elephant of the machines

International Preparatory Class

Taught in French Nantes
Updated on 13.11.25
Informations

Prerequisites: A state diploma equivalent to the French baccalaureate and a French level equivalent to A2 assessed by a TCF1 or DELF2 test is required to join the program

Admissions: on our application site

Modality

Location: Nantes, France

Teaching language: French

A cultural immersion program with L’Ecole de design Nantes Atlantique’s expertise

This cultural adaptation class and introduction to various design professions has been specifically designed for international students who wish to begin design studies in a French-taught program after obtaining a state diploma equivalent to the French Baccalauréat.

This preparatory class allows students to explore the specificities of creation with courses in modes of expression, general culture and technical culture, and to discover the different design professions: Space Design, Graphic Design, Interactive Design and Product Design.

In addition, this program offers a French language pathway designed to prepare students for entry into one of the school’s academic programs. It helps them progress from an A2 to a B2 level in French.

After completing this class, students can pursue undergraduate studies.

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Brochure - International experience
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For any information regarding International Recruitment, please contact us: international-admission@lecolededesign.com

Course outline

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
How to apply

Applications directly on our website

The selection process is organized as follows:

1. Online application and payment of a registration fee of €50;
2. Uploading all the required documents for application;
3. Application file review and interview
4. Admitted candidates will be informed by email and will be asked to electronically sign a teaching contract to confi rm their registration.

Tuition fees
For European or Non-European students

Preparatory Program: €5,500

campus francebienvenue en france

The label "Bienvenue en France" with the maximum rating of three stars is delivered by the Campus France Labeling Commission and attests to the institution's commitment and quality in welcoming international students. L'École de design Nantes Atlantique is also a member of Campus France , the international network for the promotion of French higher education of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A question about this program?

Any questions? Contact us!

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International Preparatory Class

Taught in French Nantes