RVF International LLC

Program Reviews

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Ellen
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Peace of mind

There are many programs to choose from to teach and live in Spain. I chose RVF because they provide step by step support in the visa process, moving and placing you in a region and school of your choice. Their support team answers any questions in a timely manner and offers support calls for anyone that needs it. RVF has made me feel confident in my move to Spain. They also set up a Facebook group to connect with others in the program which is amazing for making friends! I highly recommend using RVF if you want support with finding a job and moving to Spain.

Pros
  • Visa support
  • School placement
  • Cultural Exchange
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Asia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

RVF is Great!

From the moment i heard about RVF I was already excited. I was given the opportunity to chat with staff members and even had access to prior teachers who went through the program already.
This gave me so much more relief to hear from someone who had been through the program and could tell me their honest opinion and experience.

The support of the staff is amazing, because they are constantly thinking of ways to get others in the program connected and informed. I would highly recommend RVF to anyone.

Pros
  • Informative Staff
  • Very responsive to questions (within 24 hours)
  • Will go over and beyond for your comfort
Cons
  • Wish I would have found sooner.
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Nicholas
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

RvF International review

It's been an excellent program. RVF has made sure to guide me through the process of getting all my documents ready for Spain, and then renewing all documents the following year.

They have been available for next of day throughout the process of moving to Spain as well. Overall, if youre going to Spain, Id recommend RVF. They have events throughout the year, a social group, social events as well. The people working here are also quite polite in correspondence.

They'll get you to Spain, with time to spare, and ensure that you are well taken care of, whether its through private accommodation, or a shared room.

They also have a basic course in Spanish,

in addition to this they'll give you information on the local culture, so its not so much of a culture shock.

What was your funniest moment?
Hard to say, but living in a Castle has been fun. Visiting Salamanca for the first time was an amazing experience, and thanks to them, I had a lot of time before starting to begin this.
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M
4/5
No, I don't recommend this program

Overrated, but helpful

When I signed up for RVF, I wanted a simple way to get to Spain. That’s what I got. Directions to get a visa, a placement and formal documents. And, I’m happy with that. When you submit your first deposit, the screen literally says, “push button, get Spain.” Again, they did deliver in this aspect! However, RVF is NOT worth the price you pay, I recommend just doing this program thru Spain’s government (NALCAP).

Most of the people I have met in Spain are all language assistants through NALCAP, British Council and the Indian and Australian equivalents. They’ve done this process on their own and for free! I envy them quite a bit!

Truthfully, a lot of the people complaining about this program seem somewhat incompetent. Sorry, a company can not make a move abroad seamless for you. The quality is below the sticker price, but it was worth it to me.

A final note is an issue about renewing. RVF leads you to have less control over where you are placed the following year if you wish to renew. If you are to directly apply through NALCAP, you can choose the school/neighborhood as a second year. If you remain with RVF for a second year (albeit for free this time around), you have less control as to what specific school or level you’re at. I knew people in RVF who did not get anywhere close to where they originally wanted, and others, like myself, who got exactly what they wanted. If you’re not picky and are willing to drop a few hundred dollars to get to Spain, then this is the program for you. But, I’d still recommend NALCAP over RVF.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Please treat the program leaders with respect. It’s been so disturbing to watch these greedy Americans disrespect the helpful people at RVF. They want to help you, but a lot of times they can’t. Issues that arise are because of the Spanish government, NOT because of RVF.
Response from RVF International LLC

Hi there,

Thank you for your feedback, and we are sorry to hear you were disappointed with some aspects of the program. Please send us an email at hello@rvfinternational.com as we would love to learn more about specific concerns and what you wish could have been different (we don’t see an email otherwise we should shoot you one, sorry!). Hopefully we can clear up any miscommunications or misunderstandings about the program since joining last year!

The difference with RVF International is that we are not a job or a recruitment agency, but a teach abroad program offering a cultural exchange experience. Our program is perfect for the first-time-traveler who not only wants to teach, but also is wanting to have an adventurous year in another country, like Spain, arrive on Day One with a community of like-minded travelers and teachers, have access to cultural exchange opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise, and transition having the assurance that they personally know the program advisors guiding them.

If you have traveled extensively before, transitioning to life in a new country like Spain might seem like a breeze. But if you don’t speak Spanish, and have never traveled alone to a foreign country, that can understandably be a very intimidating and scary experience.

In our experience, people that join a teach abroad program just want to come to Spain to teach and enjoy their time, and don’t want to deal with the unique hassle and craziness of finding a place to live, opening a bank account, among other things. They are wanting to get connected with a community in a new country, and have a program experience, very much in the same way that many people prefer to travel in groups rather than by themselves. In many ways, it’s like the difference between fixing your car yourself, or hiring a mechanic!

We hope your last months in the program before the school year finishes are enjoyable! As always, we are available to speak over email or Zoom if you need anything or would like to share more feedback. Thank you!

