FAQ

Here we answer the most common questions so that you can quickly find all the information you need.

About the school

Maravillas School or Maravillas Language School

Maravillas is a leading Spanish school on the Costa del Sol with over 45 years of experience and accredited by the Instituto Cervantes. The company's legal name is «Maravillas Programas Internacionales S.L.» and we use different trade names such as «Maravillas School», «Maravillas Language School» or «Escuela de idiomas Maravillas» depending on the campaign.
We offer a bespoke, handcrafted approach in Benalmádena, specialising in cultural immersion for Spanish language learning, for young people, adults, groups and teachers.

Where exactly is the school located?

We are located at Av. Salvador Vicente, 9, Arroyo de la Miel, in the heart of Benalmádena. Our headquarters offers a dynamic, accessible, well-connected, and safe environment on the Costa del Sol.

Can I get an official qualification at school?

Yes. We are an official centre for DELE (all levels) and CCSE (Spanish nationality) exams. Registration for these exams and tests is done directly with the Instituto Cervantes.

What is the mission of the school?

Our mission is to offer complete immersion. We don't just teach grammar; we prepare students to live and feel Spanish culture, fostering intercultural understanding in a safe, dynamic, and very welcoming environment.

Who are your programmes aimed at?

We offer immersion programmes for everyone: from camps for young people and school groups, to intensive courses for adults, programmes for those over 50, and training for teachers or residents.

Why is Benalmádena the ideal place to study?

Benalmádena is a safe and vibrant environment that allows students to move around with complete autonomy. Its strategic location makes excursions to the main Andalusian cities (Málaga, Granada, Seville, Córdoba) easy.

Why choose Maravillas School?

Because we are a leading school with over 45 years of experience and accredited by the Instituto Cervantes. Our approach is «artisanal»: we maintain a single centre in Benalmádena to ensure total control over the quality of teaching, activities, and accommodation.

Who are the teachers?

A teaching team that makes a difference. At Maravillas you'll learn from native, qualified teachers who live and breathe teaching Spanish.

Does the school organise activities outside of classes?

We organise a vibrant cultural programme: from cooking and dancing workshops at school to trips to the beach and excursions to Malaga, Granada or Seville.

How do I get from the airport to the school?

Getting here is incredibly easy. Located in the heart of Arroyo de la Miel, you'll find the train station (Line C-1) just a stone's throw away, allowing for complete independent travel. Additionally, we offer direct private transfers from the airport to the school or your accommodation.

What are foster families like?

We personally select each family in Benalmadena. They are welcoming and experienced people who will treat you like one of their own, offering you a real linguistic immersion and delicious home-cooked food in a safe and family-friendly environment.

What options do I have if I'm looking for more personalised learning?

As well as our Intensive 20, we offer the Combined 25 (with 5 private classes) and the Executive 30 (with 10 private classes). These one-to-one afternoon sessions are perfect for working on specific language areas according to your particular needs.

Can I prepare for DELE exams at school?

Yes, we have been an official examination centre since 2014. We offer specialised two-week courses before the exam for levels A1, A2, B1, B2, and C1.

Are there programmes for students over 50?

We have special courses for Seniors (+50) on selected dates. These programmes allow you to share learning and a wide variety of cultural and social activities with people your own age.

What do you offer for residents of the Costa del Sol?

We offer a Residents' Course designed for foreigners living here who want to improve their daily communication. These are 4-week blocks with afternoon sessions (4 hours per week), ideal for learning without disrupting your work routine or life in Spain.

What types of accommodation can I book with my course?

To make your stay perfect, we offer three main options: Host family, Aparthotel or School-owned residences.

How can I book my place?

It's very straightforward. You can do it through our website by following our step-by-step guide. Once we receive your request, we'll confirm availability and guide you through the entire registration and payment process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Is Colegio Maravillas the same as Maravillas International Programmes?

No, they are separate institutions. Maravillas International Programmes is our language school specialising in teaching Spanish to foreigners, located in Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. On the other hand, Colegio Maravillas is a Primary and Secondary education centre for local pupils. Colegio Maravillas is located in Benalmádena Costa.

Why is there confusion between these two centres, Colegio Maravillas and Maravillas School?

Historically, they shared origins and direction, forming part of the same educational group called Colegio Maravillas. However, in 2018, they separated into independent companies. Although we maintain an emotional bond and a common history, today we operate with completely distinct locations, teams, and objectives.

