It is generally not compulsory for you as an au pair to attend a language course, except for countries like France, where you must do that as part of the au pair program. However, attending a language course is strongly recommended, because of the many benefits you get from it.
Au pairs usually have a basic knowledge of the language spoken in the host country. However, attending a language course will help you improve your language skills, making it easier to communicate with the host family and with locals in your daily life. Furthermore, a language course gives you the opportunity to meet new people and make friends.
Usually, you as an au pair pay the fee for the language course by yourself; however, your host family may wish to contribute financially. In some countries, such as Germany, it is compulsory that host families help with the financing of your language course. In any case, your host family should allow you enough time to participate in a language course and may also help you find a suitable one.
The easiest way to start is by asking your host family — often they already know about local schools or community courses. If not, Google will be your best friend. Some good places to look are public institutions such as the:
Alternatively, universities are also a good place to look for an available course, as well as private language centres.
Former au pair Tatiana, attended a language school during her au pair stay in Madrid (Spain) and she found it very helpful. For this reason, she’s sharing some tips with you on how to find a language school as an au pair.
Online learning is flexible, practical, and fits perfectly with the au pair lifestyle. You can start lessons before your stay and continue abroad, arriving ready to practise in real life from day one. With online courses, there’s no need for long commutes or fixed schedules. If your plans change, you can simply reschedule or log in from anywhere.
Important: For visa applications, some embassies require specific certificates or exams that may not be covered by online providers. Be sure to check the exact requirements with your embassy.
Many au pairs choose providers like Lingoda, which offers live online classes with native-speaking teachers. Through AuPairWorld, you also get 20% off Lingoda courses for 6 months - enough time to make real progress, arrive confidently, and keep learning consistently while abroad.
Check out the Lingoda discount
After finding a language course, talk to your host family about your future schedule and how everything fits together.
Make sure to have any agreements written down in your au pair contract, so that there is no room for misunderstandings.