A language study abroad program is an excellent way to learn a new language or improve your existing language skills. At the same time, you can immerse yourself in the culture of the country and gain valuable experiences. But how do you find the right language travel provider and the best location for your language course abroad? In this blog post, we provide useful tips for planning your language trip.

1. Define Your Goals

Before you start planning your language study abroad program, you should be clear about your goals. Ask yourself:

• Do I want to learn the language for my career, studies, or daily life?
• How intensive should the language course be?
• Do I want to obtain a language certificate?
  These goals will help you choose the right language travel provider and set your priorities.

2. Choose the Right Language and Country

The choice of country and language is crucial for the success of your language study abroad program. Consider:

• Where is the language I want to learn spoken?
• Am I interested in a particular culture or climate?
• Are there regional differences in the language (e.g., Spanish in Spain vs. Latin America)?

Research various destinations and find out which region suits you best. Popular destinations for language courses abroad include England, France, Spain, and the USA.

3. Compare Providers and Programs

In Switzerland, there are many language travel providers, ranging from small companies to large organizations. Some of the most well-known include:

• Boa Lingua: A well-established company operating across Switzerland, offering language courses both locally and worldwide.
• StudyLingua: A leading Swiss provider, offering tailor-made language study programs and personal guidance to help you choose the right course.
• Sprachaufenthalte.ch / Frischknecht: A family-run business from Rapperswil-Jona, offering a carefully selected range of language study abroad programs and personalized consultation.
• Small World: A company from Lucerne, organizing language trips at over 70 language schools worldwide, known for its personal support and wide selection of schools.

You also have the option to independently research language schools abroad. This allows you to compare different schools, contact them directly, request personalized offers, and ultimately book the language course that best suits you. This way, you can ensure that the course meets your specific needs and expectations.

When choosing a language travel provider, consider:

• Does the provider offer your desired language level (beginner, advanced)?
• Are there specialized programs, such as business English or language certificate preparation?
• What are the course times and the maximum group size?

Compare programs and read reviews from other participants to get an impression of the quality of the language school.

4. Consider Accommodation Options

Accommodation plays a crucial role in your language study abroad program. Common options include:

• Host families: A great way to experience the language and culture firsthand.
• Student residences: Perfect for meeting other language learners.
• Private apartments: Ideal if you prefer more independence.

Find out which option best fits your lifestyle.

5. Budget Planning and Costs

The costs of a language study abroad program can vary significantly. Create a realistic budget and consider:

• Course fees
• Accommodation costs
• Living expenses at your destination
• Additional expenses for leisure activities

Compare prices between providers and check for hidden costs.

6. Check the Provider’s Quality

Ensure the provider is accredited. Certifications such as ALTO (Association of Language Travel Organisations) or Eaquals (Evaluation and Accreditation of Quality Language Services) guarantee high-quality standards. These organizations review the teaching quality and course content. Reviews from past participants are also a good indicator of a provider’s quality.

7. Plan Leisure Activities

A language study abroad program isn’t just about learning; it’s also important to experience the local culture. Check if the provider offers leisure programs, such as:

• City tours
• Cooking classes
• Excursions to nearby attractions

These activities help you experience the culture and connect with others.

8. Consider the Best Time to Travel

The season can greatly impact your language travel experience. Pay attention to:

• The climate at your destination
• Peak season vs. off-season (each has pros and cons)
• Choose a travel time that suits your preferences.

9. Seek Recommendations

Talk to friends who have already participated in a language study abroad program, or read online reviews. You can also ask for tips in forums or social networks.

10. Alternatives to Language Study Abroad: Language Tandems

If a language study abroad program is not an option for you, language tandems are an excellent alternative. On platforms like Sprachtandem.ch, you can practice with native speakers and learn about their culture — conveniently from home.