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General Spanish Courses

Number of students

The minimum number of students needed to run a course is five. The maximum number of students per class is fifteen. However, in special circumstances, and depending on the needs of the course, Instituto Cervantes reserves the right to open a course with an additional student.

In the case of cancellation, the registered students for this course can choose another time or can ask for a complete refund of the amount paid at registration.

Level tests

All new students, except absolute beginners, will have to take a level test to guarantee the level of each group.

To take this level test, please call our Secretary at 631-1524 to make an appointment.

Levels of the courses

Our courses range from classes for Basic users to Proficient users that guarantee a gradual improvement in the acquisition of the Spanish language.

From September 2008, these courses will be grouped into 5 levels, which will be divided into different modules of 30 or 60 hours. A1 (1-2), A2 (1-4), B1 (1-4), B2 (1-6), C1 (1-6) (to obtain more information and to view dates and times, please click on the selected level or access it through the menu on the left-hand side of the page).

The levels will be in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages conceived by the Council of Europe.

The Common European Framework provides a common basis for the elaboration of language syllabuses, curriculum guidelines, examinations, textbooks, etc. across Europe. It describes in a comprehensive way what language learners have to learn to do in order to use a language for communication and what knowledge and skills they have to develop so as to be able to act effectively. The description also covers the cultural context in which language is set. The Framework also defines levels of proficiency which allow learners’ progress to be measured at each stage of learning and on a life-long basis. The Common European Framework is intended to overcome the barriers to communication among professionals working in the field of modern languages arising from the different educational systems in Europe. It provides the means for educational administrators, course designers, teachers, teacher trainers, examining bodies, etc., to reflect on their current practice, with a view to situating and co-ordinating their efforts and to ensuring that they meet the real needs of the learners for whom they are responsible.

Class material

Each course has a specific textbook to cover the contents of our curriculum. It is the responsibility of every student to acquire the books needed for each course.