What is the physical address of the school?

Our school is located at: Av. Salvador Vicente 9, CP 29631, Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain.

What phone number can I call?

You can contact us directly by calling: +34 952 44 70 00

What email address can I write to?

You can send us an email at: info@maravillas.es

What are your social media?

We are very active online, you can follow us on these platforms:
Facebook: Maravillas School;
Instagram: @maravillasschool;
TikTok: @maravillasschool

Why is Maravillas School the ideal choice for foreign students?

Because it is the best school to learn Spanish while enjoying a complete linguistic immersion. We offer an academic environment of the highest prestige in Benalmádena, combining native teachers with a dynamic, safe, and welcoming international atmosphere that guarantees success in learning the language.

Why choose Maravillas School to study Spanish in the south of Spain?

Because it is the best in Andalusia, offering a top-level educational standard and a complete linguistic immersion that no other school in the region can match.

How is the students' well-being ensured during their linguistic immersion?

Thanks to the fact that the school is a leader in accommodation management, meticulously selecting host families who provide a safe, comfortable, and hospitable home.

Intensive Course for Adults

What level do I need for the courses?

You don't need any previous level to enrol at our school in Benalmádena, as we cover everything from A1 to C2.
You can start from scratch or perfect your knowledge at any level, in person.

What age do you need to be for the courses?

We have programmes in Benalmádena for young adults aged 18 to 22 and general courses from the age of 18. We also offer specific courses for those over 50 who wish to learn Spanish and culture at our school.

Where will I live during my stay at school?

We offer accommodation in local host families and shared apartments in the city of Benalmádena. You can choose the option that best suits your in-person stay with us.

Are there after-school activities to meet other adults?

Our school in Benalmádena organises cultural excursions and social events for you to practise Spanish with other students.

What is the duration of the courses?

The courses in Benalmádena have a minimum duration of one week and can be extended for as many months as desired (48 weeks).

Will I receive a certificate upon completion of my classes?

Upon completing your programme in Benalmádena, you will receive a certificate of attendance which verifies your level and hours of study. This document details your progress from level A1 to C2.

What is the timetable and daily organisation of the courses?

Our intensive courses in Benalmádena are held from Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 1:30 PM.

Do I have to buy books before arriving in Benalmádena?

We provide you with the necessary teaching materials for your in-person classes at our centre in Benalmádena.

What is the maximum number of pupils per class?

Our in-person groups in Benalmádena have a maximum of 10 students to guarantee personalised attention. This encourages active participation in the classroom and intensive learning from Monday to Friday in the city.

Will I be in class with people the same age as me?

We organise the groups in Benalmádena by level, dividing them into young adults aged 18-22, adults, and those over 50.

Where will I live during my stay at school?

We offer various options in the city of Benalmádena for your experience, you can choose to stay with local families or in shared apartments.

Are the accommodations near the school?

Yes, we select accommodation that has good transport links to our school in Benalmádena.

What services are included in the accommodation?

Depending on the option chosen in Benalmádena, you'll have services such as Wi-Fi and access to communal areas included. For families, you can opt for half board or full board to focus exclusively on your intensive morning course.

Do I need a car to get around Benalmádena during the term?

It's not necessary. The school and accommodation are very well connected. Benalmádena is a city with an excellent bus and train network.

If my level is very advanced, will I have suitable material?

Of course. In our in-person classes, we cover up to C2 level. Groups of a maximum of 10 students allow the teacher to adapt the intensive content to the specific needs of adults with higher levels.

Will there be many people from my own country at the school?

Our school in Benalmádena welcomes students from all over the world, mainly French, Japanese, American and German.

Are there classes on weekends?

No, in-person classes are strictly Monday to Friday.

How do you pay for teaching materials?

Books and materials are usually included.

What does the price of the Intensive 20 course include?

Classes are held from Monday to Friday in two blocks: from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. It's a format of 20 group sessions per week with a maximum of 10 students per class.

When do the intensive courses for adults take place?

They are held throughout the year, from January to December. Classes run from Monday to Friday and take place in the mornings from 09:00 to 11:00 and from 11:30 to 13:30.

When can I take the Intensive 20 General Spanish course?

This course is available all year round. You can choose the duration you prefer, from 1 to 48 weeks.

What should I expect during these classes?

