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About

Unlock new worlds with the IIT Kanpur Foreign Language Programme. Whether you are a student looking to study abroad or a professional aiming for a global career, our courses go beyond grammar to offer a true taste of international culture. Join a community of language enthusiasts and gain the skills needed to thrive in a globalized society.

Pick your Language

IIT Kanpur's Foreign Language Program provides structured courses in French, German, and Japanese, chosen specifically for their international significance and cultural depth
The curriculum focuses on a comprehensive mastery of reading, writing, listening, and speaking, while simultaneously immersing learners in the social and cultural nuances of each language. These programs are tailored for students, researchers, and professionals alike, offering a strategic way to boost global competence and cross-cultural communication.

French

Go global with French! As the only language spoken on every continent, French is your passport to countries like Switzerland, Morocco, and Canada. Its musical, soft-toned nature makes it a joy to learn, and your effort to speak it will always be met with warmth. Check out IIT Kanpur’s French library to dive into the original adventures of Tintin in French!

German

From the precision of Mercedes-Benz to the philosophy of Kant, German is the key to the heart of Europe. Spoken by over 100 million people across five countries, it is a language of influence and melody. Join us at IIT Kanpur to explore German culture through film, music, and interactive sessions that make learning this tough language surprisingly easy.

Japanese

The Japanese program is your gateway to a nation where ancient tradition meets high-tech innovation. As a global leader in engineering and electronics, Japan offers a massive professional advantage to those who speak its language.You'll master the essentials -Hiragana, Katakana, and basic Kanji- while developing practical conversational skills. But it’s not just about the script; you’ll also dive into the unique work ethic and social customs that define Japanese society. Our systematic, interactive approach makes Japanese accessible and fun, whether you're a tech enthusiast, a prospective student, or a traveler preparing for your first trip to Tokyo.


Open to All

Whether you're an IITK student, a professional looking to upskill, or a lifelong learner, our doors are open. We welcome:

  • The IITK Community: Current students, alumni, faculty, their family members, project staff, researchers, etc
  • Global Learners: Students from any university or college worldwide.
  • Local & Remote Seekers: Professionals and homemakers alike.
  • Anyone who has completed Class 10th or higher can enroll.

If you have the passion, we have the program.

Course Overview

  French

Level 1
  • Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases e.g. greetings.
  • Can introduce himself/ herself and others; can ask and answer questions about everyday
  • matters such as people, places, weather, daily routine, meals, leisure time activities; can formulate standard requests and invitations.
  • Can interact in French in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to repeat things.
Level 2
  • Communicate effectively in routine situations using simple, direct exchanges regarding familiar topics like descriptions of people and personal preferences.
  • Describe personal surroundings, including family, home, daily chores, and special celebrations, in straightforward terms.
  • Express basic opinions about specific situations or events.
  • Navigate social proposals by confidently making, accepting, or declining suggestions.
  • Compare items or ideas using simple comparative language.
  • Identify key vocabulary and expressions related to immediate needs, such as family details, shopping, and the workplace.

  German

Level 1
  • Mastering basic pronunciation. Learners extract key info from slow, everyday dialogues while using shadowing to build speaking confidence and reduce anxiety.
  • Master basic daily vocabulary for introductions, greetings, and routines. Develop practical communication skills for navigating shops, restaurants, and directions, along with essential telephonic tasks like scheduling appointments.
  • Understand simple emails and texts regarding invitations, travel blogs, and cultural insights on cities, dining, shopping, and leisure activities.
  • Learn to draft concise texts about personal life, family, routines, and living environments. Additionally, develop the skills to write informal emails to friends and respond to various invitations.
Level 2
  • Engage in direct exchanges on everyday topics with ease.
  • Provide basic descriptions of personal history, professional life, daily routines, and individual interests.
  • Navigate routine situations using fundamental vocabulary to communicate immediate needs.
  • Describe surroundings and handle simple, real-world interactions effectively.
  • Master high-frequency expressions and essential vocabulary.
  • Understand key themes, including family identity, health, retail, workplace communication, and social dynamics.

Meet the Instructors

Our language instructors are experienced professionals dedicated to providing high-quality, interactive, and engaging learning experiences.



Mrs. Shubha Karnick
French Language (Level 1 & 2)

Email: shubha@iitk.ac.in

Mrs. Lekha Rajesh
French Language (Level 1)

Email: lekhar@iitk.ac.in

Mrs. Deepaa Anandh
German Language (Level 1 & 2)

Email: deepaa@iitk.ac.in

Mrs. Neelam Saxena
German Language (Level 1 & 2)

Email: neelamp@iitk.ac.in

Mrs. Vatsala Misra
Japanese Language (Level 1 & 2)

Email: vatsalam@iitk.ac.in

Voices of the program

From the classroom to the world: discover the impact of our programs through the experiences of our past participants.



Swati Sharma

I sincerely recommend learning french from IIT KANPUR as it is cost effective saves travel time and most importantly has the most experienced faculty.

Batch 2022-23
Akash Salim

It was a great pleasure to have studied French at IIT Kanpur. The classes were taken with great enthusiasm and patience. The exams, revisions, and notes all proved to be extremely helpful.

Batch 2021-22
Sanskar Mishra

Conveying huge thanks to Shubha ma'am who consistently supported me through out the French Level 2 course where I have learnt the concepts of French language and it's practical implications in real life scenarios with productive and interactive discussions on every class.

