Aix-en-Provence remains at the heart of one of the most attractive regions in France (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur) and is the fourth largest city in the area, just 25km north of Marseille. Aix was the capital city of Provence from the 12th century until the Revolution. In fact, history traces its origins as far back as 122BC when it was first founded as Aquæ Sectiæ (Sextius Thermal Baths). Today Aix is best known as a "City of Art" or a "City of Fountains" and is home to many art schools and universities.

Founded in 1953, the Université d'Aix-Marseille continues to welcome thousands of foreign students from around the world. With this unique diversity of the student body, you will find an international atmosphere at the school. All classes are held in the heart of Old Town in one of the city's oldest historic mansions. The institute provides a resource library, audio/video laboratory, student reception hall/auditorium, computer center and internet access.

The faculty is made up native French professors experienced in teaching French as a Second Language. Class size varies from 10-15 students. All classes are taught in French. Groups are set up by levels (Beginning to Advanced), determined by proficiency tests given the first week of each semester. All levels have a choice of afternoon elective courses that meet for 1½ - 2 hours per week. Regular cultural activities and excursions are organized by the institute and are open to all students. Additional services are available through the C.R.O.U.S. Office or the Office du Tourisme in town.

Fall 2008 Semester: September 28 - January 24.
Spring 2009 Semester: January 20 - May 16.
Academic Year: September 28 - May 23 (includes additional testing dates for degree options).

Note: Introductory intensive 4-week sessions also available in September. For more information, visit the Summer Study Abroad Programs in Aix.

Housing is arranged by FAE in the home of a local resident (with daily breakfast and dinner) or in a furnished efficiency apartment. Students living with a local resident have a private room and share the bath with their host. Linens and bath towels are provided for all housing options. Please indicate your first and second choice of housing on your application.

Students at the institute may use any of the four student cafeterias around town: Les gazelles, Les Fenouilleres, Cite de Cuques and Arts et Metiers. Meal tickets may be purchased with a valid student ID at any of the student cafeterias or at the main CROUS student center located at the Cite des Gazelles (Pavillon #7, Avenue Jules-Ferry). Meal tickets are valid at all student cafeterias for lunch or dinner. Breakfast is not served at any of the dining halls. Separate a la carte counters are also available for cash purchases. There are several inexpensive cafés around town that may be more convenient. Students may also go to the cafeteria-style restaurant called FLUNCH located next to the tourist office in the center of town.

* A refundable security deposit is required for all apartment rentals.

Note: Prices may vary with fluctuating exchange rates.

An organization called Students in Aix organizes regular activities and excursions throughout the year. Their website is www.studentsinaix.org. Membership is free. Students sign up for the activities of their choice once in France. The Office de Tourisme also offers a wide selection of guided tours and events. Activities range from a walking tour of the city, a visit to Cezanne’s workshop or a dip in the thermal baths - to bus tours to the picturesque villages overlooking the Arc Valley, the quaint villages perched on top of the Luberon Hills, or to the mediaeval chateaux and vestiges tucked away on the back roads of Provence. An additional fee is required for all excursions. Wherever your passion lies, you will find just the right place in and around Aix to make your Semester Study Abroad Program an experience you will want to repeat!