These courses for learning general Spanish integrate reading, comprehension, writing, and speaking with grammar and vocabulary. Furthermore, they progressively include aspects of Spanish lifestyle and culture.

How far is the school from the beach?

Maravillas Language School is located in the centre (Arroyo de la Miel), about a 15-minute walk from the beach.

If I choose the aparthotel, is it close to the school?

Yes, all our accommodation options (the Aparthotel and host families) are within walking distance or a very short public transport journey.

What is the minimum age to participate in the adult courses?

The minimum age is 18 years.

What if my class level is too easy or too difficult for me?

There is no problem; you can speak with your professor or the head of studies to request a level change.

What levels of Spanish are taught at the school?

We offer courses for all levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from A1 to C2.

How long can my course last?

The duration is totally flexible. You can sign up for between 1 week and a maximum of 48 weeks, depending on your personal or professional goals and it all depends on the programme you have chosen.

What kind of certificates are awarded upon completion?

Upon completion of your course, you will receive a certificate of attendance indicating the level achieved and the total number of hours completed at our Instituto Cervantes-accredited school.

Does the student's Spanish level influence the cost of the course?

No, the price per student is the same regardless of their level. What determines the final budget is the number of weeks of stay, as the cost decreases proportionally the longer the visit.

What transport do you recommend from the airport?

The commuter train is the quickest and most direct option to Benalmádena.

Summer camp for young people

En qué época del año se realizan los campamentos para jóvenes?

Summer camps are available during June, July, and August for a duration of 1 to 8 weeks.

What is the age range of the students at the summer camp?

The programme is aimed at young people aged between 13 and 17.

What is the daily structure of the youth program?

Students attend their Spanish classes in the morning and participate in an organised programme of activities in the afternoon, which includes sports, culture and excursions.

What language levels are on offer at the camp?

We have groups for all levels of knowledge, covering from A1 to C1.

What type of stay is offered to underage students?

We offer host family accommodation with full board.

Who supervises the students during activities and excursions?

All of the young people are accompanied by school monitors and coordinators, who are responsible for safety.

What should young people bring for the afternoon activities?

It is recommended to bring comfortable clothing, trainers, a swimsuit, a beach towel, and sunscreen, as many activities take place outdoors and on the coast.

Can young people walk from home to school?

Yes, the vast majority of our families live within a 10 to 15-minute walk of the school.

What is the maximum number of students in each class?

The maximum number of students per class is 16. This allows for many group activities and communicative games.

How will students know what activities are on each day?

Every Monday morning, students receive a detailed weekly schedule. This includes the day-by-day activity timetable, specific meeting points, and emergency telephone numbers.

What visits are made during the week and at weekends?

The programme includes a local visit (choice of Málaga, Marbella, Mijas or Nerja) and a full-day excursion to major historical cities such as Ronda, Granada, Córdoba or Seville.

Are young people lonely during their free time?

No, there is permanent supervision by our team of teachers and supervisors, who monitor students even during their leisure time to ensure their safety.

How many hours of class do you have a week?

The youth programme includes 15 Spanish lessons per week, normally held from Monday to Friday between 9:30 and 13:00.

What materials do you need to bring to class?

The school provides the teaching materials and the textbook. Students only need to bring a notebook and pens for their own notes.

Do you receive any kind of recognition on completing the course?

Yes, upon completion of their stay, each student receives a Certificate of Attendance from Maravillas School (a centre accredited by the Cervantes Institute) which details the number of hours studied and the level achieved.

Are young people from different countries mixed in the same class?

Yes, the school promotes an international environment. By having a maximum of 16 students per classroom.

What documentation should the student bring on the day of the trip?

It is essential that the young person travels with their valid original ID card or Passport. Additionally, if they are a minor and travelling from outside of Spain, it is recommended that they carry a parental authorisation for minors (and the European Health Insurance Card.)

How is pocket money managed?

As it is a full board programme, students only need money for extras (ice creams, souvenirs). We recommend approximately €50-80 per week.

Where do young people have lunch on excursion days?

On full-day excursion days (like Saturdays), the host family prepares a «picnic« for them.

Is healthy eating guaranteed during the camp?

Yes, as it is food prepared by hand at school, young people receive a balanced diet that includes pulses, meats, fish, and seasonal fruit and vegetables.

What happens if my child needs to take specific medication?

