Immersive spanish courses: The 9 Best Spanish Immersion Programs Around the World

The 9 Best Spanish Immersion Programs Around the World

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When I first landed in Spain, it had been more than six years since I had studied Spanish in high school, or spoken more than a few Spanish phrases. I thought that I had forgotten everything until I sat on a train traveling from Girona to Barcelona.

At first, I was listening to mostly Spanish speakers around me — listening to see if I remembered anything. After about 10 minutes, I started to understand a few words here and there. By the end of the 40-minute ride, I could understand bits and pieces of sentences and conversations, and by the time my two weeks in Spain were finished, I felt confident speaking basic sentences again. By surrounding myself with Spanish as much as I could during that trip, part of the language had come back to me.

It might seem overwhelming to jump into the deep end of learning Spanish by surrounding yourself with native speakers, but anyone who is fluent in a second language will tell you that full immersion is the most efficient way to learn it.

Why Learn Spanish By Immersion?

Starting off by learning Spanish vocabulary and verb conjugations in a classroom in your home country could be the first step in discovering a new way to express your thoughts, ideas, and emotions in Spanish. However, to truly learn how native speakers communicate, you need to live the experience of being in a country where Spanish is the native language.

One of the wonderful aspects of an immersion program is that many of them offer a homestay, where you will live with a family — eating meals together and possibly going on excursions together. With a homestay, you’ll truly experience how people live in the country where you are studying.

Related: Should You Learn a Language Through Immersion or in the Classroom?

Immersion is also efficient, which makes it an ideal choice if you want to or need to learn Spanish quickly. I studied Spanish for four years during high school in California and learned enough to get by when I traveled to Spain. However, after only three months of living in Italy, as part of a language immersion program, I felt confident enough to have full conversations. If you want to learn Spanish for work or school or want the experience of learning in a country where it’s the native language, an immersion program may be right for you.

What to Consider in Choosing a Spanish Language Program

One of the most exciting aspects of learning Spanish is that if you want to study in a country where it is the national language, you have nearly two dozen countries to choose from across four continents. It may be the hardest aspect of learning Spanish too!

It’s important to remember that while the base language will be the same across all of the countries where it is spoken, accents, dialects, and words will vary depending on where you are in the world. If you are planning to use Spanish for work, or have a country or region of the world in mind where you’d like to live or study in the future, it’s best to pick an immersion program in that country. Take a look at the globe, and see where you could be studying in Europe, North America, Central America, South America, or The Caribbean!

Immersion programs vary from a few weeks to a few months, and it’s important to select a program that fits with your schedule and language goals. While it’s unlikely that you’ll become fluent in a few weeks, short-term programs can help you decide if you’d like to spend an extended period of time studying Spanish in a particular country. Another factor to consider is whether you want to be in a city, are seeking a more rural setting, or want to add on volunteering or work to your language studies.

Here are the top programs on Go Overseas for learning Spanish abroad, based on reviews:

• Best for All-Around Immersion: LITA
• Best for Luxury Homestay: Agualivar Spanish School
• Best for Budget Conscious Students: Maximo Nivel
• Best for Homestay Benefits: Tico Lingo
• Best for Volunteer & Study: Buenos Aires TEFL institute
• Best for Outdoor Adventure: Habla Ya
• Best for 1-on-1 Instruction: Spanish in Nature
• Best for Immersion Internship: Linguistic Horizons
• Best for Cultural Immersion: Na’atik Language and Culture Institute

Best for All-Around Immersion: LITA

LITA scores high in every category from Go Overseas, meaning it’s a great choice if you want to study in Spain. You’ll spend about five weeks, including a three-week homestay in Northern or Southern Spain, and participate in an optional internship with a local business, or engage in an independent research project with LITA. You’ll also have a chance to explore rural areas of Spain, while learning about food, music, history, and ecology. Past participants have said that living with a family was one of the best parts of their experience with LITA.

Alumni, who loved the program, said:

• “I remember being terrified to ask for a cup of water without ice in Spanish while on the plane to Spain, but now I feel comfortable with my speaking ability enough to hold a conversation with anyone.” –Karlton
• “LITA was by far one of the most amazing things I have ever done. I left Spain with a high level of confidence not only with my ability to speak Spanish but also with myself.” –Bonner

Program Details

Program:

LITA: A Unique Approach to Language Immersion in Spain

Provider:

LITA
Learn more. “>

Location:

Spain

Starting Price:

$6,725.00 USD

Learn more about this program!

