INGENIUM Linguistic Tandem Programme

What is it?

Developed by ILANET within the INGENIUM European University Alliance, the Linguistic Tandem Programme offers students a flexible and informal way to practice languages while engaging in an authentic intercultural exchange.
Based on the principle of reciprocal peer learning, linguistic tandems connect students from different INGENIUM universities who support each other in improving their language skills through regular conversation and shared activities.

How does it work?

1) Registration

Participants register online by indicating their native (or strong) language(s), the language(s) they wish to practice, and their availability.
Participation depends on language availability and successful matching.

2) Matching

Participants are matched with a student from another INGENIUM university, based on complementary language profiles. Contact details are shared to allow partners to arrange their meeting.
Matching procedures may vary slightly depending on the home university..

3) Collaboration

Tandems are student-led and autonomous. Partners decide together:

How often they meet,
How long sessions last,
which tools to use (e.g. Zoom, Teams, WhatsApp, Google Meet).

Meetings usually take place online and interaction time is traditionally divided equally between the two languages to ensure mutual benefit. There is no formal curriculum, but students are encouraged to meet regularly and choose topics of shared interest (studies, culture, daily life, etc.).

Who can participate?

The programme is open to students from all INGENIUM universities, including:

Local and international students,
students at all study levels.

Linguistic tandems are not formal language courses, but they allow participants to apply their language knowledge in real-life contexts, build confidence, and create international connections across Europe.

Key Date

Programme start: Early March 2026
Application deadline: 28 February 2026

Sign up here

Code of Conduct (Extract)

Respect for privacy is essential. Recording audio or video of tandem sessions is not allowed.

Screenshots may be taken solely as proof of attendance, if required for recognition purposes. These screenshots must not be shared publicly or on social media and should only be used for the intended administrative purpose.

To find out more, download the Online Language Tandem Code of Conduct.