich vocabulary and use idioms and common expressions spontaneously? Learn expressions and idioms from the podcast and participate in the spontaneous lively discussions with the group. This class is based on RFI’s “Le journal en Français Facile”! RFI-FF is a publicly supported nonprofit organisation that’s existed for 23 years and offers a wide range of subjects in its news broadcasts. Visit their website to see the examples of the themes to be covered in class. This class is open to B1 and B2 level students.
Pace: Regular

Littérature - lecture guidée

Specialty & Cultural Classes

Meet your fellow literature buffs and dive into lively discussions under the expert guidance of Marie-Pierre Wolfe. Each week, Marie-Pierre will send a short questionnaire to deepen your understanding of the reading and encourage thoughtful conversation in class.

The book chosen for the winter term is La très catastrophique visite du zoo by Swiss author Joël Dicker (Rosie & Wolfe, Genève, 2025). On Christmas Eve, a school trip to the zoo takes a disastrous turn — but what really happened? Blending humor, suspense, and social insight, Dicker offers a touching and witty story filled with reflections on democracy, inclusive education, and the complex dynamics between parents and teachers.

About the author:
Born in Geneva in 1985, Joël Dicker became an international literary sensation with La Vérité sur l’affaire Harry Québert, translated into over 40 languages and winner of multiple French literary prizes. Known for his engaging plots and keen understanding of human nature, Dicker continues to captivate readers around the world.

The book is available from major online retailers — please make sure to purchase your copy before class begins.



Pace: Regular

Littérature de la Francophonie

Specialty & Cultural Classes

In this course, we’ll dive into ten captivating texts from Littérature Progressive de la Francophonie (B1–B2, 2020), exploring two powerful themes: Femmes and S’exiler / passer la frontière. Through these stories, you’ll encounter diverse voices and perspectives from across the Francophone world—writers who reflect on identity, resilience, migration, and the role of women in society. Please note that this is a new book and has not been used in previous classes.



Pace: Regular

Pagnol’s Provence: The Poetic Realism of French Cinema Before World War II

Specialty & Cultural Classes

Journey to the sunlit landscapes of Provence through the films of Marcel Pagnol and the poetic realism that defined French cinema before World War II. Discover timeless classics such as Marius, Fanny, César, and The Baker’s Wife, as well as Jean de Florette and Manon of the Spring. The class opens with an introduction to poetic realism and Pagnol’s world, and concludes with a look at the movement’s enduring legacy in French film. All films are available on the Criterion Channel. A subscription to the streaming service is required to view the films featured in this course.
Pace: Accelerated
B2 - Upper Intermediate

401

Core Classes
401 class is the first step for students wishing to master B2 level. Défi 4 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 month (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 month unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

402

Core Classes
The 402 class is the second step for students wishing to master the B2 level. Our B2 level Core Class is for students progressing from B1 level and wishing to master the B2 level.
Pace: Regular

404

Core Classes
The 404 class is the fourth step for students wishing to master the B2 level. Our B2 level Core Class is for students progressing from B1 level and wishing to master the B2 level.
Pace: Regular

405

Core Classes
The 405 class is the fifth step for students wishing to master the B2 level. Our B2 level Core Class is for students progressing from B1 level and wishing to master the B2 level.
Pace: Regular

Advanced French Conversation: Pioneering Women of France

Specialty & Cultural Classes

Advanced French Conversation: Pioneering Women of France explores the remarkable women who shaped French history across art, science, politics, and culture! Through engaging discussions, discover trailblazers from Jeanne d'Arc to Simone de Beauvoir, Marie Curie to Édith Piaf, Joséphine Baker to revolutionary figures and modern intellectuals. Each session examines different pioneering women and their lasting impact on French society, encouraging rich debate while you practice sophisticated vocabulary and nuanced expression. Perfect for advanced learners ready to deepen their cultural knowledge through meaningful conversation. Prerequisites: B2/C1 level or equivalent.


