Language Immersion Courses in Trinidad and Tobago

Language schools in Trinidad and Tobago teach English as a second language, mostly to students from Latin America. English is the language of daily life and of the education system, so classes are reinforced outside the classroom, and the islands lie close to Venezuela and the rest of northern South America. Spanish speakers who want an English immersion course closer to home than North America or Europe are the main audience.

The sector is small. Two providers are listed on this site: Langdons Language Institute in Chaguanas and the Centre for Language Learning (CLL) of The University of the West Indies at its St. Augustine campus.

What the schools offer

The CLL is part of the university's Faculty of Humanities and Education. Its English as a Second Language (ESL) programme has taught international students for over twenty years and has expanded to serve learners from the Caribbean and South America. General English is taught in three modules (I, II and III); completing all three counts as one level. Each module runs for four weeks with 12.5 hours of classes a week, 50 contact hours in total, in two sessions a day from Monday to Thursday. Grammar receives the most weight, alongside listening, speaking, reading and writing. In 2026 modules started in January, May and July. The CLL also teaches other languages and offers the CELTA teaching certificate and DELE, HSK and JLPT exams.

Langdons Language Institute runs total-immersion English courses based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), with English as the only language of communication in class. According to the school, students take a placement test before starting, groups have at most 8 students, classes are taught by native-speaker teachers certified in TESOL, and every course ends with a certificate stating the CEFR level. Its packages last 4, 6, 12 or 24 weeks and include accommodation, airport transfers and weekly excursions.

Costs

There is no official price scale; each school sets its own fees. The figures below are the schools' own prices for 2026:

• UWI Centre for Language Learning: USD 500 per four-week General English module (tuition only)
• Langdons Language Institute: USD 1,575 for the 4-week intensive course (120 hours), USD 2,250 for 6 weeks (180 hours), USD 4,200 for 12 weeks and USD 7,800 for 24 weeks, with accommodation and airport transfers included; meals are not included

Entry requirements and permits

Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Nationals of visa-required countries can apply online for a multiple-entry eVisa from the Immigration Division of the Ministry of National Security; the fee is TTD 400. Langdons states that citizens of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile and most Latin American countries can enter without a visa for up to 90 days, while Venezuelan citizens need one. Check the current rules for your passport before booking.

A student permit is required for foreign nationals accepted into full-time academic programmes; it is applied for online with an acceptance letter and a passport valid for at least 12 months, and costs TTD 200 for non-CARICOM nationals. UWI advises students to have their passport stamped for the full period of study on arrival, as extending a stay incurs a cost. Ask your school which status applies to your course before you travel.

How to choose a language school in Trinidad and Tobago

• Format: a university course paid per module or an all-inclusive immersion package
• Intensity: hours per week, number of weeks and class size
• Outcome: a CEFR level certificate, a university transcript or preparation for further study
• Accommodation: included in the package or arranged separately near the campus
• Paperwork: visa and permit requirements for your nationality and course length

Frequently asked questions

Why learn English in Trinidad and Tobago?

English is the language of everyday life, the islands are close to northern South America, and both schools listed here teach courses designed for Spanish-speaking students from the region.

How much does an English course in Trinidad cost?

At the UWI Centre for Language Learning, a four-week General English module costs USD 500. Langdons Language Institute sells all-inclusive packages from USD 1,575 for four weeks, including accommodation.

Do I need a visa to study English in Trinidad and Tobago?

It depends on your nationality. Nationals of visa-required countries apply online for an eVisa (TTD 400); full-time students on academic programmes also need a student permit.

Can complete beginners join a course?

Yes. Langdons accepts students from beginner (A1) level after a placement test, and the CLL organises its General English course in levels made up of three modules.