Best regards,

Harrison Fowler (Owner)

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Kevin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing Program

This program exceeded my expectations. I would not have been able to do it without them. They answered my questions so fast and were always there when I needed them. RVF made the process so much smoother and was well worth it. I got placed in Pais Vasco and in my opinion is the most beautiful place on Earth. 10/10 would recommend this program to anyone thinking of going to Spain. You will not be disappointed. I got help with all my documents are where to look for apartments. It can be a very stressful time but the program made it as easy as possible.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I was very nervous about coming to Spain because of COVID. I was on edge because I did not know if something would change last minute but everything worked out fine.
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Melanie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A fun experience

I had full support as I navigated the bid process and when moving to Spain. It was a great help as I learned my place and found my footing. I was able to travel Europe as well as learn about Spain in a fun and safe way. The job in itself I would not have have changed for the world. The students were so kind and ready to learn, every class was a joy to teach. The teachers were always great support. And I always knew that RVF international would have my back, regardless of the situation I found myself in.

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Kimberlee
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

RVF Review

RVF International is an extremely helpful company and truly worth every penny. While there is a lot to consider, RVF does everything in their control to be helpful and punctual with handling issues. They basically held my hand every step of the way and they are extremely organized. For example, applying for the visa is a very daunting task but if you follow RVF's guidelines they you shouldn't run into many problems.

RVF also offers help with giving resources to find housing. They have webinars where they focus on the food, culture, school setting, Spanish bureaucracy. RVF even offered a small Spanish course where they teach you the basics of Spanish slang, housing reference words, greetings, etc. With RVF there is no wrong question, honestly, they will answer any questions that you have a try their best to relax any fears. Shout out to Lourdes and Harrison!!

I think it is important to keep in mind that RVF doesn't have much say on where you are placed, what school you are at, or what grade level. This is all based on the ministry. I remember mentioning to Harrison that I'd like Alicante and I was placed here. I wasn't expecting to work with adults, but it's been great. Please note, some people are placed in areas they didn't want or far away schools. Not RVF's fault, however, they will try their best to help you. Also, please note... the Valencian community DOES NOT pay on time. Unless you have endless money in the bank you will struggle here until January.

One thing I wish I knew before starting this program is the large community of Auxes who are already teaching in Spain. And I mean LARGE. I am apart of 7 different group chats some with over 200 people. People from all over the world, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, year Auxes (I'm talking support!!) Here in Alicante, I can ask if anyone wants to go for a drink at any given moment and there will be someone willing. I am also apart of a sports group chat that meets once a week for soccer. The Aux community in Spain is absolutely amazing! I've already met life long friends.

Entonces, I don't think RVF gives themselves enough credit for what they actually do. Once you're in Spain, they still offer a lot of support. I guess the best way I'd describe this company is supportive. Highly recommend!! 10/10 Stars!

What was your funniest moment?

I've had a few funny moments mainly they were epic fails because I don't speak the language! For example, I went to Mercadona and bought eggs. I was so excited to make scrambled eggs in my new apartment. I went to crack the egg on the stove and I thought to myself "hmm the egg shells are a bit harder in Spain." To my surprise the egg was HARD BOILED. *Insert hand hitting face emoji* Trust me, you're going to make mistakes moving to a foreign country. Learn to laugh at yourself and see every mistake as a learning opportunity. I promise it doesn't last forever!!
Daniel
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

RVF was amazing!

When I first signed up with RVF, I couldn't believe that it was real because the experience just seemed too good to be true. However, after more research and after talking with the super helpful staff, I realized that the opportunity was absolutely amazing and I didn't want to miss it. RVF helped me with EVERYTHING, including the application, the visa process, and setting up once I arrived in Spain. Looking back, I don't think I could've done all of that on my own. It's intimidating to move to a new country, especially on your own, but I felt completely comfortable with RVF, and I trusted them to help me with all my questions and concerns. I knew I was in good hands. They always responded very quickly and made me feel very excited about going to Spain. Spending a year (or possibly more) in Spain has been a dream of mine for the past few years, and I'm truly grateful that RVF helped me achieve this dream.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
My most nerve-wracking moments were walking into stores or the bank when I first arrived in Spain, because I knew very little Spanish. I always had to mentally prepare myself and practise my lines in my head. After spending several months here, I learned a lot of Spanish and feel much more comfortable communicating with people in different circumstances. I would highly recommend trying to learn some Spanish before arriving. It really goes a long way. People are so appreciative when you speak Spanish with them, and they are always willing to help. It also allows you to socialize and build relationships with more people in the town/city, and that always makes me feel like I fit in more.
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Alexis
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Would recommend this program! It will help you make your dreams come true!

RVF International is with you throughout the entire process of moving abroad, from start to finish, and beyond. They provide you with the most up to date and thorough information. They are kind, supportive, and knowledgeable. I recently got to meet one of the program coordinators in person at a complimentary walking tour of Madrid for RVF participants. It is a huge bonus to feel part of a community when moving abroad. RVF provides this experience for you. I would not hesitate to recommend this program to anyone looking for assistance in their journey.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Use the facebook/meta and whatsapp groups to connect with other language assistants.
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Peter
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great Program to Teach in Spain with!

RVF has been very helpful with every step of the process! I chose Valencia city and Harrison found me a great school to teach at. I have really enjoyed working with the teachers and students at my school. It is also worth noting that I was originally planning to go to Spain and figure everything out on my own but it would have been a mess to deal with COVID-19, the language barrier, and the bureaucracy... So I am happy I chose RVF! Thank you Harrison and the rest of the RVF team for dealing with so much and being supportive.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Do It!! Spain is a wonderful, laid back country with a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle. It will be a great experience!