University of Grenoble III | American Institute for Foreign Study (Grenoble, France)  

Highlights

• Study in Grenoble - a picturesque city surrounded by the French Alps
• Immerse yourself in French culture and improve your language proficiency by living with a French host family
• Trips to London, Provence, and Paris are included in the program fee
• The on-site Resident Director provides support and assists with academic planning, housing, and cultural activities

Overview

St. Norbert College partners with the American Institute for Foreign Studies (AIFS) to offer the French Language and Culture Program in Grenoble, France. Courses are taught at the Centre Universitaire d'Etudes Françaises (CUEF) at the University of Grenoble III. Students must have at least one (recent) year of college-level French to participate in the program.

Grenoble, former host of the Winter Olympics, is a spectacular place to study. The crystal-clear air and snow-capped mountains of the French Alps provide a picturesque setting. Grenoble is small enough to feel like a town, but large enough to offer the amenities of a busy city. Built on the banks of two alpine rivers, medieval buildings and cobbled streets give a romantic air to the older part of town, while museums, theaters, cultural festivals, cafes, and bistros explain why Grenoble is the leading city in the region. For those who love the outdoors, students have access to miles of hiking trails, four national parks, various lakes, and world-renowned ski slopes.

Testimonials

• The study abroad experience gave my SNC education clarity. ... I am definitely more prepared for the international career world with my traveling and cultural experiences in France. (Maggie, Fall 2010)

Orientation

Every semester begins with a 3-day visit to London en route to Grenoble. (The group flight must be purchased for this option.) A professional guide introduces students to some of London's most famous landmarks. During this time, students have the opportunity to meet other AIFS study abroad participants while in London. 

Once in Grenoble, the Resident Director facilitates an exceptional orientation that introduces students to academics, housing, and social and cultural activities.

Coursework

• Language: French and English

Courses take place at the Centre Universitaire d'Etudes Françaises (CUEF), which is located on the University of Grenoble III campus. In the mornings, students enroll in a French language course. The level of the language course is determined by a placement test taken upon arrival. The classes are relatively small (15 to 18 students) and involve frequent student participation. 

In the afternoons, students choose a combination of seminar courses taught in French and English. Subject areas include: art history, business administration, economics, French language, history, literature, and political science. Non-credit courses, such as French Cuisine and Wine Appreciation, are also available.

Accommodations

Students live and dine with local families who are supportive and encouraging. Each student has his/her own bedroom and study area in the family's house or apartment. As for meals, students have breakfast and dinner with the family. A meal allowance is distributed and covers the cost of lunch at the university cafeteria Monday through Friday.

Additionally, for students' convenience, AIFS can arrange round-trip airfare (including all fuel surcharges, taxes, and fees), meet students at the arrival airport(s), and provide transportation to/from the program site. As with all SNC Study Abroad programs, students are responsible for transportation costs. The group flight fee (from Chicago) for the Grenoble program is $1360 (subject to change).

Calendar

• Fall 2012: September 3 - December 21, 2012
• Spring 2013: January 7 - May 18, 2013

A complete itinerary, including dates for the academic excursions, is also available for each semester (2012/2013).

Have you ever thought about studying abroad in France for two semesters? If you combine the Grenoble program with the program in Lille, you may apply all of your financial aid to both study abroad semesters.

Admissions

• 2.5 cumulative GPA
• Completion of FREN102

Visa Information

A visa is official permission, granted by the authorities of the country where you wish to study or visit, which allows you to enter and remain in that country for a specific purpose and for a designated period of time. You cannot apply for a student visa until you have received an acceptance letter from your institution abroad. You are responsible for applying for the correct visa and paying all necessary fees.

France requires that you have a long-term student visa in order to enter the country. You should familiarize yourself with the visa application process by visiting the web site of the French Consulate in Chicago. You are advised to begin the visa application process early. First, you must register for CampusFrance, complete an application, and obtain an attestation. Watch the helpful video that explains the procedure for completing your application. Second, after completing the visa application documents, you must schedule an appointment with the French Consulate in Chicago.

Please note that visa requirements change frequently. Research your country's requirements or contact your study abroad advisor for the most current information.

Disclaimer: Program information is subject to change.

Fees

• SNC Tuition
• SNC Room & Board
• $400 Administrative Fee

Fees Include

• Tuition
• Housing (Homestay)
• Meals
• SNC Study Abroad Health Insurance
• Transportation Pass
• Academic Excursions
• On-site Resident Director

Additional Expenses

• Application Fee ($95)
• Visa ($120)
• Refundable Housing Deposit ($250)
• Group Flight Fee ($1360; subject to change)

• Courses
• Credit/Grading Policy & Pre-Approved Courses

• AIFS Grenoble
• Scholarships
• Application
• For Parents

For more information, contact:

Jeremy Doughty
Study Abroad Advisor