Language Programs in Morocco

There are plenty of vibrant cities to choose from for language study in Morocco!

Rabat is the capital and fourth largest city, and also offers the greatest number of language programs in Morocco, through both Arabic and French language schools most frequently. As one of the most important cities in Morocco, language study in Rabat is ideal for those seeking true cultural immersion and immense language skill development.

Fes is the second largest city in Morocco, and is known as the medieval capital, because it displays the imperial beauty of Morocco within its labyrinth walls. Fes is known to be one of the largest car-free urban zones in the world, so traveling by foot in the maze-like medina (city center) is a great way to practice your language skills.

Meknes is another popular location for Arabic language study in Morocco, but there are also intensive French language programs available in Meknes. With less tourism than Rabat and Fes, Meknes offers a solace that is different than the environment offered by other Moroccan cities. Due to lower levels of tourism, people in the city tend not to hassle foreigners nearly as much, making getting around and practicing Arabic or French a bit more authentic.

Moroccan culture draws influence from multiple sources, and its options for language study are no different.

It should come as no surprise that Arabic is the most dominant language spoken in Morocco; therefore, the best language programs in Morocco are centered on learning the Arabic language. As the official language of Morocco, it would be hard to return home without some degree of fluency.

While French is widely spoken, it remains an unofficial second language of Morocco; although, there are still language schools that offer French language courses in Morocco. There’s no doubt that you’ll have plenty of after-school practice in cities like Casablanca and Rabat.

Berber is another prominent, traditional language spoken in Morocco, and is becoming an increasingly prominent subject of study for younger local students. While not a language that most individuals will find themselves studying in Morocco, it is important for language learners to be aware of its history and use.

Finally, learning English in Morocco is another option. As demand for English language skills continues to rise globally, it’s possible to study English in just about every corner of the world. It’ll be easy to find English language classes in major Moroccan cities.

University study abroad is an excellent way to improve your language skills, whether Arabic or French, while also taking other courses that can count for credit at your home university. Exchange programs at universities in Morocco are available for a summer, semester, or even a full year. University language courses in Morocco are ideal for immersion and for sharpening speaking skills both in and out of the classroom.

Language schools in Morocco are the best way to go if your goal is to drastically improve your fluency in Arabic or French. Language schools provide group classes as well as private lessons that both meet for a few hours through the week. As weekends are typically left optional for language school students, excursions are often arranged to put new language skills to use. Language programs in Morocco last anywhere from a month to a semester.

Language immersion programs usually last around three weeks (though they can last longer), and are the optimal way to experience a culture and discover what it is like to speak a language in its native environment. Immersion programs, like most language programs in Morocco, provide students with opportunity to put their language skills to use in various social settings.

Low-Cost Language. The U.S. considers Arabic to be a language of strategic importance, and offers significant financial incentives for those who want to participate in Arabic language programs abroad. Clearly, learning Arabic will have immense payoffs, both for your future and for your wallet.

Scenery & Souks. Immersion programs as well as language schools in Morocco typically plan weekend or day excursions, or will help students to plan their own as much as possible. Whether it is exploring the natural wonders of Morocco or visiting all the souks in other cities, there is always something new to experience while learning a new language in Morocco.

Male-Dominant Medinas. While Morocco remains a safe place for language study abroad, the male-dominant culture can be a challenge for some, particularly for female students. By traveling in groups (especially with male counterparts), the odds of getting catcalled considerably decreases and will make women’s days out much easier.

Modesty. Women attending a language program in Morocco who intend to visit religious sites must bring something to cover their hair. Women should dress modestly (minimum 3/4 length shirts and nothing shorter than capris) out of respect and for personal safety at all times.