French Language and Culture Studies in the French Alps
/0x14:1900x1226/prod01/channel_34/media/seattle-university/academics/education-abroad/program-search-photos/API-Grenoble.png)
About this Program
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of French language and culture at Université Grenoble Alpes (CUEF). You will take classes while nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps. Experience the vibrant city of Grenoble, renowned for its historical charm and dynamic student life. Take advantage of the numerous cultural events, festivals, and museums to immerse yourself fully in the vibrant artistic and intellectual scene.
Program Highlights
- Language(s) of Instruction:
- French
- Courses with Study Abroad Students
- Local University Program
- Hybrid Program
- Language Intensive Program
- Dorm
- Homestay
- Winter Quarter Housing applications open in November
- Spring Quarter Housing applications open in February
- Fall Quarter Housing applications open in May
Level of Immersion
Features
Housing Abroad
Moving can be both costly and stressful, but careful planning can help minimize both. Start by creating a housing plan for before and after your study abroad experience to avoid the pressure of continuing to pay for rent at home. Program fees typically cover housing abroad, so if you expect to incur additional domestic rent expenses, be sure to include these in your budget. If possible, consider staying with family or friends temporarily before you depart or when you return to save on costs.
Housing Residence Life
Education Abroad typically recommends considering Seattle University on-campus housing for when students return from their programs, as Housing Residence Life staff are able to support students in securing housing, while adhering to student preference as best as they can.
Housing Application
Check the Housing Portal for more specific dates
Disciplines
Courseload
Students who participate in an SU-Sponsored, SU-Exchange, or Non-SU program must be fully enrolled at their host university/program provider. Full-time enrollment on a semester-length program is typically 15 US semester credits (not quarter credits) or 30 ECTS credits.
Note: Not all programs/host universities provide syllabi prior to the start of classes. Some may have samples of past syllabi but cannot guarantee that a specific course will be offered during the student's time abroad.
- Credit Range: 210
- Credit System: Contact Hours
- Typical Course load: 4-6
- Credit Per Course: 22-150
Credit Conversion
- Transcript Issued By: Centre Universitaire d’Études Françaises de l’Université Grenoble Alpes
- Credit Conversion Rate: 10 Contact Hours = 1 SU Quarter Credit
- Quarter Range: 21
Academic Policy & Minimum Grade Requirement:
- Student will receive transfer credit for their study abroad program and academic grades will not be reflected on their Seattle University transcript and will not be reflected in the Seattle University GPA nor honors calculations.
- For all undergraduate programs, courses accepted in transfer are graded at least a C- when letter grades are issued and at least a 1.5 on the decimal grading system. Courses graded D+ or lower (1.5) will not be allowed either for transfer credit or to fulfill degree requirements.
- Students in the College of Nursing, the College of Science and Engineering, and communication and psychology majors in the College of Arts and Sciences will be required to repeat courses graded lower than C (2.0) if the course is a major requirement or if it is a prerequisite to a major requirement.
- Students in the Albers School of Business and Economics must complete required business courses (including mathematics, economics & accounting) with a grade of C (2.0) or better.
Transfer Credits
Letter grades received on this program will not transfer to SU nor factor into Seattle University GPA. If students receive the minimum grade required, credits will transfer toward their Seattle University degree as approved through the required pre-departure Course Approval process. Minimum grade details will be specified during Course Approval for each course taken abroad.
Placeholder Course
The Education Abroad Office will enroll students in a 12-credit placeholder course per term that you are abroad so that students maintain full-time student status and are billed properly. This placeholder course will be replaced by the courses taken abroad upon successful completion and receipt of official transcript.
Program Fees
Program fees are subject to change and based on previous year's tuition, if future tuition rates are not available yet. The purpose of the budget worksheets is to provide an estimate of how much studying abroad is going to cost. Actual spending may vary.
- Fall Semester: $8,000
- Spring Semester: $8,000
Requesting a Financial Aid Estimate
Student Financial Aid allows students to request a financial aid estimate when planning an education abroad experience. Students can bring the completed worksheet of your preferred program to a meeting with a Student Financial Aid Counselor.
Budget Worksheets
Participation Costs
Payment
For SU-Sponsored programs, pay your Seattle University bill through your MySeattleU Student Account for the term(s) you are abroad. The Program Fee is labeled as "MSA Fee" on your bill. Payment deadlines align with Seattle University’s quarterly deadlines and you can sign-up for a payment plan as usual.
Seattle University handles payments to API on your behalf for the program cost. Additional expenses not included in Seattle University’s Program Fee, like special course fees, housing upgrades, and optional excursions, may be billed to you directly by API. Consult the Budget Worksheet for a breakdown of estimate additional expenses.Insurance
Scholarships
There are many study abroad scholarships for all program types. The application process may be easier than you think, but planning ahead is key. Deadlines are often 6-8 months in advance of departure. Check out the Scholarship section of Seattle University Education Abroad website for more information on scholarships and how to apply.
