Frequently Asked Questions

Where is your school located?

ACCE is located in Grecia, 45 Km. (28 miles) northwest from the capital of Costa Rica, San Jose. (See map).

How much advanced notice do you require to start classes?

For specialized programs we recommend that students get registered as soon as possible since these programs fill up pretty quickly. For regular classes students can register two weeks before arriving, unless they want to take classes during the high season (May – August). During that time we recommend registration at least 60 days prior your arrival to the school.

Are classes contracted on a weekly basis only?

Generally yes, even though it is also possible to take extra days after having studied one or more weeks.

Is it necessary to start classes on Monday?

During high season yes, during the rest of the year the school is more flexible.

Do you offer private classes?

Yes, first the schedule has to be agreed upon with the school, but it is not possible to do it for the specialized programs. The cost is 20% more than regular classes.

At what time should students come to school on the first day of class?

They should be at the school at 7:30 am.

Will someone take me to school on the first school day?

Normally your host mom or any other family member from your host family will take you the first day of school. If the student is staying at the school villas, there is no problem since the school is just two blocks away from the villas.

What does the homestay option include?

Breakfast, dinner, laundry and lots of love.

If I do not want to live with a host famly, are there other accommodations available?

The student can choose to stay at the school villas or, if you prefer, ACCE can find a hotel or a B&B for you.

What is the average age of your students?

ACCE receives students from all ages

What are your teachers’ qualifications?

They all have university degrees in the teaching area. And of course, all have the training and the experience in teaching Spanish as a second language.

Are the class curriculum materials included in the course price?

On the first day of classes each student takes a written test and an interview to determine his or her level of Spanish so that he or she can be placed in the correct class.

All course materials are included. The price includes all the materials necessary. The only thing you need to bring is a note book and a pencil.

Do you take credit cards?

No.

Is medical insurance included in my tuition?

No.

What is your refund policy?

The deposit is non refundable. If the student is already studying at ACCE and for any emergency reason has to stop classes and go back to his country of origin; the school will reimburse 65% of the balance.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica?

It is a tropical climate. There are two seasons - rainy and dry. The dry season goes from December through April and the rainy season goes from May through November. There is no extreme heat or cold. During the rainy season, the mornings are usually sunny and rain in the afternoon. During the dry season, it is usually sunny the entire day.

What should I wear?

You can wear any kind of comfortable clothing for traveling and classes. For young women it is recommended not to wear any provocative clothing.

Are vaccinations necessary to travel to Costa Rica?

No. Some student do, but it is not necessary.

What airport do I have to fly to?

Juan Santamarìa (SJO)

Do I need a passport?

Yes.

What is the exchange rate?

It is very favorable for the students, especially if your currency is US dollars or Euros.

Do I need a Visa?

Usually no, but this depends upon the country of origin.

When should I arrive and when should I depart?

In the case of the specialized programs, the dates appear on the program details. In the case of regular students, the arrival days are Saturday or Sunday (preferably Sunday). Departure is on Saturday morning.

Who is going to pick me up from the airport?

When the student has the flight information, he or she should send it to the school. The school will send all the instructions for where to go at the airport and information as to who will meet you at the airport.

Can I stay with my host family without taking classes?

Yes, it is possible, but you will have to previously tell the school and the cost is US$20 per night and should be paid in advance.

What should I bring?

You should bring a dictionary of Spanish/English, Spanish/French, Spanish/German, etc. In addition to the dictionary, you should take a notebook, pen, pencil, an umbrella (for the rainy season –our summer), a poncho, walking shoes, flip flops, swimsuit, a towel, camera, a back pack, photos of your family, friends, pets, etc.

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