Location
  • Spain
    • Barcelona
Term
Fall, J-Term, Spring, Summer
Subject Areas
Accounting Anthropology Architecture Arts Biology Business Communications Computer Science Cultural Studies Economics Entrepreneurship European Studies Film Finance Geography Global Studies Health Sciences History Hospitality Humanities Information Technology International Business Journalism Liberal Arts Literature Marketing Mathematics Philosophy Political Science Psychology Public Health Religious Studies Service Learning Sociology Tourism +25
Need-based funding, Merit-based funding, General grants/scholarships

Program Details

Program Type
Provider
Degree Level
Bachelors
Housing
Apartment Dormitory Host Family
Language
English

Pricing

Price Details
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE! There are no hidden charges or surprises when you arrive, and scholarships opportunities are available!
What's Included
Accommodation Some Activities Classes Some Meals Travel Insurance
What's Included (Extra)

Pre-departure advising, airport pick-up, on-site professional staff, and iNext travel protection

Jul 14, 2022
Dec 11, 2023
30 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Barcelona’s art, architecture, and gastronomic reputation alone are enough to command global attention. Add its political, economic, and cultural influence to its respected higher education system and you get an irresistible destination for students from around the world.

CIEE Spain gives you access to homestays; internships; volunteering opportunities; direct enrollment options; and cultural clubs, activities, and excursions that provide a uniquely immersive international experience. Come write your story of Spain with us.

Courses are available in English and Spanish.

Video and Photos

Program Highlights

  • CIEE Barcelona is located in downtown Barcelona, near the city’s main square. Both ESCI and UVic are just 20 minutes from CIEE.
  • Every CIEE semester program has cultural excursions and study tours uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion.
  • Depending on their program of study and availability, students may be able to volunteer or participate in an internship.
  • Students can volunteer to help children with homework after school, help kids with special needs during school breaks, or take part in food-drives to help feed people in need.

Popular Programs

Main entrance to Gaudi's Parc Guell

Spend your summer learning how to succeed in a globalized economy, discovering a new culture, and gaining crucial global perspectives – all while studying business in Barcelona. This program offers challenging coursework, engaging company visits, welcoming homestays, and interesting co-curricular activities designed to offer insight into international business.

CIEE Barcelona

Improve your Spanish language skills and boost your cultural knowledge while studying international business in the capital of Catalonia. Choose from courses in English at CIEE Barcelona and CIEE’s partner schools, Escola Superior de Comerç Internacional (ESCI) or Universitat de Vic (UVic), while immersing yourself in Barcelona’s culture, history, and community.

Excusion to Montserrat

Perfectly situated between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is the ideal city to spend your January term boosting your knowledge of international business or art history. Gain exposure to and develop a deeper understanding of the city’s booming business industry or learn about Catalan and Spanish culture through Spanish masterpieces.

CIEE Barcelona Internship Programs

As a global intern, you’ll have the chance to gain practical, real-world work experience in Barcelona’s startups and other businesses in areas like finance, technology, biomedical sciences, tourism, and more.

CIEE First Year Abroad in Barcelona

As the capitol of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona is a beautiful beach city on the Mediterranean coast with vibrant street life, stunning architecture by Gaudí, and endless cultural activities. Dive into the lively atmosphere of this Spanish city, where tapas, cultural festivals, and the iconic Sagrada Familia create an unforgettable backdrop for your international adventure.

Scholarships

CIEE

CIEE Scholarships and Grants

CIEE’s need-based grants offer support to students who face financial barriers to studying abroad. CIEE awards need-based grants based on students’ EFCs and program selection. The Gilman Go Global Grant offers students $750-$2,000 toward airfare, plus $2,500 toward semester program costs, or $1,000 toward summer program costs.

Value
$500 - $2,500

Program Reviews

4.87 Rating
based on 77 reviews
  • 5 rating 87.01%
  • 4 rating 12.99%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Academics 4.4
  • Support 4.8
  • Fun 4.8
  • Housing 4.7
  • Safety 4.8
Showing 1 - 8 of 77 reviews
Default avatar
Michael
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

studying abroad

Studying abroad in Barcelona was an amazing experience. Living amidst the vibrancy of the city allowed me to immerse myself in a culture distinct from my own. Barcelona's unique blend of history and contemporary energy provided a perfect backdrop for academic and personal growth. Exploring iconic landmarks like Sagrada Família and Park Güell became a routine, weaving lessons beyond textbooks.

The city's rhythm, from flamenco sounds to lively plazas, added a dynamic element to daily life. The warmth of the locals and the sensory delights of markets like La Boqueria enriched my cultural understanding. Barcelona's strategic location in Europe also facilitated weekend travels to neighboring countries, complementing my formal education.

The Mediterranean climate enhanced the experience, creating opportunities for outdoor activities and moments of relaxation on picturesque beaches. Barcelona, with its charm and welcoming community, taught me valuable lessons about life, culture, and the beauty of exploration. In conclusion, my time in Barcelona was a holistic journey that went beyond academics, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and mind.

