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How 50+ students can exchange to study Spanish

written by
Natasha Machado
22/12/2025
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5 min
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Who said that learning a new language comes with age? Mature students increasingly discover that the exchange for learning languages it can be an enriching experience at 50, 60, or even 70 years old. Spanish, spoken by more than 500 million people worldwide, opens doors to new cultures, connections, and personal opportunities.

Why choose Spanish at 50+?

Many mature adults hesitate to study a new language, but science proves that the brain maintains its neural plasticity throughout life. Recent studies indicate that people over 50 develop different but equally effective learning strategies.

Spanish offers unique advantages for Brazilians:

  • Similarities with Portuguese facilitate initial understanding
  • Clearer pronunciation compared to English or French
  • Wide availability of destinations in Latin America and Europe
  • Practical utility for future trips

Proven cognitive benefits

Research from the University of Barcelona shows that adults who learn languages after 50 have:

  • Improvement in Working memory
  • bigger mental flexibility
  • 32% reduction in the risk of dementia
  • Increase of self-esteem and confidence

Ideal destinations for students 50+

Spain: tradition and comfort

Spain leads as a preferred destination for mature students seeking language exchange. Cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Malaga offer programs specially designed for adults. Our guide to 5 best cities to study in Spain in 2025 helps you choose the ideal destination within your budget.

Advantages of Spain for 50+:

  • Health system among the 10 best in the world
  • Pleasant Mediterranean climate all year round
  • Tourism infrastructure prepared for all ages
  • Rich cultural and gastronomic offer

Argentina: total immersion in Latin Spanish

Buenos Aires attracts mature students for its European cultural vibe in Latin American territory. The city offers specific programs for adults at internationally recognized schools.

Argentinian differentials:

  • More affordable cost of living
  • Cultural proximity to Brazil
  • Variety of nighttime and daytime cultural activities
  • Easy to travel to other South American countries

Busting myths about exchanging at maturity

“I'm too old for that”

Specialized schools in Madrid and Barcelona regularly receive students between 50 and 80 years old. The program 50+ by Expanish proves that homogeneous classes, with participants of the same age group, create more comfortable and productive environments.

“I won't be able to keep up”

Modern methodologies respect different learning rhythms. Small classes (maximum 12 students) allow personalized attention of the teacher, adapting the content to individual needs.

“It's too expensive for my age”

Short-term programs (2 to 4 weeks) offer excellent value for money. Many mature students choose to multiple short trips instead of extended stays, taking advantage of each period to consolidate learning.

Specific programs for mature students

2-week intensive courses

Key Features:

  • 20 hours of class per week
  • Maximum 12 students per class
  • Specialized native teachers
  • Adapted teaching material
  • Exclusive cultural activities

Combination study + cultural tourism

Many programs include:

  • Guided tours to museums and historic sites
  • Cooking classes with specific vocabulary
  • Excursions To nearby cities
  • Social events For language practice

Specialized accommodation

Students 50+ generally prefer:

  • Boutique hotels or charming inns
  • Private apartments in central neighborhoods
  • Family houses specially selected
  • Student residences with single rooms

Pre-exchange preparation

Physical conditioning

Programs for mature students consider:

  • Calmer pace In the activities
  • Regular breaks During classes
  • Transportation options snug
  • Adapted activities to physical limitations

Technological preparation

Modern schools offer:

  • Mobile apps For extra practice
  • Online platforms for review
  • Technical support In Portuguese
  • Printed material as a digital alternative

Continuity opportunities

After the initial exchange, many 50+ students explore:

  • University courses through programs Pathway
  • Specializations upon universities abroad
  • Long-term programs in well-known destinations
  • Family exchanges involving multiple generations

Be Easy

At Be Easy, we believe that learning is ageless and every dream deserves to be fulfilled. Our specialized team develops personalized programs for mature students, ensuring comfort, safety, and effective results. We take care of every detail, from selecting the ideal school to following up throughout the journey. Contact us and discover how we can transform your interest in Spanish into an unforgettable adventure.

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy