CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Barcelona, Spain

Name: CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Barcelona, Spain
Brand: CEA CAPA Education Abroad
SKU: 15924
Rating: 4.9 (114 reviews)

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4.90 Rating

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Location

Spain
- Barcelona

Term

Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter

Subject Areas

Accounting Advertising Art History Business Communications Cultural Studies Design Economics Education Engineering Environmental Studies European Studies Film Finance History Hospitality Humanities International Business International Relations Journalism Law Linguistics Literature Marketing Philosophy Photography Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Sciences Sociology Sports Science Tourism +23

Need-based funding, Merit-based funding, General grants/scholarships, Payment plans, Work study, LGBTQIA+ funding, BIPOC funding

Health & Safety

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Program Details

Program Type

Provider

Degree Level

High School Diploma Associates Bachelors

Housing

Apartment Dormitory Host Family

Language

English

Pricing

Price Details

Included: Personalized Pre-departure Advising; Tuition & Registration; Travel Medical Insurance; On-site Orientation; Housing; Volunteer Opportunities; On-site Staff Support; Excursions and Cultural Engagement; Host Institution Services & Amenities and more. Scholarships available.

What's Included

Some Accommodation Activities Airport Transfers Classes

Last Updated: Jun 28, 2023

Last Reviewed: May 13, 2025

Wish List

107 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Barcelona, Spain’s second-largest city, features a cosmopolitan atmosphere, a temperate climate, marvelous art, and amazing opportunities to learn. Gaze upon Antoni Gaudí’s gothic Sagrada Familia, the church of the Holy Family. Enjoy delicious tapas as you socialize with new friends! Experience the thrill of soccer at Europe’s largest stadium, Camp Nou.

To give you the widest range of options, CEA CAPA partners with some of Spain’s best universities, including University of Barcelona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, University of Vic, and Pompeu Fabra University, CETT- University of Barcelona and ESADE Business School. You can study at one of these prestigious institutions, or at CEA CAPA's Barcelona Center, located in the heart of the city. You can also experience both with a hybrid learning program.

Interested? Click the “Visit Site” button to learn what’s waiting for you!

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Video and Photos

CEA CAPA Study Abroad Students in Barcelona, Spain

Sagrada Familia in front of sun in Barcelona, Spain

CEA CAPA students overlooking Barcelona, Spain

Plaza de Catalunya at sunset in Barcelona, Spain

Side view of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

CEA CAPA student on stairs at Parc Guell in Barcelona, Spain

CEA CAPA student at Parc Ciutadella in Barcelona, Spain

CEA CAPA students pose on stairs for picture

Alhambra architecture on excursion with CEA CAPA

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Diversity & Inclusion 💙

BIPOC Support

CEA CAPA provides, in conjunction with Diversity Abroad, Destination Guides which provide resources and tips for Black/African-American students, Latinx students, Asian American students, and all other students of color.

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LGBTQIA+ Support

Through our personalized advising, CEA CAPA takes steps to understand the needs of a diversity of student identities like the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to diversity and identity training, CEA CAPA leadership engage in continuous department level project work to identify and revise policies and practices using the appropriate Justice, Equity, Diversity or Inclusion lens as a frame to reduce bias and barriers that impact students, faculty, and staff. CEA CAPA is intentional in elevating diverse student voices and providing a platform for a broad array of identities to share their experiences abroad. The CEA CAPA World Blog promotes stories and personal experiences from the perspectives of diverse student bloggers and vloggers.

Neurodivergent Support

CEA CAPA is willing and able to assist students with learning disabilities and physical disabilities. Students are requested to disclose disabilities through the application health forms as part of their application and in discussion with their application advisor or program manager. The earlier CEA CAPA is made aware of learning or physical disabilities the better we can work with the student, institution, and overseas team to tailor an Individualized Education Program if necessary to support the student.

