Program Reviews

I chose CIEE mainly because they provide a lot of support throughout the visa-applying process and continued support once you arrive in Spain. It was very reassuring to know that I could always call/email them with any questions I might have about my stay here or Spanish bureaucracy issues.
The only thing relating to my placement is that there has been construction going on near my school so occasionally we have not had water nor internet. The internet is not a huge issue, but the water can be. Clearly this is not the fault of CIEE, but it is just something I was not expecting.
But overall, I've had a very positive experience with CIEE and would recommend this program to someone who wants to work abroad!

Teaching abroad was a great experience, it gave me such an amazing insight into possible careers while allowing me to learn and invest in other cultural practices. CIEE is the best support system living abroad. They provided assistance through the VISA application back in my home country all the way to ensuring I had all the help available when applying for my TIE in Spain. They sends weekly updates with current events as well as a support line with any questions one may have throughout the year.

My time abroad through CIEE has been so rewarding and fulfilling, and they have truly made the difference in my experience. They helped me along the way as I prepared and submitted all of my paperwork for the visa, and they had a great orientation for all of us when we arrived. I still meet weekly with the friends I made at orientation! On top of all of this, the Spanish culture is incredibly fun and the people here have been so welcoming. I could not recommend this experience more for someone who is looking to spend time abroad in Spain.

The CIEE Teach in Spain program was amazing. I would highly recommend it. It is a lot of work getting to Spain (I.E. Visas, Background check, Money) but once you are here it is awesome. CIEE provides an orientation which is EXTREMELY helpful. I know friends in other programs who did not have this perk. They explain everything from getting a metro card to a TIE. I would of been lost without this. They also have people in USA and Spain to always be of assitance all year round. I would highly recommend doing this program. I have met lifelong friends through CIEE.

I recently completed the TEFL certification program with CIEE, and I must say it has been a truly transformative experience. From the comprehensive curriculum to the dedicated support team, CIEE TEFL has exceeded my expectations.

The course content is well-structured, covering a wide range of topics essential for effective English language teaching. The modules are thoughtfully designed, providing a perfect balance of theoretical knowledge and practical application. What sets CIEE apart is the emphasis on real-world teaching scenarios, enabling me to feel confident and well-prepared for my future as an English teacher.

The CIEE TEFL course created a wonderful platform to meet with like-minded, motivated, and intelligent individuals as peers under kind and patient, qualified teachers. The instructors were always quick to answer any and all questions and provided ample feedback with all assignments. The course prepared me well for the classroom by outlining challenges I could anticipate and hadn't yet thought of. The only complication I encountered was issues with Canvas at times but this was not at the fault of CIEE. Overall a great experience!

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!