Instituto Cervantes

The Instituto Cervantes is the public institution created by Spain in 1991 to promote the teaching, study and use of Spanish around the world and to spread Hispanic cultures abroad. It is present in more than 100 cities in 54 countries on five continents. In Spain, it has its headquarters in Madrid and a second seat in Alcalá de Henares.

The Instituto Cervantes teaches Spanish as a foreign language, as well as Spain's other co-official languages, to adults, children and young people. Courses are held in the classrooms of its network of centres and in Spain, and a wide range of online courses allows either fully independent study or learning with a tutor. The offer includes:

• General and special Spanish courses at all levels
• Specialised courses on grammar, conversation and Hispanic culture
• Courses for bilingual and heritage speakers
• Courses for professionals and tailor-made courses for companies
• DELE and SIELE exam preparation
• Summer intensive camps and music and art workshops for children and teenagers

The Instituto Cervantes also runs the DELE diplomas, the official qualifications that certify a level of Spanish, and organises cultural activities worldwide, including exhibitions, cinema, literature and music.