Language courses abroad

The main difference is that language courses offer more freedom. Classes are held only in the morning or afternoon, leaving the rest of the time for the student's leisure time. There is much more time to explore the city, spend more time on homework or spend time with new friends from your group.

Laura Galindo

Marketing Director

At what age do foreign students usually enter English schools?

Our programs are for ages 16+. Nonetheless, the average age of our student population is between the ages of 18-35. 

The main difference is that language courses offer more freedom. Classes are held only in the morning or afternoon, leaving the rest of the time for the student's leisure time. There is much more time to explore the city, spend more time on homework or spend time with new friends from your group.

Firstly, being on a course, you can already explore the city, understand the mentality of the nationality and assess how comfortable the place will be for you. You can also visit universities of interest in your free time. A number of language schools are also accredited language exam centers, so after taking a training course, you can consolidate your knowledge by taking a language exam and submit these documents when applying to a university.

The language courses accept students with absolutely any level - from zero to advanced. Upon arrival to the program, all students take a level test and are then assigned to groups according to their current level and age.

The optimal course length depends on your starting level and your goals. It takes about 3 months to learn one level of a language, so if you want to improve your language skills significantly, it makes sense to consider a course of 3-6 months.

Each language center issues a certificate of completion at the end of the course, and a number of language schools that are accredited for international language exams can offer exams such as ielts, toefl, cae, etc.

In addition to language classes, schools offer a variety of activities aimed at getting to know the culture of the city and country, as well as the opportunity to get together and make friends from all over the world. Very often language schools also offer a weekend excursion program and are happy to tell you about the traditions and customs of the city and country.

Most of the language schools offer not only standard English courses, but also specialized courses, such as Business English, English for a specific field, preparation for qualification exams, and English level exams.

At language courses, native-speaking teachers use modern materials and methods aimed at maximizing the effectiveness of language learning. The lesson is student-centered - focused on the student's needs, goals and objectives, as well as on maximizing opportunities for language practice.

The cost of courses will depend on the country, city and language center itself. If we consider the most popular destinations, English courses in the UK, in London, will cost about 300-400 pounds per week, courses in Dublin will cost about 250-300 euros per week, and the weekly cost of courses in major US cities will be about $300-400.

Studying English abroad offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a language environment and communicate with native speakers. This helps to quickly improve language skills and allows you to familiarize yourself with the local culture.

Are you contemplating enrolling in language courses at an international school? If you find yourself uncertain about which language course to select in foreign lands, the guidance of SMAPSE experts can help dispel your doubts.

Here are some straightforward questions to ponder:

1. Language Learning Duration: Have you been learning a foreign language in your home country for over a year, achieving a reasonable level of understanding and conversation?

2. Slow Progress: Do you feel like your language learning progress has been sluggish?

3. Language Barrier: Have you encountered challenges breaking through a language barrier?

4. Unfulfilled Results: Have you attempted to learn a foreign language previously but failed to attain your desired proficiency?

5. Costly Private Tutoring: Are private language classes proving to be too expensive for your budget?

6. Learning Style: Do you prefer engaging, exciting educational processes over rote memorization?

7. Language Immersion: Are you interested in fully immersing yourself in a language environment, even if you're starting from scratch?

If you've answered "yes" to three or more of these questions, embarking on a journey to study languages in foreign countries emerges as a rational and highly effective alternative to local language centers or private tutors. Language courses in Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada consistently offer a more effective and engaging learning experience compared to the best language schools in your home country.

Setting Clear Objectives

Begin by defining your goals. Clearly identifying the purpose of your language study will help you choose the appropriate program type and level. Programs designed for those starting from scratch, seeking skill improvement, or preparing for an international exam or university entry vary significantly. Taking a professional approach to program selection will streamline your preparations. In our catalog, you can explore English courses abroad (as well as other languages) aligned with your foreign language proficiency and academic objectives. Use the curriculum type filter available in the left panel of the page for a more tailored search.

Selecting the Ideal Study Location

You have the option to prepare for your language studies at a specialized school, private center, college, or even opt for language camps in foreign countries. In our catalog, you can choose the most suitable option based on your preferred educational institution type or even select a seasonal program, such as a summer or winter camp abroad.

Delve into the world of language learning with our selection of prestigious language courses, offered by the top 100 language schools both in the European Union and beyond. These programs cater to a variety of criteria, with diverse types of language courses to choose from:

Intensive Language Courses

These rigorous programs entail a minimum of 24 lessons per week, with a strong focus on honing communication skills. Students engage in discussions on current events, converse with native speakers, study vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. Intensive courses involve both oral and written assignments, as well as reading practice.

Standard Language Courses

Ideal for those seeking a balanced language learning experience, standard courses typically comprise 10 to 20 lessons per week. These courses emphasize vocabulary expansion, fundamental grammar comprehension, and the development of communication skills.

