Experience SPI Summer Programs in Action!
Want to learn all you can about SPI? Start your tour by watching our preview video to give you an idea of what our high school foreign exchange programs are like.
The 5 Essential Elements of SPI Language Immersion…
SPI language immersion summer programs provide high school students with an authentic linguistic immersion experience, while also facilitating cross-cultural understanding that helps them gain a competitive advantage for college admissions and future job opportunities.
1. Total Immersion
Students, teachers, and directors use the language of study throughout the summer immersion program.
2. College Credit Language Courses
Students study at an accredited foreign university or academically challenging language institute where they receive an official transcript which can be petitioned to receive college credit.
3. Caring Homestay Experience
Students live with a caring homestay family in a small, manageable city where they are required to use their developing language skills as they safely explore and live in the local community.
4. Meaningful Excursions
Students participate in quality excursions to sites of cultural and historic importance with teacher-guides that understand their level of comprehension, their U.S. based curriculum and their interests.
5. Quality On-Site Leadership
The on-site program directors are mature, experienced teachers who serve as a mentor, caregiver, motivator, model immersion student, and conduct the entire program in the language of study.
A Typical Day Abroad
8:30 Breakfast with homestay family. Walk or take the bus to school with fellow students.
9:30-1:30 Intensive language & cultural classes. Mid-morning break to meet with on-site directors. *Costa Rica summer immersion programs have classes in the afternoon and activities in the mornings.
2:00-5:00 Lunch with homestay family and break time.
5:30-8:00 Exciting and educational afternoon activities or excursions that immerse students into the language and culture.
8:30-11:00 Dinner at home followed by time with your homestay family.