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Study Abroad | Madrid

Spain | Universidad Nebrija | Fall 2023

Select Your Program Option:

  • Fall 2023

  • Spring 2024

  • Fall 2024

  • Spring 2025

Overview

Spend a semester or academic year in the vibrant capital city of Madrid, Spain with AIFS! Study a variety of academic program options at the Universidad Nebrija, home to 6,000 students. Most courses are taught at the Madrid-Princesa campus located in the center of the city, where international and Spanish students integrate daily.

What’s Included

The AIFS inclusive program fee includes all of the great features below in addition to many pre-departure, on-site, and upon-return services to help students make the most of their time abroad.

Review Our Policies
  • Tuition

    Up to 21 semester credits depending on program and course selection

  • Courses

    Wide variety of courses available; taught in English and Spanish

  • Housing

    Homestay or student apartment

  • Meals

    Breakfast and dinner every day in the homestay

  • Excursions & Day Trips

    3-day excursion to Granada in Andalucía and day trips to Segovia, Toledo, and El Escorial

  • Cultural & Social Activities

    Guided city tour, tapas in Malasaña, cultural diversity tours, visit to the Palacio Real and museums as Prado and Reina Sofía, and visit of social and cultural interest in the city and its surroundings

  • Onsite Program Director

    To help with any questions or advice you may need throughout the program

  • Health & Safety

    24/7 emergency support and comprehensive insurance

  • Personal/Professional Development

    Access to the renowned Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment and alumni network

  • Green Initiative

Additional Options & Opportunities

  • Flight Package

    Round-trip flights from 25 U.S. gateways

    Airport transfers to and from campus

  • Optional Excursion

    Basque Country, Northern Spain (3 days)

    Salamanca (2 days)

  • Early Start Program Supplement

    2-week fall or 4-week spring Intensive Spanish Language Course

Program Details: Study Abroad | Madrid Hispanic Studies

Program is closed

Dates

September 17, 2023December 20, 2023

Term

Fall

Institution

Universidad Nebrija

Application Deadline

April 15, 2023

Inclusive Fees

$16,490

Stay for a year to save on cost

Eligibility

Open to First Year, Sophomore, Junior, Senior

Minimum of 2.5 GPA

Additional requirements may vary by course selection. See Academic section below.

Visa Requirements

A visa may be required for this program. Please contact your advisor or log into your portal for more information.

Areas of Interest

  • Area Studies
  • Art History
  • Business
  • Film Studies
  • Foreign Language
  • History
  • Literature
  • Sociology
  • Spanish Language
  • Theater

Global Themes

  • Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
  • Education, Social Services, and Psychology
  • Language, History and Culture
Learn More About Global Themes

Academics

AIFS Abroad offers a unique global educational experience for students on this program, with the following academic options available:

Universidad Nebrija’s 6,000 students (including over 500 international students) are integrated across three campuses. Integration between international and Spanish students is a normal part of daily life at the university with students sharing the same facilities and services. Nebrija prides itself on the high standard of its programs, its individual attention to students, and the diversity of nationalities among its student body. As it welcomes students from all over the world seeking to expand their knowledge of the Spanish language and culture, one of its main objectives is for students to become interculturally competent in using real-world skills demanded of today’s professionals.

  • Area Studies
  • Art History
  • Business
  • Film Studies
  • Foreign Language
  • History
  • Literature
  • Sociology
  • Spanish Language
  • Theater

Give your Spanish skills a head start and earn extra credits on the Early Start option. Students taking this option will arrive in Madrid before the semester begins and take an intensive Spanish language course focusing on grammar, conversation and culture. All levels of Spanish are available. The optional Early Start Program gives you a good opportunity to improve your Spanish before the semester begins. The course also gives you the opportunity to make a gradual adjustment to academic life and living in Spain. 

The Early Start Program runs for 2 weeks in the fall for 3 credits and for 4 weeks in the spring for 6 credits. Housing in a homestay or apartment is included. 

This program is designed for students who wish to focus their studies in Spanish language and culture taking courses taught in Spanish in language, grammar, literature, art, history, political science and Spanish society. No previous knowledge of Spanish is required. All courses are taught in Spanish. Courses are available at all levels from Beginner through Advanced. Students can take up to 5 courses and each course is 45 hours, equivalent to a recommended 3 U.S. credits. 

