Category Archives: FAQs

Put simply: Abroad, you live the language, rather than just learning it.

Living the language means…

being surrounded by native speakers who talk at machine gun speed
walking the local streets admiring the bill boards, architecture and shops
relaxing in cafes, bars or restaurants
travelling on the local transport system
experiencing the local culture; museums, historic sites and modern buildings, country landscapes and/or city life
developing a taste for local delicacies, be that pasta or ice cream in Italy, fish and white wine in France or tapas and cerveza in Andalucia
sharing these experiences with others at the college who are also soaking up the local atmosphere. Read More »

Absolutely. The more you know the better. In reality both CESA and the colleges are well aware the best of intentions somehow get de-railed in reality.  However, no one expects you to work in-depth before you arrive. Obviously if you can manage something before departure, you will be the one who benefits.

Here are some ideas on where to begin Read More »

We are only asking you to give an indication of your current language ability when you enrol.

Once you are booked onto a language course the college will either send you a linguistic questionnaire via CESA or wait until you arrive at the college and assess your level on the first day of lessons. Only after this will they place you in a group, with other students of similar language ability as yourself.

Check out Your Ability, for a break down of langauge ability from beginner to advanced. Each college has their own way of defining the various language levels (but broadly speaking they comply with the examples given).

If you still feel unsure, talk to us. We are here to help.
Telephone:  UK: 01209 211800  International: +44 1209 211800

The Number One Question.
This is what the whole thing is about.

Firstly, be realistic. If you only give us two weeks of your time do not expect to jump from ordering beer to fluency by the end of your course!

Having said that a two week course can give you a great jump start especially if you are already studying the language in the UK. Past students on A’level courses tell us that their courses abroad gave them an extra grade, at AS or A2 level. Whether you are in education (possibly preparing for exams, taking Adult Education classes or private tuition lessons) a short course abroad can make a real difference. You will consolidate previous skills and take a leap forward in activating passive knowledge. Unfortunately you will not master all the grammar of the language and add 10,000 words to your vocabulary on a one or two week course. Would that CESA could deliver this – it would make for some very happy clients! Read More »