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Impact 🌎

Sustainability

CEA CAPA makes a conscious effort to create study abroad experiences that leave a positive impact on host communities. Each location implements a variety of strategies to support the local community and promote sustainability. Examples include:

Use of recycling bins in Study Center locations and in CEA CAPA housing

Signage in CEA CAPA housing urging students to limit water and electricity usage

Students are often given reusable bags and water bottles upon arrival to limit single plastic use

Students are provided with instructions for acquiring transportation passes to promote use of public transportation rather than taxis

Program Highlights

Hands-on learning experiences that transform the world abroad into a classroom
Personalized Pre-Departure Advising, including visa and immigration support
Courses offered in English that fulfill major and general graduation requirements
Comprehensive on-site support, including 24/7 emergency phone
Career workshops, Internships Abroad, and Alumni Ambassador positions

Program Reviews

4.90 Rating

based on 114 reviews

Leave a Review

Rating Spread Study

5 rating 91.23%
4 rating 7.89%
3 rating 0.88%
2 rating 0%
1 rating 0%

Academics 4.2
Support 4.8
Fun 4.9
Housing 4.55
Safety 4.7

Good for Students, Adventure travelers, Foodies

Showing 25 - 32 of 114 reviews

I had the opportunity to teach English in a primary school in Barcelona through a CEA CAPA class! The class was called International Service Learning, and granted us a placement in our host community. I was able to improve my Spanish, learn some Catalan, gain credit towards my degree, and build lasting relationships with teachers and students. Volunteering is a great way to immerse yourself in the community and learn through teaching- something I never would have gotten the chance to do if not for CEA!

Deciding to study abroad in Barcelona, Spain with CEA CAPA was the most incredible experience that I have ever had. The time I had abroad and the memories that I made are something I will cherish for the rest of my life. I learned so much about the culture I was living in and my eyes were opened to so many different perspectives and ways of life. I have become so grateful for every experience that I had and all the relationships I made. I have some of my life long friends from studying abroad. This once in a lifetime opportunity was seriously the most fun I have ever had. The teachers and staff at CEA were all so helpful and supportive during my time abroad. I highly recommend this program.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?

I think using public transportation for the first time was a little nerve-racking. The metro is pretty much every single local's primary use of transportation, so during busy times like 5pm and in the morning when people are going to school/work, it would be so packed. I also had trouble with changing lines on the metro when I was by myself, and many times ended up traveling in the opposite direction than I was supposed to. But I eventually mastered it and began to love using the metro everywhere I went.

Pros

Opened my eyes to different perspectives
Tried new foods and traveled to new places
Awesome professors and classes

Cons

Homesickness
Pick pocketing- Be careful!

Going abroad to Barcelona with CEA CAPA was truly an amazing experience that I will forever be grateful I had the opportunity to experience. Barcelona has so much to offer. Between exploring the city, the beach, restaurants, nightlife, shopping, there is always something fun to do! Barcelona is also super easy to get around and easy to travel from. The CEA CAPA staff and teachers were all very helpful and supportive throughout my whole experience making it a program I could not recommend enough!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?

My advice would be to not take anything for granted and really make the most of your time here. It will be the fastest semester of your life and truly flies by. Get involved as much as you can, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and imerse yourself in the culture.

Pros

Travel
A lot to do and see
Great food and culture

Cons

My housing was not the best

Studying abroad in Barcelona with CEA CAPA was the best decision ever. I went into the program with many students I knew from my home university; however, none were my close friends. The relationships I developed abroad will always remain a part of my life, and the experiences I had are impossible to replicate. Barcelona has the most incredible people, food, and culture, and it was truly the best second home I could have imagined. I learned more about their local culture through celebrations, festivals, and holidays. I also had the opportunity to learn some Spanish through one of my courses. I would do anything to go back!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?

I did one solo trip to Florence and Venice, Italy. Traveling alone was an incredible and nerve-racking experience. I had a 6:00 am bus from Venice to the Treviso airport, but I had to walk without the option of a car from my hotel. I did not realize my fifteen-minute walk alone through Venice would be dark and quiet. Once I got to the bus station, I could not find the bus and had to rely on locals to direct me to the correct bus. I do not know any Italian, and the man I spoke to did not know English. We could still communicate, and I got on the bus on time.

Pros

Expanding perspective
Enhanced problem-solving skills
Networking and friendships

Cons

Spent a lot of money
Social/cultural adjustments
Homesickness

My experience is Barcelona was beyond incredible. I was fortunate to spend a whole summer studying business while embracing and adhering to new cultures. I learned so much while making new friends and connections along the way. CEA CAPA provided everything I needed and performed in such an exceptional way. CEA CAPA made my life and experience so much easier while abroad. From the engaging classwork, to the school mandated field trips, I really experienced it all. One of my favorite things I experienced while abroad was a tapas cooking class.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?

