Program Reviews

Taking this opportunity through CIEE was probably one of the best decision I have made. Starting this journey with CIEE has made this possibly because I dont know if I would have the confidence to do this without the helpful staff of CIEE who essential held my hand through the application, visa, and housing processes. I am grateful to now be here, settled, and having the time of my life. Seriously, just do it! I think this not only gives you the chance to live in a new country and experience all there is to do in the day-to-day life in Spain, but also travel around Europe easily. There is so much to do and learn, I have only been here for 2 months and already think i will stay at least a second year!

Teaching abroad with CIEE is great for anyone who wants a helping hand while moving abroad. They have a very thorough pre-departure course and instructions about how to get a Visa. They also provide reliable on-site assistance here in Madrid. If you're the type of person who doesn't have time to do your own paperwork research or you've never lived abroad before, I would 100% recommend applying through CIEE. If you don't mind navigating the intricacies of Spanish bureaucracy on your own and you're more independent, then maybe NALCAP is a better option.

CIEE made it exceptionally easy to transition to living and teaching abroad! The guaranteed placement in Madrid was a huge benefit. I have been able to enjoy a really fun and rewarding year abroad as a gap year between undergraduate studies and law school. I went on this adventure not knowing anyone and through the CIEE social media platforms and in-country orientation I have been able to meet so many new people and have found amazing friends. I would highly recommend this program to anyone ready to have an extraordinary, life changing experience!

This program has been so fun! Obviously there are going to be adjustments and learning curves. Paperwork and appointments are stressful and honestly once you move to Madrid it is up to you (and your school) to figure out/keep track of bank/visa appointments, but the orientation was very comprehensive and everyone in your group goes through the same process as you which definitely helps! I have yet to have a boring weekend and even small things like going to the store or trips to work are all the more interesting in a completely new setting! I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who is interested in getting a look at real life in Spain!

I loved this program! There is so much support offered for the government processes (visa, tie, opening a bank account, ect) and any of my questions were answered very quickly over email or text message. There was also an orientation provided in Spain when I landed which gave me the opportunity to ask questions, learn more, and fill out necessary paperwork with help and guidance on the spot.
One thing is your school placement may be far from the center of Madrid. For example, my school is about an hour and a half away on the metro or an hour on the bus which I do not mind but some people may. No program is perfect but CIEE provided so much support and guidance it was worth the cost in my opinion.

I have had a good experience in Madrid so far. CIEE provides a good foundation for preparing for your departure such as VISA and appointment help, as well as in-country support and help. Madrid is an incredible city with many things to do however moving abroad in any capacity is going to have its downsides such as the language barrier and a feeling of isolation, however, CIEE does provide good social support as there are so many other American teaching assistants in Madrid to connect with. I am only about 1.5 months into my program and although I have dealt with the challenges of moving to a new country with a different language it can only go up from here and I have CIEE to turn to with any questions.

CIEE provided me all of the necessary steps to successfully move internationally. Additionally, whenever I needed more assistance than what I could find on their extensive Canvas course, I always got an email response to my question in less than 24-48 hours. Even more, the group of people who are selected to participate in this program are like minded. As a result of this, I have made incredible friends who share my values and beliefs. The Community of Madrid bilingual program with which we work through CIEE allows us time and energy to pursue travel opportunities, explore new areas, and try new activities and hobbies. Finally, I participated in the immersion program which gave me the opportunity to live with a host family for a month and take Spanish language classes where I learned so much about Spanish culture, customs, and of course, the language!

My experience has been nothing short of amazing. CIEE has done an incredible job getting me to where I needed and provided help in every step. Even something so small as directions to the desk at the airport on the first day of getting to Madrid. I´m so lucky that I chose to work in Madrid through CIEE because there is 24 hour support and many ways to meet people through the program. A few of my closest friends I´ve made here were in my orientation group. Speaking of orientation, CIEE did an amazing job breaking down the most beneficial points to know, while not keeping us there for hours at a time (the jetlag was real!), and they understood that.

CIEE was a great choice for me when choosing to teach abroad. It was something I wanted to do for a few years. After researching several other teach abroad programs, CIEE offered the best value for my money. Once accepted into the program the hand-holding began with detailed steps and timelines. Believe me this is what you want when moving overseas. Take the time to read and re-read everything CIEE sends your way. It is super helpful and eased a lot of nerves when it came to the process. Once in country, expect the same helpfulness and knowledge.

Before deciding to teach abroad, I didn’t know the amount of tedious work that goes into the VISA process, getting Insurance, job guarantee, and more. If It weren’t for the amazing support from CIEE every single step of the way, I would not of even made It here. They break down every single step, and make It so easy. It was and continues to be so comforting to know that they are there to answer every question. Their unwavering support didn’t stop once we arrived either. Orientation was so informative and helpful. They made what could be a daunting and overwhelming experience feel simple and exciting. I cannot recommend CIEE enough.