One of the important features of the overall Spanish learning experience is that students with little or no Spanish may enroll and study for as long as time permits. Placement tests and weekly evaluations are given to determine each students exact level, and to ensure that each student is continually challenged, but not frustrated by being slightly ahead or slightly behind their classmates.

The number of participants in each class is never over four, and is frequently smaller. Students move in and out of classes on a weekly basis depending on their ability and their motivation for outside study.

Teachers are all native speakers of Spanish, who have received extensive training in the teaching languages to adult students. Classes are often held in lounges or outside in the garden. Indoors or outdoors is up to an individual's preference. Students will switch teachers weekly and will have classes scheduled in either the morning or afternoon.

Students age 17 years and older are welcomed into the school's Adult Programs regardless of educational background, occupation or nationality. Students under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult or be enrolled in the Summer Teen Program. No previous knowledge of Spanish is required except where otherwise indicated.

Although no vaccinations are required to enter Ecuador, some precautions should be taken in order to ensure a healthy visit. It is recommended that prior to arrival, all students should undertake a thorough medical examination and consult their physician about the necessary injections. Students should be protected against typhoid, polio, tetanus and hepatitis. A yellow fever vaccination is only required if you are going to the jungle. Those students enrolling in the SierrAzul program must be aware that the jungle area is high-risk for Yellow Fever and a vaccination for Yellow Fever is necessary.

Students desiring credit for their study should contact their home school or request the NRCSA Credit Fact Sheet. Generally, U.S. universities consider 15 hours of study to be equal to 1 semester credit.

The school has arranged study programs for some U.S. colleges for which undergraduate or graduate credits has been given. The number of credits granted is determined by the length of stay and number of the classroom hours. Be sure to arrange the NRCSA Credit Option at least 60 days prior to your date of departure. For those students who have arranged with their home college or university to receive credits for Spanish study abroad, a letter will be issued stating dates of study, hours completed, progress and level of achievement. Get a letter of instructions from your home school and advise the foreign school administrators upon arrival of your credit transfer needs.

For more information about academic credit in Spanish speaking countries, please click here.
For general information on academic credit, please click here.