The most exciting thing I saw was the running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain!

Pros

Adrenaline Rush
Once in a lifetime experience
Meeting locals and people of the bull culture

Cons

Scary Bulls running at you

My time in Barcelona with CEA CAPA was life changing! Barcelona is the perfect place to study abroad if you love a busy city, beaches, and rich culture. I felt so immersed in the city for the 5 months that i was there. The food, people, nightlife, beautiful architecture, all make this place so special. I had the most incredible time traveling on the weekends and exploring the city on the weekdays. CEA made everything so easy and comfortable for students. I could not recommend Barcelona enough!!!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?

My advice to future travelers would be to soak up everything in your home city. Traveling is incredible but it is so special to call a place home. Be sure to find festivals, sports events, social events, new restaurants etc.

Pros

Travel
Busy city life
Courses and professors

Cons

Housing options
Expenses
N/A

I studied abroad in Barcelona, Spain earlier this year and experienced the best 4 months of my life! If I could go back and do this experience again, I would. Barcelona is now some place I can consider somewhere I would like to live. The social scene is unbeatable filled with so much history and beautiful architecture. It is in a great location to plan other travels and the food is fantastic! There was never a dull moment or a time where I was bored. The beach is beautiful and so many activities nearby.

I loved studying abroad in Barcelona because it gave me the ability to immerse myself in a different culture all while still feeling safe and secure. It definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone at first but I am so grateful it did! Had I not studied abroad I would have never been able to see Barcelona and all the amazing qualities it offers. Studying abroad allowed me to come out of my shell as an introvert and truly become a confident more sophisticated version of myself. The city is absolutely beautiful and filled with opportunities and unique experiences. Although it's big, I never felt alone or overwhelmed due to the incredible and supportive CEA staff. I can not recommend Barcelona and the CEA CAPA team enough!!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?

My number one tip I would share with all interested students is to pack light but make sure to pack the little things. Pack light meaning do not bring all your clothes and shoes, because you will without a doubt buy more there! The shopping is amazing in Barcelona so you will want to save room in your suitcase for that. Most importantly don't forget to pack the little things-- hairbrush, dry shampoo, chargers, face wash, shampoo/conditoner, etc. All the little things you use on a daily basis at home will be just as important to bring with you on your trip! My last piece of advice is to travel as much as possible on the weekends. Europe is filled with beautiful remarkable cities and countries that you won't want to miss out on. The flights are pretty cheap and traveling with your freinds/roomates is an unforgettable experience of a lifetime. I can't recommend that enough!

Pros

Easy transportation
amazing location - lots to do
incredible food filled with variety

Cons

lots of walking- i personally didn't mind but it can be hard for others
a good bit of homeless people/beggars in the main city
pick pocketing!!! be aware of yourself and your belongings AT ALL TIMES!

Questions & Answers

Is there a break from classes during the Fall semester?

No, there is no break during the fall semester however there are a lot of days off for long weekends.

By Courtney King on March 27, 2019

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

The CAPA program represented a unique opportunity for me for a few reasons.

I wanted to go to a Spanish speaking country, which meant that I had the options of mainly South America and Europe. CAPA has opportunities in Argentina and Barcelona; however, after discussing with my high school Spanish teacher, I decided that Barcelona was the right choice for me.

The best part of the CAPA program for making my decision was the ability to have both an internship and school coursework. Being able to understand the city as a working city was a completely novel way to have an abroad experience that showed me the professional style of Spaniards.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

CAPA was a great resource. I had many back and forth emails with CAPA advisors to wade through the red tape of forms and passport certifications. I found the process to be lengthy, but the people were so helpful that I never go very frustrated. I didn't even need to pick my visa up from the consulate: a representative from my school actually went in and grabbed mine along with others themselves to ensure that everything was in order and that we could leave on time.

I must have sent twenty emails to CAPA and my school's Abroad office. They were always helpful and timely with their responses.

View Entire Interview

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Take advantage of small programs and use your internship to boost your unique experience.

