Study Spanish in Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia

Colombia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world with contrasting landscapes from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon Rainforest  Bogotá is one of the most popular locations to learn Spanish, there is a mix of new and old here where you can see ancient monuments and huge modern skyscrapers.

There are lots of language schools and universities based here and lots of activites to keep you busy in your spare time. People in Colombia are very new to speaking English meaning you will get plenty of opportunities to practise your new linguistic skills on the streets and out and about.

Whether you are considering studying abroad, or taking a gap year in Colombia, you won't regret spending a little extra time living here and if you are wondering where the best places to study Spanish in Colombia are then our guide will be able to help you.

 

Top Reasons to Study in Colombia

  • Maybe you want to work or volunteer in Colombia - knowing the basics of the language will really help with intregration
  • Competative course prices compared to other countries you could study Spanish in South America
  • Lots of sights and things to do in your spare time like watching football
  • Meet other students from all over the world
  • Up and coming destination for an authentic experience

 

Best Places to Learn Spanish in Colombia

There are language schools located throughout the country in places like:

  • Bogotá
  • Medellín
  • Cali
  • Barranquilla
  • Cartagena
  • Cúcuta
  • Bucaramanga
  • Ibagué
  • Soledad
  • Pereira

Where you go really depends on your interests and the school which appeals to you. Cartagena is an old colonial city with beautiful architecture and African, Spanish and Caribbean influences. Expect a vibrant culture, warm climate and year round. Medellin is the second biggest city in Colombia and another popular place to study.

 

Types of Courses

  • Intensive Spanish Courses
  • Private Spanish Classes
  • Intensive Business Spanish Course

 

FAQ

  • Course Start Dates: Usually Monday, every week of the year
  • Lesson Duration: Generally 50 minutes for group classes and slightly longer for private classes
  • Class Size: Average 6; Maximum 12 
  • Minimum Age: 16
  • Schedule: Morning or Afternoon (Schedule determined by your school). Private lessons can be in the evening
  • Suggested Check-In: One day earlier
  • Currency: Courses can be booked in US dollars
  • Visa: If you are planning to study in Colombia for less than 2 months most nationalities do not require visitor visa. All students who plan to study for more than two months must apply for a Temporary Student Visa in the nearest Colombian consulate or embassy. If you want to study and work e.g. teaching English in Colombia your employer will be able to help with paperwork.

 

Accommodation

  • Shared accommodation
  • Homestays
  • Private room/appartment

 

Safety

Colombia is a very safe destination to learn Spanish, this country is now one of the safest on the continent and the larger cities like Bogota and Cartagena are becoming more popular with foreigners.

 

Cost 

Spanish tuition in Colombia is very competitively priced, but is not as cheap overall as some countries in Central America like Guatemala. You can expect to pay around US$200 per week for group lessons and $300 for private one on one tuition. Homestays and shared accommodation can cost around $150-$250 per week.

 

Discounted / Free Spanish Lessons in Colombia

Discounts are applicable when classes are booked by more than one person. Some schools offer incentives live free lessons if you recommend friends or other people who sign up.

 

Help & Advice

If you need any help arranging a Spanish course in Colombia please contact us.

 

Colombia Spanish School Reviews

If you have ever joined a Spanish course in Colombia and would like to write about your experience, review a company or share any recommendations please contact us,

"My first South America tour was to Colombia. I had heard so great things about it from backpackers back home, but I was still kind of nervous because of all the roumors that circulate about Colombia in Euorope. So I decided to find a stable point where I can learn the language and get to know the culture before backpacking around the country. I found a school which was to be different from the traditional language schools.

I am always a bit sceptical to language schools, but this seemed kind of cool. It is called Colombia Immersion. And now I am soooo glad I found it, because it really gave me a gateway into the colombian culture. We always had a lot of locals hanging around, fieldtrips and events every week etc etc. The classes were also good, because it was mostly focusing on talking and practicing. Here it is, give it a peek if you want to have a different experience from the classic schools, where it is only about the classes." - Katalin Fülep

"I recently moved to Colombia to live in Medellin to live for some time. I did not try to learn the local language spanish before I left and therefore I really struggled when I first arrived. I think your readers should take your advice and at least pick up the basics before departing as I was behind when I arrived I started taking Spanish classes straight away. I took an immersion course on arrival and I would recommend it to people moving abroad or visiting Colombia." - Mark Irwin