Inspire: French Summer Language Institute
About the program
Earn six college credits and fast-track your path to French fluency.
This class is a partnership between UVA | Northern Virginia and UVA Summer & Special Academic Programs.
The French SLI is an immersive 4-week course learning journey into the French language and culture! In this course students will practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing in dynamic and supportive ways—always with room for play, reflection, and creativity. Each unit invites students to dive into real-world themes, create projects with their classmates, and take part in “missions” that build their communication skills.
Grammar and vocabulary are introduced in context, reinforced through spiral learning, and practiced through integrated oral and written activities. Emphasis is placed on working in teams, developing communication strategies, and building learner autonomy. By the end of the course, students will be able to connect with others in French and see the world a little differently.
Important Note: Pricing will vary between Virginia residents ($5,136) and non-Virginia residents ($12,954).
Eligibility: This class is for rising 11th and 12th graders.
This is an in-person course that meets daily Monday-Friday in Fairfax, 9AM – 4PM ET. Tuition covers materials, meals (lunch/snacks), and transportation to any off-site excursions.
Inspire Spotlights
Faculty
Click the photos below to learn more about each faculty member.
Skills you will learn
- Communicate confidently in everyday situations using clear, simple French to express basic personal details, preferences, and daily needs.
- Understand spoken and written French on familiar, real-life topics. Recognize familiar words, names, and simple sentences on signs, posters, and short texts.
- Engage in basic conversations with native speakers: ask and answer simple questions, interact naturally when spoken to slowly and clearly.
- Write short texts for real-life situations such as simple messages, postcards, or emails, and complete forms with personal information.
Cultural Activities
- Cultural activities will take place on site to immerse students in French culture.
- Optional Saturday field trips to engage in French culture.
- Guests will join the classroom to share their experiences.
Please note: All information is subject to change at the discretion of UVA Northern Virginia.