This program is designed for students who wish to combine learning Spanish with specific degree courses from different areas, taught in English. Areas of academic study include business and marketing; art and architecture; culture and history; international relations and European studies; literature and gender studies. 

No previous knowledge of Spanish is required. Courses are available at all levels from Beginner through Advanced. Students can take up to 5 courses and each course is 45 hours, equivalent to a recommended 3 U.S. credits. At least one of the 5 courses must be taught in Spanish and chosen from the Hispanic Studies Program. 

Students with an Advanced level of Spanish and who have completed at least five semesters of college-level Spanish can take regular degree courses alongside Spanish students. Eligible students can select courses from the following areas: social sciences; communication sciences; Polytechnic School; arts and letters. Students choose courses from one area of study. Some courses are taught in English. This program is available in the fall only. Integrated and Early Start Program start dates coincide therefore Integrated students cannot take the Early Start Program. 

Students with a minimum B2 level of Spanish (High Intermediate) and junior or senior standing can participate in this program which combines Spanish language study with an internship. B1 level Spanish (Intermediate) will be considered on a case-by-case basis for students wishing to take their internship in the science or hospitality field. The Internship carries 3 credits and students combine this with courses from either the Hispanic Studies program or the Spanish Plus Program (you cannot combine courses from both programs) Students take 3 courses while doing their internship for a minimum total of 12 credits. Students may take an additional 3-credit course if the timetable permits. Students wishing to extend their internship beyond the length of their AIFS program can do so by arrangement with Nebrija University. Students would need to arrange their own housing. A résumé and letter of interest (cover letter) both written in Spanish must be submitted to the AIFS Program Advisor for consideration together with an outline of three areas of interest. 

Internships have been offered in the following areas in previous years: accounting, architecture, art gallery/museums, arts, music, performing arts, arts restoration, biology, environment (animal protection), chemical and bio-sectors, education in NGO and schools, engineering, hotels and restaurants, hotel-tourism, human resources, law, marketing, media and journalism, psychology (only in occupational support activities, not psychological) public relations, social work, special education, sports, theater and travel agencies. All interns take part in an intercultural competence seminar. 

This program is designed for students who wish to focus their studies in Spanish language and culture taking courses taught in Spanish in language, grammar, literature, art, history, political science and Spanish society. No previous knowledge of Spanish is required. All courses are taught in Spanish. Courses are available at all levels from Beginner through Advanced. Students can take up to 5 courses and each course is 45 hours, equivalent to a recommended 3 U.S. credits. 

This program is designed for students who wish to combine learning Spanish with specific degree courses from different areas, taught in English. Areas of academic study include business and marketing; art and architecture; culture and history; international relations and European studies; literature and gender studies. 

No previous knowledge of Spanish is required. Courses are available at all levels from Beginner through Advanced. Students can take up to 5 courses and each course is 45 hours, equivalent to a recommended 3 U.S. credits. At least one of the 5 courses must be taught in Spanish and chosen from the Hispanic Studies Program. 

Students with a minimum B2 level of Spanish (High Intermediate) and junior or senior standing can participate in this program which combines Spanish language study with an internship. B1 level Spanish (Intermediate) will be considered on a case-by-case basis for students wishing to take their internship in the science or hospitality field. The Internship carries 3 credits and students combine this with courses from either the Hispanic Studies program or the Spanish Plus Program (you cannot combine courses from both programs) Students take 3 courses while doing their internship for a minimum total of 12 credits. Students may take an additional 3-credit course if the timetable permits. Students wishing to extend their internship beyond the length of their AIFS program can do so by arrangement with Nebrija University. Students would need to arrange their own housing. A résumé and letter of interest (cover letter) both written in Spanish must be submitted to the AIFS Program Advisor for consideration together with an outline of three areas of interest. 

Internships have been offered in the following areas in previous years: accounting, architecture, art gallery/museums, arts, music, performing arts, arts restoration, biology, environment (animal protection), chemical and bio-sectors, education in NGO and schools, engineering, hotels and restaurants, hotel-tourism, human resources, law, marketing, media and journalism, psychology (only in occupational support activities, not psychological) public relations, social work, special education, sports, theater and travel agencies. All interns take part in an intercultural competence seminar. 

