
If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through French villages, sipping coffee after class, and spending your weekends exploring Europe — while getting paid — then the **TAPIF program** might be your perfect next step.

The **Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF)** is a government-sponsored initiative that places native English speakers in French public schools as language assistants. Every year, hundreds of young people — mostly recent college grads — head to France to [teach English](/teach-english-france), immerse themselves in French culture, and gain international experience.

Whether you’re a fluent French speaker or still learning, a future educator or just someone seeking adventure abroad, TAPIF offers a rare chance to live in France for **7 months**, get paid, and build language and cross-cultural skills that can open doors long after your contract ends.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through **everything you need to know**: salary, benefits, eligibility, application tips, and what life is really like as a TAPIF assistant in France.

## What Is the TAPIF Program?

TAPIF stands for **Teaching Assistant Program in France**, a government-backed initiative that brings native English speakers into French public schools to support language learning.

Each year, more than 1,200 assistants from the U.S. — plus others from around the world — are placed in schools across **France and its overseas departments**. The goal? Help French students improve their spoken English while fostering cultural exchange and global curiosity.

### 👩‍🏫 What You’ll Actually Do

As a TAPIF assistant, you're not expected to be the main teacher. Instead, you’ll:

- Work **12 hours per week**, typically spread across 2–3 schools
- Lead small-group speaking sessions or support classroom activities
- Share your culture and language through games, music, conversation, or projects
- Help students gain confidence in real-life English use

### 🕒 Program Basics

- **Duration:** October 1 to April 30 (7 months)
- **Contract Type:** Part-time (assistant, not lead teacher)
- **Ages Served:** Elementary, middle, and high school students
- **Location:** Anywhere from central Paris to tiny towns in Normandy or Corsica

You’ll receive a monthly stipend, French health insurance, and a long-stay visa — plus time off for holidays and travel.

> It’s not just about teaching English — it’s about **living French life**, forming local connections, and stepping far outside your comfort zone.

Next: Where can you actually be placed as a TAPIF assistant?

## Where Can You Teach?

One of the most exciting parts of TAPIF is the **variety of locations**. Assistants are placed all across France — from bustling cities to tiny countryside villages — and even in **France’s overseas departments** like Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Réunion.

### 🌍 Mainland France

You can be placed in any of the 30+ French **académies** (school districts). These include:

- **Île-de-France (Paris region)** – High demand, very competitive
- **Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille** – Vibrant cities with active expat communities
- **Normandy, Brittany, Alsace** – Picturesque towns, rich history, and local charm
- **Alps & Pyrenees** – Great for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts

While you can request up to three preferred regions, **there’s no guarantee** you'll be placed in your top choice — especially for popular areas like Paris.

### 🏝️ Overseas Departments (DOM-TOM)

Feeling adventurous? You can apply for TAPIF in:

- **Guadeloupe** or **Martinique** (Caribbean)
- **Réunion** (Indian Ocean)
- **French Guiana** (South America)

These placements are ideal if you're open to a more remote, tropical lifestyle — but keep in mind that the cost of living and travel logistics may differ from mainland France.

### 🎒 School Levels

You’ll be assigned to one of the following:

- **École primaire (Elementary school)**
- **Collège (Middle school)**
- **Lycée (High school)**

You can express a preference in your application, but again, final decisions are made by the local education authorities.

> No matter where you're placed, each location offers something different — from cobblestone streets and cafés to mountain trails and beach towns.

Next up: Let’s talk about salary, benefits, and what kind of lifestyle to expect on a TAPIF income.

## TAPIF Salary and Benefits

Let’s be real — **TAPIF isn’t about making big money**, but the stipend and benefits are enough to live modestly and enjoy your time in France (especially outside of Paris).

### 💶 Monthly Stipend

TAPIF assistants are paid a **gross salary of €1,010 per month**. After deductions (social security, insurance), your **take-home pay is around €790–850 per month**.

> You’ll get paid monthly, typically at the end of each month, and you'll also need to open a French bank account once you arrive.

### 🏡 Cost of Living

How far your stipend goes depends a lot on where you’re placed:

- 🏙️ **Paris & large cities** – Rent is high; many assistants need to dip into savings or find roommates
- 🏞️ **Smaller towns & rural areas** – Lower rent, slower pace, stipend goes further
- 🏝️ **Overseas placements** – Different prices for food, housing, and travel logistics

Some schools help you **find housing**, and a few may even provide subsidized or on-campus accommodation.

