The Robert de Sorbon Foundation
Home » Institution » Robert de Sorbon Foundation
The Robert de Sorbon Foundation is an emblematic academic institution located in the heart of Paris. Its rich history dates back to the 13th century when Robert de Sorbon, a priest and theologian, decided to create a house of studies for the city’s poor students. This visionary initiative laid the foundations for one of the most prestigious and influential universities in the world: La Sorbonne.
The Sorbonne quickly became a major intellectual center of Europe, attracting students and scholars from all walks of life. Over the centuries, it has played an essential role in the development of higher education in France and has witnessed many key historical and intellectual events. Famous figures such as Thomas Aquinas, René Descartes and Jean-Paul Sartre studied or taught at the Sorbonne, thus contributing to its global influence.
It was in 1899 that the Society of Friends of the Universities of Paris was created, which in 2009 became the Robert de Sorbon Foundation, recognized as being of public utility. The goal of the foundation is to implement effective and innovative programs intended to promote the transmission of knowledge, especially regarding higher education and research. The Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS) created in 1919 are part of the academic institutions whose action are bound to the Robert de Sorbon foundation
The French Civilization Courses at the Sorbonne (CCFS)
The Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS) are in fact an essential component of the Robert de Sorbon Foundation; created with the aim of spreading the French language and culture throughout the world, CCFS play a crucial role in the teaching of French as a foreign language (FLE) and the promotion of French civilization among international students.
The CCFS offer a variety of French language teaching programs tailored to the needs of international students. Whether for their general French courses, preparation for French exams such as the DELF and DALF, or specific French courses (business French, academic French etc.), the CCFS are renowned for their expertise in teaching French language.
The CCFS are located in the center of Paris, offering students the opportunity to learn French in an immersive environment. The institution welcomes students of all nationalities and all levels, from beginner to advanced, who benefit from courses combining French learning and cultural discovery. Thanks to their commitment to qualitative pedagogy and their promotion of French culture, the CCFS contribute – alongside the Robert de Sorbon Foundation – to strengthening the links between France and the rest of the world and allow international students to experience an unforgettable linguistic and cultural experience at the Sorbonne.