Why Choose Isabella & Ferdinand® for Your Adult Spanish Classes?

• DELE examination center
  Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™ is a DELE examination center recognized by the Instituto Cervantes. We administer the official DELE exams in Washington, D.C., and we offer our own Spanish courses, including preparation for the DELE.

• Comprehensive DELE Curriculum
  Our program covers all aspects of language learning while aligning with the prestigious DELE exam framework. This ensures that you’re fully prepared to achieve success.

• Culturally Enriching Experience
  Go beyond grammar and vocabulary. Our curriculum integrates relevant professional, political, and economic discussions, giving you deeper insights into the Spanish-speaking world while sharpening your language skills.

• Expert-Led Instruction
  Our DELE courses are taught by highly qualified instructors, including Maira Abasto, Executive Director, and Ernesto Aviles, DELE Program Coordinator, both with extensive experience in helping professionals and adults excel.

• Personalized Learning in Small Groups
  With smaller class sizes, you'll benefit from more personalized attention and customized feedback, allowing you to progress at a steady, confident pace.

• Flexible Learning Options
  Whether you prefer the dynamic environment of in-person classes in Washington, D.C., or the flexibility of online learning, we offer formats that fit your schedule and lifestyle.

About DELE & Curriculum

Isabella & Ferdinand is a DELE examination center recognized by the Instituto Cervantes. We administer the official DELE exams in Washington, D.C., and our own Spanish courses include preparation for the exam.

The DELE Spanish diplomas are official titles accrediting the degree of competence and proficiency in the Spanish language, granted by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training.  The Instituto Cervantes is responsible for the academic, administrative and economic management of the DELE diplomas, in accordance with the provisions of Royal Decrees 1137/2002 of 31 October, RD 264/2008 of 22 February and RD 1004/2015 of 6 November. 

DELE exams are designed according to the guidelines of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) and the Manual for Linking Exams to the CEFR, both works of the Council of Europe. 

What DELE (Diplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language)

Diplomas Do We Prepare For?

The Diplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language (DELE) are internationally recognized official certifications that assess and certify proficiency in Spanish. The diplomas are awarded by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports.

The Instituto Cervantes organizes and administers the examinations worldwide, while the University of Salamanca develops the examination content and is responsible for scoring and the final evaluation of all candidates.

DELE School Diplomas (DELE Escolar)

The DELE Escolar examinations are specifically designed for students between the ages of 11 and 17 who are learning Spanish as a foreign language.

We prepare students for the complete range of official DELE School Diplomas:

• A1 Escolar

• A2/B1 Escolar (a single examination that certifies either A2 or B1 depending on the candidate's performance)

• B2/C1 Escolar (a single examination that certifies either B2 or C1 depending on the candidate's performance)

Our preparation courses are fully aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and the official assessment criteria established by the Instituto Cervantes.

Students develop the communicative competencies required to:

• Understand increasingly complex spoken and written texts.

• Communicate effectively and confidently in academic and social settings.

• Produce coherent and well-structured written texts.

• Express ideas, opinions, and arguments with accuracy and fluency.

• Apply appropriate grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communicative strategies.

• Demonstrate intercultural awareness and pragmatic language use.

Each course includes comprehensive preparation for the four components of the official DELE examination:

• Reading Comprehension

• Listening Comprehension

• Written Expression and Interaction

• Oral Expression and Interaction

Students also complete official-format mock examinations, receive individualized feedback, and develop effective test-taking strategies to maximize their performance.

DELE Diplomas for Adults

Our adult preparation program is designed for candidates seeking official certification for academic, professional, or personal purposes.

A1 – A2

Students learn to:

• Understand and use familiar everyday expressions.

• Communicate in simple and routine situations.

• Read and write short texts.

• Participate in basic conversations using appropriate vocabulary and grammar.

B1 – B2

Candidates develop the ability to:

• Understand the main ideas of authentic spoken and written texts.

• Communicate effectively in academic, professional, and social contexts.

• Express opinions and justify ideas clearly.

• Produce coherent written texts and participate confidently in conversations.

C1 – C2

Advanced candidates strengthen their ability to:

• Understand demanding academic and professional texts with ease.

• Communicate fluently, spontaneously, and accurately.

• Produce sophisticated oral and written discourse.

• Interpret nuanced language and cultural references.

• Adapt language appropriately to a wide range of communicative situations.

Our Preparation Methodology

Our DELE preparation programs are aligned with the Instituto Cervantes assessment criteria and the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Every course includes:

• Certified and experienced DELE instructors.

• Official DELE practice examinations.

• Individualized performance reports.

• Task-based communicative instruction.

• Preparation for all four examination papers.

• Proven strategies for success on the official DELE examination.

