Eight criteria to check when choosing a language school abroad

Choosing a language school abroad means getting lost among hundreds of brochures and adverts. All claim to be "the best". The eight criteria below offer a checklist to see the real differences between schools.

1. Accreditation and founding year

Ask whether the school holds official language-school accreditation in its country. Accredited schools are inspected regularly and must meet standards on teacher qualifications, facilities and student services. The founding year is also a sign of trust.

2. Class size

For speaking skills a class of no more than 10-14 is ideal. In classes of 18-20 each student's speaking time falls sharply. Ask the school to state the "maximum" class size in writing rather than the "average".

3. Student profile and nationality mix

In a class dominated by students of the same nationality the risk of reverting to your mother tongue is high. A good school shares the nationality mix openly; no nationality exceeding 25% is a good sign.

4. Teachers and timetable

Whether teachers are native speakers matters less than whether they hold international teaching certificates (e.g. CELTA). Check the weekly lesson count according to whether the course is general, exam preparation or intensive.

5. Accommodation quality

Homestay is safe when under the school's own supervision. Standards on the room, meals and distance to school must be in writing. If you choose a residence or student house, the deposit and cancellation terms must be clear.

6. The city's cost of living

Between two cities in the same country, weekly living costs can differ by as much as €100. You can try this between London and Brighton, or Toronto and Vancouver, in the calculator.

7. Social activities

Afternoon and weekend activities carry language practice beyond the classroom. Ask whether the activities are paid or free.

8. Refund and cancellation policy

How much of the payment is refunded in the case of visa refusal or illness must be in writing. Most schools refund fully on visa refusal, but they ask for documentation.

Our written table comparing three schools on these eight headings is prepared in the free consultation.

Questions to ask when speaking with the school

1. What are the real average and maximum class sizes?
2. What was the nationality mix over the last year?
3. What certificates do teachers hold and what is their average experience?
4. How often are level moves made and how are they measured?
5. How are homestay hosts selected and for how many years have they worked with the school?
6. Are weekend activities included in the fee?
7. How does the refund work in the case of visa refusal or illness?
8. What support services exist outside school (emergency line, welcome)?

Red flags

Be cautious if the school avoids giving written answers, uses pressure phrases such as "last places" or gives the price list verbally. A good school answers your questions patiently and in writing, and you can also check student reviews on independent platforms.