Top Reasons to Learn Portuguese Language in Kolkata

Learning Portuguese in Kolkata might not seem like an obvious choice at first—but it’s surprisingly strategic. Here are the top reasons why learning Portuguese can be valuable specifically for someone in Kolkata:

🔝 Top Reasons to Learn Portuguese in Kolkata

 1. 🇧🇷 Growing Trade & Diplomatic Ties with Brazil & Lusophone Countries

• Brazil is a major trade partner and part of BRICS, just like India.

• Portuguese is spoken in 9 countries, including Angola, Mozambique, Portugal, and Brazil—all expanding markets.

• Indian foreign policy is increasingly engaging with Lusophone Africa and Latin America.

Kolkata’s role as an emerging logistics and services hub for eastern India could benefit from regional language expertise.

2. 🏛️ Career Opportunities with Embassies, MNCs, and NGOs

• The Portuguese Embassy in New Delhi and Brazilian consulate in Kolkata often seek local liaisons, translators, or cultural coordinators.

• MNCs in BPO, KPO, tourism, shipping, and finance increasingly value Portuguese-speaking employees.

• NGOs working in Africa or Latin America need language-capable personnel.

3. 📚 Academic & Research Opportunities

• Ramakrishna Mission, Jadavpur University, and even Goan archives have Portuguese historical records.

• Portuguese is useful for history, archaeology, theology, and international relations students researching Indo-Portuguese ties (e.g., Goa, Daman, Bengal ports).

Portuguese was used in colonial archives along India’s western and eastern coasts during the 16th–18th centuries.

4. 🧳 Travel & Tourism Sector Growth

• Brazil, Portugal, and Cape Verde are emerging tourist destinations for Indian travelers.

• Indian travel companies in Kolkata (e.g., Cox & Kings, Thomas Cook) increasingly look for language experts to serve outbound tourists.

• Portuguese helps with visa processing, itinerary planning, and client communications.

5. 🖥️ Edge in Competitive Exams & Scholarships

• Less commonly chosen foreign languages like Portuguese can be scoring subjects in UPSC, UGC NET, and foreign service exams.

• Scholarships to Brazil and Portugal (e.g., Camoes Institute, Brazilian govt) are easier to get due to less competition from Indian applicants.

6. 💼 Remote & Freelance Jobs in Translation, Localization, and Voiceover

• Businesses hiring remote talent for Portuguese-English translation, subtitling, dubbing, etc.

• Kolkata’s growing freelance community can capitalize on this niche.

• Many jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr require Brazilian Portuguese, especially for apps, games, or customer service.

7. 🎭 Cultural Appeal – Music, Film, Literature

• Portugal and Brazil have rich traditions of fado, samba, bossa nova, and world-class cinema and literature.

• Understanding Portuguese unlocks content by Paulo Coelho, José Saramago, Fernando Pessoa, and others in original form.

• Film buffs in Kolkata’s cinephile community (e.g., Nandan, film societies) appreciate this global lens.

8. 🌍 Unique Language Choice = Less Competition

• Unlike French, Spanish, or German—fewer people study Portuguese in Kolkata or even India.

• This can help you stand out in job markets, language competitions, or scholarship applications.

9. 🏫 Available Quality Learning Options in Kolkata

• Kolkata has surprisingly good institutes (RKM, AFL, Jadavpur University, IPS).

• Courses are affordable, compared to European languages at private schools in metro cities.

10. 📈 Smart Long-Term Investment

• Portuguese is one of the most spoken languages worldwide (over 265 million speakers).

• With the growing importance of the Global South, proficiency in Portuguese offers geopolitical, academic, and professional advantages that will only grow.

    

Best Places to Learn Italian Language in Kolkata

 

If you're looking for the best places to learn Italian in Kolkata, here are some highly regarded institutes and tutors—offering everything from beginner courses to certification—suiting different learning styles and preferences:

Top Institutes & Tutors in Kolkata

1. Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture (Golpark)

• Offers beginner to advanced certificate courses in Italian, designed around CEFR standards.(StudyFrenchSpanish, Multibhashi Classes, LBB)

• A Redditor shared:

  “Ramkrishna Mission in Golpark has language courses. Try there.”(Reddit)

• Affordable and reputable, with a structured classroom environment.

