About ¡EPA!

Why Study Spanish at EPA?

1.

Over 18 Years Teaching Spanish in Panama

Thousands of students have trusted ¡EPA! to learn Spanish. We are known for our academic quality, immersive local experiences, and the warm, personalized attention of our team.

2.

International Recognition

We are the only private center in Panama accredited by the Instituto Cervantes, the highest international authority in the promotion of Spanish as a foreign language.

We are also an official DELE Examination Center (Diplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language).

We are recognized by Bildungsurlaub in Germany, which allows German employees to undertake certified professional development through our courses.

We work with a global network of agencies and educational partners to offer programs for individual students and groups from all over the world.

3.

Panama: Bridge of the World, Heart of the Universe

Panama is a safe, stable, and well-connected country, linking Latin America with the rest of the world.If traveling is your passion, start here:

  • Explore unique and diverse tropical nature
  • Connect with seven Indigenous communities
  • Travel from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea in under two hours
  • Witness the migration of thousands of whales, birds, fish, and other species
  • Enjoy a rich and authentic culinary scene
  • Experience local culture and vibrant multiculturalism

4.

Three Destinations, One Unforgettable Experience

Learn Spanish across our three campuses while discovering the best of Panama:

  • Panama City: modern, multicultural, and vibrant. Explore the lively historic district and the iconic Panama Canal.
  • Boquete (Chiriquí): surrounded by mountains, coffee plantations, and the majestic Barú Volcano—the highest point in Panama.
  • Playa Venao (Los Santos) :a paradise for surfing, pristine beaches, wellness, and lush tropical nature.

Choose one campus or combine all three in a single trip!

5.

Real Cultural Immersion

You don’t just study Spanish—you live the language. Surf in Playa Venao, explore mountains and coffee culture in Boquete, enjoy historical tours in Panama City, and experience many more activities that make learning dynamic and memorable.

6.

Commitment to Panama

We are a local school that actively supports our communities and indigenous groups, contributing to their cultural and social development.

7.

Teachers Who Teach With Passion

Our teachers don’t just give lessons—they make you experience Spanish. With a dynamic and personalized methodology based on the Instituto Cervantes and the Common European Framework of Reference, we help you communicate from day one.

8.

Support Throughout the Entire Process

From the moment you contact us, we assist you with organizing your trip, accommodation, and activities so you can enjoy a unique, worry-free experience.

9.

A Multicultural and Welcoming Environment

Meet locals and students from all over the world in an open, fun, and energetic community where you’ll feel right at home.

10.

Total Flexibility

We offer group courses, private lessons, and combined programs so you can design your Spanish-learning experience exactly the way you want.

Our Methodology

At ¡EPA! Spanish in Panama, we believe that learning Spanish is more than studying a language — it’s living an authentic and transformative experience. Our methodology is communicative, which means that from day one you will speak, listen, and think in Spanish through real-life situations.

We follow the Instituto Cervantes curriculum based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), ensuring a structured, effective, and internationally recognized learning experience.

We are the only private center in Panama accredited by the Instituto Cervantes of Spain — a seal of excellence that validates our programs and teaching quality.

Placement Test: Your Starting Point

Before enrolling, you will take an online placement test to determine your Spanish level, followed by a short virtual interview to place you in the most suitable group.

This process ensures that you learn with classmates at the same level and advance with confidence.

Small Group Classes

We know learning is most effective when there is time to practice and speak.
Our groups have a maximum of 7 students.
In many cases, group classes have only 3 or 4 students, allowing for personalized attention and more opportunities to interact.
We work with all levels, from A1 to C2, with clear and progressive objectives.

Books and Materials

We use materials specifically designed for students of Spanish as a foreign language from leading international publishers.

Our Teachers

At EPA, the heart of our school is our teachers:

  • Native Spanish speakers with training in ELE (Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language).
  • Proactive, culturally aware, and passionate about teaching.
  • Experienced in the communicative methodology and continuously trained through internal workshops to maintain the highest academic quality.

Your First Day at EPA

We want you to feel at home from the very first moment.

Our student advisor will welcome you, give you a tour of the school, and take you to your classroom.
You’ll receive a welcome package with information about the school, Panama, your teacher, schedules, and helpful recommendations.
If you need assistance with transportation, a SIM card, or information about activities, our team will be there to support you.

A Team That Supports You All the Way

Beyond the classroom, we’re here to help you make the most of your experience in Panama — from activity recommendations to any detail of your stay. We want your learning journey to be as memorable as your trip.

Meet Our Team

“At EPA Spanish in Panama, our team is the heart of the school. Teachers, advisors, and coordinators work together to give you a unique and personalized learning experience.”

Alberto Orillac

CEO

Leads EPA’s vision and growth, ensuring that every student enjoys a unique, high-quality experience.

Stivally Cortes

Sales and Client Services Coordinator

Connects students from around the world with our programs and ensures they understand the true value of studying Spanish in Panama.

Lia Lezcano

Student Services & Groups Coordinator

Your first point of support. She guides you from the moment you arrive, answering questions and helping with anything you need to feel at home.

Alberto Orillac (Interim)

Playa Venao Coordinator

Knows Playa Venao inside and out and ensures your experience at this location is as warm and special as the destination itself.

Jürgen Schlottbom

Boquete Coordinator

Responsible for our Boquete school, he supports you throughout your academic and cultural experience to make it truly memorable.

Patricia Tinoco

Academic Coordinator

Ensures every course meets the standards of the Instituto Cervantes and that students achieve their learning goals.

Diana Betancurt

Academic Coordinator

Oversees the academic program, supports teachers, and ensures each student enjoys a high-quality learning experience.
“We work to give you the best experience in Panama.”