Language Schools
Language Schools in Medellín, Colombia: A Guide for Spanish Learners
Medellín has become a top destination for language learners, attracting people from around the world who are eager to improve their Spanish. Whether you're here to learn the language or simply immerse yourself in Colombian culture, you'll find a variety of language schools to suit your needs. Here's a guide to some of the best Spanish schools in Medellín, including information on pricing, location, trust level, and student visa eligibility.
1. OLSA International
- Location: Laureles & El Poblado
- Pricing: $60 USD/week for group classes; $100 USD for 4 private lessons; from $214 USD for 1-week intensive packages
- Trust Level: OLSA is widely regarded as one of the highest-rated language schools in Medellín, known for its engaging and practical teaching style.
- Student Visa: Yes, OLSA offers a study abroad program, and students who enroll for courses of 6 months or longer are eligible for a student visa.
- Additional Features: Free social events, language exchanges, and a study abroad program with accommodation and meals.
2. Toucan Spanish
- Location: El Poblado
- Pricing: Around 600,000 COP (approx. $154 USD) per week for group classes; 80,000 COP (approx. $20 USD) per hour for private lessons
- Trust Level: A popular choice among travelers for its affordability and friendly atmosphere, with native Colombian teachers who provide a deep insight into the local culture.
- Student Visa: No, Toucan Spanish is not officially certified for student visas. However, it offers flexible language courses and various cultural activities, making it ideal for those not seeking a visa or only studying short-term.
- Additional Features: Weekly conversation clubs, salsa classes, language exchanges, and tours to local attractions like Guatapé and Santa Fe de Antioquia.
3. Elefun
- Location: Laureles & El Poblado
- Pricing: Around $11–12 USD per hour for group classes; $19.50 USD per hour for private lessons
- Trust Level: Known for its flexible schedule and engaging activities, Elefun offers a more relaxed, community-focused learning experience.
- Student Visa: Yes, Elefun offers accredited courses that qualify for a student visa for long-term students.
- Additional Features: Free daily cultural activities, including salsa classes, language exchange, and yoga. Flexible course hours (10–20 hours per week).
4. EAFIT University
- Location: El Poblado
- Pricing: Around 1,833,000 COP (approx. $471 USD) for group classes; 5,540,000 COP (approx. $1,424 USD) for private lessons
- Trust Level: EAFIT is a well-established university in Medellín, offering a highly academic approach to learning Spanish, ideal for those seeking a more structured and immersive environment.
- Student Visa: Yes, EAFIT's Spanish courses qualify for student visas, and it offers a university experience for those who want a more formal, academic setting.
- Additional Features: Cultural and academic activities within the university, including exhibitions and talks.
5. Colombia Spanish School
- Location: El Poblado
- Pricing: 600,000 COP (approx. $154 USD) per week for group lessons; 900,000 COP (approx. $230 USD) for duo lessons
- Trust Level: Offers a solid reputation with experienced teachers and great value for both group and private lessons.
- Student Visa: No, Colombia Spanish is not eligible for student visas but provides quality, affordable language courses.
- Additional Features: Free weekly language exchange and salsa classes, as well as a one-day "survival Spanish" crash course.
6. Nueva Lengua
- Location: El Poblado
- Pricing: Around $240 USD/week for general Spanish; $250 USD for intensive courses; $530 USD for private lessons
- Trust Level: Nueva Lengua offers a variety of specialized courses, including medical Spanish, business Spanish, and Spanish for volunteers.
- Student Visa: No, Nueva Lengua does not qualify for student visas, but it’s known for its specialization in tailored courses.
- Additional Features: Cultural activities like cooking and dance classes, and opportunities for volunteering alongside language learning.
Conclusion
Medellín has a wide range of language schools, each offering unique benefits depending on your learning goals. If you're looking for a program that qualifies for a student visa, options like OLSA International, Elefun, and EAFIT stand out. On the other hand, schools like Toucan Spanish and Colombia Spanish offer great value for shorter-term learners or those simply looking to immerse themselves in the language without needing a visa.
Be sure to check with the schools for the latest visa information and consider your own goals when choosing the right language school for you. Whether you're looking for an academic experience or something more relaxed and community-focused, Medellín offers great options for every learner!