2. Ramakrishna Mission – School of Languages

• Listed among popular language centers in Kolkata offering Italian alongside many other languages. Approximate fee: INR 8,500/year.(LBB, Multibhashi Classes)

3. Jadavpur University – School of Languages & Linguistics

• Offers one-year certification courses in Italian for external applicants.(Multibhashi Classes, LBB)

4. Rabindra Bharati University – School of Language & Culture

• Conducts Italian courses at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels—from a 6-month certificate to a 2-year diploma.(StudyFrenchSpanish)

5. Visva-Bharati University (Santiniketan)

• Its Centre for Modern European Languages, Literature & Culture Studies offers certificate, diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses in Italian.(Wikipedia)

6.  A1 Palium School of Languages

• Offers structured Italian courses grounded in CEFR guidelines, available in both online and classroom mode

  Excellent faculty who has vast experience in teaching the language

• Pricing example: A1 level – ₹15,000 (online) or ₹30,000 (classroom) for 32 classes.(https://paliumskills.com)

7. Henry Harvin® – Italian Language Course, Kolkata

• Highly rated (4.9/5) institute offering online classes, certification, and career-oriented modules. For A1: 56 hours training plus prep sessions.

8. Private Tutors via UrbanPro / LearnPick

• Other tutors are available with diverse teaching backgrounds.

• UrbanPro lists tutors across various neighborhoods with demo class options and average hourly rates of ₹500–700

Quick Comparison Table

Institution / Tutor	Format	Strengths
Ramakrishna Mission (Golpark)	In-person	Affordable, well-structured CEFR courses
Jadavpur University	Certificate (In-person)	University-backed language credential
Rabindra Bharati University	Certificate & Diploma	Flexible program duration & levels
Visva-Bharati University	Certificate → PG	Thorough academic offerings in European languages
A1 Palium School of Languages	Online & Classroom	CEFR-aligned, flexible learning paths
Henry Harvin®	Hybrid (online/offline)	Career-oriented, high ratings, certification included
Indranil Bhattacharya (Tutor)	Personalized (multi-format)	Experienced & well-rated tutor
Other Online/Private Tutors	Online / Home	Flexible scheduling, demo classes, varied pricing

Recommendations Based on Your Needs

• Structured, budget-friendly classroom learning: Ramakrishna Mission (Golpark).

• University certification: Jadavpur University or Rabindra Bharati University.

• Academically rigorous learning & PG options: Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan.

• Convenience + CEFR-aligned content: IITT Language Academy or Henry Harvin®.

• One-on-one flexibility: Connect with Indranil Bhattacharya or other UrbanPro/LearnPick tutors.

Next Steps

1. Determine your objectives: CEFR certification, conversational fluency, academic certification, or career-oriented learning.

2. Consider your preferred mode (classroom vs online), budget, and schedule.

3. Reach out for demo classes (available through UrbanPro and many institutes).

4. Ask for course syllabus, class size, and credentials before committing.

Top 10 Reasons to Learn Italian Language

Learning Italian can be a rewarding experience, especially for Indians looking to expand their personal, academic, or professional horizons. Here are the top 10 reasons an Indian might want to learn Italian:

1. 🇮🇹 Access to Italy's Rich Cultural Heritage

Italy is the birthplace of the Renaissance, home to Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Dante, and more. Learning Italian allows direct access to art, music, literature, and philosophy in their original form.

2. 🎓 Educational Opportunities in Italy

Italy offers high-quality and affordable education (especially in fields like fashion, design, architecture, and culinary arts). Many public universities have low tuition fees and offer scholarships for international students.

3. 💼 Career Opportunities

Learning Italian can open doors in:

• Multinational companies (especially in fashion, luxury, automobile, and food industries),

• Tourism and hospitality, and

• Interpretation and translation roles.

India has strong trade relations with Italy, and bilingual professionals are in demand.

4. ✈️ Travel Made Easier and More Immersive

Italy is a top tourist destination. Knowing Italian allows you to:

• Navigate better,

• Connect with locals,

• Discover hidden gems beyond tourist hotspots.

5. 🍝 Food and Culinary Culture

If you love Italian cuisine, learning the language gives you access to:

• Authentic recipes,

• Italian cooking shows and literature,

• Better appreciation of Italian dining culture.

6. 🧵 Fashion and Design Industry

Italy is a global hub for fashion (think Gucci, Prada, Armani) and design. Proficiency in Italian is a big plus if you're pursuing a career in:

• Fashion design,

• Interior design, or

• Luxury brand management.

7. 📚 Language of Romance and Music

Italian is considered the most romantic and melodic of the Romance languages. It's also the language of opera and classical music. If you're into music, learning Italian enhances your appreciation.

8. 🧠 Learning a New Language Boosts Cognitive Skills

Learning any foreign language improves memory, problem-solving, and multitasking skills. Italian is a phonetic language, making it relatively easier to learn for Indian learners familiar with syllable-based languages like Hindi.