View All Courses For Hispanic Studies
Raechel Instagram Takeover

A DAY IN THE LIFE madrid

Want to study abroad in Spain? Raechel, an AIFS Abroad alum from @collegeofcharleston, recently took over our Instagram story recently to answer questions about what it’s like to study abroad in Madrid, Spain for a semester. Watch as she highlights her experience!

Madrid building.

Living Abroad

Homestay

Living in a homestay is the best way to immerse yourself in the language and culture of Spain and many students choosing this option find that it is the most rewarding part of their time abroad.

  • Single room
  • Daily breakfast and dinner
  • Weekly laundry

Apartment

Ideal for students who like their independence, want to cook for themselves and to experience city life. Apartments are co-ed and are generally shared with other AIFS and/or non-AIFS Spanish and international students.

  • Single room
  • Shared kitchen, living area and bathroom
  • Laundry facilities
  • Fully furnished
  • Centrally located neighborhood of Madrid

Internet access is included in all AIFS housing in Madrid

History

Founded in the ninth century, it is an ancient city with a modern outlook and as the progressive capital of a diverse nation. The city contains some of the best art galleries in the world spanning over 1000 years of art history.

Architecture

The centre of Madrid, with its winding streets opening into grand boulevards and squares, is a gem of a location and whatever the season provide shelter from the sun or the wind.

AIFS in Madrid Director, Academic Year and Semester Programs

Bárbara Franconi

Hola! I have been working with international students from all over the world since 2005 as a Spanish teacher and cultural immersion coach. I have been AIFS Program Director since 2013. I have a degree in Spanish and Literature, a Master in Applied Linguistics in teaching Spanish as a second language and a Postgraduate in Culture and Communication.

I have studied abroad twice, so I know how challenging and wonderful it is to immerse yourself in a new culture and a new language. Undoubtedly, it is an enriching experience for life that allows for both professional and personal development and that is why it is a pleasure and a goal for me to help students to get the best from their studies abroad.

I have been a student at Universidad de Nebrija so I am looking forward to introducing you to the academic life of the campus.

Madrid is an amazing city with a huge cultural life and there is always something new to discover. I will organize a variety of cultural activities which will help you to get involved in all that the city offers such as visiting the Barrio de las Letras, Museo del Prado, the Royal Palace, the Bernabeu Stadium, enjoying the view of the city from the Faro de Moncloa, or simply trying the Spanish tapas in Malasaña! I am looking forward to welcoming you to Madrid.

The Program Director provides academic advice, introduces you to the community and handles communication with the University.

In addition to day trips and excursions, a cultural calendar of weekly activities and social events is included in your program fee. These activities will include both typical tourist sites and attractions and lesser known visits which take advantage of the expert knowledge of our local AIFS staff and give you a more authentic and insightful view of Spanish life. Typical activities, tours and visits may include:

  • Guided city tour
  • Royal Palace
  • Tapas tour
  • The Prado Museum and other art museums
  • Social Movements and Multiculturalism in the Lavapiés neighborhood
  • Illustrious Women of Madrid tour
  • Inclusive Love tour at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and guided tour of Chueca, Madrid’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ community
  • Alcalá de Henares
  • The Santiago Bernabéu (home ground of the Real Madrid football team)
  • Aranjuez Palace and Garden
  • Espacio Afro at Matadero, artistic space created by Madrid’s Black community
  • Local fiestas
  • Farewell event
  • Madrid Art Week (spring) includes street art and themes of women’s rights and ethnicity
  • Visits and activities of historical and cultural interest

You may be asked to pay a small supplementary fee for some events. Additional cultural activities are included with the Universidad Nebrija.

Volunteer opportunities are available through a local NGO to provide services to people in need within the local community. 

Universidad Nebrija and AIFS organize a program of “intercambios” (conversation exchange) in which you can practice your Spanish with a native speaker while a Spanish speaker practices their English with you! There is also a Buddy Club and an English Tutor Program at the university, which international students can participate in and receive a certificate issued by the university club.

Excursions

This program offers a range of day trips and excursions that will take you outside Madrid and deepen your social, historical, and cultural understanding of Spain.

