Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have questions.  Here are our answers to a few we hear often.  If you still cannot find the answer, give us a call or chat with us live. 

General questions
Accomondation
Registration and Prices
Communication
Volunteer
Spanish Programs

General Questions:

Gateway Argentina is excited about the recent buzz that Buenos Aires is becoming the top destination for immersion programs.  We know that there are many immersion agencies in Buenos Aires. We know it is easy to assume that all these businesses are the same and offer the same services.  The truth is we have strived to develop a business model that makes us different. Our staff is comprised of a dedicated mix of “locals” and “expats” which, for you means better local programs with a North American standard of professionalism. Our focus is strictly on Buenos Aires. We work hard in this city to provide our clients the best of the best here.   Just as our name implies, we want to be your Gateway to Argentina. 

2. Will I need a Visa to come to Argentina?

Visas to travel to Argentina depend on your home country.  Citizens of the United States only need a passport to travel to Argentina in order to stay for up to 90 days.  For citizens of any other country please direct your questions to your consulate as they have the most up to date information on Visa regulations.

 If your program requires a student visa we will let you know all the necessary procedures to make sure you are able to acquire the correct visa.

We are able to accommodate anyone over the age of 18.  We look forward to meeting future students and clients with a diversity of backgrounds, nationalities and interests. 

4. When should I arrive for my program?
We suggest that you arrive at least two days before your program orientation. Upon confirmation of your reservation we will send you an information package that explains the entire process.

5. How do I get from the airport to my accommodations?
We will arrange an airport pickup for you.  There will be more information explaining this process when you receive your information package.

6. How will I meet other people and make friends while in Buenos Aires?
Every student has a program orientation when they arrive in Buenos Aires.  This will be your first opportunity to meet other program participants.  Gateway Argentina also hosts events for program participants. You will receive a calendar of events; we encourage all participants to come to these events.  You will also have the opportunity to meet other individuals in your classes, in your accommodation and through our language partner program.

7. I want to travel around Argentina, is this possible?
Yes, traveling around Argentina is possible and we recommend it.  It is possible to travel independently and if this is one of your main goals in Argentina we can customize your class schedule to make the most of your time.  Also keep in mind that we offer weekly activities around the city as well as a trip once a month to a destination in Argentina. 

8. Can I extend my time longer in the program?
Yes, we have made it very practical for students to continue in their programs.  Please contact us as soon as you know that you want to stay longer and we will arrange for any or all aspects of your program to continue.  At this time we are also able to change aspects of the program. 

9. I have an ISIC card, how does my discount work?
When you submit your registration form please include your ISIC number.  We will apply the 10% discount to your payment invoice. 

10. How do I exchange money?

The easiest way of exchanging money is just to withdraw money from ATM machines here.   By withdrawing directly from an ATM located at a banking center you will receive better exchange rates then by using an exchange service.

11. I have no idea what to pack? What should I bring?
Upon receiving your program deposit we will send packing advice based on your program and season that you will arrive.  Keep in mind that Argentina is in the Southern Hemisphere, while it is winter in the Northern Hemisphere it is summer in Argentina.

Accommodations:

Our home-stay families go through an intense screening process.   We have interviewed our families, visited their homes on many occasions. Many of our housing providers are friends, neighbors and colleagues.  All of our home-stays are located in the nicest and safest parts of Buenos Aires and within walking distance to public transportation, shopping and entertainment.  We match students to home-stays based on their answers to our accommodations survey. 

2. Will my accommodation be close to my classes or volunteer location?
Our language schools are located in downtown Buenos Aires and are easily accessible by underground train (Subte) and several bus routes.  All volunteer locations are accessible by public transport.

3. What is the difference between a home-stay and a shared apartment?
We offer both home-stay and a shared apartment options because we understand that every participant is different. Our shared apartments are designed to be shared with local Spanish-speaking students or young professional.   Home-stays are a more family oriented setting.

4. Do I need to arrange my accommodation through you?
Our programs packages are designed to include housing. We are able to provide low cost housing because of the close relationships that we have built with the providers.  However if you would like to arrange your own housing, it is possible for us to custom build a package for you that does not include housing.  Please see our section regarding customizations.

