International Summer Program
Earn U.S. Credits, Experience Europe, and Discover France
2 to 4 weeks: June 15 – July 10, 2026
A Transformative Summer Experience
Join students from around the world for an academic and cultural adventure at CEFAM, the French-American Business School in Lyon.
Whether you’re a gap-year student, an undergraduate, or simply curious about studying abroad, the CEFAM Summer Program is your gateway to global learning all in a welcoming, multicultural environment.
Two Independent 2-Week Modules: Choose one session or combine both for a whole 4-week experience.
- Session 1 (June 15–26): Intro to Business Management
- Session 2 (June 29–July 10): International Relations & Global Politics
2 to 4 weeks that can open your mind to new career opportunities
Join a premium short-term program at CEFAM – the French-American Business School in Lyon, combining business education, cultural discovery, and networking with students from around the world.
Transferable Credits: All courses are fully transferable to American universities, giving you a head start on your degree and a truly global academic experience.
This Program Is For:
- International students aged 18+
- Gap year students, early undergraduates, or those considering studying business abroad
- Students looking to boost their resume, earn U.S. university credits, and explore European culture
- Minimum English proficiency: B1 level required, B2 highly recommended to make the most of this exciting program
Program Structure
The CEFAM Summer Program offers two independent 2-week sessions. Students can enroll in Session 1 (Business), Session 2 (International Relations), or combine both for a full 4-week experience.
June Session: Intro to Business Management
Dates: June 15, 2026 – June 26, 2026
U.S. Credits: 3
ECTS Credits: 6
Academic Hours + Workshops: 38
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: This course is an introduction to management and leadership fundamentals, focusing on both theory and practice. Students explore key management functions such as planning, organizing, staffing, leading, and controlling, and how these processes help organizations achieve their goals.
Through role plays, interactive discussions, and workshops, participants develop an understanding of how different components of an organization are interconnected and how strategic decisions are made in today’s competitive business environment.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the role and responsibilities of managers
- Analyze organizational structures and processes
- Apply management theories to real-world business role plays
- Build foundational leadership and problem-solving skills
Workshops included:
- Business Simulation Game
- Introduction to Strategic Decision-Making
- Leadership Challenge Workshop
July Session: International relations and Global Politics
Dates: June 29, 2026 – July 10, 2026
U.S. Credits: 3
ECTS Credits: 6
Academic Hours + Workshops: 38
Prerequisite: None
Issues in International Politics: Reimagining World Order
Course Description: What does today’s world order look like—and what could it become? This two-week summer module at CEFAM invites students to explore the most pressing issues in international politics while experiencing the vibrancy of Lyon, France.
The course begins with key theories of international relations and an examination of shifting global power—from unipolarity to multipolarity, alliances, and rivalries. Students then assess the strain on institutions such as the UN, WTO, NATO, UNHCR, EU, and international aid organizations.
Through lectures, debates, workshops, guest speakers, and a visit to the United Nations in Geneva, participants will analyze challenges to global governance and imagine possible reforms. The program culminates in a “Reimagining World Order” workshop and simulation, where students identify real-world problems and design proposals for cooperative solutions.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the module, students will be able to:
- Explain and apply major theories of international relations
- Analyze the shifting global order and its consequences
- Evaluate the strengths and limitations of global institutions
- Debate competing visions of sovereignty, cooperation, and power
- Design forward-looking policy proposals and reform strategies
Workshops & Simulations:
- Mapping Global Challenges: Identify today’s most pressing international issues
- Debate Series: Sovereignty vs. cooperation; globalization vs. fragmentation
- UN Simulation: A role-play exercise in diplomacy, alliances, and crisis response
- Reimagining World Order Workshop: Capstone project inspired by Princeton’s initiative, where students propose reforms for global governance
Cultural & Networking Activities for each session:
- Day Trip to Geneva for both sessions to visit international organizations related to the field (UN, WTO, ILO, ICRC).
- Welcome & Farewell Dinners in the French capital of gastronomy: Celebrate the start and end of your program with fellow students and faculty.
- Weekends free for self-exploration or optional excursions to Paris, the French Alps, or Provence.
Housing in Lyon
During the program you will be staying at the Appart’City Classic Lyon Vaise Saint-Cyr, a modern and welcoming residence that offers comfort, independence, and easy access to everything Lyon has to offer.
Located just 20 minutes on foot from the Campus (5 minutes by public transport), this residence provides direct access to CEFAM’s campus and Lyon’s historic city center.
Why Students Love It
- Prime Location – Situated in a lively and safe district, the residence is within walking distance of shops, cafes, and public transportation.
Each studio or apartment includes:
- A fully equipped kitchenette
- Private bathroom with shower or bath
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Workspace for studying or relaxing
- Independent Living with Community Feel
- Double room or Single room (subject to availability)
Additional Amenities
- On-site laundry facilities
- Bonus: Breakfast Included
Program fees
2-Week Program: Business or International Relations Session
- Double Room: €2,900
- Single Room*: €3,400
4-Week Program: Business & International Relations Session
- Double Room: €5,500
- Single Room*: €6,400
*single room subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis
Early Bird Discount
- 10% off for enrollments before January 31, 2026
What’s Included
Cancellation Policy
- Full refund up to 90 days before the program start date
- 50% refund from 60–89 days before the start date
- No refund within 60 days of the start date(credit transfer available for the following year)
Admission Requirements:
- English Proficiency: Minimum B1 level, B2 recommended for full participation
- No academic prerequisites — open to students from all backgrounds
- Complete application form + motivation statement
How to Apply
- Applications open October 1, 2025
- Submit the online form and required documents
- Pay to secure your spot (early bird discounts applied automatically)
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