Top 10 Online French Courses in the United Kingdom [2024 Research]

Most of the online French courses in the UK are just learning materials and resources to complement your learning. The typical scenario is for you to sign up, get access to some materials, and have meetings with your tutor. 

For this article, we’ve researched the most talked-about French teaching institutions and businesses in the UK. We’ve curated the list into the 10 best online French courses in the UK. 

We are not a UK-based company, but we will start the list with our own French learning company, Get French Classes, which we believe to be the most comprehensive and affordable service today. 

Let’s get started. 

Why Get French Classes is the best solution for learning French online in the UK

So, why do we believe we’re the best company to learn French from ? 

Well, we believe that when you’re looking for an online French course, the minimum you’re hoping for is to get a comprehensive service. A one-stop shop service where you get everything you need to learn, practice, and immerse yourself in the French world. Here is a snap view of what that would mean:

• A video curriculum

• A personal tutor

• Group classes

• Lots of practice materials

• Lots of fun activities

• Extra learning materials for cultural immersion

• Affordable pricing

• And more. 

Because of this, learning French can be a frustrating experience; you jump from one company to another without any satisfaction whatsoever. But don’t give up on your dream of becoming a fluent French speaker just yet. 

At Get French Classes, we’ve developed a comprehensive online French learning program that combines engaging lessons, personalized coaching, and immersive activities to help you achieve your language goals faster than you ever thought possible. 

Here is what you get with us at GFC.

A personal road map for learning French effectively

Before we built our course and the entire system, one of the first things we did was read through several of the negative reviews of the main online language schools. 

Then we went on to talk to learners across platforms like Reddit, Quora, and Facebook groups to learn about the issues they face so we could position our service as different and better. 

The first thing we learned is that every language learner is different. They have their own reasons for learning, challenges, and ways of learning. 

So, in our program, we start by matching you with a language success coach. Their role is to work with you to make a learning plan just for you and your goals. 

Together, you will figure out your current French level, find the best way for you to learn French, choose the right French tutor for you, gather the right support materials , and set goals you can reach to keep you motivated and making progress.

Learning French accompanied by top experts 

From the minute you sign up with us, all we care about is giving you the right resources and support in every area . So, after ensuring that you have a clear road map to fluency, you get the best tutor to help you get there. 

We carefully selected a group of experienced language teachers. We make sure that they are native French speakers and great at explaining difficult ideas in a clear and engaging way. We hired them for this skill, and we trained them to be even better at it . 

We will pair you with a tutor who is an expert in “why you want to learn French"—whether it's for work, travel, or personal growth. They can teach you the specific words, grammar, and cultural details you need to know.

If you’re here to learn general French and improve your speaking skills , we have many tutors for that too. Our language success team always listens to our learners and uses that to guide our tutors. This means you'll get the best instruction possible.

Real-world French through video lessons focusing on real-life scenarios and practice assignments

Next, based on the program you choose, you’ll get access to our video library, where you’ll find lesson materials for your curriculum. Now, here is the best part. 

Our program focuses on authentic, immersive language learning. The video lessons don’t just teach grammar rules or vocabulary lists. They put you in real-life situations, from shopping at a market to going to a business meeting. 

You'll learn to talk and interact in natural, real-life contexts. This means you'll learn French the way native speakers really use it, including slang, idioms, and cultural references that bring the language to life. But that's not all. 

Each lesson also has interactive exercises and activities, both during the lesson and to do at home. These serve to reinforce what you’ve learned and let you practice new skills. 

From practice dialogues to writing assignments and pronunciation exercises , our assignments keep you actively learning at every stage. 

As you finish assignments and show you've mastered new skills, you'll earn badges and reach key milestones. This marks your progress through the program. It's a gamified approach that keeps you motivated and engaged. 

It also gives you a clear plan for your language-learning journey . But we don’t make you do these assignments alone. That’s where your personal French tutor comes in.

One-on-one sessions with your private French tutor 

Twice a week, you’ll meet with your tutor as part of the program. These sessions are personalized coaching tailored just for your needs and goals. 

Mind you, these aren’t typical coaching sessions where the coach has their own agenda, talks at you the whole time without letting you speak, and then ends the session. Not at all. 

Fun fact, in our 1:1 tutoring sessions, we don’t do much coaching. The tutor’s job is to create a safe, supportive space for you, the learner . You get to practice speaking French without worrying about making mistakes or being judged. 

Your tutor won’t lecture at you. Instead, they’ll have a conversation with you, give feedback on your pronunciation and grammar, and encourage you to express yourself more fluently and confidently. 