What was your funniest moment?
Living with my friends allowed me to share a good laugh or two every day
Pros
  • Easy to travel city
  • Great metro
  • Vibrant city
Cons
  • Lots of tourists
  • Expensive(if you eat like an American rather than a local)
18 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Alexa
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CIEE Architecture Program Review

My program was a great experience and I learned so many new things, I felt that it was academically challenging and intellectually stimulating and overall a great experience. CIEE demonstrated a genuine commitment to addressing students' needs, creating an environment that stood out in my academic journey. The meticulous planning, coupled with the responsive support system, elevated my study abroad experience to unparalleled heights. I am so grateful that I chose CIEE for my study-abroad experience!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would have loved to travel more but planning ahead!
Pros
  • Travel accessibility
  • Affordability
  • Nightlife
Cons
  • Safety
  • Teacher
  • Commute
17 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Bailey
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Studying abroad has changed my life in such a positive direction

Studying abroad in Barcelona not only fulfilled a life long dream of mine, but I will cherish every moment the program and this entire experience has granted to me. I enjoyed meeting other students, going on excursions, and fulfilling some monuments on my bucket list. This was such an amazing trip and I hope to be back soon! I would definitely recommend to apply through CIEE. The CIEE team in Barcelona was so helpful to me during my time abroad. They were quick to respond to any concerns I had, offered us reviews on local places, and strived to make our time here the best experience.

Pros
  • Diversity of food
  • Convenient public transportation
  • Many events, monuments, and historical sites to experience. You will always find something to do!
Cons
  • Busy tourist spots
  • Very hot in July! Pack light clothes
  • Pickpocketing
43 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Jennifer
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Business and Culture Study Abroad

CIEE is the best program to do a study abroad with! Not only do they offer a great, affordable price, but they include so much with it. You get free tours, housing, the staff is friendly and very informative as well. I had the time of my life meeting people and making forever friends. The classes are extremely informative and I felt that I came out of the program with new knowledge that I will be able to put forward in my work experience. I had so many opportunities to improve my Spanish while studying in Barcelona. I feel that it has improved significantly and I feel that I have a better grasp of the Spanish culture. If you are on the verge of deciding what program to choose, don't hesitate in choosing CIEE!

Pros
  • Friends
  • Culture
  • City
Cons
  • Distance from apartment to CIEE center
  • Have to pay for food
  • 3 hour class
45 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Nayeli
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Barcelona, Spain - Language and Culture Program

My experience in Barcelona, Spain has been an amazing opportunity to immerse myself fully in a new culture, people, and language. My day-to-day consists of attending my course at CIEE, participating in class, completing assignments, and exploring the city of Barcelona. Barcelona's scenery is quite unique one day we explore the beaches, various museums, local Spanish restaurants, and nearby cities. I think everyone should have the ability to study abroad, as from my experience I can say it has helped me become more independent and culturally aware. As well as gaining a world perspective, building friendships, and new knowledge in this study abroad program as a first-generation college student.

Pros
  • Friendships
  • Exploring the cities & independence
  • Spanish culture
Cons
  • Housing were a bit further outside from the main city.
49 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Claire
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The time of my life!

This program was the best decision I have ever made! I met some of the best people, in one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The CIEE staff was supportive and gave you all the resources you may need, without being overbearing. They let you know the risks while also giving you freedom to explore the city. Academics were amazing as well. My professor was truly so knowledgable and made the experience so interesting, I came home feeling like I had really learned something. The actual school was super cute and cozy, it felt like a second home. As for the city itself, there are so many great things about Barcelona. Even in a short month I felt like my Spanish increased greatly, the people were generally kind, and I was never bored. Housing was relatively comfortable and in a fantastic location. I would do this program all over again... I'm highly considering it!

Pros
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Lots of Activities
  • Beautiful landscapes
Cons
  • Exspensive
  • Pick-pocketing
  • Can be overwhelming
51 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Faith
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing opportunity!

My experience was amazing. This program was so enjoyable! There is lots to do in Barcelona and the program material taught me so much about the culture here. I recommend a homestay as you get a more authentic experience and get to try local homecooked meals. I got to practice my Spanish language skills a lot and feel like I am leaving with a big improvement. Not only that, you'll make friends with other students who are here from all over the nation. So cool. I strongly recommend this program!!!

Pros
  • Experience rich culture
  • Eat authentic Spanish food
  • Visit World Heritage sites
Cons
  • Can get hot in the summer, but not too bad
  • Some places do not have AC
45 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Neva
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CIEE Barcelona Summer Session I

This was the best experience of my life! I’ve never traveled before, so this was an amazing first step for me to take. I met so many cool people from all over the country, grew in my independence and self confidence, improved my Spanish skills, and saw some of the most beautiful sights in the world! I’ll never forget this experience and I’m so grateful I was lucky enough to experience this. My class was a great way to learn about and see Barcelona in depth! I really feel so at home and familiar with this city and I will forever wish I could remain here forever!

Pros
  • Learned a lot
  • Saw a lot of sights
  • Amazing food
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Challenging to be on your own
  • Overwhelming at times
53 people found this review helpful.

Questions & Answers