The Vive Español program at Universidad de La Sabana offers international students an immersive Spanish language learning experience in Chía, Colombia. The program features comprehensive courses covering grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, and conversation, tailored to various proficiency levels. Participants can choose from flexible schedules, including group classes of 12 or 15 hours per week and one-on-one sessions. To enhance cultural immersion, the program offers homestay accommodations with local families, providing private rooms, meals, and laundry services. Additional opportunities include volunteer work, cultural outings, and sports activities, enriching the overall learning experience.
Study Spanish Abroad at Universidad de La Sabana Spanish School in Chía, Colombia
Study Spanish in Colombia
Summer: $3,495
Semester: $16,495
Study Spanish Abroad at Universidad de La Sabana Spanish School in Chía, Colombia
Study Spanish in Colombia
Summer: $3,495
Semester: $16,495
Dates & Deadlines
Spring 2026 Term: Rolling start dates
Spring Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Fall 2025 Term: Rolling start dates
Fall Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Summer 2025 Term: Rolling start dates
Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Costs
Spring Semester Cost: $16,495
Fall Semester Cost: $16,495
Summer Term Cost: $3,495
Disclaimer: Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights.
Credits
Inquire for details
Eligibility
- Minimum Age: 18
- Education Status: No requirements.
- Language Proficiency: No language requirement, a placement test will be administered to determine language level.
- Minimum GPA: No minimum requirement.
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Disclaimer: Costs, inclusions, and exclusions should be verified during your enrollment process and are subject to changes, updates, or clarification based on the program destination.
DATES & DEADLINES
Spring 2026 Term: Rolling start dates
Spring Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Fall 2025 Term: Rolling start dates
Fall Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Summer 2025 Term: Rolling start dates
Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Disclaimer: Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights.
COSTS
Spring Semester Cost: $16,495
Fall Semester Cost: $16,495
Summer Term Cost: $3,495
Disclaimer: Costs, inclusions, and exclusions should be verified during your enrollment process and are subject to changes, updates, or clarification based on the program destination.
Credits
Inquire for details
Eligibility
- Minimum Age: 18
- Education Status: No requirements.
- Language Proficiency: No language requirement, a placement test will be administered to determine language level.
- Minimum GPA: No minimum requirement.
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Housing
Homestay
Visa Required from the US?
Yes
Program Overview
Program Highlights
The Vive Español program at Universidad de La Sabana offers a structured approach to learning Spanish. With intensive courses, flexible scheduling, and expert instructors, students can quickly build their language skills in an engaging and supportive environment.
Intensive Spanish Courses
The program provides structured intensive Spanish courses that cater to various proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced. These courses are designed to help students develop strong communication skills in a short time, with a focus on grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational practice.
Flexible Program Options
The Vive Español program offers a range of schedules, including short-term and long-term courses, to accommodate students with different learning paces and availability. Whether you prefer intensive daily lessons or a more relaxed schedule, the program provides options to suit your needs.
Experienced Instructors
Courses are taught by highly qualified instructors who specialize in teaching Spanish as a foreign language. They use innovative teaching methodologies, interactive exercises, and personalized feedback to ensure each student improves their language skills effectively.
Program Dates & Costs
These costs are for our full program fee and cover everything listed below under inclusions. Additional costs apply; please see exclusions below.
SPRING
Spring 2026 Term: Rolling start dates
Spring Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Spring Semester Cost: $16,495
FALL
Fall 2025 Term: Rolling start dates
Fall Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Fall Semester Cost: $16,495
SUMMER
Summer 2025 Term: Rolling start dates
Application Deadline: Flexible deadlines
Summer Term Cost: $3,495
Inclusions
- Tuition
- Academic transcript from Host University
- Airport transfer on arrival in-country
- Housing/Accommodations for the duration of your program
- Breakfast and dinner daily
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Dedicated Program Advisor who is accessible and experienced
- Pre and post arrival orientation
- Student services and learning support
- Access to university facilities
- 24/7 emergency phone support
- Travel visa guidance and support
Exclusions
- Transportation (flights) to and from program destination
- Visa fees and expenses
- Housing security deposit (if applicable)
- Textbooks or other course materials
- Optional trips and excursions
- Daily transportation
- Any/all personal expenses
*Costs, inclusions, and exclusions should be verified during your enrollment process and are subject to changes, updates, or clarification based on the program destination. Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights!
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The average cost for a semester abroad with StudyAbroad.com is just $13,252 including tuition, housing, and more! The average cost of a semester elsewhere starts around $20,124.* Why are we so much less? We’ve cut out unnecessary add-ons so that you can get the same study experience, for oftentimes half the cost! Learn more.
Average Semester Tuition + Housing
*Price comparisons were created using publicly available information and may have discrepancies. All costs are based on a full semester program that includes tuition and housing.
Academics
Learn more about where, what, and how you’ll study while in Colombia.
Host Institution
Universidad de La Sabana, established in 1979, is a distinguished private institution located in Chía, Colombia, approximately 20 kilometers north of Bogotá. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including 23 undergraduate degrees, 100 graduate programs, and several doctoral degrees across various disciplines. Its expansive 78-hectare campus serves as a hub for nearly 12,000 students and researchers, fostering a culture of knowledge, ethics, and social responsibility. Recognized for its academic excellence and innovative research, Universidad de La Sabana has earned high-quality institutional accreditation from the Colombian Ministry of Education. The university emphasizes holistic education, integrating state-of-the-art facilities with a strong focus on international collaboration and community engagement, thereby shaping future leaders who contribute meaningfully to society.