Pace: Regular

Littérature Française - L'Etranger et Meursault, contre-enquête

Specialty & Cultural Classes
This course will focus on Albert Camus's The Stranger and Kamel Daoud's The Meursault Investigation, and structured around the literary "dialogue" between the two novels. A central theme is the exploration of postcolonial identity, the erasure of marginalized voices, and the nature of justice and truth by contrasting Camus's existentialist narrative with Daoud's counter-narrative.  The books are available from major online retailers — please make sure to purchase your copy once the class has been confirmed. Prerequisite 306 or equivalent
Pace: Regular
B2/C1

Advanced French Conversation: Pioneering Women of France

Specialty & Cultural Classes

Advanced French Conversation: Pioneering Women of France explores the remarkable women who shaped French history across art, science, politics, and culture! Through engaging discussions, discover trailblazers from Jeanne d'Arc to Simone de Beauvoir, Marie Curie to Édith Piaf, Joséphine Baker to revolutionary figures and modern intellectuals. Each session examines different pioneering women and their lasting impact on French society, encouraging rich debate while you practice sophisticated vocabulary and nuanced expression. Perfect for advanced learners ready to deepen their cultural knowledge through meaningful conversation. Prerequisites: B2/C1 level or equivalent.


Pace: Regular

Discovering French Culture: A Journey Through Civilization

Specialty & Cultural Classes

This advanced French course offers a comprehensive overview of French civilization, combining historical, political, social, and cultural knowledge. The curriculum focuses on understanding the French system and exploring cultural achievements in literature, visual arts, performing arts, and music. Winter term will cover the first half of Chapter 7 from the “Repères” section of Civilisation Progressive du Français (B2–C1, 2021), along with selected topics from Chapters 8–15. Civilization lies at the heart of language, inspiring expression, reflection, and meaningful cross-cultural dialogue. This non-sequential class can be joined at any time, allowing you to study chapters in any order.




Pace: Regular

Essential Everyday French Advanced

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Chapters 9-16. This class aims to teach you how to communicate like a native French person. Add useful expressions, proverbs and even a little slang to your existing French skills! Interaction and exchanges between students are facilitated by the instructor following weekly thematic topics that include essential vocabulary and grammar. This course is designed with flexibility in mind—each chapter focuses on a distinct topic, so lessons can be taken in any order without requiring prior participation. This class is open to students who have successfully completed CECR B1 level. If you haven’t completed B1, verify your level on our website under, “Find Your Level”.
Pace: Regular

Littérature Française - L'Etranger et Meursault, contre-enquête

Specialty & Cultural Classes
This course will focus on Albert Camus's The Stranger and Kamel Daoud's The Meursault Investigation, and structured around the literary "dialogue" between the two novels. A central theme is the exploration of postcolonial identity, the erasure of marginalized voices, and the nature of justice and truth by contrasting Camus's existentialist narrative with Daoud's counter-narrative.  The books are available from major online retailers — please make sure to purchase your copy once the class has been confirmed. Prerequisite 306 or equivalent
Pace: Regular
C1 - Advanced

Advanced French Conversation: Pioneering Women of France

Specialty & Cultural Classes

Advanced French Conversation: Pioneering Women of France explores the remarkable women who shaped French history across art, science, politics, and culture! Through engaging discussions, discover trailblazers from Jeanne d'Arc to Simone de Beauvoir, Marie Curie to Édith Piaf, Joséphine Baker to revolutionary figures and modern intellectuals. Each session examines different pioneering women and their lasting impact on French society, encouraging rich debate while you practice sophisticated vocabulary and nuanced expression. Perfect for advanced learners ready to deepen their cultural knowledge through meaningful conversation. Prerequisites: B2/C1 level or equivalent.


Pace: Regular




 

PARKING

Street parking on SW 20th St. facing the Kamm House is limited. Free parking is available in Lot A at SW 18th and SW Columbia. Please obtain a parking pass from the office. After 6 pm weekdays, students may park in the Willamette Dental lot at SW 20th and SW Jefferson as available.

OFFICE HOURS

The Alliance office is open 10am-3pm Monday through Friday.
Call us at 503.223.8388 during business hours or leave a message.
Email us at  info@afportland.org.

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