9. 🌍 Gateway to Other Romance Languages

Italian is closely related to Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Romanian. Once you learn Italian, it becomes easier to learn these other major European languages.

10. 🤝 Cultural Diplomacy and Indo-Italian Relations

India and Italy share growing ties in trade, culture, education, and tourism. Speaking Italian helps in cultural exchange programs, collaborations, and building international relationships.

Foreign Language Classes to Help Your Child

 

Best Foreign Languages for School Children & Their Benefits

Choosing the right foreign language for children depends on career opportunities, ease of learning, and cultural exposure. Here are some of the most helpful languages for schoolchildren:

1. Spanish 🇪🇸 (Widely Spoken & Easy to Learn)

✅ Why Learn?

• 2nd most spoken language globally (~500 million native speakers).
• Easier grammar and pronunciation compared to other languages.
• Useful in the U.S., Latin America, and Spain for business and travel.
• Great for careers in education, healthcare, and international relations.

📌 Best for: Kids in the U.S. or those interested in global careers.

👶 Ease of Learning: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Easy for English speakers!)

📚 Where to Learn: Duolingo Kids, Babbel, Rosetta Stone, BBC Spanish, A1 Palium School of Languages

2. French 🇫🇷 (Global Business & Culture)

✅ Why Learn?

• Spoken in 29 countries (France, Canada, Switzerland, Africa).
• Important for careers in diplomacy, fashion, hospitality, and global business.
• Helps in higher studies (many top universities offer programs in French).
• Shares many words with English, making it easier to learn.

📌 Best for: Kids interested in international careers, culture, and travel.

👶 Ease of Learning: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Some tricky pronunciation, but simple grammar!)

📚 Where to Learn: LingQ, TV5Monde Kids, Duolingo, , A1 Palium School of Languages

3. Mandarin Chinese 🇨🇳 (Future Business & Tech Powerhouse)

✅ Why Learn?

• Most spoken language in the world (~1.2 billion speakers!).
• Vital for careers in business, trade, and technology.
• Strong demand for Mandarin speakers in diplomacy and global markets.
• Tonal language—challenging at first but rewarding!

📌 Best for: Kids interested in business, tech, or working in China.

👶 Ease of Learning: ⭐⭐ (Harder due to characters & tones, but kids learn faster!)

📚 Where to Learn: Lingo Bus, Chineasy, Yabla Chinese, A1 Palium School of Languages

4. German 🇩🇪 (Engineering & STEM Fields)

✅ Why Learn?

• #1 language in Europe (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).
• Important in engineering, science, and business fields.
• Germany offers free or low-cost education, so it’s helpful for university studies.
• Logical grammar structure but long compound words can be tricky!

📌 Best for: Kids who love science, engineering, or want to study in Europe.

👶 Ease of Learning: ⭐⭐⭐ (Logical, but grammar can be tough!)

📚 Where to Learn: Goethe Institut Kids, Duolingo, BBC German , A1 Palium School of Languages

5. Japanese 🇯🇵 (Technology & Anime)

✅ Why Learn?

• Essential for tech, gaming, and anime fans.
• Japan is a leader in robotics, automotive, and electronics.
• Polite language with a rich cultural influence (manga, anime, traditions).

📌 Best for: Kids who love anime, gaming, or tech fields.

👶 Ease of Learning: ⭐⭐ (Different script systems, but fun for kids!)

📚 Where to Learn: NHK Kids Japanese, Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, A1 Palium School of Languages

6. Arabic 🇸🇦 (Growing Global Importance)

✅ Why Learn?

• One of the top 5 spoken languages globally (~350 million speakers).
• Critical for careers in business, diplomacy, and international relations.
• Important in Middle Eastern trade & politics.

📌 Best for: Kids interested in international affairs or global business.

👶 Ease of Learning: ⭐ (Difficult due to script & pronunciation, but rewarding!)

📚 Where to Learn: Al Jazeera Arabic Kids, Duolingo Arabic, A1 Palium School of Languages

7. Hindi 🇮🇳 (Emerging Economic Superpower)

✅ Why Learn?

• 2nd most spoken language (~600 million speakers!).
• India is a rising global power in business, IT, and film (Bollywood!).
• Good for travel, trade, and cultural connections.

📌 Best for: Kids with Indian roots or interest in South Asia.

👶 Ease of Learning: ⭐⭐⭐ (Grammar is simple, but the script is different!)

