International Preparatory Class

Program taught in French

Total course load: 690 hours

Semester 1

FLE (French as a Foreign Language): 220 hours

Progress from A2 → B1: basic comprehension and expression, acquisition of everyday vocabulary, first structured written productions.

FOS (French for Specific Purposes): 40 hours

Specific vocabulary (shapes, materials, colors)
Presenting a sketch or a project simply in French

Introduction to Design: 120 hours

Observation drawing workshops, sketching, perspective
Introduction to design fundamentals: product, graphic, digital, spatial design
Building a sketchbook throughout the semester
Cultural visits

Semester 2

FLE (French as a Foreign Language): 150 hours

Progress from B1 → B2
Argumentation, comprehension of documents, structured writing
Preparation for the B2 certification exams (certification to be determined)

FOS (French for Specific Purposes): 80 hours

Presenting a project in French (oral + written)
Workshops / project pitches / learning to communicate
French for design (typography, color, materials, ergonomics)

Introduction to Design: 80 hours

Portfolio development
Color and volume drawing, introduction to model making

Academic requirements

This program is open to all applicants who hold a state diploma equivalent to the French baccalaureate.

You may apply before actually receiving the degree. However, admission will only take effect once the degree is obtained.

Final admission will only take effect when the necessary visa is obtained, if applicable.   

Language requirements

French

All classes are conducted in French. Therefore a basic command of this language is recommended. We ask that you provide a French level test equivalent to A2 assessed by a TCF1 or DELF2 test

How to apply?

Places limited – Subject to availability

Application can only be done online on our application website.

Applications for the 2027-2028 academic year will open in October 2026. 

Applications can only be submitted online via our application website.

Opening date: October 12, 2026
Closing date: August 2027 (Subject to availability)

Apply

Documents for application:

Résumé (CV);
Portfolio;
Academic transcripts for the past year.
Copy of a state diploma equivalent to the French baccalaureate ;
Copy of your identity card or passport;
Cover letter (letter of intent);
French test : a French level equivalent to A2 assessed by a TCF1 or DELF2 test

Application process:

1. Online application and payment of the application fees (€50);

2. Upload all the required documents for application;

3. Application review and online interview if your application file is accepted; 

4. Publication of the admissions results at the end of each admission session: Admissions results are sent by email.

Admission results within 48 hours after the interview

Selection process

Tuition fees

For European or Non-European students: €5,500

+ CVEC (Student and campus life contribution): contribution set at €105 in 2025

Scholarships

The school itself does not offer scholarship for this specific program. However, according to your country of residence and your particular situation, different possibilities may be available to finance your studies in France: government grants, funding granted by international organizations and NGOs, private fellowships etc.

Campus France has a scholarship search engine which may help you identify a scholarship available in your situation (country of residence, degree being prepared etc.).

Preparing your life in Nantes

Academic calendar

The academic year runs from the beginning of September to the beginning of July for all our programs.

This dates are provided for information purposes only and are subject to change.

For more information to help you to prepare your arrival & life in Nantes Studying in Nantes

Obtaining a visa for France

Final admission will only take effect when the necessary visa is obtained, if applicable. For more information about the visa to help you to prepare for your arrival in Nantes, consult the item Procedures for international students on the page Studying in Nantes