5.00 Rating

based on 43 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Growth
  5
• Support
  5
• Fun
  4.95
• Housing
  5
• Safety
  5

 Good for Students, Adventure travelers, Under 18

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Best for Luxury Homestay: Agualivar Spanish School

With a perfect score of 10 for fun, and a score of more than 9.8 in the four other GoOverseas rating categories, Agualivar Spanish School is the place to be to learn Spanish while experiencing some of the best parts of Spain. You’ll live on a beachfront villa in a homestay in Andalusia, where you’ll practice Spanish for 12 hours a day and travel to see and experience the beautiful sites surrounding you. Flexible start dates and class levels make it easy for anyone to make the program fit with their goals.

Alumni love Agulaivar Spanish School, and have said:

• “The program at Agualivar Spanish School far, far exceeded all expectations. I was able to “jump start” my Spanish studies with excellent teachers in a warm, lovely environment. The accommodations were luxurious, the food delicious, and the setting (the farm and the sea) breathtaking.“ — Emily
• “The reviews are spot on: The hospitality of the family, the food, the surroundings, all true. It felt as much like a retreat from the busy world as a school. A place to slow down, take a deep breath, and look out over the Mediterranean sea before you. And of course, learn Spanish.” — Kristin

Program Details

Program:

Spanish Immersion Program for Adults and Families

Provider:

Agualivar Spanish School

Location:

Spain

Starting Price:

$1,580. 00 USD

Learn more about this program!

5.00 Rating

based on 50 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Instruction
  5
• Support
  5
• Fun
  5
• Housing
  5
• Value
  5

 Good for Solo Travelers, Couples, Retirees

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Best for Budget Conscious Students: Maximo Nivel

If you aren’t sure where you want to study, Maximo Nivel may have you covered with its intensive and professional Spanish immersion programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Alumni give it a 98 percent review score, loving the program’s university credit option, homestays, and free tandem conversation groups. Maximo Nivel is also an affordable option with classes starting at $55 a week.

Alumni across the world shared their favorite parts of the Maximo Nivel program:

• “I really appreciated how personalized the course was. There were only two students in my classes, so the course was 100% personalized. Outside of class I was staying with a host family, so I was speaking Spanish most of the day. This is really the best way to learn. I am going home from this program speaking Spanish much more fluently and correctly than I did when I showed up only a month ago.” — Rachael
• “I thought the price, compared to other programs that I researched in the area, was great, especially considering the caliber and experience of my professor, the free activities that were offered on various days, and the comfort of my homestay.” — Josef

Program Details

Program:

Spanish Immersion Program—Costa Rica | Guatemala | Peru

Provider:

Maximo Nivel
Learn more.”>

Location:

Multiple Countries

Starting Price:

$55. 00 USD

Learn more about this program!

4.93 Rating

based on 15 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Instruction
  4.8
• Support
  4.95
• Fun
  4.9
• Housing
  4.75
• Value
  4.8

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Best for Homestay Benefits: Tico Lingo

At Tico Lingo’s intensive Spanish immersion program in Heredia, Costa Rica, students enjoy small classrooms, free coffee, and good vibes, with Go Overseas users ranking the program 9.8 for its support for students.

Students stay with a local family and will have breakfast and dinner included, free laundry service, and a key to the house to come and go. All homestay locations have free wifi. Students have enjoyed great relationships with host families and found it increased their Spanish level exponentially.

Here’s what Tico Lingo alumni have to say:

• “My homestay mother, Roxy, was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. She truly treated me as a part of her family. Heredia is a small, quiet, and safe city. At first I found it hard to adjust to the slow, even sleepy pace of life, but soon I came to appreciate how peaceful and relaxing it was.” — Sharon
• “If you want a low-key, relaxed but thorough Spanish immersion experience this is for you. The best thing I can say about Tico Lingo is that the school is run in such a chill way that you don’t ever feel like a tourist. At the same time the teachers are high-quality and you will learn fast. I recommend staying with a family, who cooked me two delicious meals a day and were great company.” — John

Program Details

Program:

Intensive Spanish Immersion Program in Heredia, Costa Rica

Provider:

Tico Lingo
Learn more. “>

Location:

Costa Rica

Starting Price:

$295.00 USD

Learn more about this program!

4.97 Rating

based on 73 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Instruction
  4.95
• Support
  4.95
• Fun
  4.85
• Housing
  4.85
• Value
  4.95

 Good for Students, Solo Travelers, Adventure travelers

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Best for Volunteer & Study: Buenos Aires TEFL institute

If you want to study Spanish in Argentina, the Buenos Aires TEFL institute offers intensive Spanish immersion courses, and an option to combine your studies with volunteering. It’s a top choice, with Go Overseas users rating it as a perfect 10 across all categories!

