Instituto Cultural Oaxaca
Our next intensive immersion cohorts begin every Monday year-round. Whether you're a complete beginner or working toward your DELE C2 certificate, we'll place you with a teacher who matches your level on day one
Instituto Cultural Oaxaca in Numbers
Since 1984
Oaxaca's First Spanish Language School
20,000 +
Former
Students
11
University & Academic Partners
1
Authorized DELE Test Center (Instituto Cervantes)
Instituto Cultural Oaxaca Spanish School
Instituto Cultural Oaxaca (ICO) is at Avenida Juárez 909 in Centro, a ten-minute walk from the Templo de Santo Domingo and fifteen minutes from the Zócalo. Founded in 1984, we were the first Spanish language school in Oaxaca, and over four decades later, we still teach the way we always have: through the culture of Oaxaca.
Our classrooms open onto a courtyard garden. Mornings focus on building real Spanish communication skills — grammar, listening, and speaking through our communicative approach. Afternoons are where the city becomes your classroom: Cultural Workshops in Oaxacan cooking, Zapotec weaving from Santo Tomás Jalieza, traditional red clay pottery from San Marcos Tlapazola, photography walks through Oaxaca's barrios, and our Intercambio language exchange with local Oaxaqueños — to name just a few. That's what we mean by immersion.
ICO offers Spanish language courses for every level — from absolute beginner to advanced (C2) — including specialized instruction for heritage speakers through Spanish Language Programs, Private Spanish Classes, Cultural Workshops, and DELE Exam Preparation.
Start your Spanish Journey Today!
Spanish Immersion Programs
ICO creates carefully designed Spanish Immersion Programs to support your Spanish Language journey and help you refine your Spanish skills. Cater to all ages and levels, children to adults and beginners to advanced students, classes at ICO are conducted to maximize your learning experience in a supportive, fun environment.
Oaxaca Spanish Immersion
At ICO, we believe in a holistic approach to learning Spanish. Our Spanish immersion courses are meticulously designed to suit learners of all levels. Enroll today to immerse yourself in a complete educational adventure where learning extends beyond classroom walls.
Dive into our Full Immersion Spanish Program, featuring up to seven hours daily of Spanish classes, conversation practice, and cultural workshops like salsa dancing, cooking, weaving, and music. For more flexibility, our 20-hour program offers morning classes and free afternoons to explore Oaxaca.
Spanish Language Programs
At ICO, we offer meticulously designed Spanish immersion programs suitable for all proficiency levels:
Intensive Spanish Immersion Program: Ideal for those seeking deep linguistic and cultural immersion, this program includes 20 hours of Spanish instruction weekly, complemented by cultural workshops and intercambio sessions, allowing you to practice Spanish with locals and deepen your understanding of Mexico’s traditions.
With 20 hours of Spanish classes per week, you'll focus on improving your communication skills in a supportive and immersive environment. Mornings are dedicated to structured learning, while your afternoons are free to practice Spanish in real-life situations, discover the city, and enjoy everything Oaxaca has to offer.
Seasonal Programs
Our seasonal programs immerse you in language and culture through special events and themed courses. Join the Day of the Dead Program to explore this iconic tradition or the Guelaguetza Program to experience Oaxaca’s vibrant festival.
We also offer the Medical Spanish Program, Latin American Literature Program, and more—each designed to enhance your learning through real-life cultural experiences.
Medical Spanish Program
Starting on October 5, 2026
Enhance your ability to communicate with Spanish-speaking patients through our Medical Spanish for Healthcare Professionals course. This two-week intensive program focuses on medical terminology, patient interactions, and practical communication skills. The course is designed for intermediate and advanced Spanish-speaking healthcare providers and includes real-world simulations and expert-led sessions. Join us in Oaxaca and improve your medical Spanish!
Testimonials
Our Partners
“During my time here I met some amazing people and was able to excel in my Spanish. The teachers and administrators are incredibly helpful and kind. My trip to Oaxaca changed my life forever! Highly recommend attending!”