You’ll also talk about the material from your video lessons and assignments. You can ask questions, clear up anything confusing, and get extra practice where you need it most. 

Your tutor will figure out what areas of speaking you need help with by talking with you. And they’ll give you specific tips and change their teaching style to fit the way you learn best. 

Another great thing about our tutors is that they're more than just language teachers. They’re also cultural guides. They’ll share information about French history, customs, and daily life to help you handle real-world interactions easily. 

Group classes for conversation practice 

The main goal of Get French Classes' programs is to get our learners to practice speaking in a lively, interactive setting. That means a good part of your engagement with us will be around you practicing the language. We show this even more with our group classes.

Twice a week, you’ll join a small group of 4-6 learners at your level for an hour-long session with your personal tutor. Again, your tutor’s goal isn’t to lecture, but to make a friendly space for students to practice. 

They moderate and guide you through conversations and activities. With your peers, you’ll practice conversation activities and exercises that get you thinking and talking in French. You’ll discuss current events, debate topics, act out scenarios, or play language games. 

Your tutor will make sure even shy learners join in and enjoy it. Group classes also let you learn from classmates. You’ll hear different accents and speaking styles. You’ll also be exposed to more vocabulary and language structures.

It also gives you a community of people learning French, just like you. You can form study groups, language exchange partnerships, and friendships. This supports and motivates you throughout your language journey.

Here are some of our tutors:

Social clubs and cultural immersion activities

You can learn a language without learning its culture. If you do, you will lack a lot of skills, and people can easily tell you apart from native speakers. 

And as for French, to speak French fluently and properly, you need to understand how French people live. This includes subtle things like the jokes they make, how they think, how they laugh at jokes, and how they react in certain situations. 

Many learners face this reality check. They know words and grammar, but they can’t think or develop the instinct to speak naturally. When they open their mouth or use certain phrases, it’s easy to tell they’re not from France. 

That’s why we’ve created activities and clubs to help you experience French culture firsthand. When you join our program, you get access to a virtual cultural center filled with authentic French resources and experiences. 

You can take virtual tours of French cities or join French cuisine talks from home. You can also join our French book club, film club, and conversation groups. 

For example, you'll watch movies and discuss them. You'll talk about your favorite books and films with others who love French culture from around the world. 

These social activities allow you to practice your French and learn about the culture. They also help you make friends with other French learners.

Here's what our learners have to say:

Accountability and habit-building for success 

​​Learning a new language as an adult is always a big challenge to your ability to commit and dedicate yourself to learning it. It requires time and effort. It's easy to lose focus or motivation owing to some of the many adult life commitments. 

That's why accountability and habit-building are integral parts of our program. They help you stay on track and progress toward your goals. When you join, you’ll be matched with an accountability partner. 

This is another French learner at your level who has similar goals to you. Each week, you’ll check in with your partner about your progress, challenges, and successes. You’ll support and encourage each other to stay accountable for your goals. 

You’ll also get access to tools and resources to help you study French consistently. These include study planners, daily challenges, and streak trackers. We make it easy and enjoyable to practice French every day. But you won't be studying in isolation. 

Your personal tutor and learning advisor will also keep you accountable and motivated. They'll check in with you regularly to monitor your progress, provide feedback and encouragement, and help you overcome any obstacles you encounter along your learning journey. 

With this multi-layered support system, you'll have the structure, guidance, and motivation you need to build strong French study habits and achieve your language goals.

Affordable pricing

Our mission is to make high-quality online language education available to all, no matter their budget or schedule. 

We provide flexible pricing options and customizable learning plans to suit your needs and lifestyle. Our program costs $307, regardless of which program you choose. 

All the perks we mentioned above are included without compromise. We're so sure our program works that we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

If you're not totally satisfied with your progress and experience after the first month, we'll refund your full tuition, no questions asked.

10 Online French Courses in the UK

Here are the 10 best online French courses or schools you should consider in the UK. 

We’ll provide detailed information about each institution so you can choose which best aligns with your needs. 

Institut Français

Description: Institut Français is a renowned French language and cultural center in the UK. They offer French courses and cultural programs for learners of all levels. With expert native-speaking tutors and top-notch learning materials, they provide an immersive French learning experience.

Best audience: Perfect for French enthusiasts at any level who want top-notch instruction and cultural immersion.

Course details: 

You can choose between online private and group courses to learn French. If you prefer a one-on-one learning style, then private courses are ideal for you. 