📚 Where to Learn: Duolingo Hindi, BBC Hindi, Rosetta Stone, A1 Palium School of Languages

🎯 How to Choose the Best Language for Your Child?

✅ If they love travel & culture → French, Spanish, or Japanese
✅ If they want a business advantage → Mandarin, German, or Arabic
✅ If they love anime, tech, or games → Japanese or Chinese
✅ If they’re into science & engineering → German or Mandarin

🎉 Best Ways for Kids to Learn a Foreign Language

✅ Language Apps – Duolingo Kids, Babbel, Rosetta Stone
✅ Cartoons & Songs – Watching in the target language helps!
✅ Interactive Classes – Online or in-person classes with fun activities at A1 Palium School of Languages
✅ Language Immersion – Talking with native speakers or travel

Would you like recommendations for language programs or online classes? 😊🌍 Then reach out to the Palium team

Where to Learn Japanese Language course in Kolkata

Learning Japanese in Kolkata is facilitated by several reputable institutions offering comprehensive courses for various proficiency levels. 

Here are some prominent options:

Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture

Kolkata, India

Offers Japanese language courses as part of their School of Languages, with experienced instructors and a structured curriculum. 

A1 Palium Skills Foreign Language Institute

Offers classroom and live Japanese language classes covering reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in Japanese language. Faculty members are certified and have exposure to Japanese culture and life in Japan. The best thing is that they conduct these classes in small batches which ensures better quality of learning.

Henry Harvin

Online only

Offers Japanese language courses from N5 to N1 levels, focusing on reading, writing, and speaking skills, with flexible online classes and experienced trainers. 

Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Kolkata, India

Provides a 60-hour online Japanese language course introducing Japanese culture and communication, with weekend morning classes and joint certification with the Japan Foundation. 

Eiwa Language School

Kolkata, India

Specializes in Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) preparatory courses, offering private classes 

and new sessions starting periodically. 

Indo-Japan Welfare & Cultural Association (IJWCA)

Kolkata, India

Offers courses introducing Japanese language and culture, aiming to enhance communication skills and cultural understanding. 

 

International Institute of Language and Culture (IILC)

Kolkata, India

An independent Japanese language school offering courses from beginners to post-advanced levels, focusing on comprehensive language skills. 

 

Academy of Foreign Language

Kolkata, India

Provides Japanese language courses aimed at developing speaking skills, with a focus on practical communication. 

 

 

L&S Language Academy

Kolkata, India

 

Offers Japanese language speaking courses at affordable rates, focusing on authentic language skills and practical communication. When selecting a course, consider factors such as the institution's accreditation, course structure, schedule flexibility, and alignment with your personal or professional goals. It's advisable to contact these institutes directly or visit their websites for detailed information on course offerings, schedules, and enrollment procedure

 

All about the TEF Exams - What, Where, How and Cost of TEF Exams?

What does TEF mean?
The full form of TEF is Test d’Evaluation de Français. It is an exam to test one's knowledge of the French language.


Why take the TEF exam?

The TEF is a validation of one's degree of competency in French in any expert, scholastic or portability related setting, and specifically for:

• Studying in France with the TEF Études
• Acquiring French nationality with the TEF Naturalization
• Acquiring a French resident card with the TEF Carte de résident
• Emigrating to Canada and acquiring Canadian citizenship with the TEF Canada
• Emigrating to Quebec with the TEF Québec – TEFAQ

What are the tests?

The TEF comprises of 5 tests:

• Oral Comprehension (CO) 40 min
• Written Comprehension (CE) 60 min
• Oral Expression (EO) 15 min
• Written Expression (EE) 60 min
• Vocabulary and syntax structure (LS) 30 min

Based on your goals and needs and documents you need to provide as a validation of your knowledge of French, one can pick the TEF variant that incorporates the tests you require. For specific types of  TEF, the tests must be completed in one session. The term of the assessments varies for the TEF Carte de résident and TEF Naturalization - so be prepared accordingly.

The tests are assessed on a scale with 7 levels, from level 0 (most essential capabilities) to level 6 (complete familiarity). This scale is similar to the 6 levels (A1 to C2) of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and to the 12 degrees of the Canadian Language Benchmarks. Click here to know more about DELF Exam levels

Which assessments compare to which test?

