Placement Test
A placement test is required for all new students with previous French experience. This way, we can make sure you are in the right course level. If you have no French experience—even if you don’t know what bonjour means—that’s ok! We have plenty of courses for beginning adults.
Children are always placed in courses based on their age and native language and do not necessitate a placement test. Placement tests are required for all teen courses.
The placement test has two required parts: written and oral. For the written portion of the test, you will print out and respond to prompts in writing and return to the Center via email at info@frenchlibrary.org, fax to 617.262.0611 , or in person (approx. 15 minutes). Once you have submitted the written placement test, an instructor will call you at the time that you’ve indicated on your written test. Your oral skills can also be evaluated in person at the Center but you need to call for an appointment. The oral test takes approximately five to ten minutes during which time an instructor will ask you several questions to evaluate your spoken level of French. The instructor will then advise the appropriate course level.
Please note: Oral tests are given in the order in which the written tests are received. Calls will be made Monday through Friday, between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM. We will only try to call you three times at your preferred time slot mentioned on your placement test.
2
We will be in touch for an oral language assessment over the phone
Testimonials
Practical Info
Visit Us
Hours
Monday: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Tuesday - Thursday: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Library Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Thursday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Directions
Green Line - Arlington Station
Orange Line - Back Bay Station
Red Line - Charles/MGH Station
Bus lines: 9, 10, 39, 43, 55, 57
Parking
Parking is available at the Boston Common Parking Garage on Saturdays all day and on week days after 4:00 PM for $10.
Buy your discounted ticket from our receptionist.
Contact Us
617.912.0400
info@frenchlibrary.org
Accessibility
The Center is not wheelchair accessible.
Selection of Classes
Advanced Beginner Coffee Talk
A relaxed environment for lovers of French language and culture to sharpen their speaking skills. Discuss everything from daily activities to social issues. No homework and no required textbook.
Read MoreAdvanced Beginner Let's Cook in French
Why not improve your French with a cooking class? Discover culture and regional specialties of France while learning to cook local recipes.
Read MoreFrench Cinema: Short Films
Reach a deeper understanding of modern French society through its vibrant and dynamic film industry while practicing your language skills.
Read MoreOther Offerings at the Center
Library
We have over 28,000 books, CDs, DVDs and magazines suitable for all ages and levels of French in our collections. The Library is open to the general public, with borrowing privileges reserved for members of the French Library.
Read MoreProficiency Exams
The French Library is an official exam center for three different proficiency exams. We offer the DELF/DALF, TEF and DAEFLE. These exams provide certificates and diplomas that testify to your level of French and can be used for applications for school or work as well as for immigration purposes.
Read MoreEvents
We offer a variety of events that inspire, enliven and education including art exhibitions, film screenings, cooking classes, lectures and traditional holiday celebrations, like our legendary Bastille Day Party.
Read More