With its vibrant culture, breathtaking nature and affordable cost of living, South America is a unique continent for those who want to learn Spanish and Portuguese. Language schools in South America offer programs for every age and goal, from beginner to advanced level.
Spanish is spoken in most of the continent, and Portuguese in its largest country, Brazil. Studying a language in South America offers the opportunity to learn these languages in real life while enjoying unique experiences, from the Andes to the Amazon and from historic colonial cities to tango and samba culture.
Studying a language in South America turns language learning into a life adventure.
Language schools in South America teach at levels aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Before starting the course, you take a placement test and are placed in the right class. At many schools, classes are small, and one-to-one lessons are offered at much more affordable prices than in Europe.
Although the Spanish learned in South America differs from the Spanish spoken in Spain in pronunciation and some vocabulary, it is easily understood and used in all Spanish-speaking countries. Some language schools are accredited by the Instituto Cervantes for teaching Spanish.
Students learning Spanish can certify their level with international exams such as DELE and SIELE, while students learning Portuguese can do so with CELPE-Bras, Brazil's official Portuguese proficiency exam.
Language schools in South America offer a variety of programs to suit different goals and schedules:
There are many cities across South America that stand out for language studies:
Language school prices in South America vary depending on the country, the city, the type of program, the number of lessons per week and the length of the course. In general, course fees are much more affordable than similar programs in Spain and Europe. Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia are generally among the most affordable countries, while Chile and Uruguay are more expensive.
One-to-one lessons in South America are offered at much more accessible prices than in Europe. When planning your budget, you should account for accommodation, health and travel insurance, airfare and travel within the continent in addition to the course fee.
At NGGlobal, we share the current prices of our partner schools with you and work with you to choose the country and program that best fit your budget.
Language school students in South America can choose from accommodation options to suit different budgets:
A homestay is especially recommended for students traveling to South America for the first time, as it both supports your language development and makes it easier to settle into a new country.
Turkish citizens can enter many countries in South America visa-free for short trips. For this reason, you usually do not need a separate visa for short language courses. However, the scope of visa exemption and the permitted length of stay vary from country to country.
Students planning longer language studies need to research the student visa or residence permit rules of the country they will travel to in advance. Each country has different application requirements, required documents and application processes.
If you plan to study in more than one country, it is important to check the entry rules of each country separately. At NGGlobal, we guide you on the entry and visa conditions of the countries you will travel to.
In South American countries, it is not possible to work with tourist status or for a short language course. For this reason, you need to prepare a budget that covers all your expenses when planning your language studies.
South America's affordable cost of living makes it possible to study long term on a reasonable budget without working. Volunteering programs also help you gain experience working with local communities and use your language in different settings.
The cost of living in South America is generally much lower than in Europe and North America. However, there are significant differences between countries, and in some countries exchange-rate fluctuations can change prices quickly. Bolivia, Peru and Colombia are among the budget-friendly countries, while Chile and Uruguay have higher costs.
Social life in South America is very lively, with music, dance, festivals, street food and warm people. On weekends, you can go hiking in the mountains, explore historic ruins or spend time on Caribbean beaches. Language schools also regularly offer their students trips and cultural activities.
In some cities and regions of South America, it is important to be careful about safety. It is important to follow your language school's advice, carry valuables carefully and choose safe transport options at night. You should also keep in mind that the seasons are the opposite of Turkey's and that, in Andean cities, you may need some time to adjust to the altitude during the first days.
At NGGlobal, we offer free consultation to students who want to study a language in South America. By assessing your goals, language level and budget, we identify the country, city, school and program that suit you best.
Contact us to build your plan for language studies in South America together.
There are differences in pronunciation and some vocabulary. However, speakers of both varieties understand each other easily, and you can use the Spanish you learn in South America in all Spanish-speaking countries.
Your choice depends on your goals and budget. Argentina stands out for its cultural richness, Colombia for its clear pronunciation, Peru and Ecuador for their history and nature, Chile for its safe environment and Brazil for Portuguese studies.
Turkish citizens can enter many countries in South America visa-free for short trips. For long-term studies, you need to check the student visa or residence permit rules of the relevant country.
Yes. Some language school networks offer the option to continue your studies at their schools in different countries. This lets you improve your language while exploring the continent.
It is not possible to work with tourist status or for a short language course. However, you can gain experience through volunteering programs and study on a reasonable budget thanks to affordable living costs.
Apply now for undergraduate and graduate programs in Italy offered in both English and Italian and take advantage of opportunities for scholarships and tuition-free education.
Let Us Call You
You can have our study abroad consultants contact you by filling out the contact form below.