The methods utilized rely upon the rendition of the TEF chose: 

1. Études - for studies in French

    Mandatory examinations:

• Oral comprehension
• Written comprehension
• Vocabulary and syntax
• Written expression

2. Naturalization - for becoming a French citizen by Naturalization

    Mandatory examinations:

• Oral understanding
• Composed understanding
• Jargon and linguistic structure
• Composed articulation

3. Carte de résident Canada - for becoming a citizen of Canada

    Mandatory examinations:

• Oral understanding
• Oral articulation
• Required assessments
• Oral understanding
• Composed understanding
• Oral articulation
• Composed articulation

4. Carte de résident Québec - to immigrate to the state of Quebec

    Mandatory examinations:

• Oral understanding
• Composed understanding
• Oral articulation
• Composed articulation

Required assessments for a citizenship application

• Oral understanding
• Oral articulation
• Elective assessments
• Oral understanding
• Oral articulation
• Extra assessments
• (essential candidate)
• Composed understanding
• Composed articulation

How do I prepare for these exams?

There are multiple ways to prepare for these exams -

• Self-Study - look around and find the resources to help you learn the language. The hunt for the right resources can be time consuming and one tends to wander around aimlessly
• Online Studies - there are websites and phone apps that help you learn a learn. These are mostly one way communication and becomes challenging for those who have less time in hand
• Enroll at an Institute - this option is appropriate if you do not mind paying fees to learn the language. The faculty will give you direction and guide you to the right resources. Besides, one can get the doubts and queries answered without wasting too much time

Where do I appear for the exams?
Exams are conducted all year round at different offices around the globe. Check in your city where the same is held and about their next dates. Prepare accordingly.

The testing center is liable for publishing the exam dates, the enrollment time frame for applicants, and the costs. The enrollment cutoff time falls in any event multiple weeks before the date of the test date.

If it's not too much trouble register at the right time as soon as conceivable to permit time for the desk work to process.

No previous qualifications or education is required to take the test. The only restriction is that a person taking the test must be atleast 16 years old.

At the point when you register, you will be approached to give the following documents:

• a signed copy of an official Photo-ID card (identification, driver's permit, and so forth… )
• in the event that the testing place can't take your picture upon the arrival for the test, you will be asked to give a printed copy of the photo so please carry a spare copy and
• your signature

You will likewise also fill in your individual personal data when you register. This structured data will be used during your official announcement of results.

Cost of TEF Exams:

The cost of the TEF exams ranges between Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 20,000 based on the exams being taken.

How can Palium Skills help us to learn French?

Palium Skills offers French Language classes and courses for beginners and advanced levels. The French language classes are offered in Kolkata and online for those outside the city. 

Incase you are interested to take our French learning classes starting from beginners level then do Contact Us

Importance of Bull fighting in Spain and Spanish culture

Bull fighting has come to be known as synonymous to Spain and Spanish although the culture has lot more to offer in terms of food, literature, architecture and painting!

Bullfighting is a ritual carried out in carefully prearranged steps, as called for by the tradition of the corrida, each stage with its own name which the aficionados in the crowd will know by heart. The lead roles are played by the bull and the matador in the arena. It is a ritual that requires a sacrifice - sacrifice to the death.

The matador, representing mankind and dressed for his date with death in the fantastical if impractical traje de luz, suit of lights, goads, mocks and sentences the bull to death with the estocada, the death blow, from his sword. The most spectacular estocada is the estocada recibido ('received', when the matador stands his ground and lets the enraged bull charge him) but it isn't seen that often. When the ritual is done, the bull is dead & matador triumphant. Man has defeated death - he is immortal!

Common bull-fighting terms used in Spanish  -

• Toro -Bull
• Plaza de toros - Bullring
• Corrida - Bullfight
• Matador - Star Bullfighter
• Torero - Bullfighter 
• Picador - Lancer (on horseback)
• Banderillero - Bullfighter (on foot) who inserts barbed wooden decorated sticks into the bull´s neck muscle
• Traje de luces - Suit of lights (colourful sequinned suit worn by bullfighters)
• Veronica - A type of pass whereby the cape is drawn over the bull´s head while the man holds a posture.
• Novillos - A novice bullfighter is called a novillero and fights not in a corrida, but in a novillada with young bulls (novillos)
• 
  
• Bull fighting has come to be known as synonymous to Spain and Spanish although the culture has lot more to offer in terms of food, literature, architecture and painting!

Palium Skills offers Spanish Language classes in Kolkata. Such classes are available during the weekday and weekends. Classes are held regularly and the faculty team is excellent!

What are DELF exams and how to prepare for DELE and DELF exams?

DELF is a proficiency assessment test for evaluating the understanding of a candidate in the French language. It assesses on Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening skills.

