Au Pair in France: FAQ
Au Pair in France
Spend a year in France caring for children, learning French, and immersing yourself in the cultural atmosphere.
What level of English and French is required to participate in the program?
To participate in the program, it is desirable to have a language level of no lower than Intermediate.
Is it mandatory to have a higher education?
The main requirement for enrollment in the program is a completed secondary education (school). Higher education will be a plus, but it is not the main criterion.
How to pay for the program?
After signing the contract, the IEC will charge an enrollment fee of $150 within 7 calendar days.
What counts as experience working with children?
Work as a teacher, nanny, camp counselor, participating in events, and other positions where the potential participant worked directly with children.
When to submit documents for the program?
The Au Pair France program is year-round, but documents must be submitted at least 4-6 months before the desired start date.
Can I submit documents to two program sponsors at the same time?
Yes, it is possible. The cost of the program does not double. But you will need to fill out two different document packages.
How is the search and placement in a family done?
By filling out all necessary forms and providing required documents, participants of the Au Pair France program get on the lists available to families. When a family selects an Au Pair, an interview is scheduled during which they discuss job details.
Can an Au Pair “refuse” a family after speaking with them?
Yes, participants in the program can do this, but a limited number of times. Before this, the Au Pair must inform their IEC office about the situation and consult with them whether to refuse the family.
Can I choose the family or city where I want to work?
Participants of the Au Pair France exchange program cannot choose the family or the city.
How many working weekends will I have?
Au Pairs have 1-2 days off per week (usually Saturday and Sunday) and 2 weeks (paid) vacation per year.
What tasks will Au Pair have?
It depends individually on each family, but generally, program participants play with children, take walks with them. They can help with homework, can take children to school and pick them up from there. They can cook for the children and help the family with light household chores. The schedule and responsibilities of Au Pair participants are discussed and agreed upon with the family.
What children will Au Pair work with?
The age of the charges usually corresponds to the experience of the Au Pair.
Can I change families?
If for some reason the program participant cannot get along with the family, they must first contact the program sponsor for advice. They will help resolve the situation, and if necessary, will try to find a new family. What should not be done is to suddenly leave the family or leave France without informing anyone about the situation!
