French is one of the world’s most influential languages. Approximately 310-321 million people worldwide can speak French. It is an official language in 27 countries and is used in about 50 countries and territories as an official, administrative, or cultural language.
French is also an official language of the United Nations, the European Union, and NATO. French language classes can significantly contribute to learning success.
France is among the world’s largest economies, generally ranking as the seventh-largest with an expected GDP of USD 3.3 trillion in 2025.
We assessed the top 8 French learning options in Chicago for 2025. These options range from private tutoring to full immersion programs.
Learning French might seem daunting at first. This detailed guide will help you pick the perfect program that matches your goals. You’ll find everything from beginner lessons to intensive immersion programs that fit your schedule and learning style.
1. Elite French Tutoring
Elite French Tutoring, a 12-year-old institution from Manhattan’s Upper East Side, has now expanded to Chicago. The company brings its excellence in French language education to more students.
About Elite French Tutoring
The company puts people first and delivers professional, reliable, and engaging French instruction. Andréi Amarov, a Sorbonne graduate with expertise in foreign languages and international trade, founded Elite French Tutoring. His leadership has built the company’s reputation in French language education.
Teaching Methodology
Students start with a free 10-20 minute consultation that helps assess their proficiency level and learning goals. The teaching approach focuses on immersive learning, especially when students use French during lessons, with some adjustments for beginners.
Students learn about French culture through literature, music, art, and history to create a complete learning experience.
Expert Native French Instructors
Native French speakers make up the entire teaching team at Elite French Tutoring. The company selects them based on their teaching expertise and commitment to excellence.
These professionals come from different backgrounds and bring specialized knowledge in business French, academic writing, and diplomatic communication.
Customized Learning Programs
The company creates programs that match different needs:
- Adult Programs: Learn practical French that you can use while traveling, dining, or in professional settings
- Children’s Programs: Classes begin at age 3 and include interactive games and songs
- Corporate Training: Business French instruction with specific industry vocabulary and cultural insights
Pricing and Packages
Lesson duration ranges from 40 minutes to 2 hours. Prices start at $100 for 40-minute sessions and $125 for one-hour lessons.
The company offers flexible scheduling with online sessions through Zoom, FaceTime, or other platforms. Corporate and group programs have custom pricing based on specific needs.
2. Alliance Française de Chicago
Alliance Française de Chicago, a 126-year-old institution, stands as the lifeblood of French education in the city and has earned recognition as “Best Language Instruction” in Chicago.
Course Overview
The institution provides complete French instruction at all levels from beginner to advanced. Students actively participate in classes conducted entirely in French to build their communication skills. The curriculum helps them learn about grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and pronunciation.
Learning Environment
Students develop confidence in their language abilities in an immersive French-speaking atmosphere. Members can access a well-stocked library that features the latest French DVDs, books, and magazines. Classes take place at 810 N Dearborn St., while events happen at 54 W Chicago Ave.
Class Schedule
Alliance Française gives students flexible scheduling options throughout the week:
- Weekday classes: Monday through Thursday (9:00 AM-8:00 PM)
- Friday sessions: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
- Saturday classes: 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Tuition Fees
Introductory courses cost $375, while subsequent levels are priced at $425 for members and $480 for non-members. The institution’s payment policies include:
- A 20% cancelation fee for refunds (maximum $50)
- Full credit options are available for future sessions
- No reimbursement for absences, books, or membership fees
General courses need at least 5 students to start, while specialized classes require 7 students. Students who miss a class can attend one make-up class during the same session.
3. Lycée Français de Chicago
Lycée Français de Chicago sits in the heart of Chicago’s lively Lincoln Square/Ravenswood neighborhood. The school provides world-class education through its unique French-English bilingual program.
Program Features
A remarkable 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio lets teachers give each student the attention they need. The curriculum has:
- Pre-K to Grade 12 education with French-English bilingual immersion
- Third language option beginning in Grade 4
- Fourth and fifth language options in Grades 9-12
- Two world-renowned high school programs
- No previous French required for most grades
Teaching Approach
Academic excellence thrives through language immersion and cultural diversity at this school. Students from different backgrounds share an experience of learning through multiple languages. This approach helps build stronger cognitive skills while boosting creativity and analytical thinking.
Facility Details
The modern campus spreads across 3.8 green acres with amenities that support detailed learning.
Fifty classrooms with interactive boards, four science labs, and two art studios make up the building. The school’s dedication to sustainability stands out, as it earned the Level 3 sustainability certification from AEFE—the highest level for French schools worldwide.
A stunning four-story open atrium serves as this multicultural community’s gathering place. Students enjoy specialized music and art studios, two state-of-the-art libraries, and a full-size gymnasium. Two playgrounds, a soccer field, and a basketball court give students plenty of space for physical activities.
Students can reach the school easily by CTA bus (22,50,81), CTA rail (Damen Brown Line), and Metra (UP-N Ravenswood).