How is French language Proficiency Evaluated?
The French language proficiency tests are conducted for those native language is not
French. The French proficiency, namely, DELF, DALF, TEF, TCF, etc. offer international standard for measuring and determine who can communicate effectively on an independent and proficient level in French.

The exams are designed to assess the communicative skills of a candidate in a real-life situation, rather than the theoretical, linguistic, and formal grammatical knowledge.

Importance of French Proficiency Test
You can demonstrate your level of French competency by passing an international language test
(TEF or TCF) or by earning a diploma (DELF or DALF). Since these certifications give job seekers and employees a competitive advantage. Thus, it is a great asset to include on your resume.

Documentary proof of French language test certificate added to other requirements will put you on
your way to a smooth interview process. The test result will somehow restrict the interviewer on the
types of questions you are supposed to answer. Instead of asking you about things like “what is an
office called in French.” It is most likely that you would instead be asked, “what level did you attain in DELF/DALF? It is as a result of your French language test certification included in your qualifications.

You want to study in France or any French speaking countries? These diplomas and certifications
are recognized and accepted by French universities and institutions for undergraduate entry as well
as for postgraduate admission.

There are few more advantages like boosting one’s confidence and improving the odds if you’re
planning to immigrate to French-speaking countries. Besides, it will help you when you visit
Frenh speaking nations in Europe or Africa, Career in French, and of course, confirmation of your
French proficiency level.

DELF / DALF Exams

If you want to test your proficiency in French, there is one test you cannot afford to miss, and that’s the DELF/DALF certification tests. DELF stands for Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française while DALF stands for Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française.

These two proficiency tests are designed for non-native French speakers as a way of certifying their
knowledge in French. Each year in the world, over 300,000 students register to take a various French
proficiency test.

The above tests are crucial, and they’re currently being administered and awarded by the French
Ministry of Education. They are acknowledged as an international benchmark test that gauges your
skill and knowledge in French.

The proficiency tests of DELF and DALF consist of six different diplomas that also meet the standard
set by the CEFR (Common European Reference Framework for Languages). Each of these diplomas
is strictly independent of one another. It means that candidates are free to register and sit for the test
of their choice.

Appearing for DELF Junior/Prime is restricted to candidates aged, whereas there are no age
restrictions on the other versions of DELF / DALF. A candidate may give several examinations
during the same session, but may not appear for two versions at the same level (e.g. DELF A1 and DELF Pro A1). One can take the same examination as many times as may be necessary for
obtaining the desired diploma. However, they may not appear for a qualification they already hold.

A person is evaluated for different proficiency tests at each level - namely reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Their proficiency level will be certified after attaining a set minimum overall pass mark.

The certificates you will obtain from DELF and DALF are valid for a lifetime and are highly respected across the world. It is even more impressive that once you pass the DALF C1 exams. Then, you never need to take any other entrance examination when entering into any French University.

The DELF/DALF tests are conducted by Center International d’études pédagogiques (CIEP) for the French Ministry of Education.

There are multiple levels of Certifications and students gradually progress from one level to another
    DELF A1: Breakthrough or beginner
    DELF A2: Waystage or elementary
    DELF B1: Threshold or intermediate
    DELF B2: Vantage or upper intermediate
    DALF C1: Effective Operational Proficiency or Advanced
    DALF C2: Mastery or proficiency (Near-native)

Each of these has its accompanying CEFR level marking, as well.

List of different French Diplomas

DELF Prim (ages 8-11) – This is an official diploma awarded by the French Ministry of Education to certify the proficiency in French as a Foreign Language of children ages 8 to 12. There are only three
levels, namely A1.1, A1, and A2. 

DELF Junior (ages 12 +) – It is a specially adapted version for juniors/teenagers of the DELF
diplomas. The levels evaluated are A1 to B2.

DELF Pro – It assesses communicative skills in familiar business situations. It allows
non-francophone adults in training or activity to enhance their French language skills in the world of
work. Total levels are four — A1, A2, B1, B2.

DELF Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (for all age groups) – DELF is carried for levels
A1 – B2. All four exams, A1, A2, B1, and B2, necessarily have the same structure.

Where are the DELF Exam Centers in India?

The Alliance Française conducts DELF Exams at its several centers in India.
Northern India – Chandigarh, Delhi, Jaipur.
Eastern India – Kolkata.
Western India – Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Indore, Mumbai, Pune, Panjim, Vadodara,
Southern India – Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Pondicherry, Mysore, Mangalore,
Trichy, and Trivandrum. Some of the test centers change every year.

When are the DELF exam dates in 2020?

