This program has a fixed number in Spring 2025 and an early deadline of August 1st. If space is met prior to the application deadline, the application will be closed, and students will be directed to alternative Cornell approved programs.

The Catalan capital of Barcelona overflows with opportunities to practice – or begin – your quest for stronger Spanish language skills. Beyond the classroom, you’ll get to know a city steeped in history and culture, with guided tours to storied museums and towering cathedrals, language exchange sessions with Spanish peers, homestays, and activities. And with overnight and day trips, you’ll get a taste of the country beyond.

What is unique about this program?

Whether you're a beginner throwing yourself into language study for the first time, or an intermediate student taking your proficiency to the next level, there's no better way to immerse yourself in the Spanish language and culture than CIEE's Language and Culture program in Barcelona. You'll get to practice your Spanish skills in and around this cosmopolitan city during your intensive courses, homestays, language exchanges, cultural activities, and exciting excursions.

Study abroad in Barcelona and you'll:

• Begin or continue your Spanish language studies while experiencing the vibrant city of Barcelona
• Explore the dynamic Catalonia region; participate in cultural and educational activities including visits to museums, cathedrals, and the historic district; and enjoy excursions to Girona, Empúries, Andalusia, Madrid, Mallorca, or the Pyrenees

What is unique about Barcelona?

Culture, sport, fashion, finance, media, entertainment – Barcelona is brimming with it all. The largest city on the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is home to 1.6 million in the city proper and 4.5 million in the broader metro area. It is edged with a river on either side and backed by the Serra de Collserola mountains to the west. A walk through the city reveals 2,000 years of history at every turn, including Roman ruins, 19th-century modernista architecture, ultramodern showpieces, and the Gothic buildings of the Old Town.

Castilian Spanish and Catalan are both official languages. Catalan is regularly used in all aspects of life, but not imposed. Taxi drivers, shopkeepers, professors, host families – all speak clear Castilian when Spanish speakers are present. Students don’t need to speak Catalan, but learning a few words can open doors to making friends.

How do I learn about CIEE?

• Browse their College Study Abroad Blog page to learn more about CIEE and study abroad from first-hand experiences
• Share their Parents page with your family, who may have their own questions about your semester abroad experience

Things to Consider Before Applying

• Review the information on the Education Abroad Office’s Get Started page for important considerations on academics and finances, and a guide to next steps
• Find answers on the Education Abroad FAQ and resource pages for Cornell study abroad policy, health, and safety updates
• Still have questions?  Visit the Get Advice page and learn how to connect with an Education Abroad Advisors
• Want to keep up to date with Cornellians Abroad? Follow Education Abroad on social media, @cornelliansabroad, @CornellEducationAbroad

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. You may complete both steps simultaneously, but the Cornell approval process must be complete before your program advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit any approval or nomination to the program.

1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page.
2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. (Note: This deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval. Many programs fill by rolling admission.