The building’s eco-friendly design features a green roof that saves energy. Students and parents can join composting programs and eco-focused committees to help the environment.
4. École Franco-Américaine de Chicago
École Franco-Américaine de Chicago (EFAC) has shaped global citizens through its groundbreaking French-American educational model since 1981.
Curriculum Structure
EFAC blends French Ministry of Education standards with American educational excellence. Students from Kindergarten through 12th grade develop advanced language skills and critical thinking abilities.
The curriculum prepares students for French and American higher education paths. Students have achieved a 100% French Baccalaureate pass rate, with 87% of students achieving distinction.
Learning Experience
Students immerse themselves in French daily with one hour of dedicated French instruction. This environment helps students learn the language and understand the culture better. The school prepares students for several academic milestones:
- SATII French examinations
- French Language Advanced Placement (AP)
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- French Baccalaureate language component
EFAC graduates have proven their success by advancing to prestigious institutions like Princeton University, McGill University, and Sciences Po.
Registration Process
Students must meet specific age requirements:
- Kindergarten: 5 years old by September 1st
- First Grade: 6 years old by September 1st
The school prioritizes admissions:
- Siblings of current students and children of EFAC teachers
- Lincoln families currently enrolled and previously registered
- New families meeting requirements, subject to space availability
Students need to show French proficiency corresponding to their grade level through assessment. They need support from a French-speaking person at home.
English fluency isn’t required for admission. The school runs a special 3-year program that supports English learning through immersion.
5. Chicago French School
Chicago French School ranks among the city’s finest institutions for French education. Its detailed language programs provide learning opportunities to students at every skill level.
Course Offerings
The school excels at French language instruction through various formats. Students can pick from:
- Beginner Immersion Programs: Designed for newcomers to French language
- Advanced Conversation Classes: For experienced learners seeking fluency
- Youth Programs: Specialized courses for children and teenagers
- Summer Intensive Sessions: Accelerated learning opportunities
Teaching Methods
Students learn through a unique approach that emphasizes practical communication skills instead of theoretical knowledge.
Native French speakers teach all classes and bring authentic cultural elements to each lesson. The teaching style includes real-life scenarios, cultural components, and interactive exercises to boost learning outcomes.
Student Resources
The school’s Médiathèque houses the Midwest’s largest private collection of Francophone media with over 18,000 items. Students get great support through several resources.
Modern language labs equipped with the latest learning tools complement the academic guidance. The school hosts cultural events, shows films, and organizes conversation groups that add value to classroom learning. Students can practice beyond regular class hours through online learning platforms.
The school gives each student personal attention and tracks their progress carefully. Teachers adjust their methods based on regular assessments to meet student needs.
Expert instruction, extensive resources, and a supportive environment make this school an ideal place to become skilled at French.
6. French Institute of the North Shore
The French Institute of the North Shore brings authentic French language education to Chicago’s North Shore area from its location in Winnetka. You’ll find this welcoming institute at 562 Green Bay Road, open weekdays from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
Program Highlights
Students learn practical French language skills through immersive experiences. The program helps you become skilled at:
- Reading and ordering from French menus
- Finding your way around French cities
- Shopping at French supermarkets
- Speaking in past, present, and future tenses
Native French-speaking instructors bring their unique knowledge of language nuances and cultural insights to every class. The institute goes beyond language lessons with food and wine tastings, literary events, and French holiday celebrations.
Class Formats
Programs are structured into several proficiency levels:
Level 1: Students learn simple French language and cultural basics. The course covers practical vocabulary and key verbs in the present, immediate future, and past tense.
Level 2: Students build a broader vocabulary and learn to distinguish between past and imperfect tenses for more complex communication.
Level 3: The course moves into future, conditional, and subjunctive tenses with expanded vocabulary and idioms.
Level 4: This two-year grammar course helps students polish their language skills.
Interactive audio programs complement levels one, two, and three. Students can choose between CDs at $195.00 per level or MP3 files at $65.00 per quarter.
Enrollment Details
A five-week group class costs $195.00 with 90-minute sessions. Prêt-à-Parler enrichment classes run for five weeks at $100.00, featuring 60-minute sessions.
The institute follows these enrollment policies:
- Students get refunds minus a $25.00 registration fee for written withdrawal requests before the first class
- Course fees transfer to the next quarter
- Students can make up missed classes in another class of the same level
- Private lessons need 24-hour advance notice for cancelations
Students get access to an extensive media library at no extra cost. The institute may adjust student placement to match skill levels appropriately.
7. Language Loop Chicago
Language Loop Chicago stands out with its individual-specific French instruction that adapts to students’ learning needs and goals.
Learning Approach
Language Loop tailors its curriculum to specific fields like health, journalism, business, law, and technology. Students get a free level assessment before starting their learning path to find their ideal proficiency level.
We focused on practical application with small class sizes of 5 students maximum. This gives students plenty of speaking practice and personal attention.
