Question 1

How is your Spanish language school different than others in San Miguel?

Accepted Answer

While many Spanish immersion programs are quite similar, one very important factor is the student to teacher ratio. Our classes have a maximum of ten students, and they are often smaller than that. We pride ourselves on being a small, student-focused Spanish language school and we are committed to providing the very best educational structure possible. We have found that while there are many other language schools like ours, they are often larger and somewhat impersonal. When shopping around for Spanish schools always ask questions about class size and how many students will be attending the program overall.

Question 2

Do you offer programs for children or teens? What are the age requirements to enroll in your program? Are there any additional requirements other than age ones?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not offer special programs for children and/or teens. In some cases, during summer sessions, and at our sole discretion, we might open a special group for younger students. There are the following age requirement to enroll in our program: 1) At this moment we do not offer programs for students under 13 years old. 2) Students under 18 and over 13 years old can enroll in our program only if an adult is travelling with them. The only additional requirement to enroll in our program is a genuine interest in learning Spanish and about Mexican culture.

Question 3

Is there a minimum amount of time I must attend your Spanish immersion program and do I have to start at the beginning of a session?

Accepted Answer

The minimum enrollment is one week, with the exception of June and July sessions, when, due to high demand, and at our sole discretion, we might enforce a minimum enrollment which might vary from 2 up to 4 weeks, please check out the schedule page of this site for details. If you are a complete beginner we do suggest that you start at the beginning of a session, while if you already know Spanish then you might be able to start on the 2nd or 3rd week of a session.

Question 4

All lessons will be in Spanish only or the teachers will use English and/or other languages to explain some topics and/or to help students understand?

Accepted Answer

The philosophy of our program is that students should be exposed to Spanish language the most possible. We think that the main goal of an intensive/immersion language program is that students, with the help and support of the teachers, walk in direction of the "break point", that is the moment when they will start communicating in Spanish without mentally translating it into their native language. Our teachers are very experienced, they will do all what they can to make students understand and participate using Spanish only. However our teachers, in particular during the first days of the program, will be flexible and, when strictly necessary, especially with absolute beginners in Spanish, they might decide to use a bit of English during lessons.

Question 5

Where should I fly Mexico City or Leon?

Accepted Answer

Leon's airport is closer than Mexico City's airport. Flights are sometimes more expensive into Leon, but if you have the option, we recommend Leon.

Question 6

How will you place me in a class?

Accepted Answer

On your first day you will be tested to determine the class that best suits you. If you wind up feeling that your class is too easy or too hard you are always invited to try a different one. The final say is up to you (with the help and suggestions of our teachers, of course).

Question 7

How big are the classes?

Accepted Answer

Average group size is 5-6 students. In any case no more than 10 students are admitted in a classroom.

Question 8

Can I receive college credit?

Accepted Answer

No, not unless you work this out with your college ahead of time. We will be glad to provide any kind of documentation you need for academic purposes.

Question 9

How will I do my laundry?

Accepted Answer

There are many "lavanderias" along the streets. You drop your laundry off and come back a few hours later to find it clean and folded neatly in plastic bags. It costs about as much you would spend in a coin operated laundry in the US.

Question 10

What are the "hidden costs"?

Accepted Answer

None. Aside from your transportation to San Miguel, your homestay, and tuition you need very little extra money. This, of course, depends on your personal spending habits. You may want extra money for day or weekend trips, gifts, shopping, bars and restaurants. However, San Miguel is a good place to be for students and those traveling on a limited budget.

Question 11

Do I need a passport?

Accepted Answer

ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the United States and Mexico will be required to present a valid passport. Visit www.travel.state.gov for more updated and official information.

Question 12

Do you offer art classes?

Accepted Answer

No, but there are several places in town that do. If you are interested in taking some art lessons on the side our staff will be happy to direct you to them upon your arrival.

Question 13

What do I do if I want to rent an apartment?

Accepted Answer

Short term rentals (under three months) are difficult to come by in San Miguel, especially during the summer. What is best is to stay in a hotel for your first few days and then look around for signs for apartment rentals. If you are not in a position to do this, then our residence, a homestay or hotel might be a better option for you.

Question 14

Should I take group lessons or private lessons?

Accepted Answer

If you have a very short time to spend studying with us or/and specific professional goals for studying Spanish private lessons might be better while if you have 2 or more weeks available and enjoy the interaction with other people then the group program might be your best option.

Question 15

Do the school and families offer Internet access?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the school and the families both have Wi-Fi Internet access you can use.

Question 16

If I stay with a family, how far away will I be from the school?

Accepted Answer

Usually five minute walking or less, fifteen minutes walking as maximum. San Miguel is a very small town and you can walk anywhere you need to go.

Frequently asked questions