Intensive Course

For students who have a limited amount of time available for language study, the Intensive Course offers more condensed content in a shorter period of time. It is presently offered seven times a year and varies in length from four to eight weeks.

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Enrollment

To apply for the Intensive Course, students must be at least 18 years of age and should provide us with a letter of recommendation from their pastor as part of the application process

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Academic Program

Classes meet Monday through Friday afternoons, from 12:35 p.m. to 3:10 p.m. Content is designed to be covered fairly rapidly at one of three course levels: beginning, intermediate or advanced. Class size is six students or fewer to ensure that students receive both individual attention and group practice. Placement is determined through a short written test and an oral interview, both of which are given during Orientation.​

• Homework is assigned each day, and it is highly encouraged that students spend at least 3 hours a day in language learning activities outside of class in order to fully immerse themselves.

• Books and other materials are included in the price of tuition

• Students receive grades for this course and a certificate at the end of the course

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Paseos

Students are encouraged to go on weekend excursions or “paseos,” in order to experience the culture and natural beauty of Costa Rica. They are welcome to participate in the paseos organized by other students, or Institute staff can help them plan their own.

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Arrival

The Institute will arrange airport pick-up and housing with a Costa Rican family for those who request it.

Your Costa Rican family or ILE staff member will be at the airport (if requested) to meet you at the time you indicate on your application form. You will need to pay them anywhere between $45 – $60 (depending on number of persons) at the time of pick-up.

You should plan to arrive no later than the evening before classes begin.

Placements interviews and orientation to the institute and living in San José will be given at 8:30 a.m. the morning classes begin.