Courses last 6 months and are customized to your proficiency level. For beginners (A1), you’ll get 50 hours of lessons, including 10 live classes with your tutor. 

If you’re at a higher level (A2-C2), you’ll receive 60 hours of lessons and 12 live classes. During the course, you'll actively participate in role-plays, games, and vocabulary exercises. Your tutor will provide guidance and feedback to help you improve.

The group courses are a great option if you enjoy learning with others. These 5-week intensive courses are tailored to your level and combine self-study materials with online lessons. 

The goal is to get you to speak French with confidence. Each week, you'll spend 13 hours in a small class with no more than six other students under the instruction of a tutor who speaks French fluently.

The classes are engaging and immersive, with activities like games and vocabulary practice to keep you motivated and learning effectively.

Investment required:

• Group courses: You’ll pay £299 for a course at your proficiency level.

• Private courses:

• If you're a beginner (A1), each unit costs £800.

• For higher levels (A2-C2), each unit is priced at £960.

University College London

Description: University College London (UCL) is a world-renowned university that offers a range of academic programs, including French language courses. 

Best audience: Ideal for busy learners of all levels who want to enhance their French communication skills in a flexible, part-time format.

Course details: 

UCL’s French evening courses are perfect for you, whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced learner looking to refine your skills. 

Each course runs for 10 weeks, with a two-hour class held once a week on weekday evenings. This convenient schedule allows you to fit language learning into your busy life without compromising your other commitments.

The course content is tailored to your level, covering essential aspects of the French language. As a beginner, you’ll focus on basic vocabulary, phonetics, syntax, grammar, and morphology, laying a strong foundation for future learning. 

As you progress through the levels, you’ll encounter more advanced topics, such as different types of discourse and registers, helping you to communicate effectively in various contexts.

To support your learning, UCL provides extra materials you can engage with, including course videos, films, documentaries, and books. These materials complement your classroom experience and help you immerse yourself in the French language and culture.

Upon completing 70% of the course, you can request a UCL certificate of attendance, which serves as a testament to your dedication and progress in learning French.

Investment required:

• One term (10 lessons): £430

• Two terms (20 lessons): £735

• Three terms (30 lessons): £965

Cactus

Description: Cactus is a leading provider of language courses, offering both online and face-to-face French classes for learners in the UK. The company’s mission is to offer effective and engaging language learning experiences.

Best audience: Suitable for French learners of all levels who prefer a structured, interactive learning environment with personalized attention from native-speaking teachers.

Course details: 

Cactus offers two main types of online French courses: a 10-week course and a conversation course. Both courses are designed to help you improve your French language skills through engaging and interactive lessons.

The 10-week course consists of a 2-hour class held once a week, totaling 20 hours of learning. You’ll be part of a small group with an average of five students, allowing for personalized attention from your native-speaking French teacher. 

If you’re looking to focus specifically on improving your speaking skills, the conversation course is an excellent choice. These classes are held twice a week, with each session lasting 1 hour, for a total of 8 hours. 

Like the 10-week course, you'll be in a small group with an average of five students and a native-speaking teacher.

Cactus teachers use a conversational approach to language learning. They encourage you to participate in pair work, games, quizzes, grammar practice, and teacher-learner correction slots. 

This approach helps you develop your French language skills in a fun and engaging way, while also receiving valuable feedback from your teacher.

Investment required:  

Pricing details for Cactus' online French courses are not directly listed on their website. You’ll need to fill out a form with your learning preferences and contact information to get a personalized quote. 

City University of London

Description: City, University of London is an educational institution that offers online and face-to-face French courses for learners of all levels. The university aims to help learners improve their French language skills while exploring cultural elements and current affairs.

Best audience: French learners, from total beginners to upper intermediate learners, looking for flexible and affordable language courses taught by qualified native French speakers.

Course details: 

City, University of London offers several French courses — all designed to cater to your learning needs and schedule. 

The 10-week modules are available online, with start dates in October, January, and April or May, giving you the flexibility to begin your French learning journey at a time that suits you best.

The courses are tailored to different proficiency levels. Each level of the course is divided into three parts, covering essential aspects of the French language, such as basic grammar and everyday vocabulary. 

One of the standout features of City’s French courses is the emphasis on interactive and engaging learning experiences. The evening classes are delivered by qualified native French speakers who create a supportive and immersive learning environment. 

You’ll have the opportunity to practice your speaking, listening, and writing skills through fun activities and exercises.

The university also strives to keep the class sizes small, ideally under 10 students. That is to ensure that you get personalized attention and feedback from your tutors. It fosters a focused and effective learning experience.

