Learn Spanish (Español)

The world's second most spoken native language — 500 million speakers across 21 countries

Spanish is the second most spoken native language globally (after Mandarin Chinese) and the official language of 21 countries — Spain plus most of Latin America. For African and Kenyan students, Spanish opens access to study in Spain (excellent universities at moderate cost), Latin American universities (Argentina, Mexico, Chile have strong institutions), and career pathways in business, tourism, journalism and international development across the Spanish-speaking world. Spanish is also one of the most popular IGCSE, A-Level and IB language subjects globally.

Why learn Spanish

Massive speaker base & economic reach

500+ million native speakers. Combined GDP of Spanish-speaking economies exceeds $7 trillion. Strategic for business, trade and global organisations.

University pathway to Spain

Spanish public universities charge €700-1,500/year for international students — exceptionally affordable. DELE B2 typically required for undergraduate, C1 for postgraduate.

Easiest for English speakers

Spanish phonetics are highly regular (pronunciation follows spelling closely). Vocabulary overlap with English is substantial. Most learners reach conversational fluency faster than with French or German.

IGCSE, A-Level and IB curricula

Spanish is one of the most popular IGCSE and IB language subjects. Offered as IGCSE Second Language, A-Level, and across all IB Language levels.

Latin American career opportunities

Growing African business ties with Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Mexico). Spanish opens trade, diplomacy and development careers in this expanding market.

Who it is for

Levels

Exam preparation

Fees

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to learn Spanish?

For English speakers, Spanish is rated Category I by the US Foreign Service Institute — among the easiest world languages. Conversational fluency (B1-B2) typically takes 350-580 hours of instruction. At Smartious pace, that's 12-20 months of consistent study.

Spanish from Spain or Latin American Spanish?

We primarily teach standard Castilian Spanish (Spain) which is the dialect most directly used in IGCSE, IB, A-Level and DELE examinations. We adjust pronunciation and vocabulary guidance for students specifically targeting Latin American Spanish (Argentina, Mexico, Chile) — the differences are mostly accent and a few vocabulary items, not structural.

Where can I take DELE in Kenya?

DELE is administered in Kenya by the Instituto Cervantes Nairobi. Annual sittings in May and November. We help students register and prepare. Test fees typically KSh 8,000-15,000 paid directly to Instituto Cervantes.

Why study Spanish for university?

Spanish universities (Universidad de Madrid, Universidad de Barcelona, Universidad de Salamanca etc.) are excellent and very affordable for international students — €700-1,500/year tuition. Spanish proficiency (typically DELE B2) opens access to bachelor degrees taught entirely in Spanish at these institutions.

Is Spanish a good first foreign language?

Excellent first foreign language for English speakers — high speaker base (500M+), useful career applications, easier than French/German, and a clear pathway to other Romance languages (Italian, Portuguese, French become much easier after Spanish).

Can I learn Spanish for IGCSE or IB?

Yes — we offer IGCSE Spanish (First or Second Language), A-Level Spanish, and IB Spanish (Standard, Higher, ab initio). Following the specific syllabus and exam requirements.

How are Smartious Spanish lessons structured?

Each lesson is 1.5 hours, combining structured grammar instruction, vocabulary building, conversation practice, listening comprehension and written work. Online via Smartious LMS or in-person at our Nairobi centres.

Will I be able to use Spanish for travel?

After CEFR A2 (about 150-180 hours), most students can handle travel scenarios — restaurants, transport, basic conversations. After B1 (about 300-380 hours), travel becomes substantially easier and you can have more meaningful cultural interactions.

Can I learn Spanish if I already speak French?

Yes — and significantly faster. The two languages share substantial vocabulary, grammar patterns and conjugation logic. French speakers typically progress 30-40% faster through early Spanish levels than monolingual English speakers.

Do you offer business Spanish?

Yes — for students targeting Spanish-speaking business careers, we offer Business Spanish modules covering professional vocabulary, formal communication, presentations, and negotiation contexts. Typically built into the intermediate-advanced curriculum.

Other languages

What parents say

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