Do you have questions? We have the answers
HOW DO I APPLY FOR SPANISH COURSES?
Applying is a simple three-step process designed to get you started quickly:
- Complete the Form: Fill out our secure online application.
- Receive Confirmation: We will contact you within 24 hours with specific information on course availability and pricing.
- Finalize Enrollment: Follow the provided instructions to secure your spot.
Our team ensures the entire process is completed within one day so you can focus on your learning.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR COLOMBIA?
Most visitors from: Europe, North America, and many other countries do not need a visa to enter Colombia for short-term studies (up to 90 or 180 days). You will receive a tourist entry permit upon arrival.However, if you plan to study for more than six months, or if your nationality requires a visa for any stay, you must apply for a Visitor Student Visa (V). Once you apply for a course at Spanish World Institute, we will contact you within 24 hours to confirm your enrollment and provide the specific documentation required for your visa application.Student Visa Requirements (For stays over 180 days)To apply for a student visa at the nearest Colombian Embassy or online via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you will need to provide:
- Valid Passport: Must have at least six months of validity remaining and a digital photocopy of the main data page.
- Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photo (3×4 cm) with a white background.
- SWI Acceptance Letter: An official certificate issued by us confirming your enrollment, course length, intensity (minimum 10 hours per week), and start date.
- Proof of Financial Solvency: Recent bank statements (last 6 months) showing sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses in Colombia.
- International Health Insurance: (Mandatory) A policy that covers all risks (accident, illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization, death, and repatriation) for the entire duration of your stay.
- SWI Legal Documents: An authenticated photocopy of the school’s “Certificado de Existencia y Representación Legal.”Motivation Letter: A brief signed letter explaining your interest in studying Spanish in Colombia.
- Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a planned departure from the country.
WHEN DO I NEED TO PAY FOR THE SPANISH COURSE?
Once we have received and processed your application form, we will send you an official invoice for your program.
- Payment Deadline: Full payment must be completed before the course begins to secure your placement.
- Bank Fees: Please note that all bank transfer fees and transaction costs must be covered by the participant to ensure the full invoice amount is received.
- Confirmation: After your payment is processed, you will receive a formal confirmation letter. This document will include all necessary details regarding your course, schedule, and final enrollment status.
Important Note for Visa Applicants
If you require a Student Visa (V) to study in Colombia, please be aware of the following mandatory requirements:
- Full Payment in Advance: To comply with the regulations of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we can only issue your official Letter of Acceptance and Proof of Payment after the full tuition has been received. These documents are mandatory for your visa application.
- Documentation Delivery: Once payment is confirmed, we will provide you with the school’s legal accreditation (Certificado de Existencia y Representación Legal) and your enrollment certificates within 24 hours.
- Refund Policy: In the unlikely event that your visa is officially denied by the Colombian Embassy, our refund policy will apply (please refer to our Terms & Conditions for details regarding administrative fees).
CAN I MAKE AN ALTERATION TO MY BOOKING?
We are happy to accommodate changes to your program arrangements—including course dates and accommodation—whenever possible. Requests made at least two weeks prior to your start date will be processed free of charge, subject to availability.
DO I GET A REFUND IF I HAVE TO CANCEL MY SPANISH COURSE?
Yes, refunds are possible depending on when the cancellation is made. All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing (via email or official notification). The refund structure is as follows:
More than 4 weeks before the start date: We will refund all fees paid, retaining only the non-refundable registration fee. Less than 4 weeks before the start date, We will reimburse 80% of the total course and lodging costs.
One week or less before the start date: No refund is possible for cancellations made within seven days of the program start date, after the course has begun, or in the case of non-arrival.
Note: Please remember that bank transaction fees for refunds must be covered by the participant.
WILL SOMEONE MEET ME UPON MY ARRIVAL IN COLOMBIA?
Yes. To ensure a safe and stress-free start to your program, we offer a professional airport pick-up service. Upon arrival, a designated driver will meet you and take you directly to your pre-arranged accommodation. You will also receive a Welcome Pack containing essential local information, emergency contacts, and tips to make your stay in Colombia as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Please note that the airport transfer is an optional service and an additional fee applies. To arrange your pick-up, please provide us with your flight details at least one week before your arrival.
WILL MY TEACHERS SPEAK ENGLISH?