Whether preparing for DELE Escolar or DELE Adult, our goal is to help every candidate achieve internationally recognized certification with confidence, linguistic competence, and academic excellence

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DELE Escolar (Instituto Cervantes)

• DELE A1 Escolar – Nivel A1 (Acceso)

• DELE A2/B1 Escolar – Niveles A2 (Plataforma) y B1 (Umbral)

• DELE B2/C1 Escolar – Niveles B2 (Avanzado) y C1 (Dominio operativo eficaz)

DELE Adultos

• DELE A1 – Acceso

• DELE A2 – Plataforma

• DELE B1 – Umbral

• DELE B2 – Avanzado

• DELE C1 – Dominio operativo eficaz

• DELE C2 – Maestría

Class Schedule & Formats

Our DELE program for adults is designed with flexibility in mind. We offer various formats to suit your schedule and learning pace. Each level (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced) focuses on conversational fluency, grammar accuracy, and cultural understanding.

Individual & Group Classes

• Customized to Your Goals: Tailored lessons that focus on your specific needs, whether they be professional language use, personal enrichment, or preparation for the DELE exam.

Location:

• In-Person Classes: Washington, D.C.

• Online Classes: Accessible from anywhere

Our DELE Spanish classes for adults are designed to fit into your busy life, whether you prefer evening sessions after work or a morning slot to start your day with language learning.

Enrollment Options & Pricing

Packages Available: 30 hrs • 60 hrs • 90 hrs
Formats: Online or In-Person (Spaces Chevy Chase or At Home)

📍 In-Person Classes Location (Academy):
Spaces Chase Tower
4445 Willard Ave, Ste 600, Office 654
Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Pricing Options:

• Online One-on-One: $35/hour

• In-Person One-on-One (Spaces): $55/hour

• In-Person At Home: $55/hour + $20 transportation

Trial Class (1hr): $48 Scheduling Options:

• Regular: 3 hours per week

• Intensive: 1 hour × 5 days per week or 2 hours × 5 days per week

• Tailored Programs: Customized programs available for individuals or companies. Send us your request or questions.

✅ Includes digital learning materials (videos, articles, podcasts, presentations)
✅ Diagnostic assessment included to personalize your plan

📍 Limited spaces available. Reserve your preferred time slot today!

Start your Spanish learning journey today and achieve fluency in no time! Enroll now or contact us to design a personalized program.

• Includes Diagnostic Assessment & Digital Material: Access to resources tailored to your needs.

• Personalized Learning Plan:

  • Material adapted to your interests (business, travel, diplomacy, etc.)

  • Interactive resources: videos, articles, podcasts, PowerPoint presentations

• Methodology:

  • Dynamic classes with guided conversation

  • Pronunciation and grammar correction in context

  • Grammar and listening comprehension exercises

• Progress Tracking and Evaluation:

  • Continuous feedback on your progress

  • Periodic tests to measure advancement

Our Spanish Adult Program is perfect for:

• Corporate Groups looking to enhance team communication

• Professionals aiming to boost career prospects and networking

• Travelers interested in immersing themselves in Spanish-speaking cultures

• Retired individuals seeking to learn for personal enrichment

• Students wanting to improve language skills for academic growth

• Expats adjusting to life in a Spanish-speaking environment

• Adults of all backgrounds looking to expand their language abilities

Maira Abasto
Executive Director, Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™

With over 10 years of experience in Spanish education, Maira has guided Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™ to become an internationally respected institution. Her approach to teaching emphasizes not only language skills but also cultural understanding.

Susana Paredes Du Bois
DELE Program Coordinator, Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™

Susana Paredes Du Bois is part of Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™’s elite team of adult Spanish instructors. With extensive international experience in teaching, program management, and cultural promotion, she delivers rigorous and culturally enriched Spanish instruction, including DELE exam preparation.

Julio Fiol

Elite Adult Spanish Instructor – DELE & Professional Spanish

Julio Fiol is part of Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™’s elite team of instructors for adults. A lawyer and career diplomat, he has served as Ambassador of Chile in Japan and South Africa and represented his country before the UN, OAS, FAO, and WFP. He now brings this world-class expertise into the classroom, offering adult learners Spanish instruction enriched with intercultural insight, specialized vocabulary, and DELE exam preparation.

María Jesús Herrero, Ph.D.

Elite Adult Spanish Instructor – DELE & Academic Spanish

María Jesús Herrero, Ph.D., is part of Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™’s elite team of adult Spanish instructors. A scientist and educator with over 18 years of international experience in research and teaching across five continents, she brings scientific rigor, multilingual expertise, and a multicultural perspective to Spanish instruction for adults, including DELE exam preparation.

Karla Quiroga

Elite In-Person Spanish Instructor – Children & Adults

Karla Quiroga is part of Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español™’s elite team of Spanish instructors. Known for her dynamic and inclusive teaching style, she brings the Spanish language and its culture to life for both children and adults, helping learners reach their goals with confidence and enjoyment.

Ready to Start Your Spanish Journey?

At Isabella and Ferdinand® Academia de Español™, we are committed to your success. Our DELE program for adults is designed to fit your lifestyle and help you achieve fluency in Spanish, while also providing an enriching cultural experience.