"LANGUAGE AGENCIES" Page 1, 2, 3

What a language agency does

You don't need to book language study through an agency, and--because agencies often charge service fees--you may save a few dollars, pounds, or drachma by dealing direct. However, there are several good reasons for booking through a language agency, just as there are good reasons for buying a tour or cruise through a travel agent:

Quality. Language agencies represent only the schools that meet their standards for quality of instruction, financial stability, etc. When I met LSA's Christine Coté in Florence last January, she was on a lengthy (and expensive) inspection trip of language schools in Italy and France--including the LSA school in Siena, Dante Alighieri, which I attended the following week. (See my report.)

Appropriateness. Are you interested in a course of several months, or just a week or two? If you're over 50, would you feel invigorated by studying with younger students, or would you be more comfortable in a special "mature adults" class? What would you like to do in your spare time? A language agency can help you find a school that matches your needs or preferences, based on the agency's knowledge and reports from previous students.

Convenience. Many European language schools don't accept credit cards or personal checks from abroad. If you live outside Europe, your savings on the cost of a wire transfer or bank draft can go a long way toward covering the agency's service fee.

Clout. Language schools rely on agencies to send them students, and this can work to your advantage. Lodgings are one example. Christine Coté explains: "The homestay is a big part of our program. Because we send so many students to each school, they're careful to place LSA students with 'preferred homestays' if they have to choose between giving it to an LSA student or one who 'goes direct.'"

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