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

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
German learning by the lake — only in Lindau

I really enjoy studying at Dialoge. The people are very nice and the teachers teach very well. There’s a great connection between teachers and students. And you can see the Alps — it’s marvellous!

Oier Spain
Learn English in Valletta — Europe’s sunniest classroom

Easy School doesn’t just teach English — it offers a life-changing experience. The teachers are excellent and use modern methods that make every class fun and engaging. Each lesson is a chance to truly connect with the language and culture. It’s a safe, welcoming place where students are free to express themselves, try new things, and overcome barriers in learning English.

Agnaldo Mozambique Easy School of Languages
Your fast track to Spanish fluency

An excellent experience! The beautiful building is in a prime, central location. The staff are extremely helpful and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere. CLIC’s immersive approach to teaching Spanish, with staff always speaking Spanish, made learning enjoyable and fast. 

Valerie The Netherlands CLIC Malaga
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
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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
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In April 2023 I had the pleasure of attending a 4-week German course at the Treffpunkt language institute. Everything was perfect: the administrative team, my beloved host family, the great teachers, the many activities, my smart classmates and the beautiful city of Bamberg!

Sylvie USA Sprachinstitut TREFFPUNKT
Taipei’s warmest place to learn Mandarin

I spent four weeks at LTL Mandarin School in Taipei and I had a fantastic experience. What stood out the most was the warm and welcoming atmosphere — it felt like being part of a small, supportive community rather than just a language school!

Felix Germany LTL Language School Taipei
ELC Bristol — where English learning changes lives

ELC Bristol is simply the best place if you want to really learn English in an innovative way. You’ll meet amazing people from all around the world. It’s a learning journey that will change you forever.

Alberto Spain The English Language Centre Bristol

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