OFII Language Courses Go Digital: What New Arrivals in France Need to Know in 2025
Introduction
If you're a newcomer to France and have signed the Contrat d'Intégration Républicaine (CIR), you've probably heard about recent changes to the French language training provided by the OFII (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration). In 2025, OFII is moving toward a digital future, and it could affect how you learn French.
Let’s break down what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and what it means for you.
📢 What’s New?
OFII recently launched a call for tenders aimed at completely revamping how French language training is delivered under the CIR. The major change? A push toward online, AI-powered self-study courses designed to help learners reach an A2 level in French, without traditional in-person classes.
This tender was open from January to February 2025 and is expected to set the tone for how language training will look in the coming years.
🎯 What’s the Goal?
The shift to online learning is designed to:
- Help students achieve A2 certification faster (oral and written).
- Use digital and AI-based platforms to offer flexible, independent learning.
- Reduce dependency on in-person classes, which can be costly and harder to access for some learners.
The aim isn’t just about attending classes, it’s about getting certified.
❗ Will All Courses Be Online Now?
Not quite.
As of now, in-person training is still required, especially for:
- A1-level learners (many new arrivals start here).
- Civic integration modules (which are not moving online yet).
- Participants who need more structured, guided support.
While there is a clear move toward digitisation, the shift won’t happen overnight. OFII is still evaluating providers and platforms, and no official decree has yet announced a 100% switch to online courses for all students.
What About Current Students?
If you're already enrolled or soon to start your OFII French course:
- You’ll likely still attend in-person or hybrid classes, especially at A1 level.
- Depending on your level and the providers in your region, you may be invited to participate in online training later in 2025 or 2026.
- Your OFII office or training center will provide updates directly.
What to Expect Going Forward
- Expect more self-paced learning options online.
- Be prepared for changes in how progress is evaluated, certification will become more important than attendance.
- OFII is also reviewing civic integration requirements, so expect updates on that too by the end of 2025.
Final Thoughts: Good or Bad?
For some, this digital shift is a blessing, especially for parents, workers, or anyone with a busy schedule. But others have expressed concern that the personal touch of in-person learning will be lost, making it harder for beginners or those who struggle with tech.
Still, this marks a major step in modernising the integration process in France.
What Should You Do Now?
- Check your OFII emails or contact your local office to confirm your course format.
- If you're unfamiliar with digital tools, start practicing with basic apps like Duolingo, Bonjour de France, or TV5MONDE.
- Keep an eye out for official updates, especially in late 2025 when final decisions about course delivery may be published.
Useful Websites for More Information
Free Online French Learning Resources:
🔵 Bonjour de France: https://www.bonjourdefrance.com
🔵 Duolingo: https://www.duolingo.com
Stay tuned!
I’ll be updating this blog with any new developments as soon as they’re officially announced. Feel free to share your experiences or questions in the comments below.
