Comprehensive FAQ for Educational Tourism in Spain: Learning Spanish
Introduction: This FAQ section is designed to provide prospective students with comprehensive, easy-to-understand information about learning Spanish in Spain. It addresses common queries about courses, pricing, scheduling, teaching methodologies, certifications, and more.
This content aims to inform visitors seeking to enroll in Spanish language schools, nevertheless potential candidates are welcome to contact us if they are in doubt of the policies that apply to their specific program. Always verify the specific insurance requirements with us about the school you plan to attend and consider purchasing additional coverage to enhance your security while studying abroad.
1. Learning and Course Structure
2. Course Length and Scheduling
3. Methodology and Learning Approach
4. Post-Course Support
5. Accommodation and Extracurricular Activities
6. Certifications and Accreditation
List of Local Associations in Spain:
FEDELE (Federación Española de Escuelas de Español como Lengua Extranjera): FEDELE is the leading federation that groups Spanish language schools for foreigners in Spain, ensuring high standards of education across its member schools.
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ACCELE (Catalonia): Represents Spanish language schools in Catalonia.
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EEA (Andalusia): Represents schools in Andalusia.
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AEEEM (Madrid): Represents schools in the Community of Madrid.
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AMEELE (Valencia): Represents schools in the Valencian Community
These associations are part of FEDELE, which ensures quality and cohesion among different regions.
7. Group Enrollments
8.Payment and Enrollment
9. Insurance and Cancellation Policies
10. Tips for Choosing Insurance:
11. Visa Requirements
Conclusion
This FAQ is designed to address the most common concerns and questions prospective students may have about learning Spanish in Spain. By providing clear and comprehensive answers, we aim to make the decision-making process easier, helping you choose the best program for your needs. This resource serves as an informative guide and a valuable tool for both potential students and educational institutions in the sector.
If you have other questions? please contact us
a. What levels of Spanish do you offer? We offer courses from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2) levels, following the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to perfect your Spanish, we have a course suited to your needs.
b. How do I know my current level of Spanish? Before enrollment, take our free online placement test to assess your proficiency. This helps us place you in the most appropriate course level, ensuring that you learn at a pace that's right for you.
c. What is the average class size? Our classes are designed to be intimate and engaging, with small groups typically ranging from 10-12 students. This allows for personalized attention and a better learning experience.
d. What types of courses are available? We offer a variety of courses, including intensive courses, part-time courses, exam preparation (DELE, SIELE), business Spanish, conversational classes, and cultural immersion programs. Custom courses can also be arranged for groups with specific needs.
e. Can I join a course at any time? Many of our courses have rolling admissions, allowing you to start when it suits you best. However, some group courses may have fixed start dates, so please check the schedule for specific programs.
a. How long are the courses? Courses range from one week to several months. Intensive courses might run daily for several hours, while part-time courses offer a few hours of instruction per week.
b. What are the course schedules? We offer flexible scheduling options, including morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend classes. Our schedules are designed to accommodate your lifestyle, whether you're a student, professional, or traveler.
c. Can I pause or reschedule my course? Yes, we understand that life can be unpredictable. Many of our programs allow you to pause or reschedule your course, subject to availability and school policies.
a. What teaching methodology do you use? We employ a communicative approach to teaching, emphasizing speaking and listening skills in real-life contexts. Our methodology also incorporates grammar, vocabulary, and cultural immersion to provide a holistic learning experience.
b. Are classes taught in Spanish or in English? Our classes are primarily conducted in Spanish to foster immersion. For beginners, instructors may provide explanations in English to aid understanding.
c. Do you offer online courses? Yes, we offer online courses that include live virtual classes and pre-recorded lessons. This allows you to learn Spanish from anywhere in the world.
a. Do you offer post-course resources? We provide ongoing support to our alumni, including access to online resources, language exchange opportunities, and alumni networks. These resources help you continue practicing your Spanish after the course ends.
a. Do you provide a certificate after completing the course? Yes, upon successful completion of your course, you'll receive a certificate indicating your proficiency level. This certificate is recognized by employers and academic institutions worldwide.
b. Are your courses accredited? Our courses are accredited by respected organizations such as Instituto Cervantes and FEDELE (Federación Española de Escuelas de Español como Lengua Extranjera), ensuring that you receive high-quality education.
c. Can I prepare for official exams like DELE or SIELE with your courses? Absolutely! We offer specialized preparation courses for DELE and SIELE exams, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
a. Do you provide accommodation options? Yes, we offer a range of accommodation options, including homestays, student residences, and shared apartments. Staying with a local family can enhance your cultural experience and language immersion.
b. What extracurricular activities are available? Our schools offer a variety of cultural activities, including city tours, cooking classes, dance lessons, and language exchange programs. These activities are designed to complement your language learning and provide a deeper understanding of Spanish culture.
c. Can I get student visa support? Yes, we provide guidance and necessary documentation to support your student visa application for long-term courses.
