Every summer, the École de français at the Faculté de l’apprentissage continu offers a uniquely immersive experience. For four weeks, people from all walks of life come to discover or rediscover Montréal in French through dynamic classes, conversation workshops, cultural activities and human encounters. Here’s a look back at the 2025 edition.
From June 30 to July 26, 2025, the École d’été d’immersion en français welcomed a new cohort of 38 students to Montréal, every one of them motivated to develop their language skills while enjoying a truly enriching human experience in Québec's largest city. Open to people aged 18 and over, the program offers an intensive but balanced formula, combining 45 hours of French classes spread over three levels (beginner, intermediate and advanced), 8 hours of conversation workshops and 24 hours of carefully selected sociocultural activities.
Participants are immersed in a stimulating French-speaking environment, supported by an attentive teaching team composed of experienced instructors and a team of socio-cultural facilitators. The program takes place at the heart of the Université de Montréal, in a vibrant and green neighbourhood that is conducive to learning and exchange.
Twenty-one-year-old Aidan, originally from Richmond, Virginia, is studying at ASU (Arizona State University). He discovered the program online and his dream of returning to Montréal after falling in love with the city during a short stay has finally come true. “I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn a new language, have a wonderful experience and spend quality time in a beautiful city,” explains Aidan. A few months later, his goal of speaking French in just a few weeks has been achieved. “When I arrived, I couldn't speak a word of French. Now I can hold simple conversations and I learn something new in every class!”
Open-air classroom
What sets the École d’été d’immersion apart is its ability to take learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. Classes and workshops are complemented by immersive sociocultural activities that help students experience French in action. The topics covered—arts and culture, science and technology, Indigenous cultures and the environment—offer a rich and pluralistic view of contemporary Québec society.
Every outing becomes a learning opportunity where vocabulary comes to life, conversations flow more smoothly and cultures come together. For many, it’s also an opportunity to make friends, practice French in an authentic setting and create lasting memories.
Vicky, 65, came from Hawaii to participate in the program. Passionate about the French language, she discovered the École d’été through friends in Montréal. She speaks enthusiastically about it. “I really enjoyed the French immersion course and the city of Montréal. I liked it so much that I plan to come back.” Staying at EVO Montréal, in the heart of downtown, she is taking full advantage of the summer season and the city’s bustling lifestyle. “It wasn't my first visit, but this was my first time there in summer. There's so much more to do, between the festivals, markets and parks, etc. It's an energetic and friendly city.” In fact, Montréal is the ideal place for expressing yourself in French with ease and total confidence. She also highlights the quality of the support and the kindness of the supervisory staff. "I loved the entertainment team and our guides during the visits, they were so attentive. They took the time to explain things, translate when necessary and really connect with us.”
A warm and inclusive community
What distinguishes this program, beyond language acquisition, is the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The group quickly bonds, conversations flourish and friendships are formed. French becomes a vehicle for social connection, a language of encounter and discovery. “The group is great,” says Aidan. “Outside of class, we explore the city together, discovering cafés, museum, and neighbourhoods. It's way more than a language course. It's a human experience.”
This collective dimension, driven by the diversity of profiles, including young university students, adults undergoing retraining, and curious retirees, further enriches the program. The 15 hours of optional activities offer welcome flexibility to tailor the experience to everyone's desires. Whether it's hiking, museum visits or themed workshops, everyone has the opportunity to create their own Montréal summer experience.
Forward to 2026
The École d’été d’immersion en français is much more than a learning program. It’s an invitation to experience the language, discover a city with a million faces, and open up to Québec culture in a stimulating and welcoming environment.
Whether you are a beginner or already advanced, whether you come from across the country or a little further afield, this immersion in Montréal could well transform your summer and your relationship with the French language. Like Aidan and Vicky, let yourself be tempted by this unique adventure and experience French to the fullest, in the heart of Montréal!
Learn more about the École de français and the École d’été d’immersion en français
Le français, une compétence incontournable pour progresser dans sa carrière