IALC Quality Standards

Recognised for excellence, IALC schools follow strict standards and prioritise student experience.

An IALC language school must:

Be legally constituted and conform to the laws of its country

Be independent of a large chain or corporate group 

Teach the official language of the country as a main activity

Offer courses at language levels that meet its clients’ needs

Have operated for at least three years

Operate year-round with five or more classrooms 

IALC Code of Ethics

Conform to the IALC Code of Ethics and IALC Accommodation Code

Meet the standards of the IALC Quality Scheme

To ensure consistently high standards, our schools are accredited under the IALC Quality Scheme

We set minimum standards in all areas of language school operation, as well as requiring continuous improvement.

Our Quality Scheme is updated regularly to meet changing consumer expectations and current best practice in international language education. Its components are a four-yearly inspection and an annual online assessment.

A couple of people walking through a spacious hotel lobby, surrounded by modern decor and seating areas.
A diverse group of people collaborating around a table, each using laptops for a discussion or project.
A group of people sitting on the grass in front of a building, enjoying a sunny day together.
A group of people sitting on the grass in front of a building, enjoying a sunny day together.

Accreditation

Joining IALC is by invitation. We admit 5–10 independent schools per year through a rigorous selection process, focusing on institutions with an outstanding reputation, high academic standards, and a strong commitment to student care. Each year, we prioritise specific languages and countries, identifying exceptional schools to invite. In return, IALC offers significant benefits and a global quality mark recognised across the international education industry.

When we look for new members, we expect not only excellent teaching service, but also a genuine passion for language study abroad. Only then can we be confident that each language student’s unique study abroad experience with IALC will be positive. 


So in addition to specific requirements in various areas, we look for an attitude. IALC should be happy places to study, where committed directors and a motivated team give their clients the best possible experience, and where individuality and creativity exist alongside professionalism and best practice.

IALC Code of Ethics

Our Code of Ethics ensures that every member operates with transparency, responsibility, and a focus on delivering quality education and service.

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IALC Code of Ethics

IALC Accommodation
Standards

Accommodation is a vital part of the study experience, and IALC member schools are committed to providing high-quality living arrangements.

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IALC Accommodation
Standards

IALC Agents

IALC Agencies work with IALC-accredited schools. All listed partners meet IALC’s standards for professionalism, ethical marketing, and student support.

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IALC Agents

Find Your Future at an IALC School

Testimonials

A truly premium English learning experience — in the heart of London

More than a course, it was a true experience! From booking to the final day, everything was perfectly organised. Even during my one-week stay, I felt fully included and supported, just like the long-term students. The teacher was outstanding, the location beautiful, and the atmosphere warm and welcoming for learners of all ages. Plus, the food was excellent — compliments to the chefs! I highly recommend this school to anyone seeking a professional yet friendly learning environment.

Alessandra Italy The London School of English
The summer you’ll never forget

Everything – simply brilliant! Friendly staff, great summer camp, fantastic teachers.

Eva Croatia Sir Edward by Studio Cambridge
Feel at home. Learn English for life — at CES

I spent more than 6 months in CES and from the beginning, I just felt like part of a big huge friendly family! I would recommend CES to everyone.

Marina Brazil Centre of English Studies London
Expanish Buenos Aires — the perfect place to live and learn Spanish

A really wonderful school! The staff were great, and I loved my teacher Claudia. I also enjoyed the wide range of extracurricular activities. Expanish is conveniently located in a charming townhouse in Palermo, which adds to the experience. If you’re an adult looking to learn Spanish at any level — and have a lot of fun while doing it — I definitely recommend Expanish in Buenos Aires!

Dana USA Expanish Buenos Aires
Feel the aloha vibes while learning English at Hawaii’s leading school

My experience at GV Hawaii was amazing! The classes were fun and effective, the staff incredibly kind, and the activities — from skydiving to hula lessons — helped me connect with Hawaiian culture while making lifelong friends.

Sofia Switzerland Global Village Hawaii
Like a dream come true

I consider it one of the best experiences I’ve had in my life. From the first day, it was like a dream come true, and with the help of the staff, the experience was even better! I was very happy, very enthusiastic, and everything turned out to be just as I first imagined.

David Colombia Studio Cambridge
The English summer camp your kid won’t stop talking about

My daughter came home extremely enthusiastic after her stay at Emerald. She had a very positive experience at school, with the activities, and with her host family. Thank you, and congratulations on your professionalism!

Laura Spain ECI Juniors – Gordon’s School
Learn Spanish in a stunning Gothic palace in Valencia’s old town

What I liked the most was the mix of nationalities and ages. It felt like a big family. Living in the residence and joining activities helped me speak Spanish every day. 

Maya Japan Españolé IH Valencia
Learn Italian where you feel at home

Piccola Università Italiana is exceptional in every way. The language courses are excellent, the organisation is perfect — and for the past 15 years, I’ve always felt completely at home. And thanks to the high-quality teaching, I now speak Italian fluently. 

Simone Germany Piccola Università Italiana Trieste

IALC is very proud to be supported by our IALC Corporate Partners Guardme International Insurance Services.