d. Are there age restrictions for courses? While many of our courses are designed for adults, we also offer programs for teenagers and children. Age-specific courses have content and methodology tailored to the needs of each age group.
c. What is the maximum group size for a customized course? While we prefer to keep groups small (up to 10-15 students) for a personalized experience, we can accommodate larger groups by dividing them into sub-groups if necessary.
b. Can you organize custom courses for groups? We can create custom courses tailored to your group's specific needs, including specialized topics, flexible schedules, and additional activities.
a. Do you offer group discounts or special rates for group enrollments? Yes, we provide attractive discounts for group enrollments, whether for corporate groups, school groups, or friends enrolling together. The discount percentage varies based on group size and course type.
c. Are there any additional costs? Additional costs may include registration fees, textbooks, exam fees, and materials. We also offer accommodation and extracurricular activities at an additional charge.
d. What is the refund policy? The average cancellation policy at Spanish language schools in Spain typically includes the following key points: Cancellation Before Course Start: Full Refund: If a student cancels their course a certain number of days before the start date (often 14 to 30 days), they are generally eligible for a full refund, minus any non-refundable registration fees. Partial Refund: If the cancellation occurs closer to the start date (e.g., 7 to 14 days), a partial refund might be offered, often ranging from 50% to 75% of the total course fee. Cancellation After Course Start: No Refund: Once the course has started, most schools do not offer refunds. Some may allow for course credit that can be used for future classes, but this is less common. Special Circumstances: Illness or Emergencies: Some schools may offer refunds or course credits if the student can provide valid proof of a medical emergency or other significant unforeseen circumstances. Cancellation Insurance: Schools may offer or recommend purchasing cancellation insurance, which can cover a wider range of scenarios where a student might need to cancel and seek a refund. School-Initiated Cancellations: Full Refund or Transfer: If a school cancels a course due to low enrollment or other reasons, they typically offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another course or session. e. What happens if the school cancels a course? In the unlikely event that we cancel a course, you will be offered a full refund or the opportunity to transfer to another course. We will inform you as soon as possible and assist with any necessary arrangements. These policies can vary between schools, so it's essential for students to review the specific terms and conditions of the school they plan to attend.
b. What payment methods are accepted? We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, and cash. Flexible payment plans are available for longer courses.
a. How much do courses cost? Course fees vary depending on the type and length of the course. Discounts are often available for early registration or long-term courses. Please visit our pricing page for detailed information. Keep in mind that on our educational tourism digital platform, students never pay more than they would if they booked directly through the language schools themselves.
a. Do you offer insurance for course cancellations? When enrolling in Spanish language schools in Spain, students may need to consider several types of travel insurance to ensure they are covered for various potential issues. Here’s a breakdown of the common travel insurance requirements and recommendations: 1. Health Insurance What It Covers: Medical expenses in case of illness or injury. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, and medications. Requirement: Many Spanish language schools, especially those hosting international students, require proof of adequate health insurance coverage. This is often essential for visa applications and to ensure that students have access to medical care while abroad. 2. Travel Cancellation Insurance What It Covers: Reimbursement for non-refundable travel and course fees if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, family emergencies, or other valid reasons. Requirement: While not always mandatory, it’s highly recommended to protect your investment in case you need to cancel or reschedule your plans. Some schools may offer or recommend purchasing this insurance. 3. Trip Interruption Insurance What It Covers: Expenses incurred if your trip is interrupted or cut short due to an emergency, such as illness, travel delays, or natural disasters. It may also cover additional accommodation or travel expenses. Requirement: Similar to cancellation insurance, this is not always required but is advisable to cover unexpected interruptions to your plans. 4. Travel Accident Insurance What It Covers: Coverage for accidents that occur while traveling, including personal injury or accidental death. This type of insurance provides financial support in case of serious accidents. Requirement: This insurance is not always mandatory but is recommended for additional protection. 5. Personal Liability Insurance What It Covers: Protection against claims of damage or injury caused to other people or their property while traveling. Requirement: This is not typically a requirement but can be beneficial for coverage against unexpected liability issues. 6. Luggage and Personal Belongings Insurance What It Covers: Loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings and luggage during your travels. Requirement: This is optional but recommended to safeguard against potential loss of valuables or travel essentials.
Check Coverage Limits: Ensure that the insurance covers sufficient amounts for medical emergencies and other relevant expenses. Read the Fine Print: Be aware of exclusions and conditions related to the insurance policy. Verify with the School: Confirm with your Spanish language school if they have specific insurance requirements or recommendations. While health insurance is often mandatory, travel insurance covering cancellations, interruptions, accidents, and personal liability is strongly recommended to provide comprehensive protection. Always verify the specific insurance requirements with the school you plan to attend and consider purchasing additional coverage to enhance your security while studying abroad.
For Schengen Visa: If you are applying for a Schengen visa to study in Spain, you will need to provide proof of travel insurance that covers at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.