Course Structure
The school offers many programs that fit different schedules and priorities:
- Private Programs: One-on-one instruction with flexible scheduling and 2-hour minimum lessons
- Semi-Private Sessions: Students learn with friends or family at similar skill levels
- Group Programs: A social setting with maximum 5 students per class
- Dive and Survive: A 35-hour immersion experience over 5 days that includes free lunch with instructors
- Online Options: Remote learning through Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, or WhatsApp
Students aged 12 and up can join specialized tutoring services for homework help and exam prep. Corporate groups can also get custom, business-focused training.
Pricing
Language Loop keeps its pricing clear and simple. Students pay USD 45.00 per hour plus a one-time registration fee. Several specialized packages are available:
The Early Bird Special features 90-minute sessions twice weekly for 7 weeks at 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM. Working professionals can choose the Lunch Break package with similar sessions between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM.
Travelers can pick the Honeymoon Destination package with 10 hours of semi-private lessons. Corporate clients get custom pricing based on their needs and group size. Students can choose from various payment options while getting high-quality instruction.
8. Berlitz Language Center
Berlitz Language Center has taught languages for over 140 years. Their downtown Chicago location at 200 S Wacker Dr offers French instruction that’s recognized worldwide.
French Programs
The center provides three main ways to learn French:
- Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction that fits your schedule
- Group Classes: Learn with others on fixed schedules
- Self-Study Plus: Online platform with coach support
Students can learn online or in person, and courses run for different lengths to match their goals. The center’s Total Immersion program stands out because it delivers quick results. Students can see progress in just 2-3 weeks through daily intensive lessons.
Teaching Methodology
The Berlitz Method started with a lucky discovery. A French teacher who didn’t speak English taught students successfully through complete immersion. This method has three basic principles:
Students learn through immersive learning. Teachers speak only French and present the language in real-life situations. Each lesson follows a “present, practice, and perform” approach. Students put their new knowledge to use right away. The method also uses goal-oriented instruction. Every session aims to achieve specific learning targets.
Cost Structure
The center’s pricing changes based on your program and how long you study. You can get 6-month or full-year access to their online programs. Companies can choose special packages like:
Berlitz On Demand Plus comes with these features:
- Group conversation classes without limits (25 minutes each)
- 20 private coaching sessions
- MyBerlitz learning portal that’s always available
The center stays open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM to help busy professionals find time to learn. You’ll just need a quick consultation to find the right program and price for your goals.
The center uses advanced speech recognition technology to give instant feedback. Students move through clear proficiency levels as they improve. Business programs help non-native speakers feel more confident in their workplace conversations.
Comparison Table
| School Name | Est. Year | Location | Class Types | Instructor Type | Price Range | Special Features | Class Size/Format |
| Elite French Tutoring | 2012 | Chicago (Online) | Adult Programs, Children’s Programs, Corporate Training | Native French Speakers | $100/40min, $125/hr | Free consultation, Cultural integration, Flexible scheduling | One-on-one tailored |
| Alliance Française de Chicago | 1897 | 810 N Dearborn St | General, Specialized | Not mentioned | $375-$480 | Library access, Cultural events | Min. 5 students |
| Lycée Français de Chicago | Not mentioned | Lincoln Square/Ravenswood | Pre-K to Grade 12 | Not mentioned | Not mentioned | 7:1 student ratio, 3.8-acre campus | Small group |
| École Franco-Américaine | 1981 | Not mentioned | K-12, French Baccalaureate | Not mentioned | Not mentioned | 100% Bacc. pass rate, Dual curriculum | Not mentioned |
| French Institute of the North Shore | Not mentioned | 562 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka | Levels 1-4, Enrichment | Native French Speakers | $195/5 weeks | Food/wine tastings, Cultural events | Group classes |
| Language Loop Chicago | Not mentioned | Not mentioned | Private, Semi-private, Group, Intensive | Not mentioned | $45/hr | Free level assessment, Business focus | Max 5 students |
| Berlitz Language Center | Not mentioned | 200 S Wacker Dr | Private, Group, Self-Study Plus | Not mentioned | Not mentioned | Total Immersion program, Online platform | Various formats |
Last Words
Chicago has amazing French learning options that cater to every student. Elite French Tutoring leads the pack with its 10-year track record and an impressive list of clients from CEOs to bestselling authors and UN mission representatives. Native French-speaking teachers customize their instruction based on what each student needs and wants to achieve.
Alliance Française and Lycée Français offer classroom settings, but Elite French Tutoring takes a different approach.
Their one-on-one sessions help students progress faster with focused attention. Students develop practical French skills through a mix of immersion and cultural learning that works in ground situations.
Your choice of French program should match your schedule, learning style, and goals. Serious learners often pick Elite French Tutoring because it combines expert teaching with personal attention, both online and in person.
The company’s steadfast dedication to student success shows in their complete consultation process and custom learning plans, making them unique in Chicago’s French education scene.
