Great! You can speak, read, and write in English. And so does a growing percentage of the world. Many anglophones often forget that other languages exist. And that foreign languages can be important in business, among many, many other things. While language is only a piece of a cultural puzzle, it’s a huge one.
You’re never too old to learn—or master—a new language. Seriously!
Home, work, home. Home, work, and back home again. Home. Work. Home...maybe you’re stuck in that daily 9-5 grind five days a week. It gets old quickly, doesn’t it? Do something different and stimulate that brain of yours by studying a foreign language abroad. An adult language school allows us to shake up the routine that our lives so often become. Imagine a summer language immersion program, just for adults, to nourish your intellect in a new way. Learning a new language is more than asking for directions on your next vacation: it’s culture, cuisine, and a different style to express yourself. It’s a different way to see and express our experiences. And while you might not be able to change your environment, you can leave it for a while and return with new eyes and a fresh perspective.
Why not do something different? Here’s our take on language immersion programs for adults—why you’re never too old to learn and the adult language schools that can help you accomplish your fluency goals.
Why your age doesn’t matter
Does my age matter? No. Am I too old to learn a new language? Non. Is it unheard of for an adult like me, well beyond 50, to study a foreign language? ¡ No! That’s enough of this nexus of negative ideas. We’d like to let you in on a little secret here, so pay attention to this one: your age doesn’t matter, you’re never too old, and research actually suggests that studying a foreign language in adulthood has positive mental health outcomes.
Studying a foreign language in adulthood should be something you consider. Besides, who said you’re an old dog in the first place? Be a top, wise dog and do your brain a favor. And enough of that numbers game!
Foreign language programs have a tendency to gear their marketing towards younger, college-aged students, but many of these programs support and welcome adults because they, too, believe that age is just a number. Few adult language schools exist, though most programs will cater to the needs of their students regardless of age.
Going back to school as an adult isn’t all that bad!
11 up-and-coming adult language schools abroad
These adult language schools will get you on the right track towards fluency
1. Tico Lingo
This killer adult language school offers adult students the crème de la crème when it comes to Spanish immersion programs. Tici Lingo offers flexible programs in Costa Rica ranging from one to 16 weeks. The course includes 20 hours of group Spanish classes (that’s four hours a day, five days a week folks!) and accommodation with a local Tico family for around $500 a week.
With your home base in Heredia, you’ll quickly learn the way to San Jose (just a half hour away). Students have the option to choose from a variety of cultural courses in addition to the school’s dynamic language classes. Each student takes a placement exam before starting the program to ensure adequate course placement. A bonus: students have conversational classes to practice their new skills with the locals.
- Where? Heredia, Costa Rica
- Language? Spanish
- Average cost? $500/week
- More info: Read reviews of Tico Lingo
2. Go Abroad China
Go Abroad China’s unique Chinese Language Programs are designed to immerse participants in Mandarin Chinese through instruction, one-to-one tutoring, language exchange with native Mandarin Chinese speakers, and wonderful electives, tours, networking events, and parties. With smaller class sizes, you get much more exposure and practice with the language. This program is perfect for anyone who has the time to dedicate to learning a language abroad and exploring a new culture and a corner of the world.
- Where? Beijing, Chengdu, Dalian, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Kunming, Nanjing, Ningbo, Shaanxi, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Tianjin, Xi'an, Yangzhou, Yantai, Zhengzhou
- Language? Chinese
- Average cost? Contact Provider for $$$ Details
- More info: Read reviews of Go Abroad China
3. Corazon Cuba
Experience the history of Cuba along with the lively lifestyle while studying Spanish in Old Havana. Known more internationally as Old Havana, this language program is located in one of the municipalities that make up the capital city of Havana. Along with Spanish courses, students can also opt to study dance and culture or even volunteer while they are there. For around $400 a week, students have two meals a day and accommodation along with chosen courses. The cool part: these language classes aren’t just for adults; students can expect to study alongside a wide range of generations.
- Where? Old Habana, Cuba
- Language? Spanish
- Average cost? $400/week
- More info: Read reviews of Corazon Cuba
4. LTL Language School
If you want total linguistic immersion without being boxed into just one destination, LTL Language School is a game-changer. They offer a unique multi-city program that allows you to study Mandarin across up to 8 different vibrant cities in China and Taiwan. From the bustling streets of Beijing and Shanghai to smaller, traditional hubs, their small-group classes (averaging just three students per class) ensure rapid progress. They also specialize in immersive homestays where English is strictly off the menu, giving adult learners the ultimate crash course in both language and local culture.