Examination Preparation Courses

These specialized programs equip students with the skills needed to excel in international tests of various levels, such as TOEFL, IELTS, or the Cambridge exams.

Specialized Language Courses

Tailored for professionals in various fields, including pedagogy, business, medicine, law, and more.

When it comes to affordable language courses of high quality, our SMAPSE experts recommend considering Malta (with prices ranging from 100 to 200 euros per week) or Spain (with costs ranging from 130 to 200 euros per week). While the United Kingdom boasts numerous budget-friendly language schools, living expenses may be higher.

For children, language courses are often offered through international language camps that provide an all-inclusive experience, encompassing accommodation, full-board meals, excursions, sports activities, and transfers.

Within the SMAPSE directory, you have the freedom to choose from a multitude of programs. Whether you're interested in English courses abroad or courses in other languages, a wide range of options awaits.

Many prestigious European language schools have branches not only within a single country but also abroad, offering students the opportunity to study in bustling metropolises or tranquil provinces, catering to their preferences.

Among foreign students, the United Kingdom remains a perennial favorite. England, home to top-ranking and prestigious schools, offers foreign students effective and advanced English courses.

Malta has earned recognition as an English language learning hub, with teaching methods based on the British educational system. Notably, tuition fees in Malta are more budget-friendly compared to the United Kingdom.

Prestigious schools in Canada and the United States offer a myriad of programs encompassing leisure, excursions, and extracurricular activities, ensuring a high standard of academic and language proficiency. Canada also provides international students with effective French language courses.

For those aspiring to learn German, Austria and Switzerland are the ideal destinations. These international countries offer high-quality education in English, German, French, and Italian, accompanied by a comfortable living environment. International students can engage in sports competitions, captivating excursions, and leisurely walks through picturesque landscapes at the foothills of the Swiss Alps.

SMAPSE's catalog features the TOP-100 language schools in Switzerland, Europe, USA, and Canada, serving as a user-friendly tool for program selection. You won't need to independently scour through dozens of schools and centers; SMAPSE experts have streamlined the offerings from service providers around the world.

Our project is international, and we have direct partnerships with language schools and centers. Consequently, the information presented in the catalog is first-hand. SMAPSE exclusively recommends proven options for obtaining high-quality education.

Our company's specialists are always available to assist clients in selecting the best schools and programs in foreign countries. You can reach us through various channels, including email, Skype, telephone, or a convenient online chat. Rest assured, consultations via any of these methods are offered free of charge.

Language Program Types Abroad 

The finest language schools in European countries offer a broad array of educational programs tailored to foreign children, students, and adults. Language programs can vary in the following aspects:

• Study Direction

• Program Duration

• Intensity of Study

Regardless of the specific prestigious language program you choose, you can count on a high standard of educational services.

General language courses are favored among foreign students due to their versatility and affordability. These courses can span from one week to an entire year, typically comprising 15-20 academic hours of lessons per week. Intensive English courses, in contrast, may involve 30-35 academic hours of lessons per week.

The primary demographic for language courses in Europe consists of international students around 16 years old. These students often opt for preparatory language courses designed to facilitate success in international language exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, GRE, and DALF. These language certificates are essential for gaining admission to top-ranked universities worldwide.

Today, prestigious schools in Europe offer language courses tailored to professionals from various fields. "Foreign Language for Business Communication" programs facilitate the expansion of professional terminology and the development of communication skills within the international business community. Such courses for entrepreneurs, specialists, and managers are typically customized based on individual characteristics, foreign language proficiency levels, field of expertise, and the student's capacity. Distinguished specialists and experts in specific business areas are typically recruited to instruct top managers. These lessons generally entail 8 to 10 sessions per week.

Language programs combined with sports, hobbies, or educational activities are also in high demand. Students and adults alike can explore activities such as golf, tennis, rafting, yachting, rock climbing, dance, painting, and theater arts. Additionally, courses for adults often integrate language learning with culinary exploration and wine tourism, offering a delightful blend of culture and education.

The cost of language courses varies based on several factors:

• Country of Study

• Season of Study

• Intensity of Language Program

• Student's Age

• Extracurricular Program Intensity (Including Excursions and Entertainment)

• Type of Language Course

It's important to note that upon arrival in a foreign country, international students typically undergo a placement test, the results of which determine their language proficiency level. These tests assess reading, writing, grammar, listening comprehension, and spoken language skills.

Many language courses offer various accommodation options to cater to the diverse preferences of international students:

• On-Campus Accommodation: Students can reside on campus in comfortable school residences, fostering close connections with peers from around the world.

• Host Families or Teacher's Families: Living with a host family or a teacher's family provides a unique opportunity for cultural immersion and a deeper understanding of local life.

• Hotels or Apartments: For those seeking more independent accommodation, hotels and apartments are often available as options.