Batch 2022-23
Pratyasha Das

I would definitely recommend every one to attend German classes taught by Neelam ma'am as she could make us read, write and also speak German in a matter of a year. German language is considered to be tough among our peers, but after attending this course I would say that none will find it tough but very logical as ma'am builds up a good base from starting

Batch 2022-23
Abhijeet Kishore

I enjoyed learning the German Level A2 course. The best part is, the classes take place daily (weekdays) over a span of one year so we are in constant touch with it. I felt privilege to be taught by Deepa Ma'am as she taught us diligently and patiently. She answered all of our questions to our satisfaction.

Batch 2022-23
Monark Singh

The way,German was taught in IITK made it all more understandable for beginners like me.The main focus of each lesson varied between grammar and discussion/reading texts on various topics which introduced me to wide range of new vocabulary.

Batch 2022-23
Shania Zehra Naqvi

I want to express my gratitude for your exceptional German course. your expertise, structured lessons and supportive approach have made the learning lessons enjoyable. I appreciate your clear explanations, varied activities, and constructive feedback.

Batch 2022-23
Abhinav Joshi

Being a student of Neelam ma'am , I would say she cleared all my doubts of German language without hesitation. Extremely professional language program with a good teacher.

Batch 2022-23
Prateeksha Tripathi

I am deeply inspired by you and your teaching has filled me with so much confidence that I know sooner or later I will be a good French speaker. I really enjoyed studying with you.

Batch 2022-23
Vinny Chopra

Because of Mrs Lekha Rajesh i can speak as well as understand a little bit of french and it was proved during my stay in Europe. My daughter was sooo happy that my knowledge of french came in handy.

Batch 2022-23
Shruti Mishra

During the entire period she has been consistently teaching us with full enthusiasm and tried to resolve our problems and query related to the language.

Batch 2022-23
Sonal Chaturvedi

After taking this course, I have taken this as a profession as a freelance instructor, content writer, and translator, and I have tagged myself with one college and logistic company.

Batch 2021-22
Manju Mukherjee

I would recommend that it should be on the to do list of all students who wish to pursue higher studies in French speaking nations or take up a job in teaching French in educational institutions or help corporates with French translations.

Batch 2021-22
Arpita Murkhe

Learning French from IIT Kanpur has changed my life completely. It has groomed my personality, made me feel confident, it makes me feel different from others and I am a well-respected teacher of French in one of the oldest schools in Kanpur.

French Teacher, Batch 2013-15
Subhojoy Gupta

I consider myself lucky for having signed up for the course, and would always be grateful for this additional lens with which I can view the world and its diverse people.

Faculty, Batch 2004-05
Vartika Gupta

his program in IIT helped me in making my career in German language as I got in love with this language and this interesting 1 hour class made my mind to learn this language further and my teacher helped me a lot in learning this language

Batch 2020-21

Important Dates & Registration Information

Important Dates

Start date of submission online application form: 04 May 2026
5:00 PM (IST)
Last date of application submission: 12 June 2026
11:59 PM (IST)
Declaration for first list of provisionally selected candidates 30 June 2026
5:00 PM (IST)
Declaration of first waiting list 30 June 2026
5:00 PM (IST)
Date of submission of fees through online SBI Collect 1-12 July 2026
Declaration of second waiting list 15 July 2026
5:00 PM (IST)
Date of submission of fees through online SBI Collect 26 July 2026
5:00 PM (IST)
List of final selected candidates will be published on FLP, IIT Kanpur website
https://iitk.ac.in/ooa/FLP/		 20 July 2026

Category wise Fees Structure

IIT Kanpur Students ₹ 7,000/- per year
IITK Employee ₹ 7,000/- per year
IITK Wards ₹ 8,260/- per year
(including 18% GST)
IIT Kanpur Alumni ₹ 10,000/- per year
(including 18% GST)
Non IIT Kanpur Candidate ₹ 15,000/- per year
(including 18% GST)
Note: the fees once paid will not be refunded under any circumstances.

Category wise allocation of seats:

From the total seats available 50% is reserved for IITK students, 10% for IITK employees/wards, and 40% is open to non-IITK applicants.


Class Timing

French & German

Level 1: 7:00-8:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
Level 2: 6:00-7:00 PM (Monday to Friday)

Japanese

Level 1: 7:00-8:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
Level 2: 6:00-7:00 PM (Monday to Friday)

Academic Calender

Commencement of 1st Semester: 3 August 2026
1st Semester ends on 27 November 2026
Examinations 3-30 November 2026 *
Commencement of 2nd Semester 28 December 2026 *
2 Semester ends on 16 April 2027
Exam week 19 April - 9 May 2027 *
* Subject to change

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Can Join This Language Course?

Anyone who has completed Class 10th or higher can enroll. No prior experience is required for Level 1 courses. For Level 2, completion of Level 1 from IIT Kanpur is mandatory.

What's The Duration And Class Schedule?

Each language course runs for 8 months, with classes held online every evening for 1 hour, depending on the batch schedule.

Is The Course Fully Online Only?

All courses are conducted online. There is no need to visit the IIT Kanpur campus. Live sessions are held via virtual platforms.

Are Recorded Sessions Made Available Later?

No, recorded sessions will not be provided. Regular attendance is encouraged to get the most out of the course.

How Is The Admission Process Conducted?

Seats are limited and admission is strictly on a first-come, first-serve basis. We recommend registering early to secure your spot.

Do Participants Receive A Completion Certificate?

Yes, participants who meet the attendance and performance criteria will be awarded a certificate of completion from the Office of Outreach Activities, IIT Kanpur.

Contact Us

For any queries or assistance related to the Foreign Language Program, feel free to reach out to the following persons.



Prof. Vimal Kumar
(Professor-in-Charge)
Mr. Vinay Kumar

Email: flp@iitk.ac.in | Phone: 0512-259-7795

Ms. Deeksha Singh

Email: flp@iitk.ac.in | Phone: 0512-259-7795