Use this frequently asked questions page for any information that you have not found on the website. We hope this page covers any possible questions but, if necessary please do not hesitate to contact us either by telephone or through our contact form .
Frequently asked questions to study spanish in Madrid
What are classes like at Velazquez Spanish for Foreigners?
At Velazquez spanish for foreigners, we prioritise a communicative approach to teaching Spanish. We encourage learning through a variety of different tasks and situations, fomenting communication at all times. From your first day with us until your last, you will develop Spanish skills for real, every-day situations. Our classes are are dynamic, well-structured and, most importantly, strictly in Spanish to facilitate the most natural language learning.
Who teaches Spanish classes at Velazquez Spanish for foreigners?
Our Spanish teachers have graduated from University with specific qualifications to allow them to teach Spanish as a foreign language. All of our Spanish teachers are native speakers and, aside from their qualifications and professional training, they have also been chosen for their enthusiasm, empathy, dedication, creativity, and continued improvements to their classes, guaranteeing a welcoming and beneficial experience.
When can I start one of your Spanish courses?
If you are a beginner (A1 level according to CEFR), get in contact with us and we will inform you of our starting dates for the beginner A1 level course. If you have some previous knowledge of Spanish, send in your level test and request a date, enrolment is available every Monday.
How can I find out my level and which course is right for me?
The level test is free and does not commit you to anything. . You can do it in different ways:
- Through the Spanish test on our website, by attaching the refillable file to the registration form.
- In person during school hours, no need to make an appointment
After receiving the test, we will contact you to inform you of your current level and the open groups of that level with their corresponding schedules.
Which is the best course for me? Standard course or intensive?
At Velazquez Spanish for foreigners, we advise you according to your own Spanish learning objectives. Whethere you are a mid to long-term resident in Madrid, a professional working here or a tourist visiting the city for a short while, we will find the course that is best suited to your needs. Contact us and inform us of your requirements or, see our courses.
Can I recover missed classes
It depends on the course.
In the case of the Intensive Course, you can postpone entire weeks, only if you give us notice a week before.
In the case of the Evening Course and Private Classes, you may cancel the class and take it another time if you notify us by email at least 24 hours in advance (Working days, Monday to Friday).
Will you make up for classes if they coincide with a holiday?
Velázquez Spanish for Foreigners remains closed on holidays. However, we always make up for any and all classes and cultural activities that may have been affected by holidays, regardless of the course, duration or time of year. In the event of a student being unable to attend the replacement class, no refunds will be issued.
Will I get a certificate at the end of the course?
Students can request a certification of the course that will indicate the level of the course (according to the Common European Framework of Reference), the total hours of the course and the student’s attendance, without implying that this certificate is an official accreditation.
Can I change course once it’s started?
Speak to our academic directors about any scheduling problems you may have for professional or stuy reasons. If one of our teachers observes that your level of Spanish does not coincide with your assigned group, we can place you in a different group more suited to your current abilities. Other reasons of a personal nature will not be considered.
Are there cultural activities included in the price of the course?
The courses contracted do not include cultural activities. If you are interested in complementary cultural activities that reinforce your knowledge of Spanish, consult the administration.
Who should I contact to resolve my doubts?
If it is a matter related to the content of the classes and the Spanish language, the teachers assigned to your group are your tutors and as such they will offer you all the attention you need.
In case of matters related to schedules, prices, contract, registration, deadlines and payment method, you can contact the secretary of Velázquez Spanish for Foreigners at the entrance of the school.
What are the payment options?
To book a class you would like to attend, we require a pre payment of 200$ which will be deducted from the total price.
How can you pay?:
- Through bank transfer
Owner of the account: AIL Madrid
Banco Popular
IBAN: ES26 0075 8984 7006 0082 2575
SWIFT/BIC: POPUESMM
You must clearly indicate your name in the transfer and send us a copy of it by email.
- Visa or MasterCard: You can provide us with your card information by email or by phone and we will take care of the payment. You will have to tell us the type of card, card holder, card number, expiration date and security code on the back.
- Cash: pay upon arrival at the school.
You can make the rest of the payment the same day you arrive in Madrid in cash or with a card. In case you want to make a transfer, you must do it 5 days before the start date of your course.
What is included in the Spanish course?
The registration of the course includes:
- A level test
- A welcoming afternoon with drinks and tapas with the managers of the school
- Study material, first book offered
- Free Wifi access from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Access to the library
- Language exchange nights
- Final exam
- You will receive a language certificate at the end
- Access to the cultural program activities (Only group classes, during the week)
Annulation course at Velazquez school for foreigners:
In case of cancellation before the arrival date, it will only be accepted if notified by email.
Cancellations will not be accepted by telephone.In case of cancellation more
than two weeks before the arrival date, 100 € will be withheld from the payment made in advance of the course
In case of cancellation during the two previous weeks, the entire payment will be retained.
In case of cancellation, the prices corresponding to the booked course will apply.
Refunds and transfers will only be made to the person who booked or paid for the course.
Private classes can only be canceled by giving a 24-hour notice (one business day).
How to register for the courses at Velazquez Español for Foreigners:
There are several ways to enroll in the Spanish courses in Velázquez Spanish for Foreigners:
- Through the enrolment application, attaching the level test in the pdf file. As soon as we receive the information, we will contact you to formalize the corresponding payment of the tuition and the signing of the contract for teaching the contracted course.
- At the school; you complete the level test in person upon arrival and we will point you to the relevant, available courses. It is the fastest and most effective method, you could start that same day if there is a group available at your level. Check the opening hours and the location of the school, no appointment is necessary.
What documentation should I bring for registration?
You must have a valid passport in addition to the necessary permits to enter Spain. If you need help, please, contact us.
How much time in advance should I register?
The sooner the better but, subject to availability, we may accept last-minute reservations.
I don’t speak spanish at all, when can i start?
Classes for total beginners start every two weeks. To see the dates click here.
What should I do if I would like to register my young child for a course?
In case of minors, the minimum age for group courses is 17. For private classes, there is no minimum age. If it is a private class, students of any age can request it.
I need a visa, how should i register so they send me the letter for the embassy?
Regarding the Visa, keep these considerations in mind::
- Contact the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence and check the exact parameters of your chosen course with them (number of hours per week, duration); requirements for the Visa can vary
- After checking, please contact us to inform us about the type of course you want and the exact dates (first and last day of class).
- The next step will be to prepare the course certificate. Velázquez Spanish for Foreigners will need you to send all your personal information to complete the certificate: full name, passport number and full address.
- Make the payment for the full course, plus the first month of accommodation if you have selected it. Only upon confirmation of payment, will we provide you the course certificate.
- In case you do not obtain the visa or cancel the course, Velázquez Spanish for Foreigners will retain 200 € of the total amount that you have paid for management expenses. The rest of the amount will be refunded.
Communication of particular needs in relation to allergies or diseases
In case of allergy or illness, you must inform the course advisors before booking your course.
Holidays calendar in Madrid
2020 Holidays
August 15 (Thursday) – Assumption of the Virgin
October 12 (Saurday) – National day of Spain
November 1st (Friday) – Day of all the saints
November 9 (Saturday) – Our Lady of the Almudena
December 6 (Friday) – Spanish Constitution Day
December 9 (Monday) – Immaculate conception
December 25 (Wednesday) – Christmas Day
* On these days, group classes will still take place despite it being a holiday.
Velázquez Español para Extranjeros