Investment required: 

City, University of London's French programs’ pricing details are not available on the website, but you can contact them to get a quote. 

Coventry University

Description: Coventry University is a well-established educational institution that also offers a comprehensive 20-hour online French course for UK residents.

Best audience: Ideal for UK residents at any French proficiency level who are seeking a structured and comprehensive online course to improve their language skills.

Course details:  

Coventry University’s 20-hour online French course is designed to help you enhance your French language abilities, no matter your current proficiency level. Whether you’re a complete beginner (A1) or an advanced learner (C1), this course has something to offer.

The course curriculum covers essential linguistic aspects, including grammar, phonetics, and vocabulary, ensuring that you develop a well-rounded understanding of the French language. 

For beginners (A1), the course focuses on the fundamental aspects of French, such as basic grammar structures, pronunciation, and essential vocabulary. This foundation enables you to engage in simple conversations and understand everyday situations.

As you move up to higher levels, like C1, the course teaches more advanced topics. You’ll learn to express yourself fluently and accurately, comprehend intricate texts, and engage in discussions.

Throughout the course, you'll have access to interactive learning materials and exercises designed to reinforce your understanding and help you practice your newly acquired skills.

Investment required: Coventry University offers a tiered pricing structure for its online French course. The fees are as follows:

• Members of the public: £165

• Coventry College students, alumni, and some other groups: £135

• Coventry University students and staff, and Jaguar Rover employees: £99

University of Sussex

Description: The University of Sussex is a renowned educational institution that also offers online French courses for individuals in the UK. 

Best audience: UK residents at any French proficiency level, from beginners to advanced learners, as well as individuals working or planning to work in international development or international relations.

Course details: The University of Sussex offers three distinct online French courses to meet the varying needs and goals of learners:

1. 20-week course: This course runs from October to April and caters to all levels. It is designed to help you develop your French language skills gradually over an extended period, allowing for a thorough exploration of the language and culture.

2. 12-week course: Available in both lunchtime and evening sessions, this course is perfect for those who prefer a more intensive learning experience. It focuses on improving your linguistic and conversational skills within a short timeframe.

3. 10-week course: Tailored specifically for individuals working or aspiring to work in international development or international relations, this course is recommended for learners with a B1 level or above in French. It helps develop your speaking and listening skills through interactive activities, real-life materials, and conversation practice.

All courses are conducted via Zoom, with each class lasting around 90 minutes. The classes are designed to be interactive and focus on improving your overall French language proficiency and confidence in communication. 

You'll have opportunities to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills while exploring several aspects of French culture.

Investment required: The University of Sussex offers competitive pricing for its online French courses, with concessions available for certain groups of learners. The fees are as follows:

• 20-week course: £287 (£277 concessions)

• 12-week course: £190 (£180 concessions)

• 10-week course: £150 (£140 concessions)

Concessions are available for full-time learners, University of Sussex staff and alumni, NHS and key workers, individuals whose sole source of income is state benefits, and retired individuals on state pension only.

International House London

Description: International House London is a well-established language school that offers a range of online French courses for learners in the UK. 

Best audience: French learners of all levels who want an interactive online learning experience with a focus on speaking skills and cultural immersion.

Course details:  

Each course runs for 8 weeks, with a 90-minute lesson held once a week. The classes are conducted on Zoom, which means interactive and engaging learning experiences. 

You’ll be part of a small group, with a maximum of 12 learners per class, which ensures that you get personalized attention and opportunities to practice your French speaking skills.

The course content covers linguistic aspects relevant to your proficiency level. 

Beginners will focus on the fundamentals of French, such as basic vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, while more advanced learners will be learning complex structures, idiomatic expressions, and nuanced communication skills.

Furthermore, International House London’s courses also incorporate socio-cultural activities that help you immerse yourself in the French language and culture. 

These activities include discussions on French customs, traditions, and current events, as well as interactive exercises that simulate real-life situations.

Investment required:  

The pricing information for International House London's online French courses varies depending on the proficiency level you choose. But they don’t display them on their website. You’ll have to reach out to them. 

Alliance Française London

Description: Alliance Française London is a popular French language school that offers private online French courses tailored to meet the specific needs of learners in the UK.  

Best audience: French learners wanting a customized experience with flexible scheduling and the option to choose between general French or specialized courses like business French.

Course details: 

Alliance Française London’s private French courses offer a highly personalized learning experience designed to cater to your individual needs, goals, and schedule. 

