Practical guide to Geneva · 09
Learning French and integrating in Geneva
Courses, daily practice, Swiss French and cultural life: use French to become more independent and build connections in Geneva.
Building connections
French, your passport to Geneva
French makes administrative procedures, job hunting, appointments, school exchanges, shopping and everyday encounters easier.
Learning the language also means understanding local habits and taking full part in Geneva life. The Alliance Française de Genève, a member of the worldwide network of Alliances Françaises, supports you at every step.
- courses from level A1 to C2;
- group or one-to-one, online or in Geneva;
- cultural events to practise;
- a free placement test.
Which course?
Which French course should you choose?
The right format depends on your level, your goals and your schedule.
-
Intensive courses
Mon–Fri, 9:00–12:00, 60 hours in 4 weeks: to progress quickly.
See the intensive courses -
Evening courses
Two evenings a week, 6:00–7:30 pm, after work.
See the evening courses -
Private lessons
A tailor-made programme, for adults and children.
See the private lessons -
Thematic workshops
Conversation, pronunciation, culture.
See the workshops -
Professional French
Training for companies and organisations.
Corporate courses -
Exam preparation
DELF, DALF, TCF, TEF: naturalisation, studies, career.
Prepare for an exam
Practise
How can you progress outside of class?
- Speak French in shops
- Listen to the radio and French-language podcasts
- Read the local news
- Take part in cultural events
- Note down the words you hear every day
- Join an association or a club
Mini-lexicon
Swiss French
A few words you will hear in Geneva.
- Septante
- 70.
- Nonante
- 90.
- Natel
- Mobile phone.
- Panosse
- Floor cloth.
- Souper
- Evening meal.
- Action
- Special offer in a shop.
- Parquer
- To park your car.
- Fourre
- Folder for documents.
Community
Meet people, go out, get involved
Go out
Alliance events
Cinema, literary meetings, workshops and visits: practise in a natural setting.
- Open to everyone
- For all levels
- All year round
Get involved
Become a member
Join a French-speaking and intercultural community and access Culturethèque.
- Member benefits
- Digital resources
- Support network
Official information
Other resources in Geneva
Rules and procedures may change and depend on your situation. Always check the information published by the authorities before taking any step.
Frequently asked questions
Learning French in Geneva: your questions
Why learn French when you live in Geneva?
French is the official language of the canton: it makes procedures, job hunting, appointments, children’s schooling and social life easier.
Which courses does the Alliance Française de Genève offer?
Group courses (intensive and evening), private lessons, thematic workshops, corporate training and preparation for the DELF, DALF, TCF and TEF exams.
What level do I need to start?
None: courses range from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2). A free placement test directs you to the right course.
Can I learn French online?
Yes: intensive and evening courses take place online, and private lessons are online or in Geneva.
Is Geneva French different?
It is the same French, with a few words specific to French-speaking Switzerland: septante (70), nonante (90), Natel (mobile), panosse (floor cloth)…
Are there other resources in Geneva?
The canton’s Office for Integration and Citizenship lists French and literacy courses according to level, availability and place of residence.
How can I practise outside of class?
Speak French in shops, listen to local radio, read the Geneva press and take part in cultural events.
Practical guide to Geneva
Continue the guide
Nine guides to living well in Geneva.
Last updated: October 2026 · Guide written by the Alliance Française de Genève
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