All tuition fees, ingredients, materials, and equipment are fully included in your program fee. Classes are held in a modern, fully equipped kitchen designed for small group instruction and hands-on learning.

Throughout the program, you’ll explore a wide range of culinary disciplines including traditional Argentine cuisine, pastry and bakery, and international cooking styles that are widely enjoyed in Argentina — such as Peruvian, Spanish, Mediterranean, and Asian-inspired dishes (including sushi and healthy cuisine options).

Each session combines professional instruction with real practice. You’ll learn by cooking — and you’ll also take home every dish you prepare, so you can enjoy the results of your culinary creations after class.

Upon completing the Cooking Program, you will receive an official Mente Argentina Certificate of Completion recognizing your participation and culinary achievements.

This certificate attests to your training in Argentine and international gastronomy — a valuable credential for your personal development, culinary career, or academic portfolio.

We understand that accommodation is a key element in ensuring that you have a great time in Buenos Aires. That’s why we offer a wide range of housing options in the best areas of the city — Palermo, Barrio Norte, Recoleta, and Belgrano. These neighborhoods are renowned for their safety, charm, and proximity to parks, cafés, shopping, nightlife, and public transportation.

Choose from private apartments, shared apartments, university dorms (hostel-type), or homestays. No matter which option you choose, your program fee covers all expenses — including electricity, gas, water, internet access, cleaning services, and maintenance. You can relax and enjoy your stay without worrying about hidden costs.

Learn more about housing options ›

At Mente Argentina, we want your arrival and departure from Buenos Aires to be as smooth and comfortable as the rest of your experience. That’s why we include round-trip private airport transfers as part of your program — from the moment you land until the day you head home.

Arrival Pick-Up (Ezeiza or Aeroparque): A professional driver will be waiting for you at the airport holding a sign with your name. You’ll be taken directly to your accommodation, where your on-site Program Coordinator will greet you and help you get settled in — ensuring a stress-free start to your stay in Argentina.

Departure Drop-Off: When it’s time to say goodbye, we’ll also arrange your airport transfer to make sure you arrive on time for your flight. If you decide to extend your stay or travel after completing your program, our team will still assist you in organizing transportation for your return flight from Buenos Aires.

We know that arriving in a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming — that’s why Mente Argentina provides a personalized Welcome to Buenos Aires & Local Orientation led by your dedicated Program Coordinator.

Upon your arrival, your Coordinator will personally meet you at your accommodation to welcome you and deliver your Mente Argentina Welcome Kit. During this orientation, you’ll receive essential information about your program, daily life in Buenos Aires, and the local porteño culture — from navigating public transportation and finding nearby amenities to insider recommendations for cafés, supermarkets, and local events.

This one-on-one check-in is also your chance to build a personal connection with your local Coordinator, who will remain your main point of contact and support throughout your stay. From your first day, you’ll have a trusted local resource ensuring that your transition is smooth, safe, and enjoyable.

Your Mente Argentina Welcome Kit is waiting for you upon arrival — a thoughtful selection of essentials to help you feel comfortable and prepared from day one in Buenos Aires.

It includes a local SIM card to stay connected, a SUBE transportation card for the subway and buses, a detailed welcome guide, and city maps highlighting our favorite local spots. You’ll also find a small taste of Argentina — a sweet treat like a traditional alfajor or local snack — plus a bottle of water to enjoy after your flight.

Every item in your kit has been chosen to make your first hours in Buenos Aires easy, welcoming, and authentically local.

Staying connected in Buenos Aires is essential for both safety and convenience. That’s why Mente Argentina provides reliable communication options for all participants — so you can stay in touch with friends, coordinators, and family from day one.

Option 1: Local SIM Card
Upon arrival, you’ll receive a local SIM card with an initial credit, giving you an Argentine phone number right away. It’s easy to add credit at convenience stores or kiosks across the city, ensuring you’re always connected.

Option 2: Borrowed Phone
If you prefer not to use your own device, you can borrow a phone from Mente Argentina. It comes preloaded with useful contacts, emergency numbers, and key information. A refundable USD 200 security deposit is required, which is returned once the phone is returned at the end of your program.

We recommend sharing your local Argentine number with parents or loved ones for peace of mind. With these options, you’ll have everything you need to communicate easily and safely throughout your stay.

Mente Argentina values your well-being and provides every participant with a Health Club Membership at one of Palermo’s most renowned fitness centers. The club is fully equipped with state-of-the-art machines and offers a wide range of group classes throughout the week — from yoga and functional training to spinning and dance.

Your membership is completely free of charge and valid from Monday to Saturday, allowing you to maintain your fitness routine while staying active and energized during your time in Buenos Aires.

Beyond fitness, it’s also a great way to meet locals, relieve stress, and stay balanced throughout your program. Stay healthy, stay inspired, and make the most of your experience with this exclusive Mente Argentina benefit.

Our cultural activities, tours, and excursions are one of the highlights that make Mente Argentina Programs truly unique. We believe the best way to understand a culture is to live it — that’s why all our tours and activities are completely free of charge and designed to help you experience Buenos Aires like a local.

