FAQs

Your questions answered

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This page will answer your frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer to a specific question here, please contact us.

General Information

How can I book a course?

Fill in the enrolment form online and wait for our team to reach out to you to confirm all the details. If you are in touch with one of our representatives, you can also fill in the pdf enrolment form and send it to us via email. Telephone bookings will need to be confirmed by email. Your booking is confirmed when you receive a booking confirmation email. 

How soon do I need to book a course?

As class size is limited, we recommend that you register at least one month in advance. Bookings within two weeks of the start date incur an additional charge of CHF 40 (for bookings in Switzerland); EUR 35 (for bookings in France and Germany); GBP 30 (for bookings in England). 

Can I book initially for one or two weeks and then extend my course?

Yes, but remember this will result in a higher price than for a single booking covering the same time-period. There is no guarantee that we will be able to provide you with a place on one of our courses, or in the accommodation of your choice. It could mean a gap between the end of one course and the start of your next course or having to switch accommodation. 

Will I receive confirmation of my booking?

Yes, you will normally receive confirmation of your booking within 48 working hours. If you have not heard anything from us within two days, get in touch as it might mean that your booking has not been received.  

How can I pay for my course?

We accept online payments via Visa or Mastercard credit/debit card and bank transfers. 

Will you send me an invoice before my course starts?

Yes, you will receive an invoice together with your booking confirmation email.  

What will it cost me if I cancel my booking?

Please see our Terms and Conditions  “9. Cancellation – Standard policy” Section for full cancellation pricing information. 

What qualifications do the teachers have?

All our teachers have a native level of language and extensive experience in foreign language teaching. 

How do I find the right course for my language level?

Our adult courses require an online assessment before arriving at the school so that you can start your first day in the right class. Please note complete beginners do not need to complete assessment test, however, there are specific starting dates for total beginners. Summer camp students would need to complete an online assessment test 4 weeks before the camp starts.  

Can I change groups if I feel I’m in the wrong group?

There are weekly tests to monitor and track progress. Should you feel the class you are in is too fast, too slow, too easy, or too difficult, have a word with your teacher. If you need a second opinion, speak to the school or camp manager who will take the decision whether you should be moved or not. 

What is included in the course price?

Books and other teaching material, the cultural and activities program, Alpadia student ID, the placement test, the weekly tests, and your course certificate attesting to the level obtained. 

Will I receive a certificate?

All students who have attended more than 80% of the teaching sessions in their course will receive an Alpadia certificate stating their language level. 

Do you also offer excursions for your students?

Each of our schools offers a rich and varied cultural programs, activities and excursions at least three afternoons and evenings per week. Our summer camp students benefit from an exceptionally rich program of activities and excursions that are included in the price. Optional Premium+ activities are available at an additional cost. 

When should I arrive and depart?

All accommodation is booked from the Sunday before your course begins until the Saturday after it finishes. If, for example, you cannot get flights on these days, it is possible to book an extra night upon arrival and/or departure. Please let us know your travel plans as soon as possible! 

Accommodation

What types of accommodation are available?

For adults we offer a range of accommodation options depending on your preferred destination – from host families to shared student apartments and residences. For students at our summer camps, there is a range of accommodation from single ensuite bedrooms to quadruple rooms in student residences. Please check your preferred camp page to see what options are available. 

Can I book a course without booking accommodation?

Yes, you can book your language course without accommodation. 

How do I pay for my accommodation?

The accommodation fee will be included in your enrolment invoice, so it needs to be paid in the same way as the language course or summer camp. 

Can I book accommodation without booking a course?

No.

When will I receive the exact details about my accommodation?

Approximately three weeks before your course start date, we will send exact details: name, address, telephone number, email address (if available), and a brief description of the accommodation.