- Where? Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Chengdu, Xi'an, Beihai, Chengde
- Language? Mandarin Chinese
- Average cost? $300/week
- More info: Read reviews of LTL Language School
5. Paris-French-Immersion
For adult learners who want to skip the traditional classroom entirely, Paris-French-Immersion offers the ultimate bespoke experience: living and studying directly in the home of a Sorbonne-graduated teacher. Located just outside Paris, this intensive program blends structured, one-on-one language lessons with daily life, from sharing home-cooked meals to exploring local Parisian markets with your instructor. Because everything is tailored exclusively to your personal language goals and fluency level, it eliminates the pressure of a group dynamic while forcing 24/7 immersion. It is the perfect choice for professionals and independent adults looking for rapid progress, cultural depth, and a sophisticated, personalized approach to mastering French.
- Where? Near Paris, France
- Language? French
- Average cost? €1900/week
- More info: Read reviews of Paris-French-Immersion
6. Scuola di Italiano Dante Alighieri
If your dream is to master Italian while surrounded by rolling hills and ancient stone walls, this school offers the quintessential Italian experience. Located in the beautiful, medieval university town of Camerino, the school provides adult learners with an escape from the heavily touristed paths of Rome or Florence. Their programs combine intensive language courses with rich cultural immersion activities, including regional cooking classes, wine tastings, and guided excursions to nearby historic sites. Because the town itself is compact and deeply traditional, you’ll find endless opportunities to practice your conversational skills with friendly locals at the neighborhood cafe or market.
- Where? Camerino, Italy
- Language? Italian
- Average cost? Starting at €750/week
- More info: Read reviews of Scuola di Italiano Dante Alighieri
Technology can only take you so far—living in a country where the language is spoken is key.
7. Italiano In Riviera
Learn Italian while experiencing life along the romantic northwestern coast of Italy in the heart of Genoa. Former students often speak of the quality of instruction provided by highly-skilled certified language professors, but also the abundance of attractions and sites nearby. Small group courses run for 12 weeks, which include 36 hours of instruction for a handsome price of 295 euros. A pro: scholarships are available to help offset the price of tuition!
- Where? Alghero, Italy
- Language? Italian
- Average cost? €299/week
- More info: Read reviews of Italiano In Riviera
8. The Excellence Center in Palestine
Study Modern Standard Arabic or the Palestinian dialect in the city of Hebron. This program combines language with culture and history lessons for a dynamic group of foreigners from around the world. Arabic courses are taught for all levels and are offered all year round. The price of the program depends on the hours of instruction, ranging from 10 to 50 hours, with prices starting at 150 euros. A perk: cultural tours of the Old City are included with language courses!
- Where? Hebron, Palestine
- Language? Arabic
- Average cost? €150/week
- More info: Read reviews of The Excellence Center in Palestine
9. Indo Vacations
If you want to unlock the rich history, vibrant colors, and cinematic flair of India, learning Hindi is your ultimate golden ticket. Indo Vacations offers specialized language courses in Jaipur, the famous "Pink City" of Rajasthan, designed to get adult learners speaking confidently in no time. The program cleverly pairs structured grammatical instruction with daily cultural excursions, allowing you to take what you learn in the classroom and immediately apply it while navigating bustling bazaars and historic forts. It is an ideal setup for travelers and professionals seeking an authentic, deep-dive immersion into the heart of Northern Indian culture. (and here’s a guide to learning Hindi in India!)
- Where? Jaipur, India
- Language? Hindi
- Average cost? Around $100/week
- More info: Read reviews of Indo Vacations
10. Meiji Academy
Escape the intense humidity of Tokyo or Kyoto and opt for a cooler, nature-filled educational getaway with Meiji Academy's summer program in Hokkaido. Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, open green spaces, and legendary food culture, Japan’s northernmost island offers a refreshing backdrop for adult language learners. The academy focuses on small, conversational Japanese classes that focus heavily on practical communication skills. When you aren't in the classroom, your summer days will be filled with outdoor adventures, local culinary tours, and community activities, making it an incredible choice for independent adults looking to sharpen their Japanese while discovering a wilder, more relaxed side of Japan.
- Where? Hokkaido, Japan
- Language? Japanese
- Average cost? $610/week
- More details: Read reviews of Meiji Academy
11. Don Quijote
If you can't decide on just one corner of the Spanish-speaking world, Don Quijote lets you map out your own epic educational journey across Latin America. With a vast network of modern schools spanning multiple countries—including Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, and Argentina—adult learners can choose from beachfront locales, historic colonial towns, or bustling capitals. Their flexible programs cater heavily to independent adults and professionals, offering small group sizes and specialized elective paths like business Spanish, medical terminology, or cultural history. It is the perfect option for those who want a reputable, highly structured school network while retaining the freedom to hop across borders.