5. What is your policy for changing accommodations during my stay?
The housing for a participant is the first part of the program that is arranged.  Once this has been arranged it is not possible to change because Gateway Argentina has contracted the provider. We understand that comfortable housing is very important while living abroad.  To better ensure that we place participants in the best fit, we encourage you to read about all the housing options and think about what your style of living is.  In addition, we will send you a housing questionnaire after we receive your deposit.  By providing us with truthful, well thought out answers, we are confident we can locate the perfect match for you.

6. Will my homestay be able to accommodate my dietary restrictions?
Home Stays provide two meals per day; Argentine style breakfast and dinner.  If you have dietary restrictions we recommend that you include this information in your housing questionnaire. We will do our best to accommodate you, however, the best way to resolve this might be with your host upon arrival.

7. If I come with a friend can we arrange to be placed in the same accommodation?
Absolutely!  We will do our best to arrange for friends or groups to live together.

Registration and Prices:

Gateway Argentina is able to offer program packages at a low price because we are a small business located in Buenos Aires.  We have personal relationships with every one of our providers.  We have developed these relationships with different institutes and accommodation providers to keep costs low. We are committed to providing the best of Buenos Aires for our clients.  This means that we are constantly researching better options and new ideas for you.  By focusing only on Buenos Aires we are able to cut out the cost of managing satellite programs throughout Argentina and other cities in Latin America.

2. How does the registration process work, do I have to pay a registration fee?
To apply for one of our programs please click on the “Apply Now” icon.   After you fill out the registration form and submit it to us we will send to you an email explaining the payment process.   In order to secure your placement in our program we require a non-refundable deposit of $300US. This deposit can be paid by credit card, money order or PayPal.

3. How far in advance must I register for you programs?
For any of our programs we advise that you register at least two weeks in advance.  If you are interested in creating your own customized program please be aware that this may take more time.  Please be sure to included in your customize programs request email your estimated date of arrival.  Please keep in mind that Gateway Argentina will do its best to never turn down a client’s request.

4. How do you accept payments? When is the full payment due?
We accept all major credit cards, PayPal, cash and bank transfers.  You will receive all the necessary information regarding our secure payment process once we receive your registration.

Program fees must be paid in full before the first day of class or first night in your accommodation.  Once you arrive in Buenos Aires a program coordinator will meet you to finalize outstanding payments, give you your welcome package and information on city and program orientations.

5. What is your cancellation policy for your programs?
After a registration has been confirmed the $300US deposit money is nonrefundable.  Once you arrive in Buenos Aires we are unable to cancel or alter any aspects of your program without charging an alteration fee.  Programs are specifically designed for each client’s needs. Before you arrive we have already planned out every aspect of your program and confirmed space in your program.  For these reasons it is very difficult to make changes after your start date.  However, please keep in mind that while you are in Buenos Aires we will always be available to ensure your complete happiness in your program and time spent in the city.

Communication:

Gateway Argentina can be contacted by calling its toll-free United States phone number 1(888)821-9372.  This number will ring in Argentina.  In case of emergency Gateway Argentina will use every resource it has available to put the participant in touch with whomever necessary.

2. Will I be able to receive calls on my rented cell phone from outside of Argentina?
Yes it is possible to receive phone calls from outside of Argentina to your cell phone.  The country code for Argentina is +54. When you arrive in Buenos Aires your program coordinator will be able to answer any questions that you might have about making and receiving calls.

Volunteer:

 Gateway Argentina takes pride in offering the best services available in Buenos Aires.   We chose HelpArgentina because they offer the best volunteer opportunities in Argentina.  HelpArgentina’s mission is to mobilize volunteers in every area of the Argentine social sector.  HelpArgentina has a network of over 50 social organizations that have been selected based on their social impact, accountability and best practices. We believe that volunteers can make a positive impact on the Argentine social sector.