Parents must inform the school before arrival. The student must bring their medication with clear instructions.

Is there a hospital or medical centre near the school?

Yes, Benalmádena has state-of-the-art health centres and hospitals just a few minutes away. In case of need, a supervisor will accompany the student and we will contact the parents immediately.

Is Benalmádena a safe place for teenagers?

Absolutely. Benalmádena is a very safe and family-friendly tourist town. Colegio Maravillas is located in a quiet residential area where young people can walk to and from school in complete safety.

What do the classes include in terms of materials and assessment?

The programme includes a placement test on arrival, the textbook, all necessary school materials and a certificate of attendance upon completion of the course.

What dates are these courses for young people available?

The Summer course runs in June, July and August. The Spring course is only available during the school holidays in March or April.

Which course allows you to stay for longer?

The Summer one is longer, lasting from 1 to 8 weeks. The Spring one is shorter, allowing a stay of 1 to 4 weeks.

How many activities are carried out in the afternoon for each programme?

In Summer there are 4 afternoons of sports and daily dance classes. In Spring there are 3 afternoons of sports or social activities organised.

What special water activities does summer offer?

The Summer Course exclusively includes the option of sailing lessons at Puerto Marina and more swimming activities, thanks to the warm climate.

What does the optional summer sailing activity consist of?

It is a 6-hour per week course (Tuesdays and Fridays) in Puerto Marina with professional instructors. It is available only in July and requires no previous experience.

Which offers more variety of sports?

The Summer course offers 4 afternoons of sports (volleyball, swimming, basketball, etc.), whilst the Spring course offers 3 afternoons combining sport and social visits.

Does the price of the course depend on the students' level of Spanish?

No, the prices are the same for all Spanish levels. However, the budget varies according to the number of weeks of stay; the more weeks booked, the lower the price per week.

Can students wash their clothes at the family's house?

Yes, the programme includes a weekly laundry service done by the family. The students only need to worry about handing in their dirty clothes on the day the family indicates.

School groups

What are the classes like for school groups?

It consists of 15 hours per week (3 hours a day, from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM) with native teachers. It includes the workbook, a placement test, and a final certificate.

Does the trip have any cost for the accompanying teacher?

The program includes one free place for the teacher, with accommodation in a single room (with a family or at a hotel) and full board.

What levels of Spanish can be taken?

The program is open to all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced students.

Where are the group students accommodated?

Mainly in host families. All families are within a few minutes' walk of the school. There is also the option of hotel accommodation.

How is the arrival from the airport organized?

The basic package includes a private bus transfer from Malaga airport to Benalmádena, with assistance from our staff upon arrival.

What cultural activities does the basic program include?

It includes an orientation tour of the town with a teacher and a half-day excursion to Malaga, with a choice of tickets for the Cathedral, Picasso's Birthplace, or the Picasso Museum.

Can extra activities be added to the budget?

Yes, the program is fully customizable. You can add paella cooking classes, flamenco dancing, water sports in Puerto Marina, winery visits, or weekend excursions to other cities in Andalusia...

Is it possible to organize stays that are not a full week?

Yes, the program is flexible. We can organize short stays of 4, 5, or 6 nights.

When is this program available?

The program is available all year round for school groups of all sizes and ages traveling with a teacher.

Where do the students have lunch during school days?

In the basic program, students enjoy a homemade buffet lunch at the school, while breakfast and dinner are eaten with their host families.

Do the accompanying teachers have internet access?

Yes, all participants (students and teachers) have free internet access on the school premises.

What happens if the group has special dietary needs?

They only need to let us know when making the reservation. Both the school and the families will adapt without additional cost to provide safe and balanced menus for each student.

How is the students' safety guaranteed during the afternoon activities?

All activities are supervised by our teachers or qualified instructors. Furthermore, since the school, the families, and the town center are so close together, the students move within a very safe and controlled environment.

Can the teacher choose the type of cultural visits?

Absolutely. The program is customizable. If the teacher prefers to visit the Butterfly Park, Colomares Castle, or take a weekend excursion to Granada or Seville, we can organize it to measure.

What does the educational material that the students receive include?

Each student receives a workbook designed by the school, the necessary school supplies for the classes, and, upon completion, a certificate of attendance accrediting the hours completed and the level achieved.

What is a typical daily schedule?

Classes from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM, lunch at the school, and cultural activities in the afternoon.