TEFL Spanish classes are divided into different levels and small classes are customizable based on students’ background and goals. Volunteer options include microfinance, tourism, natural reserves, and schools.

Alumni of the Buenos Aires TEFL institute said:

• “My teacher has made the classes lots of fun and never boring. Buenos Aires has been loads of fun and my first stay in a huge city, there is a plethora of entertainment choices, countless bars, cafes, and restaurants, and it’s a terrific city to explore on foot. The school can really help you to get in it with the activities which are offered. I really liked the atmosphere at school.” — Hugh
• “The city has a charming breath and immersed me in its atmosphere instantly. I really enjoyed the fact that the Ibero teachers are ready to help you out with whatever might worry you. No grammar problems are left behind, neither any casual everyday questions unanswered. I feel like thanks to the teachers and the extracurricular activities I have gotten to know this language and culture much better.” — Jean

Program Details

Program:

Spanish Courses in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Provider:

Buenos Aires TEFL Institute
Learn more. “>

Location:

Argentina

Learn more about this program!

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Best for Outdoor Adventure: Habla Ya

Habla Ya has something for everyone, with its Spanish courses in Panama City for business, travelers, groups, or private lessons. With that type of flexibility, Habla Ya gets a Go Overseas rating of 9.8 for support — meaning past participants felt it was easy to align the program with their goals. Students choose Habla Ya to experience the art, culture, history, and buzz of Panama City, while learning Spanish, and participating in outdoor activities like horseback riding, rock climbing, and surfing.

Habla Ya alumni shared why they love it:

• “Every day of class was so much fun! I stayed with a very awesome host family where I got to practice my Spanish even more. I can’t wait to return to Habla Ya and continue learning!” — Annissa
• “The staff is very friendly, helpful, and determined to make your experience there the best possible. My teacher found the perfect way for me to improve my skills and I had a lot of fun learning from him. The teachers try to adapt the learning method based on the individuals. I really liked this personal touch.” — Elena

Program Details

Program:

Spanish Immersion Program in Panama City, Panama

Provider:

Habla Ya Spanish Schools
Learn more.”>

Location:

Panama

Learn more about this program!

4.96 Rating

based on 23 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Instruction
  4.95
• Support
  4.95
• Fun
  4.85
• Housing
  4.75
• Value
  4.65

 Good for Students

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Best for 1-on-1 Instruction: Spanish in Nature

Spanish in Nature is a program that is fully immersive, with students living with a teacher in Madrid for one-on-one (or one teacher for a family or small group) language instruction. Past participants have shared their course with their children or extended family, for a cross-generational learning experience. GoOverseas users rated the program 9.7 or more, with a 9.9 for support, due to the program’s focus on personal attention.

People who loved their time with Spanish in Nature, said:

• “As any family would be, we were really apprehensive, before we went, wondering and worrying about what it would be like to stay with complete strangers in their home but our worries vanished instantly on arrival because we were made to feel so welcome and by the end of the week, we felt that we had known the family for years. No family could be more friendly and hospitable.” — Wendy
• “The program was full of interesting activities and my daughter loved every minute of her time there. It’s obvious that after coming back to Poland, she is now top of her class in Spanish. Highly recommended!” — Adam

Program Details

Program:

Spanish Immersion Program for Adults: Spanish in Nature

Provider:

Spanish in Nature

Location:

Spain

Learn more about this program!

5. 00 Rating

based on 33 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Instruction
  4.95
• Support
  5
• Fun
  5
• Housing
  5
• Value
  5

 Good for Students, Solo Travelers, Retirees

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Best for Immersion Internship: Linguistic Horizons

Alumni of Linguistic Horizons rate the intensive internship and language program as a 9.9 on GoOverseas for growth and support, because they love it as a way to learn Spanish in Peru. Its customized language programs — that are paired with internships in the Sacred Valley, working with local communities — can run from two weeks to two months.

Past participants of Linguistic Horizons said:

• “This program was by far my favorite travel experience. It gave me full immersion into the culture, let me gain experience in my field, and explore the beautiful landscape of Peru. ” — Sarah
• “The program and experience was indeed a trip of a lifetime, and it will forever change me as a person. The hardest part was leaving this incredible place, as three weeks was just not enough time!” — Alex

Program Details

Program:

Customized Internship: Sacred Valley of the Incas, Cusco

Provider:

Linguistic Horizons
Learn more.”>

Location:

Peru

Starting Price:

$2,795.00 USD

Learn more about this program!

