1. When do the next lessons/curriculum take place?
Our curriculums start every three months. Each new class/curriculum starts in January, April, June and October.
2. How long does the curriculum last?
Each curriculum lasts 3 months. We usually give lessons 2 hours, twice per week for 3 months.
3. Where can I follow the lessons?
The lessons are usually in person at our offices at number 16 or 14 Letitia Vriesdelaan in Paramaribo.
However, sometimes, when we have enough demand, we also organize lessons online.
4. How much does it cost?
For the beginners’ level (A1.1, A1.2, A2.1 and A2.2), the price is 70 euro for 3 months.
For the intermediates’ level (B1.1, B1.2, B2.1 and B2.2), the price is 80 euro for 3 months.
5. Can I pay in srd or in US dollars?
Yes, you can. We will apply the exchange rate of the day you make the payment.
6. How can I pay?
You can either pay cash at our office or online.
7. Can I pay in several installments?
This is not our preferred option as people may not be as motivated to follow the lessons.
However, in some exceptional circumstances, we allow payment in 2 or maximum 3 installments.
8. How long will it take for me to be able to speak French?
Well, it all depends on you. What our teachers do is provide you with the basics of French, understanding the grammar, improving your listening and writing skills, etc. If you only follow the lessons during the week and do nothing else afterwards, it will take you quite long.
However, if next to the lessons, you also try to watch some videos or films in French, try to read some easy articles or books, or even try to practice as soon as you get a chance, you will learn and improve quicker. So it all depends on your motivation and discipline. It’s like learning how to play the piano or riding a bike: the more you practice, the better you’ll become.
9. Do all teachers speak Dutch? I only want a Dutch-speaking teacher.
No, not all of our teachers speak Dutch. However, they all speak English, and some also speak Sranan Tongo. You can always indicate your preference when you register. However, we cannot promise you that you’ll get a Dutch-speaking teacher as it all depends on your and our teachers’ availability. Not all Dutch speaking teachers are available at the time you may be.
10. I registered and paid but my class has been cancelled. What are my options?
First, please understand that when we cancel a class, it’s because we have no other choice. It is mostly because we do not have enough students to guarantee a class where we can ensure some interactions, activities with different students, etc.
In that case, we usually offer several options:
– You can join a class at a higher level (for instance, you paid for A1.2 but your class has been cancelled. You can join the A2.1 class – if available – and if you feel you can follow it).
– You can re-do a class if you still feel unsecure. There is absolutely no shame in re-doing a class. Some of our existing students did it and we really see a difference when they do go to the next level.
– You can wait for 3 months and join the next class. Here again, even though we will do our utmost to organize the class, we again cannot guarantee it 100% if we do not have enough demand. We’ll keep your money so that you won’t have to pay next time.
– You can ask for your money back. We’ll give it back to you in cash if you paid cash, or will re-transfer it online to your bank account.
11. I want to have the same teacher as I had in my previous level/class. Is it possible?
When you register, you can indicate your preferences. However, because of all the different classes we give and the few teachers we have, it is sometimes not possible to have the same teacher. However, bear in mind that it is actually good to have another teacher: that way, you’ll get to hear another way of speaking (other speed, other expressions, other ways of expressing and explaining). So it is not so bad to actually have different teachers.
12. Will I get a certificate at the end of the curriculum?
If you have attended most of the classes, you will get a certificate of attendance. However, please note that it is NOT a certificate attesting that you have officially reached a certain level.
13. I need an official certificate that I have reached a certain level. Can I take the exam at your office? When?
Yes, you can take an exam to get an official certificate attesting of your level. 4 of our teachers are qualified to give A-level exams and 2 are qualified to give B-level exams.
However, please note that these exams only take place once or twice a year, as we have to follow the same schedule as other Alliances françaises.
If you are interested in taking an official exam, please speak to your teacher and mention for which level. He or she will let you know as soon as possible.
14. We are an organization and want to organize French lessons within our premises. Is it possible?
Yes it is definitely possible. Best is to contact Virginie Lemay, the Director of the Alliance Française at directrice@afsuriname.org and explain your needs. She will contact you shortly after to discuss this further and understand your exact needs.