Semester Courses
The Spanish classes at Universidad de La Sabana are designed to develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills while immersing students in Colombian culture. Courses range from A1 to C2 levels and follow CEFR and ACTFL standards. Students can choose between general Spanish courses, Spanish for specific purposes, and customized private lessons. Classes are available face-to-face, with morning or afternoon schedules. Options include group sessions (12-15 hours per week), one-on-one lessons, and flexible programming. The program also provides learning materials, access to campus facilities, and cultural activities to complement classroom instruction, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging language learning experience.
Study Abroad courses are available in the following area:
- Spanish Language
Summer Courses
The two-week summer courses at Universidad de La Sabana offer an intensive Spanish learning experience combined with cultural immersion. These courses focus on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, following CEFR standards. Students engage in interactive lessons, real-life practice, and cultural activities to enhance their fluency. The program provides flexible schedules, small class sizes, and experienced instructors, making it ideal for those looking to improve their Spanish in a short time while experiencing Colombian culture firsthand.
Summer Study Abroad courses are available in the following area:
- Spanish Language
Eligibility
Students will be required to take a language placement test upon acceptance. The placement test at Universidad de La Sabana is designed to assess a candidate’s Spanish proficiency and place them in the appropriate level, ranging from A1 to C2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The test consists of three sections, and ensures that students are matched with the right course to enhance their language learning experience. Students are not required to be enrolled in a home institution, and there is no minimum GPA requirement.
What's Studying Abroad in Chía, Colombia like?
Life in Chía, Colombia
Life in Colombia is vibrant, diverse, and full of contrast. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the laid-back coastal vibes of Cartagena, the country offers a rich cultural experience. Colombians are known for their warmth, resilience, and love of music, particularly salsa and vallenato. The cuisine is a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, with dishes like arepas, bandeja paisa, and sancocho being staples. While cities thrive with economic growth, rural areas showcase breathtaking landscapes, from lush coffee plantations to Amazonian jungles. Despite challenges, Colombia’s spirit is strong, making it a dynamic and fascinating place to live.
Housing & Meals
The Vive Español program at Universidad de La Sabana enhances cultural immersion by offering homestay accommodations with local families. Participants enjoy private rooms, internet access, cleaning services, and laundry services, providing a comfortable and authentic living experience. This arrangement allows students to practice Spanish in everyday contexts and gain deeper insights into Colombian culture and traditions.
Meals are included in your tuition as part of your homestay, with breakfast and lunch provided daily. Beyond this, Colombian food is diverse and flavorful, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Staples include arepas, empanadas, and the hearty bandeja paisa, featuring beans, rice, meat, and plantains. Fresh tropical fruits like lulo, guanábana, and maracuyá are widely enjoyed. Each region has its specialties, from coastal seafood dishes to the savory soups of the Andes.
Culture
Colombia’s culture is a vibrant fusion of Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, reflected in its music, dance, and traditions. Rhythms like cumbia, vallenato, and salsa energize celebrations, while festivals such as the Barranquilla Carnival and Medellín Flower Festival highlight the nation’s lively spirit. Art, literature, and fashion thrive, with icons like Gabriel García Márquez and Fernando Botero shaping its cultural identity. Family, hospitality, and a deep sense of community are at the heart of Colombian life, making it a country rich in tradition, creativity, and warmth. From street performances to grand cultural events, expression and joy are woven into everyday life.
Essential Colombia Info
Colombia is a vibrant and diverse country known for its breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests and towering mountains to pristine beaches and bustling cities. With a rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and a dynamic mix of tradition and modernity, it offers a unique and inspiring environment for exploration, learning, and innovation.
- Capitol City: Bogotá
- Est. Population: 52 million
- Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
- Time Zone: Colombia Time (COT), UTC/GMT -5
- Language(s): Spanish (official)
What to do in Colombia in your free time
Discover Colombia by exploring Cartagena’s colorful old town, touring lush coffee plantations, hiking through Tayrona National Park, and visiting the unique underground Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá.
Featured Program Reviews
Study Abroad in Colombia FAQs
Got questions about studying abroad? Get all the answers you need to kickstart your journey with confidence!
Why should I study abroad in Colombia?
Colombia offers high-quality education, diverse academic programs, affordable tuition, and a rich cultural experience. Its universities are well-ranked, and students can enjoy a vibrant, welcoming environment. Additionally, the country’s stunning landscapes, lively cities, and warm people make it an exciting place to live and study. Many universities also emphasize research and innovation, providing students with valuable academic and professional opportunities.
What is the education system like in Colombia?
The higher education system follows a bachelor’s (pregrado), master’s (maestría), and doctoral (doctorado) structure. Universities emphasize research, innovation, and industry collaboration, preparing students for both academic and professional careers. Many institutions also offer exchange programs, internships, and extracurricular activities to enhance the learning experience.
How do I get around in Colombia as a student?
Public transportation options include TransMilenio (Bogotá), Metro (Medellín), and buses in other cities. Many students also use taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Didi for convenience. Walking and biking are also common in university areas, and some cities have student transportation discounts. It’s important to be aware of peak hours and safety tips when using public transport.
What cultural experiences can I enjoy while studying in Colombia?
Colombia offers music, dance, festivals, historic sites, and natural wonders like Tayrona National Park and the Coffee Region. Students can explore colonial cities like Cartagena, visit museums, and participate in cultural events. The country is also famous for its carnivals and festivals, such as the Barranquilla Carnival, one of the largest in Latin America. Whether enjoying street performances, trying local cuisine, or learning to dance salsa, students will find countless ways to immerse themselves in Colombian culture.
How can I make friends and integrate into Colombian student life?
Joining university clubs, participating in exchange student programs, and engaging in local activities are great ways to meet people. Colombians are known for their warm and friendly nature, making it easy to connect with locals. Attending social events, volunteering, and joining sports or language exchange groups can also help students feel more at home. Making an effort to learn Spanish and understand the culture can greatly enhance the experience of studying in Colombia.
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