4.92 Rating

based on 13 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Growth
  5
• Support
  4.95
• Fun
  4.95
• Housing
  4.95
• Safety
  5

 Good for Students, Photographers, Adventure travelers

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Best for Cultural Immersion: Na’atik Language and Culture Institute

With Na’atik Language and Culture Institute, helping students learn Spanish is as important as being immersed in Mexican and indigenous Maya culture. Go Overseas users give the program a near-perfect 10 for support and safety, making it a great option for first-time travelers. The program includes cross-cultural exchanges with locals to learn about modern Maya traditions and lifestyle.

The best part? Your program fees subsidize English lessons for local students. Exploring the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula while helping fellow language learners: it’s a win-win!

Na’atik Language and Culture Institute alumni love the program:

• “My week of study at Na’atik and living with a host family was amazing, actually transformational. The small (3) class size, the experience of the teacher (Pedro) and the overall Na’atik experience exceeded my expectations in every regard.” — Deborah
• “From the information we received prior to the trip to the communication and support we received as we were traveling to the program to the wonderful staff and students, it was a thoroughly delightful and enriching experience. I could not have imagined how comfortable I would be bicycling around a small city, visiting local shops and restaurants and using my Spanish as I acquired it.” — Karen

Program Details

Program:

Authentic Spanish or Maya Immersion with Na’atik in Mexico!

Provider:

Na’atik Language and Culture Institute
Learn more.”>

Location:

Mexico

Starting Price:

$699.00 USD

Learn more about this program!

5.00 Rating

based on 39 reviews

Read Reviews

Visit Site

• Academics
  4.95
• Support
  5
• Fun
  4.85
• Housing
  4.7
• Safety
  5

 Good for Students, Solo Travelers

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Immerse Yourself in Spanish!

Wherever you decide to learn Spanish, you’re sure to have an experience that will improve your language skills and show you a new part of the world. So spin the globe, and go!

This post was originally published in March 2014, and was updated in August 2021.

Keep on Reading

Spanish immersion programs: Adults, Families, Students

Common Ground International’s Spanish immersion volunteer programs are the best Spanish Immersion trips for Students, Professionals, Adults & Families.

Our programs are designed to help you learn Spanish while you volunteer in the community.  These trips are led by Spanish teachers focused on helping you speak more Spanish! We provide a small team of coordinators & Spanish teachers who are always available for you while you’re on immersion. We’re intentional on programs about everything we do, and we’d love to share a trip with you! 

These Spanish immersion programs are for: Students, Professionals, Adults, & Families.

Spanish Immersion Programs

Rating 

4.97 out of 5 based on 249 customer ratings

Click below on the Spanish Immersion Program that best suits your age, stage and interest.

We specialize in Spanish immersion programs for students, adults & families, and professionals. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, contact us for a customized immersion program.

Spanish Immersion Trips with Common Ground:

COVID-19 Policies

Safe travel policies reduce COVID-19 risks to Common Ground travelers and to the communities that host us.

Learn More

When you search online for “Spanish Immersion programs”, most of the results you see are individual language schools. Some are adventure travel programs or some sort of service-learning volunteer experience.

These programs likely include elements of a true Spanish immersion program, but very few incorporate all of them into one like Common Ground does. We’re Spanish teachers, so we know what the right mix is for you to maximize the language benefit from your Spanish immersion program and volunteer experiences.

After doing even brief initial research, you will find that our trips are the absolute best short-term Spanish Immersion in Costa Rica and Ecuador!

Our student travel programs, and adult Spanish immersion trips are filled with adventure, service learning, Spanish immersion classes & host families. We lead several different Spanish immersion programs in Costa Rica and Ecuador annually. Each immersion trip focuses on improving your Spanish proficiency. We give much needed community service to underserved communities in the outskirts of San Jose (Costa Rica) and Quito & Cuenca. Working hard together, we have more fun than you can imagine with unique adventure-travel experiences.

Why would you choose to travel on Spanish immersion with Common Ground?

Our immersion programs cost more than a DIY (do it yourself) trip, and possibly even more than other travel companies. This begs the obvious value question… Why travel on Spanish immersion with Common Ground?

It’s a fair question, and here are some straightforward answers:

Why have we chosen Costa Rica and Ecuador for Spanish Immersion?

Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful countries in Central America. Its lush landscapes and beautifully diverse ecology give you the opportunity to experience the best of Central America’s rainforests, jungles, volcanic mountains, and beaches all within a few hundred miles. Costa Rica is a small country replete with beauty and invested in conserving its ecology. In addition to its unmatched beauty, Costa Rica is one of the most stable countries in Central America and has a long history of welcoming North Americans with hospitality. Its hospitality is matched by an eager willingness to care for its visitors and ensure their safe travels.