### ✈️ Travel & Visa

- **You’ll need to pay for your own flight to France**
- TAPIF provides **support for a long-stay work visa** (you apply through your nearest French consulate)
- Once in France, you’ll get access to **student-level train passes**, cheap inter-European flights, and **5 weeks of vacation time**

### 🩺 Health Insurance

TAPIF assistants are enrolled in the **French national health insurance system (CPAM)**. It covers:

- Doctor visits
- Prescription medication
- Emergency care
- Partial coverage for dental and vision

You can also choose to buy a **mutuelle** (top-up insurance), but it’s optional.

### 💡 Bonus Perks

- Time off to travel around Europe
- Part-time schedule (12 hours/week) leaves room for language classes, tutoring, or passion projects
- Experience that looks great on grad school or international job applications
- A deep cultural exchange with students and your local community

> With the right mindset — and maybe a little saved up — TAPIF gives you **an unforgettable year abroad without breaking the bank**.

Next: Let’s look at who can apply, and what you’ll need to qualify.

## TAPIF Requirements (Who Can Apply?)

TAPIF is open to a wide range of applicants, but there are a few key requirements you’ll need to meet in order to be considered.

### ✅ Basic Eligibility

To apply, you must:

- Be a citizen of the **United States** (or one of the eligible partner countries)
- Be between **20 and 35 years old** by the program start date
- Have completed at least **three years of university** (or hold a bachelor's degree)
- Have **proficiency in French** — generally **B1 level or higher** (intermediate)
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Have **a clean criminal background**

> Not a U.S. citizen? Other countries (like Canada, the UK, and Australia) have similar teaching assistant programs through their own governments. Check with your local French embassy or consulate.

### 📚 Language Skills

You don’t need to be fluent in French — but you do need to demonstrate at least an **intermediate level (B1)**. This could be:

- College coursework (transcripts with French language classes)
- A DELF/DALF certification
- Living/study abroad experience
- A strong statement of purpose in French

You’ll need to function independently in France: talking to your landlord, navigating public services, and interacting with co-teachers — so some comfort with the language is key.

### 🧑‍🏫 Preferred Experience

While it’s not required, your application is stronger if you have:

- Previous **teaching, tutoring, or mentoring experience**
- Studied French, education, or a related subject
- A clear interest in language learning or intercultural exchange
- Solid recommendations from professors or supervisors

> TAPIF isn’t just for French majors — it’s open to anyone who loves language, travel, and connecting with students in a meaningful way.

Up next: Let’s walk through the TAPIF application process and how to make your submission stand out.

## TAPIF Application Process

Applying to TAPIF is straightforward, but competitive — especially for top regions like Paris or Lyon. The application typically opens in **October** and closes by **mid-January** for placements beginning the following October.

Here’s what you need to know to apply:

### 🗓️ Timeline at a Glance

| Step                    | Timeline                                                           |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| Application opens       | **October** (check [tapif.org](https://tapif.org) for exact dates) |
| Application deadline    | **Mid-January**                                                    |
| Notifications sent      | **March–April**                                                    |
| Visa application & prep | **May–August**                                                     |
| Program begins          | **October 1**                                                      |

### 📝 How to Apply

All applications are submitted through the official U.S. site: [www.tapif.org](https://www.tapif.org)

### 📌 Required Documents

1. **Statement of purpose** (in English)
2. **Résumé/CV** (in English, 1–2 pages max)
3. **College transcript** (official or unofficial accepted)
4. **French language evaluation** (from a professor or certified examiner)
5. **Two letters of recommendation** (academic or professional)
6. **$60 application fee** (non-refundable)

### ✍️ Tips to Stand Out

- Show clear **motivation** for teaching, cultural exchange, and life in France
- Highlight **past experience** with kids, language learning, or leadership roles
- Tailor your statement of purpose to **why you want to teach**, not just travel
- Be honest about your French skills — but show that you’re committed to improving

> Many successful applicants didn’t major in French or have teaching degrees — they simply showed **passion, responsibility, and a willingness to grow.**

Next up: What’s it actually like once you’re there? Let’s look at daily life, school culture, and how to make the most of your time in France.