 Generally, DELF exams are conducted four times in a year, i.e., March, June, September, and December. DELF Pro, DALF, DELF Prim, and DELF Junior are also conducted a few times in a year though not at every center of Alliance Française.
Get in touch with the AF center nearest to you for confirmation on the exam dates

What are the DELF exam fees in 2020?

The DELF exam fees in 2020 are

    DELF A1 and A2 (Internal – Rs 5310 / External – Rs 8,850)
    DELF B1 and B2 (Internal – Rs 5900 and External – Rs 10,620)
    DALF C1 and C2 (Internal – Rs 8260 and External – Rs 11,800)

Palium Skills offers French classes in Kolkata and the course contents are designed and customized as per international standards DELF.

If you’re interested in pursuing a French Language in classroom or online then get in touch with us. Palium Institute of Foreign Languages conducts DELF level courses in A1, A2, B1, B2.

It also offers Exam boosters to help in preparation for those appearing for their DELF exams.

Besides French, Palium also offers courses for learning Chinese, German, Japanese and Spanish languages in Kolkata.

Jobs in Foreign Embassies in India and Foreign Countries

An embassy is a premises that houses the offices of a country in another country. Every nation in the world has an embassy in another nation or hosts embassies of other nations within its country.

For embassies to perform their tasks productively, they need the favour of an ambassador and people for the essential post who represents the country concerned. Together with an escort of staff, assist the embassy to work suitably for the benefit of their parent nation. Therefore, this creates many job chances for language learners to work and help perform foreign policy tasks and political relations with the entertainer nation. 

 

Palium Skills offers courses on foreign languages like Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish. It also offers placement assistance and opportunities with its students.

 

Types Of Foreign Language Jobs Available In Embassies

Most foreign embassies bring their citizens to inhabit peak positions in their operations in another country. There are other areas where they require the favour of employees from the entertainer nation. 

Foreign language jobs in embassies are normally lucrative and the reputation of working for a foreign embassy or your country is always one to adore. In general, qualification and competence other than language are also needed.

There are several jobs you can do at the embassy using your expertise in a foreign language. You can work as a receptionist, customer support, office executive, an IT technical staff, as an administrative job, translator, interpreter, passport dealing and visas, press office job, research analyst, messengers, in logistics, under paying jobs and so on. 

How to get a job in a foreign embassy in India?

The language jobs in the embassy are very gainful job profiles. Almost all the embassies across the globe employ a local staff of the entertaining country to help a wide arrangement of jobs. Each embassy is contrasting through their rules are a bit alike.

The vital need, as in any other job, is that of a College bachelor’s degree and experience in the 
associated area. The suitability yardstick depend upon the nature of the work and responsibilities 
and functions. Although, wishes vary from masters in International relations to IT professionals. 
In almost all the cases, at least for office jobs, the candidates have to be higher in presenting expertise and communicative in local or official languages of the entertainer country.     

Since the number of new beginnings are quite restricted, therefore, to know the latest chances and apply quickly, is very much important. You can always check the official websites of the particular embassies and consulates. Apart from that, you can call the embassy human resources office, routinely check job gateways, look around through newspapers, and develop contacts who can introduce you for a job in an embassy.

The jobs are for both lasting and short-term positions. The device is to get an entry-level job even on a legitimate or non-permanent basis. It is always peaceful than lucrative jobs. While doing such work, you will know the secrets required to forward your career and will also grow contact and friends in the system. All this details, knowledge, and connections will help you to ascend the ladder for more remunerative jobs in embassies. 

There are various types of language jobs in the embassy, and these areas include 

1. Translators & Interpreters 

These are some of the job chances most foreign embassies provide to job aspirants from the 

entertaining country. For example, the French or Netherlands embassies in India will be requesting one or more translators and interpreters who can speak either French or Dutch along with regional language. 

2. Human Resource 

While some embassies may have their HR Department inhabited by their professionals it is another area that is frequently open for job hunters from the entertaining country. Again, this is where your expertise in the foreign language of that country can place you in a lucrative job as an executive or commanding role.

3. Economic Department

It is another area of department that has always a demand in the foreign embassies. Although your expertise in a specific foreign language may not be absolutely sufficient to earn you the job. It is still very important for job hunters with profitable experience hunting to engage such a position. You will be at task while making reports on profitable growth in the entertaining country concerned and offering sound analysis and guidance on economic matters.

4. Finance Section

Again, you will need an added qualification in fields of finance, such as an MBA in economics. Then along with your foreign language expertise, you can get a job chance in the finance department of a foreign embassy.

