Who takes foreign language courses abroad?

People who take foreign language courses abroad come from all sorts of backgrounds, age groups and countries, and have all different reasons for enrolling. Generally speaking though, people who take language courses in a foreign country tend to be open-minded, friendly and keen for new experiences.

To a certain extent, the kind of people that a school attracts depends on its location and on the type of courses on offer. For example, schools in lively resort towns such as Biarritz (France) and Malaga (Spain) often attract a younger crowd who want to benefit from the nightlife, whereas schools in more tranquil or cultural locations, such as Dresden (Germany) or Verona (Italy), appeal to a different demographic.

Equally, schools which specialise in exam-preparation or business language courses might attract a more ‘serious’ student whose main purpose is to study hard and immerse themselves in the language. On the other hand, schools offering mainly general language courses, or courses coupled with sporting or cultural activities, may have a more laid-back atmosphere and therefore attract students who attach equal importance to learning and to having a good time and meeting new people.

Anyone with a specific preference for the type of school they’d like to attend can speak to one of our team for location advice – we regularly visit our partner schools to get an accurate idea of what they offer and the kind of students that they tend to attract.

Whilst some schools arrange ‘closed-group’ courses for groups who want to learn together – often school group classes – the majority of people who take language courses abroad are on their own, or with a friend or partner. Usually, classes consist of a mix of nationalities too – this is primarily to ensure that the target language is always spoken in class…with monolingual groups, it can be very tempting for students to communicate in their native language!

The atmosphere in language schools is usually very friendly and welcoming, and it’s very easy to make friends. Although students are obviously there to learn or revise the language, schools make every effort to teach them about the local culture and traditions too, which is why local excursions and activities are arranged for outside of class time.

Courses are available at a variety of levels (from beginner to advanced) and can be booked for however long you wish. Obviously, students who need to become proficient in the language for a specific purpose, whether for business, for personal reasons, or for university study, tend to stay longer than students who are there more for recreational reasons, but generally you can book anything from 1-52 weeks of study.

For full listings of languages, courses, destinations and prices please visit the Cactus Language website. Alternatively, feel free to call and speak to one of our experienced advisors on:

UK

0845 130 4775 (local rate)

+44 (0)1273 725200 (international)

US

(+1) 212-601-9343

Toll-free: 1-888-577-8451