Printer-friendly version
Our courses are the preferred choice of students from all over the world, or from multi-national companies, government departments, universities and development agencies, or are referred to us by satisfied customers.
We offer language courses in General Spanish to students of all levels. For professionals with specific requirements, we prepare courses in Specialised Spanish which are tailor-made to requirements. These courses presuppose an existing knowledge of Spanish of at least Intermediate level. For students planning to take an official examination in Spanish, as an authorised examination centre of Instituto Cervantes we offer the full portfolio of DELE examinations (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera), and also preparation courses to help candidates succeed in the exams.
GENERAL SPANISH
Our General Spanish courses correspond to the six levels of the CommonEuropean Framework of Reference for Languages (CEF) and offer a base for language study and contact with the culture giving equal emphasis on all four communication skills (speaking, writing, reading and listening). All courses are taught in small groups or on a one-to-one tutorial basis. Depending on the time they have available or their preferred mode of study, students can choose between an intensive option with 4-hour classes every weekday (Fast Track) and a non-intensive option with 3-hour classes twice a week (Standard Track). Students are asked to complete a brief placement test (written and oral) to determine their starting level and are awarded a certificate of level as well as a detailed progress report at the end of each course.
- Fast Track
This is an intensive course of variable length, depending on the student’s objectives. The basic course is two weeks and can be extended in multiples of one week. The timetable is four hours a day from Monday to Friday and field trips and cultural exchange activities are included in the course. New groups start every Monday.
- Standard Track
For people working or retiring in this country, this is a less intensive option which allows students to integrate their studies with other activities. There are 2 three-hour classes a week for a module of 11 weeks. Two modules (or 22 weeks) make a complete level and the whole course comprises the six levels that correspond to the CEF and the examinations of the Instituto Cervantes.
OTHER SERVICES
Our premises have a small café and wi-fi internet connection. We offer twenty-four hour emergency health and personal assistance (It is important that students coming from abroad should take out a medical insurance policy before travelling). Homestay accommodation with local families can be arranged on your behalf or we can supply a list of local hotels if you prefer. We have a network of reliable travel agents that can help you choose and book tours.
PRICES
The fees in the above table are per student. Course prices do not include the cost of course books and CDs.
Books for General Spanish cost approximately US $60 and for Examination Preparation approximately US $15.
Availability: If a student registers for a group course and there are not enough students at the same level to form a group, the student will receive a tutorial course at no additional cost: in one-to-one tutorials, 10 hours a week; in two-to-one tutorials, 15 hours a week.
Homestay: US $135 / week, includes private room, laundry service, breakfast and supper
Airport pick-up: US $35/one way
Reservations: To reserve a place, a deductible registration fee is payable in advance – US $200 per person per course and US $100 per person per homestay – and can be made by credit card or bank transfer.
Payment The balance is due 2 weeks before the start of the course.
AUTHORISED CENTRE OF THE INSTITUTO CERVANTES
The Instituto Cervantes is the world authority in the teaching and testing of Spanish as a foreign language. IHSJ Instituto Británico is Costa Rica’s first appointed Centro Asociado, a status that guarantees its customers excellence in teaching and is invaluable for booking from abroad.
IHSJ Instituto Británico is also an authorised examination centre of the Instituto Cervantes, its DELE certificates in Spanish as a foreign language have worldwide recognition.
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE SAN JOSE - INSTITUTO BRITÁNICO
IHSJ Instituto Británico has been teaching languages for almost 30 years and is affiliated with the renowned worldwide network of high quality language schools, International House World Organisation. IHWO comprises over 150 schools in 50 countries which are united by shared values and dedication to quality, including guarantees for students regarding the experience, qualifications and professionalism of their teaching staff and insights into the culture of the country they study in. We have a multicultural student body and teaching staff and our main building is located in a busy suburb of the capital city, close to shops, public transport and universities. 
Download this information on a PDF format