Student Journey
| Approximate Timeline | Phase | More details |
|---|---|---|
| Sept-Jan | Exploration | Students will work with Education Abroad and various supporters (family, academic advisor, etc.) to find a program that best fits student's academic, personal, and professional goals. |
| Feb 1 | Apply | Students will have the opportunity to apply to SU-Sponsored and SU-Exchange programs during next academic year in the Fall around November. The hard deadline is February 1st. |
| Late Feb/Early Mar | Nominations | Education Abroad Office will nominate selected students for SU-Sponsored and SU-Exchange programs. |
| Mar-May (Fall) Sept-Dec (Winter) Jan-March (Spring) | Preparation | Students will complete secondary applications for program providers/host university in preparation of going abroad. Additional preparatory steps include pre-departure orientation, courses approvals, Health Check, Visa application, planning housing arrangements (abroad & Seattle), immunizations, etc. |
Application Steps
- Complete Module I of Global Engagement with Education Abroad Canvas course, including Education Abroad 101 and attending a Planning Meeting with your Education Advisor.
- Complete the SU-Sponsored/SU-Exchange Program Application in Module II of the Canvas course by February 1 for selected program.
If you haven’t joined the Education Abroad Canvas Course yet, Join Now!
Climate
- Spring: Mild with frequent rain, temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Spring is an excellent time to visit gardens and outdoor attractions.
- Summer: Warm to hot, with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This season is perfect for exploring beaches and outdoor cafés.
- Autumn: Mild and rainy, with temperatures from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The changing colors of the countryside make autumn ideal for cultural and wine tours.
- Winter: Cold, especially in the north, with temperatures from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F). Snow is common in alpine regions, making it great for winter sports.
Travel Resources
- Air: France has several major international airports, including Charles de Gaulle and Orly in Paris, as well as airports in Nice and Lyon. Charles de Gaulle is the main hub for international flights. Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport.
- Train: High-speed trains (TGV) connect France's cities and neighboring countries. The Eurostar provides direct routes to London. For schedules and tickets, visit SNCF.
- Public Transport: France's cities offer efficient public transportation systems, including buses, trams, and metro services. For local transit information, check RATP for Paris.
Cultural Resources
- Historical Sites: France is rich in cultural heritage with must-see landmarks like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and the Palace of Versailles.
- Language: French is the official language. While many people in larger cities speak English, learning basic French phrases is useful.
- Festivals: France hosts several iconic events, including the Cannes Film Festival, Bastille Day celebrations, and the Tour de France.
Food & Diet
- Cuisine: France is renowned for its culinary tradition, including baguettes, cheese, wine, and croissants. Regional specialties like crêpes in Brittany and bouillabaisse in Marseille are worth trying.
- Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, especially in urban areas, although traditional French cuisine tends to be meat-heavy.
Embassy/Consulate
- U.S. Embassy in Paris: 2 Avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris, France (Phone: +33143122222)
- U.S. Consulate General Marseille: Place Varian Fry, 13006 Marseille, France (Phone: +33143122222)
- U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg: 15 Avenue d'Alsace, 67082 Strasbourg, France (Phone: +33143124880)
- U.S. Consulate General Lyon: Espace Cordelier, 2, rue Président Carnot, 69002 Lyon, France (Phone: +33143124860)
Identity-Specific Considerations
- Accessibility: France’s major cities, like Paris, have made significant strides in improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, older buildings and rural areas may be less accessible.
- LGBTQ+: France is known for its progressive and inclusive attitudes, especially in large cities. LGBTQ+ events such as Paris Pride are widely celebrated, though attitudes in rural areas may be more conservative.
- Religion: France is religiously diverse, with a secular constitution promoting freedom of religion; Islam, Christianity, and non-religious groups are prominent, though tensions around religious identity can arise.
- Race & Ethnicity: France has a diverse population, including significant immigrant communities, but racial minorities often face challenges related to discrimination and social integration.
- Gender: France has strong legal protections for gender equality, though women still face disparities in pay, leadership roles, and instances of gender-based violence.
Visa Requirements
What is a Visa?
A visa is a permission granted by a country that allows foreign nationals to enter and reside there temporarily. Applicants typically need to provide documentation such as an acceptance letter from the educational institution, proof of financial means, and health insurance. Student visas come with specific regulations regarding work rights, travel restrictions, and duration of stay, varying by country.
Below is a brief overview of the current visa requirements for your program. Note that countries may amend visa requirements at any time, so it will be important to follow all instructions given by API.
U.S. passport holders are required to apply for a French visa prior to departure (Non-U.S. citizens should consult their respective consulates). Further details about the student visa process can be found at https://apiabroad.com/student-visas/student-visa-france/. API will offer additional information and guidance before departure and on-site; however, the decision to grant admission into the country is not in API’s nor Seattle University's control. Keep in mind that entry requirements are specific to the length of your stay, citizenship, and the type of activities you will be engaged in. It is your responsibility to determine specific entry requirements and stipulations prior to the start of your program.