## Life in France as a TAPIF Assistant

So what’s it _really_ like once you arrive in France as a TAPIF assistant?

In short: expect culture shocks, personal growth, new friendships, and unforgettable moments — all wrapped into a part-time teaching job in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

### 🕒 Work Schedule

TAPIF assistants work **12 hours per week**, usually spread over **3–4 days**. This gives you:

- Plenty of free time to explore your town or travel
- Opportunities to take French classes, volunteer, or pick up tutoring gigs
- A slower pace of life compared to a full-time job or uni schedule

You’ll often work with **multiple teachers or schools**, so expect variety in your weekly schedule.

### 🏫 What French Schools Are Like

- Students generally start learning English in **elementary school**
- You’ll likely assist in **listening/speaking practice**, not grammar lessons
- French school culture may feel **more formal or reserved** than what you’re used to
- Discipline and classroom expectations may vary widely by region and age group

Many assistants develop close relationships with their co-teachers — others find it takes time to feel fully integrated.

### 🏡 Housing & Daily Life

- You’re responsible for **finding your own housing**, but some schools help
- Expect to pay anywhere from **€250–€600/month** depending on location
- Shared housing, teacher dorms, or studio apartments are all common
- You’ll need to open a French bank account and navigate some local bureaucracy early on — it’s all part of the adventure!

### 🌍 Making the Most of It

- Use your time off to **travel across Europe** — trains, buses, and budget flights are easy to access
- Join assistant Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, or regional meetups
- Take language classes through the **Alliance Française** or local universities
- Say “yes” to school talent shows, holiday parties, or spontaneous picnics — these are the moments that make TAPIF unforgettable

> Living in France won’t always be easy — but it _will_ change you. You’ll leave more independent, more confident, and with stories you'll be telling for years.

Next: What comes _after_ TAPIF? Let’s explore renewal options and long-term paths in France and beyond.

## After TAPIF – What Comes Next?

TAPIF might only last 7 months, but for many assistants, it’s just the beginning of a longer international journey.

Whether you’re considering **renewing**, staying in France longer, or taking your experience into a new field, there are plenty of paths to explore.

### 🔁 Renewing for Another Year

If you loved your placement, you can apply to **renew for a second year** — either in the same académie or a different one.

To be eligible, you’ll need to:

- Have completed your contract successfully
- Receive a positive recommendation from your school
- Submit a renewal application (typically due in February)

### 🎓 Graduate School in France

Many TAPIF alumni go on to pursue **master’s programs in France**, often in:

- French studies
- International education
- Translation and linguistics
- European studies, public policy, or international relations

Tuition fees are often far lower than in the U.S., especially at public universities.

### 🧑‍🏫 Teaching Long-Term in France

After TAPIF, some assistants transition into other roles:

- Private English academies and language centers
- Teaching assistant jobs at international schools
- Full-time English teaching with a **Master’s + teaching certification**

You can also apply for other French government programs like:

- **Lecteur/Lectrice positions** (university-level assistants)
- **Assistant de langue** posts for other age groups or EU citizens

### 🌍 Global Careers & Fellowships

Your TAPIF experience can strengthen your profile for:

- **Fulbright ETA programs**
- NGOs, embassies, or international organizations
- TESOL or CELTA jobs in other countries
- International grad programs or fellowships

> The skills you build — adaptability, language, cross-cultural communication — are exactly what global employers are looking for.

Next: Let’s wrap things up with final thoughts and resources to help you take the next step.

## Final Thoughts & Resources

If you're dreaming of teaching English abroad and immersing yourself in French culture, **TAPIF is one of the most accessible, rewarding ways to do it**.

You don’t need to be fluent in French. You don’t need a teaching degree. You just need curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn and adapt.

Whether you're hoping to improve your French, launch a career in education, or just live life in a new country, TAPIF offers something meaningful — both professionally and personally.

Take the leap, submit the application, and start your next chapter in France.

### 📌 Quick Links & Resources

- 📝 [TAPIF Official Website (tapif.org)](https://tapif.org)
- 🧳 [Teach English in France Guide](/teach-english-france)
- 🎓 [Best Online TEFL Courses for France](/blog/online-tefl-tesol-courses)
- 💬 Reddit: [r/TAPIF](https://www.reddit.com/r/TAPIF) – Community Q&A and tips

> Your year in France starts with one application. Bonne chance!


