FAQs about Alajuela

1. Why should I study in Alajuela?
Our goal is to provide our students with an invaluable learning experience as well as a cultural experience. We feel that immersion is the best way to learn Spanish as a second language. We have the staff with the expertise and experience to help you progress quickly and enjoyably in your study of Spanish.

We offer Intensive and Regular Immersion Spanish language courses. We conduct Spanish Programs specifically for children, teenagers, medical professionals, Programs for Spanish Teachers, and manyothers in the Spanish language.

Our Spanish courses in Alajuela, Costa Rica are designed to be flexible; we offer courses of study for only one week to as many weeks or months you may require.We are completely willing to adjust schedules according to your needs.

Beginning, intermediate and advanced Spanish classes are intentionally kept small with no more than amaximumof four students per group so that we may give more attention to your specific needs and to create a better overall dynamic in the class

2. Where is your PartnerSchool located in Alajuela ?
It is located in La Guácima de Alajuela, a small village 18 miles northwest of San José, capital of the country, and about ten minutes away from the international airport, Juan Santamaría.

3. How long are your programs? When can I start?
Our programs are very flexible; running from one week to any length of time you want, depending on your objective. The programs start every Monday of the week, all-year-round.

4. What are your different programs?
We offer many different programs such as:

5. Who typically attends your school in Alajuela?
We have students who are children and we have students who are retirees. Our students come from every age category and from every profession..

6. How many levels of Spanish are offered?
Beginning intermediate and advanced Spanish classes. We intentionally keep our classes small. We conduct classes with no more than four students per group. The small class size enables us togive more attention to your needs and to create a better dynamic in the classroom.

7. What are the schedules?
Regular Program 4 hrs :

8.00 am to 12.30 pm

Intensive Program 5 / 30 hrs :

8.00 am to 12.30 pmlunch

+ Afternoon session: from 2.00 pm to 3.30 pm

8. May I take one-on-one instruction?
A student can receive one-on-one instruction if he or she desires. There is an extra cost if you choose this option.

Our prices are as follows:

Regular Program with private tutor:

Regular Program = US $495 per week

Intensive Program = US $620 per week

9. Do you have experience teaching advanced students?
Yes.Our PartnerSchool has been dedicated to teaching Spanish as a foreign language for more than 12 years.

Classes quickly advance due to the fact that they are entirely in Spanish, and each week a specific grammatical sequence is presented. Our instructors are skilled at blending conversation with grammar to meet the individual needs of the group members. We try to make learning grammar fun.

Some of our teachers can communicate in English as well as Spanish, however be aware that they only speak English when it becomes necessary to translate a Spanish phrase or word. We emphasize speaking Spanish at all times. However we have professionals in our school that can help with anything you need, in English if necessary.

10. Will I have the same professor every week?
No, each week students change professors in order to expose them to different expressions, vocabulary, accents and teaching styles.

11. Can I come to study with my family?
If you are planning to travel with your children, you are welcome to have them attend the school and learn the Spanish Language at the same time as you.

Babysitting service during class time hours can also be arranged. The family is responsible for the cost of the service

12. What are your host families like?
You will actually stay in their living quarters and may become a part of the family. Their homes are clean and ordinary. They are Costa Rican families who will truly welcome you. They will aim to do everything in their power to please you.

13. Will I be given all my meals?
Costa Rican food is delicious and you will always encounter the smell of good cooking and coffee in everyplace.Thehost family will prepare three meals a day for you,.

14. Can families, spouses or travel companions stay in the same homestay?
Yes, we can place students together upon request with no problem. If your family has more than 4 members we recommend that you stay in one of the apartments on campus.

15. Should I bring a gift for my family?
If you would like to bring your family a gift, we recommend something that is particular to your area of the world (such as a mug with a picture of a famous landmark in your town). Other popular gifts have included kitchen items (tea towels, pot holders, etc.), chocolates, and candy, things that are hard to find in CostaRica are more than welcome.

Families do not expect gifts, so do not feel obligated to bring anything.

16. How long may I stay with my homestay?
From one week to the length of time you require. If you finish your program and want to stay longer with your host family, please request it ahead of time.

17. I am a vegetarian; can the family accommodate my needs?
Yes, host families are accustomed to cooking for vegetarian guests. Also the Costa Rican diet typically has many vegetarian dishes.

18 If. I am not interested in a homestay--what are my options?
For your convenience and if you prefer more privacy, the school offers fully furnished, single, double and family sized, apartments on the school campus. These accommodations come fully equipped with a swimming pool in the backyard, and are surrounded by beautiful gardens.
There you will be able to prepare your own meals, or if you still want to interact with a native family, we can arrange your three meals prepared for you at a nearby home.

19. How safe is Costa Rica?
We definitely understand your concerns about travelling abroad. However, Costa Rica is a serene country that is committed to upholding its history of peace and diplomacy. The nation also depends greatly on tourism and you will be treated with great respect and kindness. However, travellers should always use their common sense and best judgment, especially when visiting major cities.

20. Will I have Airport Transportation?
Yes, you will have pick up and drop off transportation.

21. What is included in the Program?
OUR PRICES INCLUDE: