Why should I study abroad?
Learning a language, in the country in which it is spoken is a far more effective and rapid process than studying a few hours a week in your own country. Particularly because you will be immersed in the language! It is also a great opportunity for you to mix with local inhabitants, come to a far deeper and intimate knowledge of the people and gain an insight into their culture.
What makes Aztlan Language School the best option for me?
Even though, the best language school is the one that matches your needs, our Communicative Approach guarantees that you will be learning to communicate in Spanish rather than learning grammar rules by heart. You will be able to start using Spanish from your very first day!
What is the best program for me?
It all depends on your needs. Our school offers a wide variety of programs to meet almost everyone's language needs. We offer programs for Travelers, Professionals (business people, executives, teachers, doctors, nurses, social workers, lawyers, public safety officers, etc.), College and university students, Teens, Senior Citizens, etc. Other important elements for your immersion program are: Home stay with Mexican host families, excursions, field trips, volunteer opportunities, internships and much more.
How quickly will I be able to speak the language?
Through the Communicative Approach, you will earn communicative ability from an early stage. Nevertheless, your commitment and eagerness to learn the language will be a decisive factor. Learning a language is like learning a musical instrument. The more you practice the better for you.
When do courses begin?
We have new classes beginning every Monday throughout the year. If that Monday is a holiday, classes will start on the following Tuesday. See Holidays
Do you have classes for all language levels?
Yes, Aztlan Language School has classes for all proficiency levels; from beginner to superior. You proficiency level will be determinated by a placement test and an oral interview by our expert examinators.
What about if I were not on the right class?
In the rare event, that you were not placed in the right class or level, all you need to do is request a change at the Spanish Department. After a second evaluation you will be assigned to another class.
Is Universidad Aztlan an accredited institution?
Yes, Universidad Aztlan is a higher education institution fully accredited by the Direccion General de Profesiones (D.G.P.) and the Ministry of Education in the state Secretaria de Educacion del Estado de Morelos" (S.E.E.M.)
What other programs are offered besides language and culture?
As a higher education institution Universidad Aztlan offers undergraduate and graduate programs. UA offers bachelor's and master's degrees in several disciplines. For further information visit http://www.universidadaztlan.edu.mx/
Will I receive university or college credit?
Yes, as an accreditated higher education institution, Universidad Aztlan grants college credit for your studies. Nevertheless, you must contact your home university before enrolling to be sure they will accept the transfer credits.
What kind of certification will I receive at the end of my courses?
All students will receive a Diploma of attendance at the end of their course. If you need an official Transcript, you must request it on the first day of classes. An Official Transcript will be mailed to you, or to your home institution, one week after you complete your courses at ALS.
How much will it cost to get a Transcript?
The Registrar's office will issue a Transcript at absolutely no cost for our students. Nevertheless, there is a mailing fee of $2US dollars by regular mail (not recommended) or $35USD by FedEx (highly recommended). Please ask for a "Request forCredits" format at the Admissions Office.
How long is typical language course?
Courses can last from one week up to the number of weeks you can devote to the program. The average is three to four weeks.
Can I study with a private instructor or just in a group class?
This all depends on your selected program. You can choose private instruction, group classes or a combination of both. Our Head of the Spanish Office will be more than happy to tailor a program that meet your specific language needs.
Is there Internet access on Campus?
Yes, there is free access to WiFi on campus. You are welcome to bring your laptop or use one of the PC's, we have available free of all charges. Access hours are from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Monday through Friday and 8:00am to 2:00pm on Saturdays. If traveling with your laptop, we recommend that you insure it. If you prefer not bringing along your laptop, for security reasons, there are usually inexpensive internet cafes near your host familys home for 1US dollar the hour.
Where will I live?
We strongly suggest that you stay with a Mexican host family. This experience offers you, the opportunity to practice your Spanish while learning much more about the Mexican culture. If you prefer to keep your privacy, we will be more than happy to help you make reservations at Hotels, B&B, Apartments or Residences. Please contact us for further assistance.
Are meals included if I stay with a Host Family?
Yes, your host family will provide three meals per day: breakfast, lunch (main meal in Mexico), and a light dinner. Students taking excursions should request a lunch to take with them.
Will my host family take care of my personal laundry?
No, your host family will launder your towels and linens. For your personal laundry, we suggest that you use a laundry service in your neighborhood. It is inexpensive and usually done on the same day.
Will my host family provide towels and linens?
Yes, and they will change linens once a week and towles twice per week.
Will I need an electrical converter?
Electrical voltage in Mexico is the same as in most of the Americas.A voltage converter is not required, but it is highly recommended that you bring along with you an adapter socket to connect your electrical appliances to the wall outlets at home.
Can I make local and long distance calls from my Mexican host family's home?
You are alowed to make local phone calls and receive any phone call from your host family's home.To make long distance phone calls, you must buy a prepaid Telmex or calling card that can be used in most of the public phones.
Is there a doctor on campus?
No, but our instituion as well as your host family, have a list of bilingual doctors on call. Please check with your health insurance provider, before coming to Mexico, in order to see if you will be covered when outside of your country. If not, it is possible to buy a short term health and accident insurance. In most cases, it is necessary to pay any medical costs in Mexico, and then submit receipts for reimbursement upon returning to your country.
Is the registration fee refundable?The registration fee is non-refundable but valid for two years. You can transfer it to someone else but you must fill a "Transfer Credit" format.
What is your refund policy?
Aztlan Language School will not give refunds for missed days. Nevertheless if there is a change in plans or an emergency, ALS will refund any remaining balance minus a 25% for administrative fees. If you prefer, ALS will extend a "Credit Certificate" that you could use in a period of two years or transfer to some one else.
What are the fees at Aztlan Language School?
You can find our Registration, Tuition and Housing fees at: Rates
How can I pay my fees?
You can pay at the school with travelers cheques, Master card, Visa, American Express or cash. No personal checks are accepted.
What currencies are accepted?
Payments can be made with US and CA dollars, Euros or pesos.
Where can I exchange my money?
You can change your money at the nearby bank, located inside the supermarket across the street or at any local bank or Money Exchange house (Casa de cambio) in the city. You may need your passport for ID purposes. The school offers a "money exchange service" but you must be aware, that there will be a surcharge of five American cents or its equivalent per dollar or euro. Be aware that the exchange rates changes daily.
Are There ATMs in Campus?
No, but you can find ATMs in the supermarket across the street, at any bank or in most of the local supermarkets. Be aware that ATMs dispense local currency only.
How much spending money should I bring?
It is hard to say but you could budget an average of $10 to 20 USD per day, depending on your spending habits.
Is there a cafeteria or a restaurant on Campus?
There is a cafeteria on campus where you can buy Mexican and American food, soft drinks, fresh juices, coffee and snacks. The cafeteria is open from 7:30 am. to 9:00 pm.
Is there a Golf course nearby the school?
Yes, actually, our campus is located two blocks from a nine holes golf field. (http://www.golfcuernavaca.com/)
Is there a Gym nearby the school?
Yes, there is one a couple of blocks from campus with special rates for our students.
Will my cell phone have service in Cuernavaca?
Since not all cell phones are compatible with the cell phone technology offered in Mexico. We strongly suggest that you check with your cell phone service provider. Roaming service could be expensive. Please ask them how expensive it will be, while in Mexico.
How can I get mail while at Cuernavaca?
Your mail can be sent to the school. The address is: Ave. Alvaro Obregon 162 Col. Club de Golf Cuernavaca, Morelos 62030, Mexico. Please be aware, that international mails can take up to six weeks to be delivered.
What is the weather like in Cuernavaca?
Cuernavaca is known as the "City of Eternal Spring" due to its delightful year round climate with temperatures between the 60's and 80's. The rainy season is approximately from May to October, when it regularly rains in the late afternoon or at night. For further weather information, visit Cuernavaca Weather
What Should I pack?
Cuernavaca"s dress code is informal, so you can pack clothes such as jeans, t-shirts, shorts, comfortable walking shoes, swim suit, a cap or a hat, suntan, hand sanitizer, camera, sun glasses, an umbrella or rain coat (when rainy season) and sweater or a jacket for chilly nights. We suggest you pack a suit or a evening dress for special occasions, since your host family may invite you to a formal event. A dictionary is also a good to thing to pack.
What documents are required to enter Mexico?
You need a valid passport and a tourist card that will be given to you on your flight. Let the Immigration officer know how many days you are planning to stay in Mexico and be sure he/she puts the requested number of days. Keep these documents safe since you will need them to leave the country. Our School will make a photo copy for you so that you can take around with you.
What documents are required for minors?
In addition to a passport, an unaccompanied minor must carry a notarized parental permission slip authorizing travel abroad alone. The permission slip should be signed by both parents. If the minor is from a one-parent household, a call to the proper country consulate office may be a good idea. In the case of death or divorce, a substantiating document might also have to be carried along (copy of death certificate, legal guardianship, or divorce papers). For some airlines, a letter signed by either parent specifying who will be meeting the minor at the foreign airport, if traveling alone may also be needed.
Do I need vaccinations to enter Mexico?
No, no vaccinations are required to enter Mexico. Nevertheless, check with your local physician for his/her advice.
Can school provide a driver to pick me up at the airport?
Yes, upon request, we can schedule one of our chauffeurs to pick you up at the airport costums exit and drive you directly to your accommodation. All drivers hold a valid license and all cars are insured. Service is available 24hrs per day, year round. Returning service can be scheduled upon reques,t while you are at the school. See Rates
Is there a commuter bus available from MexicoCity airport to Cuernavaca?
Yes, there is a luxury commuter bus that leaves from Mexico City Airport to Cuernavaca. After you clear immigration and customs, follow the signs to the commuter buses area, located on the second floor. Look for Pullman de Morelos booth and purchase your ticket (cost around $12USD). On arrival to the Cuernavaca bus station, you can buy a taxi zone ticket for your destination (between 30 to 40 pesos o 3 to 4 US dollars). For your safety, ignore drivers at the airport, that may offer their service. If you need extra help, let a porter at customs exit, help you with your luggage. They will escort you to the commuter bus area for around a dollar per bag.
If there were any question not included in this list, feel free to contact us.
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