TAPIF France: Salary, Requirements & How to Apply


Teaching English in France isn’t just about building your resume—it’s a chance to fully immerse yourself in **one of the most iconic cultures in the world**. From sipping espresso on a Parisian terrace to hiking the Alps on the weekend, France offers an unbeatable blend of lifestyle, language, and adventure.

The country also has a **steady demand for English teachers**, especially in schools, summer camps, and business settings. While **TAPIF** is the best-known program for Americans, it’s not the only route. Whether you're a recent grad, certified teacher, or simply someone with wanderlust and a TEFL cert, there are multiple ways to start your teaching journey here.

This guide explores the top programs and options available—structured and independent—so you can choose the one that best fits your experience and goals.

## 🇫🇷 TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France)

### What It Is

TAPIF—the **[Teaching Assistant Program in France](/blog/tapif-program)**—is a government-run initiative that places **American citizens** in public elementary and secondary schools across the country. Participants work as **English language assistants**, helping French teachers lead lessons, improve pronunciation, and bring cultural flair into the classroom.

You’ll work **12 hours per week**, usually spread across several classes and sometimes multiple schools. That light schedule leaves plenty of time for travel, language study, or side gigs like tutoring or online teaching.

### Who It’s For

TAPIF is designed for:

- **U.S. citizens aged 20–35**
- Holders of a **bachelor’s degree** in any subject
- Applicants with **basic French proficiency** (intermediate or higher preferred)

You don’t need prior teaching experience, but the application is **competitive**, so having relevant experience—like tutoring, volunteering, or a TEFL certification—can help your chances.

### Perks and Considerations

TAPIF comes with a **monthly stipend (~€790/month)**, a **work visa**, **health insurance**, and an official placement from the French Ministry of Education. However, you’ll need to **arrange your own housing**, and placements can be in small towns or rural areas—not just Paris or the Riviera.

Still, for those seeking **cultural immersion**, professional development, and a chance to live legally in France, TAPIF is an ideal entry point.

**Best for**: Recent grads, Francophiles, or aspiring teachers looking for a **low-pressure, high-reward way to live and [teach in France](/teach-english-france)**.

## 🏫 Teaching at Private Language Schools in France

### Overview

Outside of TAPIF, **private language schools** are a major employer of English teachers in France. These schools cater to a wide range of learners—from high school students preparing for exams to adults looking to boost their business English or conversational skills. You'll find them in **major cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille**, and increasingly in mid-sized towns with growing international demand.

Schedules can vary—some schools operate mostly in the **evenings or weekends**, while others offer full-day intensive courses. The teaching content often focuses on **conversation practice**, **grammar refreshers**, or **corporate English training**.

### Requirements

To land a job at one of these schools, you’ll typically need:

- A **TEFL or CELTA certificate**
- A **bachelor’s degree**, though not always in education
- A **work visa** (unless you're an EU citizen)

EU passport holders have a much easier time getting hired due to fewer visa restrictions. If you're a non-EU citizen, some schools may still hire you if you're already living in France under a student visa or working holiday program.

### Best For

Private language schools are best suited for:

- **TEFL-certified teachers** looking for more flexibility
- People who want to **live in a city**, engage with adult learners, and have a varied schedule
- Those open to building a **freelance teaching schedule** across multiple schools or clients

It’s a great way to combine **urban living**, **language immersion**, and **hands-on classroom experience**, especially for those who aren’t eligible for TAPIF or want to extend their time in France afterward.

## 🎓 International and Bilingual Schools

### What to Expect

For experienced educators or licensed teachers, **international and bilingual schools** offer a more formal and long-term teaching pathway. These schools typically follow the **British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB)** curriculum, and they cater to the children of expats, diplomats, and globally minded French families.

Jobs here are **full-time and salaried**, with structured academic calendars, professional development, and sometimes even relocation support. Positions are primarily in large cities and international hubs like **Paris**, **Nice**, **Lille**, and **Toulouse**.

### Who They're For

These schools usually look for:

- **Certified teachers** with a license from their home country
- Candidates with **experience teaching the IB, British, or U.S. curricula**
- Advanced English teaching credentials like **CELTA, DELTA**, or even a **master’s in education**

Fluency in French is not always required, but being bilingual is definitely a bonus.