Ecuador is also a very stable country to run our Spanish immersion trips in. Not only that, but it is a little less known to the typical American traveler. It’s amazing mountains, rich indigenous history and culture, & lush Amazon jungles provide a unique opportunity for Spanish immersion travelers to see get into nature as they learn Spanish.

Are there minimum language requirements for CGI’s Spanish Immersions?

Our only requirement of our participants is the willingness to learn Spanish. We don’t have minimum Spanish requirements for our participants, we believe that everyone can learn amazing amounts of Spanish on a high-quality immersion program. And our job as immersion program coordinators is to set up the experience to be manageable for the beginner and still challenging for the advanced speaker.

We are not a tour company that happens to provide trips to Costa Rica. We are immersion experts. If you’re looking for an intentional Spanish language experience abroad, we might be a good fit for you. If you’re looking for a travel program without a Spanish language focus, there are probably other organizations that would be better for you to work with.

What can you expect from the host family lodging aspect of the trip?

Optional Spanish Immersion Weekend Adventures:

Starting Friday at 5:30pm you’re free to explore Costa Rica!  We don’t plan any outreach work on Monday mornings so that you can maximize your weekend adventures and enjoy what Costa Rica has to offer in relaxation, eco-tourism, and adventure travel!  After you apply to join our Spanish immersion programs, we’ll provide you with a list of optional excursions that know will make a fun weekend for you.

Here are a few of the common optional excursions that our students and professionals take while on Spanish immersion:

Spanish Immersion Program FAQs

What happens in case of an emergency?

Our trip leaders will seek the attention of a health care worker in Costa Rica and make decisions along with parent/guardians/emergency contacts back in the US. We will be in touch with parent/guardians/emergency contacts as soon as possible. We will also help the participant initiate the process for claims on the travel/medical insurance policy that was purchased.

What if I have a food allergy or dietary restriction?

Usually this is not an issue. We have several host families that can accommodate to food allergies and dietary restrictions. Please let your trip coordinator know ahead of time so we can prepare for this accommodation.

What if my host family does not work out and I need to switch?

If there is an issue with your host family, trip leaders will be very involved and be able to make a quick switch to find a family that is a better match for you.

Will I have access to the internet?

Yes. Year after year more and more host families have Wi-Fi in their homes. Additionally you are able to connect to Wi-Fi at the language school. There are also 2 Internet cafes in the center of town that you can use for a minimal price.

What type of preparation should I expect to do before going on this trip?

You will be involved in at least 3 virtual pre-departure meetings beginning 1-2 months before your departure. During these meetings you will have a chance to meet the other participants, learn specific trip details and itineraries, start working in groups on your volunteer projects, and a number of other things.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica and Ecuador?

From about May/June through October/November it is rainy season. The sun may shine in the morning (and it will be humid), but it will certainly rain in the afternoon (but it’s usually not a cold rain). December through April is dry season. It will be sunny, humid, and may rain here and there.

What time zone is Costa Rica and Ecuador?

October – March Costa Rica is on Central Time. April – September it is on Mountain Time. October – March Ecuador is on Eastern time, April – September Ecuador is on Central Time.

How safe are Costa Rica & Ecuador?

This is actually the #1 reason we chose to have our Spanish Immersion Programs in Costa Rica and Ecuador. Costa Rica have a long history of peacefulness and political stability, and it hosts over 1.5 million tourists a year. Tourism is a very large portion of the country’s economy, which means that in general tourists are treated very well. For many years Ecuador has attracted a great deal of international attention and tourism to its Galapagos islands and the interior of the country is stable and peaceful as well. One of the biggest factors contributing to your safety while on Spanish immersion with Common Ground is that you’re traveling with a group, and you have a Common Ground leader with you. We’re there by your side day to day to help you keep your focus on improving your Spanish.

Where do we stay while on Spanish Immersion in Costa Rica & Ecuador?

The bulk of the time you spend in Costa Rica is in a small town called Santo Domingo de Heredia. This town is about 20 minutes N of the capital city San Jose. The language school where you will walk to every morning is about 600m south of the downtown area on the main road. In Ecuador we stay in host families as well. Otavalo is a beautiful colonial and mountain city about 1 hr outside of Quito – it’s known for its large outdoor indigenous market surrounded by beautiful mountains.

What are the host family homes like?

