1) Why should I study in Ecuador?
Ecuador is not only a beautiful country with great people, but the Spanish spoken in Quito is considered to be one of the clearest forms of Spanish in Latin America. Ecuador contains a stunning wealth of biodiversity as well as immense cultural diversity, particularly for such a small country. Quito itself offers a great variety of cultural activities and night life for the inquisitive and fun-loving tourist.
2) What other services does the school offer to its students?
Our students receive discounts on salsa lessons at a local school and discounts at a local gym. We also offer social opportunities during the week in the evenings, including movie nights and dinners. Internet access is available for students (limited time) at the school when a computer is available at no charge.
3) What are the costs for additional services?
Our weekend excursions vary in price, but we try to keep our prices as low as possible. Private salsa lessons cost $5 per hour. Costs for weeknight get-togethers vary depending on the activity.
4) How long will it take for me to gain the ability to communicate in Spanish?
This varies according to the student, but normally, our students can learn basic Spanish communication skills in three to four weeks. The minimum requirement to receive a diploma from the Ecuadorian Ministry of Education is 240 hours or 12 weeks of regular Spanish classes. After this time, most people can expect a high level of proficiency in the language.
5) What types of Spanish classes does Yanapuma offer?
Our basic classes are 4 hours per day of one on one instruction. We can provide group lessons of between 2 and 4 students on request. We offer several customized options detailed on this website for those wanting a bit more (or less) than our standard offerings. We try to be as flexible as possible, tailoring our offerings to the needs and wishes of the student.
6) What is your teaching philosophy in class?
Our classes not only include traditional textbook grammar instruction, but involve practice through examples, either based on current events, places of interest, stories, or what might be happening at any given time in Quito. This type of combination of various materials, both written and “live”, is, we feel, the most effective and most interesting way to learn the Spanish language.
7) Do you offer classes outside of Quito?
Yes. You can study in one of two different communities, one at the coast and one in the Sierra. We can also arrange customized programs of study in other areas of Ecuador with one of our professors.
8) What class materials are included? Do I need to buy any materials?
All basic materials for your Spanish classes are included. You only need to purchase a notebook and pen or pencil for notes.
9) What are the schedules for classes? Are they flexible?
Our normal class schedule is from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:00 to 6:00 PM. We can arrange different customized schedules according to the needs of the student.
10) How can I pay for my classes?
You can pay by electronic transfer, in cash, or with travelers checks. Because of the high cost, we do not accept credit cards.
11) What is your cancellation or refund policy? Is there a registration fee?
We do not charge a registration fee for our Spanish classes, and we have no fee for cancellation.
12) When do I have to pay for classes?
You can pay up until your first day of classes. We ask that payment be made in advance for each week of classes taken.
13) What if I am not happy with my classes?
We want all of our students to be happy with their experience here. For that reason, we offer a full guarantee if you are not satisfied…a full refund for all classes not taken.
14) Do the teachers speak English?
Yes, all speak basic English. However, during class, our teachers will use English only when necessary, and encourage our students to never use English.
15) How do I arrive at the school from the airport?
We will meet you at the airport, take you to your accommodations, and arrange to have you brought to the school on your first day.
16) Do I need a certain level of Spanish before starting classes?
No. We receive many students with no knowledge of Spanish when they arrive.
