IALC Complaints Policy

Problems with IALC language schools are rare, but for those rare cases, we have a formal Complaints Procedure.

Should a problem arise with your course booking, we encourage you to first try to resolve the issue directly with the school. Most problems can be resolved quickly and satisfactorily through direct communication. If you remain unsatisfied, please follow the procedure outlined below.

1. Try to Resolve the Complaint with the School

IALC Member Schools are required to provide clients with a written complaints procedure under the IALC Code of Ethics.

If a student or agent is dissatisfied with a Member School’s service, they should make every effort to resolve the issue directly with the school.

The complaint should be raised as soon as the issue arises, giving the school an opportunity to resolve it.

Member Schools are expected to respond promptly to complaints and work towards a fair and timely resolution.

2. Submitting a Complaint to IALC

If the issue remains unresolved through the Member School’s internal procedure, the complainant may escalate the matter to IALC. To do so, the complaint must:

  • Be submitted in writing to the IALC Executive Director
  • Include a factual summary of the case
  • Provide copies of all relevant documentation
  • Include evidence that the Member School was made aware of the issue when it occurred
  • Confirm that the matter will be pursued solely through the IALC Complaints Procedure

3. Member School Response

Once the complaint is received, the Member School involved must submit a written response to IALC, which must:

  • Provide a clear and factual summary of the case
  • Include all relevant documentation
  • Confirm agreement to resolve the matter solely through the IALC Complaints Procedure

4. IALC Executive Board Review

The IALC Executive Board will review all submitted evidence and issue a recommendation, encouraging both parties to reach a fair and mutually acceptable resolution or compromise.

5. Referral to IALC Ombudsman

If no resolution can be reached, the case will be referred to the IALC Ombudsman, who will make a final recommendation.

The Member School is required to implement the Ombudsman’s solution or face disciplinary action — including possible expulsion from the IALC network.

The complainant must accept that the Association has acted in good faith and taken all reasonable steps to achieve a fair outcome.

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

Testimonials

Belfast: where English learning meets Irish warmth

I spent 13 weeks in Belfast and absolutely loved it. The city is beautiful, the locals incredibly welcoming, and the school made every day of learning enjoyable — even grammar! I arrived lacking confidence and left feeling happy and fluent, thanks to supportive teachers and a friendly school atmosphere. I made lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

Lisa Switzerland International House Belfast
The summer you’ll never forget

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

Eva Croatia Sir Edward by Studio Cambridge
English goals achieved — at Apollo

My experience at Apollo has been extremely rewarding and enriching. The quality of the teachers is, for the most part, exceptional. I learned countless lessons that allowed me to achieve many of my goals in improving my English. I was fortunate to have a host family of the highest standard.

Cristina Chile Apollo Language Centre
Experience Spanish immersion in Málaga — with all the comforts of campus

Highly recommended: great organisation, well-structured lessons, motivated teachers, and many leisure activities. Everything you need is on campus — and the sea is not far away. Málaga is always worth a visit!

Vittoria Germany MALACA INSTITUTO
English every day, fun all the way — Apollo Juniors

Lessons were always fun and we were never bored with all the activities nearly every day! 

Joelle Switzerland Apollo Juniors – Maynooth
Where Spanish learning and fun go hand in hand

High-quality school with great teachers and lots of social activities. Totally recommend it!

Uroš Slovenia Taronja School
Emerald’s Summer Camps — learn English, explore Ireland, and love every minute

The experience in Dublin has been quite exciting! Filled with activities and new knowledge — there was no way for me to get bored.

Isabel Uruguay ECI Juniors – Trinity Hall
Learn Portuguese. Feel at home — in Lisbon

I will recommend this school because I had a really good stay. Thank you for making me feel welcome. See you next time, muito obrigada!

Lea France CIAL Lisbon
Learn German stress-free — in historic Regensburg

This is the best learning experience! I learned more than I expected and met so many great people from different countries. Horizonte makes everyone feel comfortable and at home. Every student is there for a reason and treated with respect — no stress! My teacher is great!

Lisa USA Horizonte

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