Many programs have set itineraries and things they are able to do with students. I found CAPA unique because they were constantly asking what we wanted to do and because we were a small group they could organize fun, intimate experiences in a way that truly couldn't be compared in a large program. With that, I think it's what you make of it.

I challenge someone reading this to seek out things that make them uncomfortable; if you aren't a good dancer, take some salsa lessons (you become better and at worst you do it in a place you might never have to come back to). In general, students should embrace the power of a new environment to explore aspects of themselves that they may not feel comfortable trying back home.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

The program was pretty flexible and allowed me to largely design my own within the parameters of certain class times and hour requirements. I personally was able to do all of my classes and internship hours between Monday and Thursday, which left me with a three-day weekend to travel or explore places farther away in the city.

I would usually have class in the morning and go straight to my internship or vice versa on days when I had afternoon classes. Everything was close enough that I could seamlessly move between places without issue.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear of going abroad was that I wouldn't do enough to have an authentic experience in the country where I was going.

I worried I would be another American tourist who didn't immerse himself in the language and instead stayed with my tribe and partied. I never fully overcame it; I think that's something that takes a longer period of time to truly experience whereas I was only there 4 months. However, I also acknowledge that a truly authentic experience is one in which you allow yourself to be inspired and curious about things that are different from what you are used to.

I took salsa/bachata classes because I had never experienced a culture of dance as there was in Spain. I had roommates who were fluent in Spanish, so I regularly tried to speak to them in Spanish and wasn't offended when they tried to correct my speech.

My new view is that it isn't about coming back a changed person with a perfect understanding of the culture: it's about challenging yourself and being willing to embrace the fact that your way of doing things is just one of the many different approaches to tackling life.

Try new things and you may surprise yourself.

What is one thing you wish more study abroad students did/what is one mistake others often make?

I had many friends study abroad at the same time that I went. They had amazing experiences and a lot of fun. However, upon talking with them and looking at other people in similar programs that I interacted with, I found that, rather than trying new things and embracing the discomfort of a new place, most students decided instead to find friend groups within their program and set about surrounding themselves with others like them and eating/congregating around places that remind them of home.

While I often had this feeling, I would go to these places and do these things when I was feeling overwhelmed or homesick, but not as a regular habit. I think too often students who study abroad take the fact that they are in another country as a sign that they are getting a cultural experience.

In a modern world, it is too easy to set back into your own culture, especially in other Western countries whose values resemble our own. I am not perfect and I found myself doing these same habitual behaviors from time to time, which is why I want to stress the importance of being brave enough to meet and engage with people who aren't like yourself, that is where you really start to learn.

Sadie Biale

2017 Alum

Sierra Newell

2016 Alum

Kathleen Mcpherson

2015 Alum

Shane Heckman

Mark Brewster

Katrina Escudero

Location

Location:

Barcelona

Currency:

Euro

Weather:

Jan-Mar

61 F / 41 F

Apr-Jun

77 F / 48 F

Jul-Sep

84 F / 57 F

Oct-Dec

72 F / 43 F

Airports:

Barcelona–El Prat

( BCN )

Whether you prefer beaches, buildings, or history, Barcelona is the place to be. Spend your time admiring Gaudi's work at La Sagrada Familia, walking down the Mar Bella beach, or learning about the history in Catalonia.

About CEA CAPA Education Abroad

With 22 destinations across 13 countries, CEA CAPA Education Abroad offers an ideal balance of academics, internships, and adventure to more than 4,000 students each year. Click on “Visit Site” to explore our study and internship opportunities and find out just out how far international education can take you. Why study abroad or complete an...

CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Barcelona, Spain

Program Details

Pricing

About Program

Video and Photos

Diversity & Inclusion 💙

Impact 🌎

Program Highlights

Program Reviews

Volunteer abroad!

Best Experience of My Life!

CEA CAPA -Barcelona

Best time of my life!

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Questions & Answers

Is there a break from classes during the Fall semester?

Alumni Interviews

Sean Glynn

Why did you choose this program?

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

What is one thing you wish more study abroad students did/what is one mistake others often make?

Sadie Biale

Sierra Newell

Kathleen Mcpherson

Shane Heckman

Mark Brewster

Katrina Escudero

Location

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