You will be staying in a middle-class home setting. You can expect the home and your bedroom to be small. Your bed probably won’t be as comfortable as your bed is here in the US. Most homes have tile floors, no carpet. Most families do not have dish washers nor clothes driers. You may be given a couple different keys for the home: one for the exterior gate off the street, and another for the actual doors to the house.

Will my host family speak English?

Your host families may speak a little English, particularly if they have school aged children. However, we encourage them to not let you know. The best way for you to continue learning Spanish is to have to use it!

Will I have another student from the trip in the same family with me?

This depends. In Ecuador you may have another participant from our program staying with you in your host family. Usually in Costa Rica you are paired 1:1 with a host family. When possible we like to limit the number of students to one per family. This increases your opportunities to speak Spanish. If you’re traveling with a sibling we’ll make an effort to place you in neighboring host families so that you’re at least close to each other. If you’re traveling with your spouse for some or all of the time, then yes we can place you in the same family.

How are host families chosen?

Having a student is a significant boost to our host families’ income.  Because there are more families requesting students in the town than we have need for, we are selective in who we employ to host you. The host families that our students stay with are screened for various things:

– Criminal and/or questionable social activity
– Suitability of the living quarters that you will occupy
– General “likeability” and friendliness
– Availability of a family member at the home during the hours you are scheduled to be there
– Age and sex of the family’s children. We would not place a teen girl with a family that has teen boys for example.
– Proximity to the language school

Will I be able to go to church?

Certainly, there aren’t a ton of different faith options in town, but there is a nice Catholic church in the middle of town with several service times throughout the week, an evangelical church close to the town center center and several other faith worship options in nearby towns.

Will I be able to shower every day?

Yes, you will be able to shower every day. There is no guarantee that your shower will have warm water, but you’ll certainly have access to a shower.

Is the water safe to drink?

You can drink water from the tap almost anywhere in Costa Rica. In Ecuador you need to drink bottled water. If you’re on our program and we’re headed to a place where water is not safe to drink, we’ll certainly let you know and have you get bottled water.

Do you have payment plans?

Absolutely. Most of the time the program cost is spread out over 3 payments. If you need other specific arrangements, we can probably be flexible with you. If you’d like to make just one payment, that’s fine too. Acceptable forms of payment are Visa, Master, Discover, Check and Cash.

Will I receive a packing list for my Immersion Program?

Yes. Shortly after your register, you will receive a list of clothes, personal items, donations you need to begin collecting, and other miscellaneous items to pack as soon as we receive your application.

How long does it take for a passport?

Typically 60 – 90 days. If you have any questions about how to get a passport, you can find information here.

Will my cell phone work while I’m on Spanish Immersion?

Some do, not all. This depends on your service provider and your specific phone, so check with your service provider first. If your specific phone isn’t capable, most service providers have world phone rental options. This isn’t usually the most economical way to call home when you’re in Costa Rica or Ecuador. You can purchase local chips you arrive to the country. We recommend using Skype, What’sApp or FaceTime. If you won’t have a computer with you, your Common Ground trip leader always will and you’re welcome to use our computers to call home.

Will we have the opportunity to exchange money?

Absolutely. Of course it’s always a good idea to have a little cash on you in Colones (Costa Rican currency) or USD for Ecuador (Ecuador is on the US dollar), but honestly you don’t need much right away when traveling with a Common Ground Spanish Immersion group. After you get settled into your host family, we’ll make sure you have the opportunity to get local currency right away. We do not recommend exchanging you money at the airport as they generally have unfavorable exchange rates. Credit & Debit cards are accepted throughout the country, and ATM machines are more and more common every year. The ATM is convenient, and usually provides a good exchange rate. It is important to notify your bank that you will be traveling abroad, and you’ll probably want to inquire about any foreign transaction and/or currency fees.

What is meant when referring to private in-country transportation in the application form?

You will most likely have the same guide and driver for your group the whole time you are on the program with Common Ground, and our destination is further than walking distance. In the mornings we will head to our volunteer site together (either walking or on the private bus). In the afternoons we will leave the outreach work site and head to the language school. During the weekend excursions we will certainly be on the private bus with guide and driver chaperoning our travels.

What is the proposed tip amount for guide and driver?

A good rule of thumb is $2-$3/day that our driver is shuttling you around, and $3-$5/day that a guide is leading you. They work very hard for you, and we take great pleasure in thanking them generously at the end of our programs.

What if my family, spouse or partner wants to join me for part of the program?