Enjoy guided city and bike tours through iconic neighborhoods such as Recoleta, San Telmo, and Palermo Soho. Visit world-class museums including the MALBA and the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and take part in special lunches and dinners at traditional Argentine restaurants — all included in your program fee — where you’ll savor authentic dishes like asado, empanadas, and dulce de leche.

You’ll also enjoy access to theater performances, tango shows, and other cultural events that showcase Argentina’s artistic soul. Beyond the experiences themselves, these outings are a perfect opportunity to meet locals and connect with other Mente Argentina participants from around the world.

Learn more about Mente Argentina Tours & Activities ›

Immerse yourself in Argentina’s rich cultural heritage through hands-on experiences that go beyond the classroom. Learn the language of Buenos Aires through music, movement, and shared traditions.

Take part in group tango lessons led by local instructors — a fun and authentic way to experience one of Argentina’s most iconic art forms. You’ll also join cultural gatherings that celebrate mate, Argentina’s national drink, and discover the customs, etiquette, and social meaning behind this beloved ritual.

These cultural activities are designed to help you connect more deeply with Argentine traditions, meet locals, and feel part of the country’s rhythm and everyday life.

Improve your Spanish, meet new people, and experience Buenos Aires in a fun and social way through our Conversation Exchange Partner Passes.

These passes give you access to local language exchange events held weekly in cafés, bars, hotels, and cultural centers across the city. You’ll practice Spanish with native speakers while helping them improve their English — all in a relaxed, friendly environment that encourages real cultural exchange.

It’s one of the best ways to make local friends, connect with other international participants, and experience authentic Argentine hospitality while boosting your language confidence.

Learn more about Conversation Partner Events ›

Mente Argentina provides comprehensive assistance with all visa and immigration requirements to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival in Buenos Aires.

We are officially registered with the Argentine National Immigration Office (Dirección Nacional de Migraciones) under RENURE Identification, which allows us to sponsor and issue the necessary documentation for student and cultural exchange visas.

Our dedicated team will guide you through every step of the process — from preparing visa applications and gathering required documents to coordinating extensions or renewals if needed during your stay. Whether you’re joining a short-term or long-term program, you’ll have full support to make your transition to Argentina seamless and fully compliant with local regulations.

At Mente Argentina, our award-winning local support team is available 24/7 to make sure your experience in Buenos Aires is smooth, safe, and unforgettable. From your arrival to your final day, you’ll always have someone ready to assist you — in person, by phone, or online.

Before you even land in Argentina, you’ll be assigned a dedicated Program Coordinator based in Buenos Aires who will be your main point of contact throughout your stay. You’ll also have access to our Student Reception Office in Palermo, open daily during business hours, where our coordinators are ready to help with any questions, documents, or local advice you might need.

Our on-site management team is located right here in Buenos Aires, allowing us to handle any situation quickly and efficiently — from academic coordination and housing support to medical guidance or personal assistance. We’re here so you can focus on what matters most: learning, connecting, and making the most of your time in Argentina.

At Mente Argentina, you’re never alone — from the moment you arrive, you’ll join a vibrant community of participants from around the world who share your sense of curiosity and adventure.

Our community is the heart of the Mente experience: you’ll connect with students, interns, and professionals from dozens of countries through our programs, cultural activities, and social events. Whether you’re sharing a mate in the common areas, attending one of our weekly outings, or joining our online groups, you’ll always be surrounded by people who are living the same journey as you.

Being part of Mente Argentina means being part of a lifelong global network. Many of our alumni stay in touch, collaborate on international projects, or return to Buenos Aires years later. The friendships and professional connections you build here often become key relationships for your future — and memories you’ll never forget.

Learn more about the Mente Argentina Community ›

To help you settle in comfortably, all Mente Argentina participants receive two extra nights of accommodation at no additional cost before their program officially begins.

This means you can arrive in Buenos Aires on the Saturday or Sunday prior to your start date and have a couple of days to rest, explore the city, and get oriented before classes or activities begin.

These additional nights give you time to adjust to the local time zone, meet your roommates, buy essentials, and start your experience feeling relaxed and ready. If you wish to arrive even earlier, extended stays can be easily arranged depending on your accommodation type — just let our team know and we’ll handle the details.

Planning to travel before or after your program? We’ve got you covered. Mente Argentina offers secure luggage storage at our Student Reception Office in Buenos Aires — free of charge for all participants.

You can safely leave your bags with us while you explore Argentina or neighboring countries, and retrieve them when you return. Our team will coordinate everything to ensure your belongings are safely stored and ready for pick-up whenever you need.

It’s another way we make your stay easier, so you can focus on enjoying your travels without worrying about logistics.

As a Mente Argentina participant, you’ll enjoy a variety of exclusive benefits and local perks designed to make your experience in Buenos Aires even better — both during and after your program.

From pre-arrival support and insider orientation tips to local discounts at cafés, restaurants, cultural centers, and gyms, our participants get access to a network of partners throughout the city. You’ll also receive special invitations to events, community meetups, and networking opportunities organized by Mente Argentina.

These benefits are our way of helping you feel connected, supported, and valued — ensuring that every moment in Argentina is meaningful, rewarding, and memorable.

See all participant benefits ›