Spanish Immersion Schools: How They Work

Hola!

If you missed yesterday’s post, I’m at a Spanish immersion school in Costa Rica:

Studying at Tico Lingo in Heredia, Costa Rica

Today, I’m going to tell you how these schools work.

–They’re all over Latin America & Spain–in big cities, medium cities and small cities.

–After you enroll, they give you a written and oral test, in order to place you in a group at your level (1-6 people).

–You can also take private, 1-on-1 lessons or a mix of private and group lessons (I prefer the group lessons because I learn so much from the other students, and the conversation is usually better).

–All levels are welcome–from total beginners (zero Spanish) to advanced students.

–Some schools have specific programs for young people and some schools have summer camps for young people (2-4 weeks).

–At most schools, you can start on any Monday (though, some schools only let beginners start on specific weeks).

–You can attend for one week or a zillion weeks, it’s up to you.

–Classes usually run from 8am to 12pm, M-F. Though, sometimes they go from 1pm to 5pm.

–Classes are a combination of grammar and conversation (I think it’s fun to have conversations about grammar–killing two birds w/ one stone).

–There are usually activities available after class (cooking, dancing, yoga).

–Some schools set up language exchanges (intercambios) with people from the local community that want to practice their English (they practice English, we practice Spanish).

–Almost all schools offer the option of a homestay where you live and eat with a local family. Other schools offer rooms in apartments with Spanish speakers. You can also stay in your own accommodation.

–I’ve done all types of accommodations but the best for learning Spanish are living in a family’s home or sharing an apartment with a Spanish speaker.

–Prices vary, but generally, four weeks of class is usually around US$1,000 and four weeks of accommodation is usually around US$1,000 (which includes breakfast and dinner, sometimes laundry and other stuff).

–I’ve studied at five schools so far (three in Spain, one in Argentina, and one in Costa Rica). Some are better than others, but all have been wonderful experiences.

–Bottom line: I don’t know any easier way to fully immerse yourself in a Spanish-speaking world. If you want to improve your Spanish, I highly suggest attending a Spanish immersion school–or multiple.
If you have any questions, send me an email at support@spanishdude.com

Hasta luego,
Jordan