### Pros and Cons

**Pros**:

- **Higher salaries** and **benefits** (healthcare, pension, vacation)
- More **structure and stability** than language schools or TAPIF
- Opportunity to **build a long-term teaching career** abroad

**Cons**:

- **Competitive hiring process**, especially for desirable cities
- Requires formal **qualifications and experience**
- Usually involves **long-term contracts**

**Best for**: Professional teachers looking for a **well-compensated, career-oriented teaching role** in France with a stable lifestyle and international community.

## 🎒 TEFL Course + Placement Providers in France

### Overview

If you're starting from scratch or want a structured introduction to teaching abroad, taking a **TEFL course in France** is a great way to ease into the job market. Cities like **Paris**, **Nice**, and **Lyon** host in-person certification programs that combine classroom training with **practical teaching experience** and **local job placement support**.

These courses typically last **4 weeks** and cover methodology, lesson planning, classroom management, and real-world teaching practice. Upon completion, many providers help graduates connect with **language schools, tutoring clients, or freelance opportunities** in France or across Europe.

### Ideal Candidate

This route is perfect for:

- **First-time teachers** who want to gain confidence and credentials while already living in France
- **Career changers** seeking an immersive, supported transition into TEFL
- Travelers who want to **live, study, and work** in the same country without juggling too many logistics

Some well-known providers include **International TEFL Academy**, **TEFL Toulouse**, and **The Language House TEFL**. These programs offer a valuable mix of **training, job access, and local orientation**.

## 🌐 Online and Private Tutoring Opportunities

### Online Teaching

Thanks to France’s solid internet infrastructure, [teaching English online](/teach-english-online) is a **viable and increasingly popular option**—especially for those who want **flexibility** or are **ineligible for in-person work visas**. Many teachers live in France on **student visas, working holiday schemes**, or as digital nomads while teaching on platforms like:

- **Cambly**
- **Preply**
- **iTalki**

Online teaching allows you to **earn in foreign currencies**, maintain your own schedule, and **live anywhere from Paris to a remote mountain village**.

### Private Tutoring

There’s also a strong market for **private English tutors**, particularly in larger cities and affluent suburbs. You can find students ranging from **school-aged children preparing for exams** to **adults wanting conversational or business English**.

These gigs are often arranged **informally** through networking, Facebook groups, or local expat circles, and can pay anywhere from **€15 to €40 per hour**, depending on your experience and the location.

**Pro tip**: If you're not legally able to work in France, keep in mind that many tutoring roles are **cash-based**, so you'll need to navigate that with care and discretion.

Whether online or in-person, tutoring offers a **low-barrier, flexible way to earn money**—especially useful if you're pairing it with another program or studying in France.

## 🎯 Choosing the Right Path to Teach in France

With several different entry points into the French teaching market, the right choice really comes down to your **goals, background, and lifestyle preferences**.

- **New grads or Francophiles?**  
  → **TAPIF** is a great launchpad, offering visa support, cultural immersion, and teaching experience.

- **Certified or career-focused teachers?**  
  → Head straight for **international or bilingual schools**, where credentials are rewarded with better pay and long-term opportunities.

- **Want flexibility or part-time work?**  
  → **Private language schools or freelance tutoring** let you build your own schedule in France’s liveliest cities.

- **Need support and training?**  
  → Consider a **TEFL course with job placement**, ideal if you're new to teaching or transitioning careers.

- **Already remote?**  
  → Combine your location independence with French lifestyle by **teaching online** while living anywhere from Bordeaux to Brittany.

No matter your starting point, there’s a path that matches your ambitions—and makes living in France a realistic, rewarding goal.

## 🌟 Teaching in France Is More Accessible Than You Think

While **TAPIF** might be the headline program, it’s far from your only option. France offers a **diverse landscape of teaching opportunities**, from formal classrooms to casual cafés, bustling cities to rural villages.

Whether you're aiming to **build a long-term teaching career**, enjoy **a gap year with purpose**, or simply **experience life in France while earning an income**, there's a route that fits your vision.

With the right planning and mindset, [teaching English in France](/teach-english-france) can be more than a job—it can be the start of a life-changing adventure.


Teast

TEACH ENGLISH IN FRANCE