<p>For the summer, I want to be productive. Among other things, I want to see if I can take college or university classes for free. I don't want credit, or to even participate. I just want the knowledge. </p>
<p>I am in French 1/2 now. I wanted to "observe" the equivalent of a French 3/4 class at the University of Washington over summer quarter, then try and test into 5/6 next school year. </p>
<p>Anyone done it before? Think it's possible? Legal?</p>
<p>Contact the U and ask. :)</p>
<p>We asked out local state U last year and the answer was no, sadly enough. </p>
<p>You could seek a local scholarship to pay for the class. Are you part of any local organizations? You can petition local companies for scholarships. Is there an Alliance Francaise in your area? [American</a> Non-Profit Organization Fostering French Language|Culture](<a href=“http://www.afusa.org/]American”>http://www.afusa.org/)</p>
<p>Another option is self study. Does your local library offer online Mango? Do they have Pimsleur? There are conversation exchange websites around too, but definitely use appropriate precaution in setting up any kind of online chatting.</p>
<p>Out local University has a volunteer program that matches up international students with local community members with the goal of each person improving their language skills.</p>
<p>good luck!</p>
<p>It will definitely depend on the university, but my first feeling is probably not (at least officially). Firstly, be sure that foreign language classes are offered at the university in the summer-- because of the truncated nature of the summer session, those seats may already be limited (or non-existent).</p>
<p>Most universities have in place policies against auditing (the most common ones I’ve seen are for senior citizens) because of the fact that the seat you will be occupying (and summer courses can fill up very quickly) could be taken by a paying student, and universities aren’t going to want to give up that money. Depending on the size/prestige of your local U (state flagship v. regional comprehensive), you may find that the course costs are affordable-- or even a course at your local CC?</p>
<p>However, if your French teacher knows the French prof at the institution, it may be worth a shot to have him ask her on your behalf. A lot of things can (and will) happen if the professor is okay with it (or is doing a favor to somebody), or even if you know anybody in university administration.</p>
<p>As is often said, your mileage may vary, but good luck.</p>
<p>If you’re looking for a French experience, I know that we have a ‘French Circle’ here which are gatherings for French students and French expats-- also look into the Rotary Exchange program, though I’m not sure about cost capability.</p>