Each volunteer’s placement will be arranged before they arrive in Argentina.   Gateway Argentina and HelpArgentina will work together to make sure each volunteer is placed with the organization that best matches their background, passion and needs.  Once Gateway Argentina receives your volunteer registration we will forward to you a questionnaire form to fill out and return with your program deposit.  Gateway Argentina will send the completed questionnaire form to HelpArgentina in order to match you with potential placements.  You will receive placement options and be able to select the one you prefer.   Upon receiving your decision we will confirm you as a volunteer at your chosen placement and the rest will be arranged for your arrival.  Once you arrive in Argentina, we will accompany you to HelpArgentina’s office and you will be given an overview of your volunteer program.  If at any time there is a problem with the placement both Gateway Argentina and HelpArgentina will be available to assist you.

3. Why do you require a one month minimum for volunteers?  Are there any programs available for under a one month commitment?
HelpArgentina and Gateway Argentina require a minimum one month commitment for its volunteers.  Organizing quality volunteer placements takes time, effort and coordination both on our end and with the placement organization. We want to make sure you are utilized effectively. We know you want to make an impact. In addition Gateway Argentina only places volunteers in organizations that are strongly committed to their objective.   We have learned that it works best for all parties involved if volunteers are able to commit at least one month to their placement. By requiring this we are able to ensure for both the volunteer and the placement organizations.

For volunteer placements less than one month please fill out the form on the customize page. Depending on your needs it may be possible to find a short term project for you within the City of Buenos Aires.

4. Is there a fee for volunteering?
Yes, a flat fee of 450 US dollars is included in the program cost. This is a direct contribution to HelpArgentina and is used by HelpArgentina to ensure the quality of the volunteer’s experience.  It helps support and cover administrative costs, volunteer recruitment, pre-, post-, and in-country support, finding and building partnerships with Argentine NGOs, following and assisting in the development and execution of volunteer projects, training and orientation. In addition a percentage of each volunteer’s program fee also covers basic health insurance directly related to their placement.  One hundred dollars (US) is donated directly to the NGO where the volunteer will be placed.  It is possible for the volunteer to have this money go toward specific projects or needs at their volunteer placement.  This can be coordinated through HelpArgentina.

5. Is there a way to receive more information about Help Argentina?
Yes, we encourage you to look at their website which is www.helpargentina.org or contact us if you have any questions.

Spanish Programs:

Upon completion of your course you will receive a certification from your language school.  Course credits must be applied for from your home institution.  If you are planning on having credits transfer we recommend that you take our University of Buenos Aires intensive Spanish program.  Additionally, since each institution has different study abroad requirements we recommend you talk to your study abroad office before you begin your program.

2. How do I determine what my Spanish level is?
Once we receive your deposit we will send a placement test to you. This placement test will give the school a good idea of your level.  On the first day of class you will take an oral placement test and the final level assessment will be made. If you have studied Spanish in the past we recommend that you spend a little time refreshing. Typically language skills will come back to you after a few days of being in an immersion setting. By refreshing, this will help to ensure that you are at the appropriate level.

3. How many weeks does it take to complete a level?
We offer two types of classes.  Our Intensive Spanish program is designed to take one month to complete a level.  At the end of each level there will be a final exam, you must pass the final exam to move on to the next level. Our Flexible Spanish program offers levels that can be completed in two weeks. Class time can be split around traveling and volunteering.

4. Do you offer specialized Spanish classes?
Yes, we offer private and small group classes focusing on Medical Spanish and Spanish for Lawyers anytime throughout the year. We are also able to offer Spanish for Economics, Spanish for Social Science and Spanish for Latin American Studies. These are intensive three month long classes.  For more information on our specialized classes please fill out the customization form and let us know what you are looking for.

5.  Is there a minimum level required to take a specialized class?
Yes, these classes are designed to teach advanced and specialized subject areas in Spanish.  The students who want to take specialized classes should have an intermediate to advanced level of Spanish grammar and vocabulary. Private tutors can be arranged for anyone who wants extra guidance in their Specialized Spanish program.  

6.  When can I start my Spanish Language Program?
Intensive Spanish programs begin the first Monday of every month.   Flexible Spanish classes begin every Monday.  

PROGRAMS

Spanish and Wine
Specialized Spanish
Volunteer
Flexible Spanish
Intensive Spanish
Lecturas Culturales

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