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Programs : Brochure

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  • Locations: Alcala, Spain
  • Program Terms: Summer
  • Website Click to visit
  • Program Sponsor: CIEE 
  • Restrictions: CMU applicants only
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Program Type: 3. Direct/External Programs Language of Instruction: Spanish
Abroad Opportunities: Study Abroad Class Status: 2-sophomore
Program Description:

CIEE College Study Abroad

Summer Language + Culture

Alcalá de Henares, Spain

Visit CIEE's Program Page

Program Overview

Your Summer Language + Culture program in Alcalá de Henares lasts 4 weeks (or up to 8) and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in courses in Spanish through CIEE's partner school, Universidad de Alcalá. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Spanish culture. Live and learn in Alcalá de Henares!

Unique Experiences

Explore Historical Treasures

like the birthplace of literary great, Miguel de Cervantes

Stay with a Spanish Family

and soak up the language while living like a local

Perfect your Spanish Language Skills

by taking courses taught exclusively in Spanish

Learn More About Alcalá

Your Destination

Alcalá de Henares is Spain's historic gem, renowned for its deep literary roots, stunning architecture, and vibrant university atmosphere. As the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, the city is a natural fit for students of literature, history, philosophy, the arts, and more. From strolling the cobblestone streets of its old town to exploring centuries-old academic traditions, students will find endless opportunities for cultural growth. Alcalá is the perfect place to study language and culture abroad.

alcala students statues downtown spain
students classroom learning spanish alcala spain

Housing

Housing for CIEE students is organized via the Universidad de Alcalá´s housing department. 

View CIEE's program page for additional housing information.

Program Highlights

  • Academic Courses: Choose two courses, delivered in Spanish, at CIEE's partner school, Universidad de Alcalá.
  • Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
  • Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join student clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city.

Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Alcalá de Henares will open doors for you to explore Spain’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.      

Samples of past excursions and activities: 

  • Take a day trip to the Roman settlements of Segovia
  • Enjoy the outdoors in the National Park of the Guadarrama mountains where you can kayak and have a picnic
  • Dip into some of the public swimming pools in Alcalá or Madrid

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.

alcala-large-group-statues-bench

Academics

CIEE Alcalá de Henares: Study in the heart of Alcalá's historic city center! CIEE Alcalá de Henares is housed in a beautifully preserved 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage convent and boasts 10 classrooms, an office space, and iconic storks nest on the building's rooftop.

Universidad de Alcalá: One of the longest standing European universities, Universidad de Alcalá dates back to 1293. Several of its buildings have been declared part of a UNESCO World Heritage site after the university was re-founded in 1977. Courses are held at Instituto Benjamin Franklin (Instituto), a renovated 16th century convent that’s both modern and beautiful.

View CIEE's program page for additional academic information, eligibility requirements, and courses.

1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!

GAIN Travel Grants - Up to $1,500 toward travel costs guaranteed to students with a FAFSA SAI of $10,000 or less. Higher should still apply!

Gilman Go Global Grants - Up to $2,500/semester, $1,500/quarter, and $1,000 guaranteed to Benjamin A Gilman International Scholarship applicants.

Merit-Based Scholarships - Up to $2,500/semester, $1,500/quarter, and $750/summer awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.

Learn More About Scholarships

What's Included

  • Tuition
  • Housing
  • Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
  • Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
  • Orientation – an introduction to your academic program, plus practical information about living in your host city
  • Full-time program leadership and support in your host city
  • Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
  • Excursions and/or Study Tours
  • Insurance and other travel benefits, with CIEE iNext Travel Protection
  • 24/7 emergency on-site support

Why CIEE

  • 200+ study abroad programs in 40+ countries
  • $8 million in scholarships offered each year
  • 1 in 3 students receives a scholarship
  • Study tours and cultural activities included
  • Internships and volunteering opportunities
  • Rigorous academics
  • Cultural immersion
  • iNext Travel Protection included

Questions?

Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.

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