Whether you’re a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an advanced learner seeking to refine your skills, these courses provide the flexibility and attention you need to succeed.

The lessons are conducted online via popular video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams. So, it’s easy for you to learn from the comfort of your own home or office. 

One of the key advantages of Alliance Française London’s private courses is the ability to choose between a general French course or a more specialized option, such as business French. 

This ensures that the course content is relevant to your specific interests and objectives, be it that you’re learning French for personal enrichment, travel, or professional development.

Investment required:  

The fees are as follows:

• One-to-one tuition: £52 per hour

• Couple plan (2 participants): £55 per hour

• Group of 3 to 8 participants: £60 per hour

• Group of 9 or more participants: £65 per hour

The French Room

Description: The French Room is an online French language school that offers flexible and tailored courses for adult learners. The school was founded by experienced French tutor Ellie Louis, and it provides a supportive and engaging learning environment that caters to students of all proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced.

Best audience: Adult French learners who value personalized attention, flexibility, and a supportive learning community, regardless of their current proficiency level.

Course details: 

The French Room offers two main types of online French classes, each designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of its learners:

1. Private Classes: These one-on-one sessions with Ellie, your French tutor, provide a highly personalized learning experience. During these classes, you'll receive individualized attention and feedback. Private classes are available for all proficiency levels and can be scheduled at your convenience.

2. Conversation Classes: If you prefer a more interactive and social learning environment, the conversation classes are an excellent choice. These are small group sessions, limited to a maximum of eight learners, and focus on developing your speaking and listening skills through engaging discussions and activities. You'll have the opportunity to practice your French with fellow learners at your level, while still receiving guidance and feedback from Ellie.

Added to the live classes, The French Room also offers a self-study course that complements your learning journey. This course allows you to progress at your own pace and reinforces the concepts covered in your live sessions.

Investment required: 

The French Room offers flexible pricing plans for both its online conversation classes and private lessons:

Online Conversation Classes:

• Single-class plan: £19.50

• 10-class pack: £165

Online Private French Classes:

• Single-class plan: £52.50

• 10-class plan: £500

• 12-month plan: £1,350

BBC Languages (French)

Description: BBC Languages (French) is a free online resource that provides comprehensive French language lessons for learners in the UK. The program offers several courses tailored to different proficiency levels as well as specific courses for students at GCSE, KS2, and KS3 levels.

Best audience: UK residents of all ages and proficiency levels who are interested in learning French through a structured, engaging, and multimedia-rich online platform.

Course details:  

BBC Languages’ French courses are organized into different levels, from 1st level to 4th level French.

In addition to the general courses, the program also provides targeted lessons for students at GCSE, KS2, and KS3 levels. Their goal is to support the learners’ academic goals and help them excel in their French studies.

The lessons cover all sorts of topics and everyday themes like food, colors, numbers, clothes, and animals, as well as more advanced subjects. You’ll have the opportunity to learn and practice basic French phrases, expand your vocabulary, explore French grammar, and gain insights into French culture.

The program incorporates songs, stories, and cultural elements to make the learning experience engaging and enjoyable. The bite-sized format of the lessons allows you to easily fit language learning into your daily routine, making steady progress at your own pace.

Investment required: 

BBC Languages (French) is a completely free resource for individuals residing in the UK. There are no hidden costs or subscription fees.

Which French-teaching company should you work with in the UK?

If you’re looking for a UK-based company that can help you achieve fluency in the French language, we recommend our company. 

We’re not actually based in the UK, we’re online. But at Get French Classes, we pride ourselves on being a French-teaching company that understands the needs of our learners and designs a learning plan that fits their learning style.

We’ve created a comprehensive online program that combines engaging lessons, personalized coaching, immersive activities, and affordable pricing to help you achieve your French language goals without breaking the bank.

When comparing our program to other online French courses in the UK, the cost difference is striking. Take a look:

• Institut Français charges £800-£960 per unit for private courses and £299 for group courses.

• University College London’s fees range from £430 for one term to £965 for three terms.

In contrast, our all-inclusive program at Get French Classes costs just $307, providing you with:

✅ A personalized learning plan developed with your dedicated Language Success Coach 

✅ One-on-one sessions with expert French tutors 

✅ Video lessons and real-life scenario practice assignments 

✅ Group conversation classes 

✅ Cultural immersion activities and social clubs 

✅ Accountability and habit-building tools 

✅ A 30-day money-back guarantee

We’ve ensured that you have all the resources and support you need to succeed in your French learning journey. Join us today.