Tours is ideally situated in the heart of the Loire Valley surrounded by breath-taking chateaux, royal gardens and renowned vineyards, and remains one of the most famous cultural, artistic and gastronomic centers in France. The early history of Tours dates back to the Gallo-Roman times (1st Century AD) and traces of the first French renaissance are still visible today. The city's history, combined with an energetic restoration, policy have left Tours with a remarkably rich heritage. In the old city, the Place Plumereau is famous for its 15th and 16th century timber-framed houses overlooking a big open square where you will find several outdoor cafes and restaurants. For trips outside Tours, regional buses offer daily excursions to all the tourist attractions of the area, and the TGV trains will take you into Paris in about one hour.

The program is open to students from around the world and includes 20 hours of instruction per week. Classes are held at the IT Institute of the Université de Tours located near the old town just a few blocks from the city center in one of the city’s oldest historic mansions. Classes meet every morning Monday-Friday from 8:45am-12:15pm, and some afternoons depending on your level.

The faculty is made up native French professors experienced in teaching French as a Second Language. Class size varies from 12-18 students. All classes are taught in French. Groups are set up by levels (Beginner to Advanced), determined by proficiency tests given the first day of each session. Each level has a choice of optional afternoon elective courses that meet for 1½ - 2 hours per week. The institute provides a multimedia resource library, an audio/video laboratory, a computer lab, an auditorium, and an internet access center.

Course certificates are awarded upon successful completion of each program and must be requested directly from the admissions office in Tours. Official transcripts are processed by the host institution through the FAE office. Students must submit a Credit Transfer Request form to the FAE office in Virginia to receive a transcript. One transcript is provided at no cost to each student. A fee of $20 is charged for each additional transcript.

Fall 2008 Trimester: September 29 - December 20.
Winter 2009 Trimester: January 04 - March 28.
Spring 2009 Trimester: March 29 - June 20.
Academic Year: September 29 - June 20.

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

Housing is arranged by the host institution 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. Bed linens and bath towels are provided with all housing options. Please indicate your first and second choice of housing on your FAE Application Form.

In addition to the numerous cafes and inexpensive restaurants found throughout Tours, there are two student cafeterias available to all students for lunch and dinner: La Cité Internationale and La Cité Universitaire de Sanitas. Meal tickets may be purchased at the CLOUS student center located next to La Cité-U de Sanitas at 3 blvd de Lattre-de-Tassigny. Breakfast is not served at either dinning hall.

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

Note: Expenses may vary with fluctuating exchange rates.

A monthly schedule of activities and excursions is arranged by the institute. These activities require an extra fee. Students sign up for the activities of their choice once in France. Ask for a complete list of options at final registration. In addition to the excursions organized by the institute, the Office de Tourisme offers a wide selection of guided tours and events. Activities range from a walking tour of the old city, a tour of St Gatien’s Cathedral, or a visit to the Musée des Beaux Arts - to bus tours to one of the famous Loire Valley Chateaux or vineyards. Visits to the homes of some of France’s best known writers and poets can also be arranged. Regularly scheduled departures from the Gare Routière provide easy access to all of the many wonders that have made this region so popular. Wherever your passion lies, you will find just the right place in and around Tours to make your Trimester Study Abroad Program an experience you will want to repeat!