Centre Linguistique Pour Etrangers (CLE) is located in the heart of the lively old town of Tours, which is a historical, lively and picturesque area. The houses and buildings in this part of Tours were built mostly in the 15th, 16th and 18th centuries, the majority of which underwent a period of renovation during the 70's and 80's. Most of the old quarter has been pedestrianised, which adds to the charm of the area. A multitude of restaurants and terrace cafés can be found just steps away from the school in the shade of the quaint medieval buildings. CLE is an independent institute for French language studies founded in 1985.

Today CLE occupies a magnificently renovated 18th century building which even has a 15th century cellar. From your classroom windows you can admire Charlemagne tower, one of the town's oldest monuments and the impressive Saint-Martin Basilica. Students will study in one of 10 spacious and comfortable classrooms, and during the summers many students enjoy relaxing on the rooftop terrace. The school also has a library and multimedia room, 7 individual language laboratories, and all students have free access to the internet.

From a quality standpoint, CLE is an excellent choice. Whether it is to improve your French language skills for exam purposes (A' levels, Abitur, Matura, INSEAD, etc.), to obtain a job position , to communicate more easily with your French speaking business associates, with an aim to residing in France or simply for pleasure, CLE puts the students specifications first every time. All the French language courses are taught by qualified teachers, who specialize in teaching French as a foreign language. Their competence and enthusiasm will make learning a pleasure. To accelerate your learning there are never more than 7 students per class. Smaller class sizes allow students to receive more attention in class and have more opportunity to practice their French language skills with their teachers.

In addition to excellent French language classes, CLE offers a variety of interesting cultural activities and excursions. By participating in the many excursions and cultural visits offered you will discover all that Tours and the other nearby regions have to offer. For students arriving at the beginning of a regular or summer session, CLE organizes a free guided tour of the city, its monuments and its historical restorations. In addition CLE organizes weekly visits to the renowned Renaissance châteaux of the Loire Valley: Chambord, Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau, and others, medieval fortresses, Fontevraud Abbey (where Henry Plantagenet II and Richard the Lion-Heart are buried), as well as the homes of Ronsard, Balzac and Leonardo da Vinci. Throughout your stay you will have ample opportunity to taste, in local cellars, the famous wines of Vouvray, Montlouis, Bourgeuil and Chinon.

CLE also organizes visits to other regions of France, where you will discover such architectural treasures as Mont-St-Michel, Versailles, Chartres Cathedral and also La Rochelle. Excursions are organized for a minimum number of participants, thus reducing costs. If you prefer to go on your own, a multitude of guides and suggested itineraries are available and the staff is always on hand to advise you and make suggestions.

• One of the more beautiful cities in France.
• A smaller city that still offers the amenities and services one would expect of a much larger city.
• Due to the university, the city has a a very lively feel to it.
• The Loire Valley is one of the most beautiful regions in France.
• This part of France contains an abundance of historical sites and towns, some of the more interesting of course are the many beautiful châteaux.
• Paris is less than 2 hours away.
• The central location of Tours means that it is easy to get to most other points of interest in France in a relatively short period of time.

Standard French Program: Students attend classes for 20 lessons per week with a maximum of 7 students per class. Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. until 12.15 p.m., as well as Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, from 1.45 p.m. until 4.30 p.m. NB: this changes in July and August to take advantage of the warm weather. Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. to 12.45 p.m. plus one afternoon: 2 p.m. to 4.45 p.m. Students enjoy a coffee break together in the morning.

In a class of no more than 7 students you will feel confident and at ease. Your oral participation is encouraged by the relaxed and cordial ambiance. With the help of your teacher you will be able to analyze your individual needs and progression throughout the course of study. Open to all levels of French

Combined French Program: 23 lessons per week. This course is perfect for someone who wants or needs a much more intensive French language program that is focused on specific needs or objectives. The format for the first 4 lessons per day is identical to the Standard Program. In addition to the 4 lessons per day of groups instruction students will take an additional 3 lessons per week of private instruction. Open to all levels of French

Individual Language Training: 4-6 classes per day. This course is perfect for individuals who have very little time or who need a very intensive program. Open to all levels of French

• Private room in a host family with a host family.
• Students have the option to stay in an studio or standard apartment.
• Accommodations in a chateaux are also possible. Availability varies and prices vary depending on the time of year. Check with us for details.
• 2 meals per day with host family.
• Access to email, the Internet, phone, and fax service.
• Books, handouts, etc.

Start Dates: All levels except absolute beginners may begin any Monday of the year except during June, July and August, when 2 week minimum applies and students must start on the following dates: June 29, July 13, 27 August 10, 24. Individual Language Training classes can begin on any Monday. Note: Between June 29 though Aug 23 you can only sign up for course in 2 week segments: 2, 4, 6 8 weeks, etc.

• Airport pickup for a fee.
• Cultural Activities (small cost for entrance fees, etc.)
• Weekend Excursions (not free)