This program can combine academic studies about French Institutions and French culture with volunteer community service in various humanitarian organizations and NGOs based in one of the most beautiful cities in the South of France, Montpellier. Foreign students respond enthusiastically to this alternative form of education that allows them to maximise their stay, get a holistic impression of the country while developing specific skills and growing from a linguistic, cultural and personal point of view.

All volunteer programs are organized individually and in correspondence with the conditions and desires of the participant. Opportunity for university credit may be available through arrangements with your home country university.

TYPES OF VOLUNTEER PROJECTS AVAILABLE

Projects include: volunteering at children's hospital, teaching English, day-care centers for disabled people, shelters for underprivileged families, food banks, retirement homes, etc.

LANGUAGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

To attend a volunteer program, participants must have sufficient knowledge of the French language. Therefore participants must attend an intensive preparatory French language course of at least 4 weeks prior to the project. Participant wills receive a certificate of attendance after the completion of language course. No previous experience is required.

The course on French Institutions deals with the major issues in French society and the way they are met by Institution and Associations. The selection of volunteer projects will depend on the requirements of our partner hosting associations, the participant's requests, the participant's ability and aspiration.

ACCOMMODATION

Homestay (single room, half board) or 3 star hotel apartment (self catering). Prices for hotel apartment will depend on low season (Sept-June) or high season (July-august). Prices include the "taxe de sejour" equivalent of 1 euro per day. A deposit equivalent of one month rent will have to be paid on location on arrival and will be reimbursed on departure. Please click here for accommodation details.

4-WEEK PROGRAM COST INCLUDES:

Registration fees (including $250 nonrefundable fee), 4 weeks French Institution course (20 classes per week), 4 weeks volunteer project (10/12 hours per week min), 4 weeks homestay single room, half board basis), internet access, one excursion per week in a different part of Southern France, 24h assistance and insurance.

Additional costs to budget:

• International Flight
• Health Insurance
• Spending Allowance (a minimum of $450 per month is recommended)

PAYMENT AND REFUND POLICY

Payment: 50% of the total program fee including nonrefundable deposit are due to CICD at the time of registration; remaining balance due is payable to CICD a minimum of 4 weeks before your program start date

Refund policy: The total fees and refund policy are specific to each program and options chosen. Fully detailed refund information will be made available in your program information packet and with each program option. Please consult your program information or contact a CICD representative for more information.