Common questions
Questions students really ask. Where an official body has the final word, we link to it under the answer.
General questions
How long should I study?
Academies such as Philinter recommend eight to twelve weeks for a real level change or exam preparation. Shorter stays suit a trial or speaking practice.
- Philinter: recommended course length, on its Intensive ESL page · 2026-08-05
Do I need a visa or a study permit to study in the Philippines?
Short-term language study requires a Special Study Permit (SSP) issued by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration, alongside a visitor visa. Its validity follows your course length up to six months and can be extended for longer courses, and the academy must be accredited by the Bureau of Immigration to accept foreign students.
The academy normally processes the SSP itself, and we follow it up with you. Always check the Bureau of Immigration's own site for the requirements in force when you travel.
About Cebu
I heard about an earthquake and a typhoon in Cebu in 2025 — what is the situation?
Yes. A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off northern Cebu on 30 September 2025, and Typhoon Kalmaegi hit the region in November 2025. The heaviest damage was concentrated in the north of the province (Bogo, Borbon, Medellin, San Remigio) — well away from Cebu City and Lapu-Lapu, where the academies are.
We confirm the current situation of the academy you choose before you enrol. The Philippines sits in the typhoon belt generally, which is a real consideration when picking travel dates — January to May is the driest and most suitable window.
Your question is not here?
Send it to us and we'll come back to you with a clear answer — if it needs looking into, we'll look into it for you.