For instance, the US embassy in India or anywhere will need a counsellor or specialist on financial matters. It is to provide reports on financial markets, macro, and micro (economics), research, and policy making. The counsellor will also be answerable for giving replies to inquiries about their nation’s financial situations and the economy. 

5. Library Section

All embassies or associated culture centers in the world have a library section. It creates the need to have a librarian and other staff who will be accountable for taking care of books and other crucial materials in the library. Here, your expertise in a foreign language can come useful in modernizing the library and making translations where necessary.

6. Diplomatic Coordinator

Most of the embassies in India constantly look for people who assume the workings and situations of the national and international current incidents, while owning superb communication expertise. It is another outstanding job area for job hunters with foreign language expertise.

7. Research analyst and Market Researcher

All the embassies, consulates, and other political representations are introducing their government. 

They do lots of research for a diversity of reasons like symmetrical relations, the scope of business growth, increase the culture footprints in the entertaining nation and may be some other. For all these research pursuits, they engage local for research analyst or field researcher beginning. A college degree, ideally MBA and powerful systematic and communication expertise are very much essential.

Some research analyst jobs need good knowledge in a specific foreign language. It will be beneficial for those managing the research when details that may not be obtainable in English or local language and translation is required eventually. Additionally, a local citizen will perceive better about his/her country than a foreign citizen.

8. Information Technology/Science

In every embassy, IT personnel are in high demand to increase the regulation of the embassy, varying from web development to system preservation. If you think computer understanding alone will promise you instinctive application in the IT department of the foreign embassy concerned, then you are making a mistake.

A certificate financed by expertise in a foreign language is excellent for most substantial utilization with different embassies in India. The capacity to speak a foreign language as a lesser qualification makes you winner than others for such jobs. 

9. Trainer in an embassy’s culture center

There are at least thirteen culture centers associated to various foreign embassies in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Chennai, and other parts of India providing different foreign language courses in embassies. According to my uneven calculation, roughly 300 foreign language teachers are working in these culture pinion and language learning centers across the country. While some of them are family speakers, a majority of them are Indians.

At least half of them are working with L’Alliance Francaise (a cultural wing of Embassy of France) and  Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan (affiliated to the embassy of Germany). Plainly, there are more job chances in French and German than Portuguese or Japanese as far as foreign language teaching jobs in embassies are concerned. 

There is just one warning. The least suitability yardstick to apply for such a start is a master’s degree of highest expertise level, such as C2 (CEFR – European) or TOPIK Level 6 / JLPT N1 / HSK Level 6 (East Asian Languages). Once chosen, they will offer Initial Teacher Training through a variety of courses. Based on my personal connection, the remuneration is quite good.

10. Customer support

Every embassy employs people for customer support for plenty of processes that include various roles. 

For example, speaking abilities, undertaking document tasks, a group of information, helpdesks, sound -based jobs, accounting services, data and document processing, back-office support, document translation, and proofreading, deal, email support services, and more.

How to get a job in the Indian embassy abroad?

The answer is challenging but not difficult. If you are keen to get a job in the Indian embassy in India or abroad, you will have to sit and clear Foreign Service Exams (IFS) through the combined Civil Services Exam. Indian Government also hires personnel from other departments like SSC, IAS, IPS, IRS, Defense services, etc. In brief, almost all are government employees.

There are no particular walk-in interviews for such jobs. The Indian embassy in foreign countries does hire local citizens for different positions. However, they are locals and not Indians. 

The question is how they will learn the language. If you fix a high rank in the civil services, then you can choose IFS and later decide which foreign language to learn. You will have to learn one mandatory foreign language during your instruction after you have been selected. It is selected from a list of languages provided each year.

During the coaching, an IFS officer has the rank of Third Secretary. Once you clear the CFL test, you will be upgraded to the rank of second secretary. Earlier knowledge in any foreign language is not necessary though useful. Besides, there is also an option to obtain an Optional Foreign Language (OFL).

It does not mean there is no opening for Indians who are not government employees. Indian government does provide various job openings for Indians trained in foreign languages. There are many foreign language specialists working in a different government department varying from Defence Attaché to the Tourism Department to Information Technology. However, for such openings, you may need both competence in that realm as well as years of experience. Maybe this subject will be for another day.

The ventures of any embassy in India or abroad are not limited to the size of the building. There are many language jobs in the embassy you can do with your language expertise, either as a primary or secondary qualification. Just take your time to search and I am sure you will find something fitting. 

So snatch a job chance in Indian and foreign embassies. It is one area in which you can prosper generously with your knowledge in a foreign language.

 

Palium Skills offers courses on foreign languages like Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish