FAQ
- Do you have to be a student to participate?
Study Abroad programs are available to all. Study Abroad VTE is a travel agency that specializes in, among other things, language immersion trips. The minimum age for adult-level courses varies from 16 to 18 years of age according to the destination chosen but there is never a maximum age. If you plan your immersion trip during the summer, expect the class average age to be in the early 20s; if not, the average is usually between 25 and 30 years old. Note that we offer specific courses for teenagers (between 13 and 18 years) and for the 50 and up.
- Are there group departures?
Study Abroad departures are on an individual basis according to each traveller’s availability. We, at Study Abroad, want to limit opportunities to speak English as much as possible (to increase immersion quality), so we avoid group departures but can arrange for it on request.
- Where are the language lessons given?
Study Abroad works exclusively with private international language schools. These institutions specialize in teaching second languages. We can offer you the possibility of starting your courses according to your availability on a year-round basis.
- How much time should I need?
A Study Abroad immersion trip lasts at least 2 weeks (except Puerto Vallarta) but may also continue for 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 weeks or more. It’s up to you. Ideally, Study Abroad suggests an immersion trip of at least four weeks to maximize your investment.
- How will I be placed at an appropriate level?
You must take a placement test on your first day of immersion and you will be placed in the appropriate Study Abroad group according to your results.
- Where will I be lodged?
Study Abroad accommodation is mostly with host families, where you will have a private bedroom as well as 2 or 3 meals per day according to your destination. This type of accommodation provides extra opportunities to practice conversation and exchange with the local population to increase the quality of your immersion. It also allows for the best quality–price ratio available. However, it is possible to lodge you differently if you need it.
- How are Study Abroad's host families chosen?
Families are recruited by the language school homestay coordinator. Families must answer the appropriate forms and are evaluated through interviews done at their residence. One selection criteria is the ease of travel between the host family's residence and the language school as well as public transit availability. Also, thanks to evaluations done by our past students, we have built up a registery of our host families to which we refer to know their appreciation level.
- How are Study Abroad students paired with a family?
At the time of registration, you have to fill in Study Abroad's Host Family Selection Form. We will ask you if you have any allergies, health problems and if you smoke or not. We will also take note of your preferences regarding children and pets as well as any other information you judge important in the choice of a host family. The language school homestay coordinator will do the pairing and you will receive details on your host family approximately 2 weeks before your departure.
- Will someone be waiting for me at the airport?
You may take advantage of Study Abroad's "Airport transfer" service for almost all of our destinations; the different prices are indicated at the bottom of each destination page. However, it is easier to have someone waiting to take you to your host family, especially if you arrive late in the day.
- Is the airplane ticket included in the price?
Study Abroad does not include air tickets in the price because of the variety of departure dates and stay lengths. We prefer to book according to your specific needs. You may, for example, buy a Study Abroad immersion program for 4 weeks and then extend your trip an extra 2 weeks.
- What activities will be available once I am there?
Study Abroad activities vary according to your destination and the time of year you travel. Most language schools offer different activities and you are free to participate or not. The language school personnel are also able to advise you on what attractions to see and what activities to do.
- What is the best Study Abroad destination?
As the teaching and lessons quality is comparable from one location to another, your choice should be made according to your interest in touring the Study Abroad destination. You will spend a part of the day at the language school, but you will also have the leisure of doing activities to discover the city and the region.
- What is the success rate of Study Abroad students?
The success rate of your Study Abroad program depends largely on your motivation, your attitude and your ability to adapt to a new environment. You will not have a pass/fail grade at the end of your trip because everyone wins from this kind of linguistic experience. You must leave with an open mind that will allow you to learn a language and live an enriching and unforgettable experience.