Many spouses, fiancées, friends and other family members join our groups for a portion of the program. We’re happy to arrange this for you with both your host family, and any private hotel accommodations that you require while on vacation portions of the program. If this is something you’re considering, we just ask that you let us know early on so that we can make appropriate arrangements for you. This is not a last minute decision that you can make, it does require special arrangements, so we ask that you notify us at the time you submit your application.

How much extra spending money should I plan on bringing?

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to not budget enough money for additional expenses. The challenge is that this is a question that depends heavily on your tastes and the specifics of the program you’re applying for. To give you an idea of the typical expenses you may be responsible for: a normal lunch will usually run $5.00-$7.00; dinner runs $7.00 – $15.00. Optional excursions are something you should also plan for, but each program is very different. These excursions really add some amazing experiences to your Spanish Immersion Program. Tips excluded (see tips FAQ question), if you were to not include any additional excursions, and live as frugally as possible for the time you’re there, you should plan on $150 for a 2 week program and $300 for the 4 week program.
The best approach however, is to take a look at the specific itinerary for your program that highlights the expenses you’re responsible for, and begin planning your additional expenses accordingly.

Do I need any special immunizations or take any other preventative measures?

Of course you need to be current on your standard immunizations before you travel on Spanish immersion. When traveling in Central and South America there is variation risks of Typhoid, Yellow Fever, and Hepatitis A and B. We suggest you consult both the CDC website for Costa Rica and CDC website for Ecuador and check with your primary care physician to prepare for your Spanish Immersion in Costa Rica or Ecuador.

Long Term Spanish Immersion Course 20 hours at Speakeasy Barcelona

Course Overview

Our Long Term Spanish Courses are a great option for those who want to learn Spanish and enjoy life in Barcelona while staying here in over a long period of time. These courses are suitable for applying for a student visa in Spain.

In our long-term Spanish immersion program, your study will be divided into two main blocks: 10 hours of general Spanish study and 10 hours of practical workshops and cultural activities per week. Spanish immersion hours include excursions around Barcelona, ​​interactive games, Spanish tutoring, popular culture, history, traditions and news of the country.

General Spanish classes are held for 2 hours each day, Monday to Friday, in the afternoons from either 13:30 to 15:30 or 17:30 to 19:30. Free Spanish immersion workshops are held from 15:30 to 17:30 every day. In general Spanish lessons, you will cover all aspects of learning Spanish every day: speaking, reading, writing and listening. You will then have the opportunity to apply what you have learned beyond books and classroom activities.

From level A1 to A2, your general course will be supplemented by the Spanish workshops described above, and once you reach level B1, your general Spanish course will be supplemented by a conversation club and business Spanish.

This program is for those who would like to focus on the practical aspects of learning Spanish, immersing themselves in all aspects of both the language and the culture of the country. You will have the opportunity to learn key language skills to communicate in Spanish with ease.

What is included in this course?

• 10 hours per week semi-intensive Spanish course
• 10 hours per week of Spanish immersion workshops
• Several weeks of vacation (depending on the length of your course)
• Documents required for a student visa
• All books required throughout the course
• Registration fee

Calendar view of all course start dates

Courses and prices

The current prices for this course are shown below.

Immersive Spanish course 20 hours

• 24
  weeks

  €1890

• 36
  weeks

  €2898

• 48
  weeks

  €3465

• 52
  weeks

  €3927

Progressive Learning

We know you want to make progress as quickly as possible! The table below shows how long it takes to complete each of the level levels while taking this course.

	Initial				Medium					Advanced
	A1.1	A1.2	A2.1	A2.2	B1.1	B1.2	B1.3	B2.1	B2.2	C1.1	C1.2	C2.1	C2.2
10h/week Semi-intensive	4 weeks(s)	4 weeks(s)	4 weeks(s)	4 weeks(s)	4 weeks(s)	4 weeks(s)	4 weeks(s)	24 weeks	24 weeks(s)	24 weeks(s)	24 weeks(s)	24 weeks(s)	24 weeks(s)

Visa

If you are applying for a student visa as part of a Speakeasy course, we will guide you through the application process. All long-term course packages include the necessary documents required for admission to the school. We have many years of experience in helping non-European citizens obtain long-term student visas. We know that this can be quite difficult and time-consuming, but we can console you by accompanying you throughout the process.

Accommodation

Speakeasy is happy to provide you with a choice of accommodation if you need help finding a home away from home during your stay in Barcelona. Options include a room in a shared private apartment, a host family, a private apartment, or a room in a student residence. Most of our apartments, families and residences are located 20 minutes by public transport from the school and the city center.

