If you work in Germany and have been dreaming of learning Spanish somewhere far more inspiring than an evening class, here is some good news: your Bildungsurlaub doesn't have to stay in Europe. An officially recognized course in Cusco lets you use your educational leave to study in the heart of the Andes, and you keep every one of your regular vacation days.
Our Intensive Spanish Course at ACUPARI is recognized as Bildungsurlaub in several German federal states. Below we walk you through everything, from checking your entitlement to the documents your employer will ask for.
What is Bildungsurlaub?
Bildungsurlaub is paid educational leave. It gives employees time off work for professional or personal development, and that includes foreign language courses. The best part: those days are not deducted from your annual vacation allowance.
In many federal states you are entitled to five working days of educational leave per calendar year. Some states also let you combine two years' worth of days, which is enough for a two-week course. The rules vary from state to state, so always check the ones that apply where your employer is based.
Can you really use Bildungsurlaub in Peru?
You can, as long as the course is officially recognized as an educational leave program in your federal state. Recognized programs must offer 30 full hours of teaching per week, and that is exactly how our Intensive Spanish Course in Cusco is structured.
Which German states recognize the course?
The Intensive Spanish Course at ACUPARI is currently recognized in:
- Baden-Württemberg
- Berlin
- Brandenburg
- Hamburg
- Hesse
- Lower Saxony
- Rhineland-Palatinate
- Saarland
- Schleswig-Holstein
Is your state missing? Don't worry. Just let us know your course dates and we will submit a new application for recognition on your behalf.
How to request your Bildungsurlaub, step by step
- Check your entitlement. Look up the rules in the federal state where your employer is located: how many days you get, how long you need to have worked at the company, and whether you can combine two years.
- Choose your dates. We run courses on any date you request. Go for one week (30 hours) or two weeks (60 hours).
- Ask us for information and documents. Send us your preferred dates and your federal state, and we will confirm the recognition that applies to you.
- Submit your request to your employer. Attach the documents listed below. Many states require you to apply several weeks in advance, so check your deadline early.
- Get the green light, then book your trip. Once your employer approves, arrange your flights and, if you like, your accommodation in Cusco.
What documents do you get for your employer?
We take care of the paperwork. You will receive:
- The official recognition certificate
- An educational leave registration confirmation
- The corresponding course schedule
What does a week in Cusco look like?
Mornings in class
Lessons run from 8:10 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.
Afternoons in the city
Cultural activities outside the classroom, adapted to your level.
Your mornings are for focused study. In the afternoons you head out with the group, so you get to use your Spanish in real situations instead of only on paper. Curious about the city itself? Take a look at our guide to Cusco and its surroundings.
One practical tip: Cusco sits at around 3,400 meters above sea level. Plan a calm first day, drink plenty of water and give your body time to adjust to the altitude.
How much does it cost?
| Duration | Hours | Price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 30 | €295 |
| 2 weeks | 60 | €590 |
- Schleswig-Holstein & Hamburg: €320 for one week · €640 for two weeks
- Baden-Württemberg: €330 for one week · €660 for two weeks
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to speak Spanish already?
Not at all. We teach every level, from complete beginners (A1) to advanced learners (C1). Tell us about your current level when you get in touch.
When can I start?
Educational leave courses are available on any date you request.
What if my federal state is not on the list?
Ask us for a new recognition application for your course dates and we will submit it for you.
Is host family accommodation included?
It is not included in the course price, but you can add it on request.
What do I need to show my employer?
The recognition certificate, the registration confirmation and the course schedule. We provide all three.
Ready to plan your Bildungsurlaub in Cusco?
Tell us your dates and your federal state, and we will send you everything you need to get your educational leave approved. Then all that's left is packing your bag for the Andes.