A language course offers your au pair the opportunity to brush up his or her knowledge of the official language of your country during their time there. In most countries, it is not compulsory for au pairs to attend a language course. However, in other countries, such as France, au pairs must enrol in a language course.

Au pairs usually have a basic knowledge of the language spoken in the host country. Attending a language course will help improve it. This enables them to communicate more easily with their host families. In addition, a language course offers au pairs the opportunity to meet new people.

At the completion of their language course, au pairs may take an exam which entitles them to receive a certificate upon successful completion. Suitable language courses are offered by universities, for instance. However, it is also possible to contact other institutions providing language courses.

Usually, au pairs pay the fee for their language course themselves. However, their host families may contribute financially, if they choose to. In any case, host families should allow their au pairs enough time to participate in a language course. They may also help them in finding a suitable course.

Here you can find a list of language schools in different countries.

More information on this topic:

• Question of the week: How can I find the right language course? 
• Question of the week: Long distance to language school: Is it reasonable?

Our tips:

• Discuss with your au pair or host family when and how often the au pair will participate in a language course.
• Clarify early enough who bears the cost of the language course.

• Related links:

• Info host countries
• Testimonials
• One topic – your questions