Insurance

In addition to confirming that you will have full coverage throughout your stay in Spain, undergraduate students are required to have comprehensive health insurance. If you plan to stay in Spain for more than 180 days and you need a long-term student visa (type D), you must have insurance with full medical coverage in Spain.

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I stay with a host family?

The minimum stay for being with a host family is one week and the maximum is up to one year.

Do you provide a trial lesson?

We do not offer trial classes due to class scheduling and organization. However, you can sign up for one week of classes to see if it’s right for you and then renew if you want. If the level or type of course is not right for you, we can always redirect you to a higher or lower level or find a different schedule.

Does the course need to be paid in advance and in full?

Yes, the full duration of the course in which you wish to take a place must be paid in full and in advance. Therefore, your seat will be reserved for the entire course. Also, full payment for the course is a requirement of the Embassy if you are applying for a student visa.

Spanish course methodology – Olé Barcelona, ​​Spain

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​

Immersive Approach

Immersive Learning Method

Based on immersive i. e. A communicative language learning approach, students learn Spanish grammar step by step according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR), followed by writing, listening, vocabulary and speaking practice. For example, classroom activities include reading newspaper articles, practicing telephone conversations, and watching Spanish films, followed by analysis and discussion. Every Spanish course at Olé Languages ​​is based on an immersive teaching method. From the beginning to the end of each lesson, only Spanish is spoken in the classroom, so students quickly acquire the necessary knowledge to communicate in everyday situations.

At Olé Languages, we make our classrooms living and interactive spaces that provide everything you need to quickly reach your language learning goals through a variety of exercises and activities. Olé Languages ​​is accredited by the Instituto Cervantes.

Small groups

Groups

Small study groups are critical to learning success. This is why the number of students in a class is limited to 9 and the average class size ranges from 5 to 6 students, so that teachers can answer questions individually and each student gets the opportunity to constantly practice their newly acquired knowledge and vocabulary.

Educational materials

Materials included in the registration fee.

Materials required for classes are provided by the school and included in the registration fee. Once students have completed a level and moved on to the next higher level, they will need a new textbook, which can be bought at the school for the price of 18€. Olé Languages ​​uses the Prisma textbook published by Edinumen in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​and the guidelines of the Instituto Cervantes. It is aimed not only at developing communication skills, its structure also allows students to independently solve grammatical issues. In addition to the textbook, students participate in various activities such as reading magazines and newspaper articles, watching excerpts from Spanish films and news clips, listening and speaking.

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​

Levels and tasks.

At Olé Languages ​​we teach CEFR, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: learning, teaching, assessment. CEFR is a system of levels of foreign language proficiency used in the European Union. It was created by the Council of Europe as a core part of the “Learning Languages ​​for European Citizenship” project between 1989 and 1996. The Common European Framework divides learners into three broad divisions, and each division is divided into two sub-categories. The six base levels are becoming accepted as the standard for assessing language proficiency.

Study period (intensive or semi-intensive course)

A Elementary Proficiency

A1 Survival level

A2 Pre-threshold level

B Self-sufficient ownership

B1 Threshold level

B2 Threshold advanced level

C Fluency

C1 Proficiency level

C2 Proficiency level

Description of levels

• A1 Survival level.
  I can understand and use familiar phrases and expressions necessary to perform specific tasks. I can introduce myself and introduce others, ask questions and answer questions about my place of residence, acquaintances, property. Can engage in simple conversation if the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to help.

• A2 Pre-threshold level.
  Can understand single sentences and common expressions related to key areas of life (eg, basic information about myself and family members, shopping, employment, etc.). I can perform tasks related to the simple exchange of information on familiar or everyday topics. In simple terms, I can talk about myself, my family and friends, describe the main aspects of everyday life.

• B1 Threshold level.
  Can understand the main ideas of clear messages delivered in standard language on a variety of topics typically encountered at work, school, leisure, etc. Can communicate in most situations that may arise during a stay in the country of the target language. I can compose a coherent message on topics that are known or of particular interest to me. I can describe impressions, events, hopes, aspirations, state and substantiate my opinion and plans for the future

• B2 Threshold advanced level.
  I can understand the general content of complex texts on abstract and concrete topics, including highly specialized texts. I speak quickly and spontaneously enough to constantly communicate with native speakers without much difficulty for either party. I can write clear, detailed messages on a variety of topics and present my perspective on a major issue, showing the advantages and disadvantages of different opinions.

• C1 Proficiency level
  I can understand large complex texts on various topics, I can recognize hidden meanings. I speak spontaneously at a fast pace, without difficulty in choosing words and expressions. I use language flexibly and effectively for communication in scientific and professional activities.