Yes, our teachers are bilingual and speak English, which can be helpful for clarifying complex concepts during the initial stages of your learning. However, our methodology focuses on maximum immersion. We believe it is most beneficial for you to spend the majority of your class time speaking, practicing, and listening to Spanish. This active approach ensures faster progress and helps you build the confidence needed to navigate daily life in Colombia.
WHAT IF I DO NOT SPEAK A WORD OF SPANISH YET?
At Spanish World Institute, we are highly experienced in teaching “absolute beginners.” We offer specialized courses designed specifically to build your foundation from the ground up. While arriving in a new country without the language may feel like a challenge at first, our proven teaching methods and immersive environment ensure that you will start communicating in basic situations almost immediately. Our expert teachers are dedicated to making your transition into the Spanish language smooth, fast, and rewarding.
HOW WILL I GET AROUND WHEN I ARRIVE?
Our schools and accommodation options have excellent access to public transportation or are within easy walking distance of each. We will provide you a city map and give some websites for checking.
WILL MY LEVEL BE TESTED?
Yes, we ask the students to answer the Spanish test that is on our website by doing this, you will be assured of being assigned to a class that is appropriate for you and oral evaluation and is done on the first day of classes.
WHO WILL BE MY TEACHER?
We select trained native speaking professionals with qualifications and experience in teaching the language as second language. They are also chosen for their ability to relate well with the students and deliver the material in a fun, efficient and productive manner. You can rest assured that you will be matched with a professional, congenial and effective teacher.
HOW CAN I BENEFIT THE MOST FROM MY LEARNING EXPERIENCE?
There are some important practices you need to become familiar with on a daily basis to gain the most from your Spanish studies.
- Speaking: Use the language as often as possible. This could be in a shop, restaurant, asking for directions. It could be in class, with a home stay family, at a hotel. Anywhere and everywhere is the key.
- Listening: Research the way people pronounce and use the language naturally. You will notice accents and pronunciation, sentence structure; you will build your vocabulary.
- Reading: Try to read newspapers articles, some short stories in Spanish, children stories etc.
- Writing: Make short essays of 200 in different topics, cultural activities and other interesting issues that you may like.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO START THE SPANISH COURSE ON ANOTHER DAY THAN MONDAY?
Yes, it is possible to start the spanish course on a other day than Monday but please contact the school directly by WhatsApp at +57 310 566 8504 or by email info@spanishworldinstitute.com
They will tell you the availability, and courses that are offering during that week.
WHEN DO THE SPANISH COURSES START?
All courses begin on Monday at 8:00 am and end on Friday. Most courses start any Monday of the year. If Monday is a bank holiday and the school is closed, the course will start on a Tuesday. We will let you join at any time if you are booking a course of individual instruction. For colombian holidays please check this calendar: https://www.calendariodecolombia.com/
WHAT ARE THE COURSES TIMETABLE?
In general, group classes take place in the mornings between 8:00 and 14:00. Spanish Standard Course 15 hours per week, timetable 8:00 am – 11:00 am
Spanish Semi-intensive Course 20 hours per week, timetable 8:00 am – 12:00 am
Spanish intensive Course 30 hours per week, timetable 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
HOW CAN I OBTAIN BILDUNGSURLAUB RECOGNITION FOR STUDYING SPANISH IN COLOMBIA?
To utilize Bildungsurlaub, you must choose a spanish school with valid accreditation from German federal states (such as Berlin, Hessen or North Rhine-Westphalia). Our spanish courses meet these requirements by offering:
Official registration confirmation and a detailed syllabus.
A minimum of 30 teaching hours per week.
Necessary documentation for your employer, provided well in advance.
Our certifications are currently valid through January 2029.
WHAT IS THE TEACHING METHOD FOR THE INTENSIVE SPANISH COURSES?
Our methodology is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), focusing on communicative immersion. The curriculum is designed to allow students to learn at their own pace while ensuring academic rigor. We integrate professional grammar and real-world conversation to ensure that students gain practical, high-level language skills for both daily life and business
WHERE ARE THE SPANISH LESSONS HELD IN COLOMBIA?
We offer high-quality spanish courses in Bogota’s most significant location. Our spanish school is located in the Chapinero Alto neighborhood of Bogotá, known for its vibrant cultural scene and central accessibility.
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