- Where? Multiple Countries
- Language? Spanish
- Average cost? €300/week
- More info: Add a Review for Don Quijote
[Browse more schools / foreign language classes for adults]
Don’t learn a new language alone. Grab your friends, too!
Bonus: Summer language immersion programs for adults
Maybe you have extra time off in the summer because you might otherwise not be able to take an extended period off from work. We’ve got you covered. With heaps of summer language immersion programs for adults, you will be sure to find one that’s right up your alley. Summer programs are usually flexible and less expensive!
1. WorldStrides
Soak up the sun on Spain’s breathtaking Costa del Sol with a dynamic summer language program in the coastal gem of Málaga. WorldStrides pairs intensive Spanish language immersion with a relaxed, Mediterranean lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for adult learners looking to boost their fluency outside a rigid corporate environment. Classes are hosted at a local university and seamlessly combined with active cultural excursions—like exploring ancient Moorish fortresses, visiting the Picasso Museum, or taking a weekend trip to Seville. It is the perfect summer escape for independent students and professionals who want to sharpen their language skills while enjoying Spain’s vibrant beach culture.
- Where? Malaga, Spain
- Language? Spanish
- Average cost? $5550
- More info: Read reviews for WorldStrides
2. Spanish Studies Abroad
This summer, live as a true part of Sevillano culture while gaining a profound understanding of your surroundings and the Spanish language. All Spanish Studies Abroad courses are designed to fit your personal and academic needs—homestays, language exchanges, cultural resources, workshops, and activities allow you to more fully integrate into life in Seville. With classes held in a historic Spanish mansion in the heart of downtown Seville, you’re going to easily soak in all its winding Moorish streets, Renaissance gardens, flower-strewn patios, grand architecture, flamenco dancing, and music.
- Where? Seville, Spain
- Language? Spanish
- Average cost? $5650
- More info: Read reviews for Spanish Studies Abroad
3. University of Haifa International School
Perched atop Mount Carmel with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, this premier institution offers a brilliant summer launching pad for mastering the Hebrew language. The University of Haifa’s world-renowned intensive Ulpan program welcomes adult learners of all levels into a rigorous, immersive academic environment. The curriculum focuses heavily on writing, reading, and conversational fluency, allowing students to make rapid progress over the summer months. Beyond the intensive coursework, the school provides an active social calendar filled with regional study tours and cultural lectures, giving independent adults a front-row seat to Israel’s diverse, multicultural history and vibrant coastal lifestyle.
- Where? Haifa, Israel
- Language? Hebrew
- Average cost? $500
- More info: Add a Review for University of Haifa International School
4. Hankuk University of Foreign Studies
Dive headfirst into the language and culture driving global trends with an intensive summer residency in the heart of Seoul. Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS)—one of South Korea's premier institutions for international studies—hosts an elite International Summer Session designed specifically for ambitious adult learners. The program pairs high-quality Korean language courses for all proficiency levels with fascinating elective classes in Asian studies, pop culture, politics, and business. Beyond the lecture halls, your itinerary will be packed with organized cultural excursions, from exploring historic palaces to learning the ropes of K-pop dance, making it the perfect academic and cultural getaway for independent students and professionals alike.
- Where? Seoul, South Korea
- Language? Korean (alongside courses in English)
- Average cost? $1800
- More info: Read reviews of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies
You’re never too old to learn a new language
The time is now.
You can always reinvent yourself. Or at least the idea that your age shouldn’t limit or decide what you can and cannot do in this life. Let go of those age-related ideals that you have and entertain the idea of learning a foreign language while immersing yourself in a new culture. You’re not being asked to reinvent the wheel here! Adult language classes might just be your next cup of tea.
Going abroad is the best way to learn a foreign language. We aren’t called what we are (GoAbroad, that is) by chance. There is nothing that compares to a total language immersion experience. Speaking of experience, the entire experience becomes your classroom.
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Carter Brown
GoAbroad Contributor
Carter can typically be found in Paris, where he's a professor, freelance writer, and student of public health. Sometimes he's at the pool swimming or commuting by bike. Previously, he lived in India and after, the Philippines, where he collaborated with GoAbroad's content team. One thing's certain, wherever he's at, he'll take a coffee and a few photos.
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