Do the school's teachers accompany the group on the excursions?

Yes, a monitor or teacher from Maravillas guides the visits so that learning continues outside the classroom.

What materials should the students bring from home?

Just a pen and a willingness to learn. We provide the workbook and all the educational materials.

How safe is Benalmádena for students to walk around on their own?

It is a very safe and residential city. Furthermore, the distance between the school and the host families is a maximum of 20 minutes on foot.

Where does the teacher stay if they don't want to live with a family?

We offer the option of accommodation in a 3-star hotel near the school.

Is the tap water drinkable in Benalmádena?

Yes, it is completely drinkable and safe for consumption.

Are the teachers native speakers?

Yes, all our teachers are native speakers, qualified, and have extensive experience working with school groups.

Do the students receive a certificate upon completion?

Yes, each student receives a certificate of attendance and a report on the level they achieved.

Is it possible to organize excursions to other cities in Andalusia?

Yes, we organize full-day trips to Granada, Seville, or Córdoba with a guide and private transportation.

What are the minimum and maximum ages for the groups regarding classes and accommodation?

Students are grouped into the following categories: 11-13, 14-15, 16-17, and over 17 years old. This division allows us to adapt both the academic content and the community rules to the maturity level of each stage.

Can students share a room with friends?

Yes, as long as they are of the same sex and request it when booking. Usually, families have double rooms available so that friends can stay together.

Can vegetarian students or those with allergies join the program?

Of course. We just need to know in advance to adapt the meals at school and notify the family.

Do the accompanying teachers stay together?

It depends on their preference. They can share an apartment with several rooms or stay with different families that are close to each other.

How many accompanying teachers should be included in the group's budget?

You should indicate the approximate number of teachers to be budgeted, keeping in mind that the standard ratio is one teacher for every 15 students.

Are students allowed to go out alone at night?

Only with signed authorization from their parents and while always respecting the curfew set by the teacher or the school.

What type of transport is used for full-day excursions?

We use modern short- and long-haul buses, fully equipped with air conditioning and complying with all European school transport regulations.

Do the host families live close to one another?

Yes, we select the families so that they live in the same neighborhood or adjacent areas. This makes it easier for students to go to school together and for the teacher to have the group located within a small radius.

Do the families have pets at home?

Many Spanish families have dogs or cats. It is essential for students to indicate if they have allergies or a phobia of animals on their registration form so that we can assign them a pet-free home.

Is smoking or drinking alcohol allowed during the program?

No. The school maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol and tobacco for minors.

Can students use public transport on their own?

Yes, Benalmádena has an excellent network of buses and commuter trains connecting with Málaga and Fuengirola. The school teachers will explain to the group how to buy tickets and use the main lines.

What clothes and footwear should the students bring?

We recommend comfortable clothes and, above all, sports shoes for cultural visits. In summer, it is essential to bring a swimsuit and a beach towel, while in winter, a light jacket or sweatshirt is enough, as the climate is very mild.

Is there free time for the students to go shopping?

Yes, we usually schedule supervised free time in safe areas such as Puerto Marina or downtown Malaga. The accompanying teacher can decide on the duration.

Do the students have to pay for the entrance fees to the monuments?

In the basic program, the selected entrance fees (such as the Picasso Museum or the Cathedral) are already included.

Can a farewell party be organized on the last day?

Yes, it is very common to organize a small diploma award ceremony with music and refreshments at the school before the students return to their countries.

Can students wash their clothes at the family's house?

Yes, the programme includes a weekly laundry service done by the family. The students only need to worry about handing in their dirty clothes on the day the family indicates.

Does the accompanying teacher have to pay for the cultural activities?

No. The teacher has free access to all activities and excursions scheduled for their group, including transfers and entrance fees to monuments.

Who are the teachers at the school?

All our teachers are native speakers, highly trained and up to date in modern teaching methodologies, e.g. role-playing, drama or AI in the classroom.

Do you offer courses to obtain the CCSE certificate?

No, free online self-assessment tests are available for the CCSE. See the page examenes.cervantes.es

Where is Maravillas Language School located?

We are located at Avenida Salvador Vicente 9, Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena, Málaga. Click here to access Google Maps.

How long do the courses last?

The duration varies according to the level and modality, from intensive week-long courses to longer programmes.

Spanish wonders
Need Help?
Maravillas School
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.