El Escorial.

El Escorial

Locally guided tour. Includes round-trip transportation.

  • Spain
  • Day Trip
  • Included in Program Fee
Segovia.

Segovia

Locally guided tour. Entrance to the Alcázar Castle. Includes round-trip transportation.

  • Spain
  • Day Trip
  • Included in Program Fee
Toledo.

Toledo

Locally guided tour. Entrance to the Toledo Cathedral, Church of Santo Tomé and Santa María la Blanca. Includes round-trip transportation.

  • Spain
  • Day Trip
  • Included in Program Fee
Granada.

Granada, Andalucía

Guided tours of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, the Albaicín and othr attractions. Includes round-trip transportation, accommodations and daily breakfast.

  • Spain
  • 3 Days
  • Included in Program Fee
Basque country, Northern Spain

Basque Country

Discover the strong cultural traditions, world famous cuisine and scintillating modern architecture of Bilbao and San Sebastian. Don´t miss the opportunity to photograph the magical islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe along the stunning Biscay coastline. Includes round trip transportation, entrance fees, guided tours, and some meals.

  • Northern Spain
  • 3 Days
  • $695 Spring 2024 / $745 Fall 2024/Spring 2025
Salamanca.

Salamanca

Locally guided tours. Visit the Old Cathedral, New Cathedral, and several important monuments. Includes round-trip transportation, accommodations and daily breakfasts. 

* A minimum enrollment of 15 students is required for this trip to run.

  • Spain
  • 2 Days
  • $275
Barcelona,Spain
A group of happy students at a carnival.
A view of Prague.

Social identity & access

One of the best things you can do before departure is enter into the journey knowing that your time abroad will be unique to this experience. The resources, community, and support available to you when abroad will likely be different as well. In order to help you prepare for your experience, we have compiled many resources about social identity and access in specific locations abroad. Your program staff will also provide you with more details pre-departure and during orientation.

Learn more

Important Dates & Deadlines

Request Info

Closed

Program is closed

Dates & Deadlines

Details

  • Early Application Deadline*
  • Application Deadline
    April 15, 2023
  • Deposit Deadline
    May 15, 2023
  • Scholarship Deadline
    April 20, 2023
  • Visa Deadline****
    April 15, 2023
  • Optional Departure Flight from US***
    September 16, 2023
  • Program Begins
    September 17, 2023
  • Program Ends
    December 20, 2023
  • Optional Return Flight to US***
    December 21, 2023
  • *** Included for students on AIFS flight package.
  • **** AIFS Abroad offers visa processing services to applicants who enroll into the program by this date. All other applicants who enroll after this date will be responsible for securing their own visa with guidance from AIFS Abroad.

Optional Flight Package

Students can select an optional transportation package for all AIFS programs. Students who choose to book their own flights should meet up with group at the program location and will need to make their own ground transportation arrangements.

Below are fees by departure city based on average historical costs and subject to change. If you select this option on your application, the total flight package price will be confirmed in your account 6 months prior to departure. (Program fee is guaranteed.)

Depature City

Fee

  • Atlanta
    $1,580
  • Boston
    $1,360
  • Buffalo
    $1,420
  • Charlotte
    $1,460
  • Chicago
    $1,540
  • Cincinnati
    $1,580
  • Columbus
    $1,500
  • Dallas
    $1,620
  • Denver
    $1,600
  • Des Moines
    $1,600
  • Detroit
    $1,460
  • Houston
    $1,640
  • Los Angeles
    $1,380
  • Miami
    $1,500
  • Minneapolis
    $1,540
  • New York
    $1,340
  • Newark
    $1,340
  • Orlando
    $1,500
  • Philadelphia
    $1,460
  • Phoenix
    $1,620
  • Pittsburgh
    $1,440
  • Raleigh/Durham
    $1,500
  • San Francisco
    $1,660
  • Seattle
    $1,640
  • St. Louis
    $1,520
  • Washington/Dulles
    $1,380
  • View more View less

See what others are saying

Two students walking in a field.

Ready to Study Abroad in Madrid?

For more dates or questions, contact your program consultant:
(203) 399-5163 or email: aifsabroad@aifs.com