Top 7 Spanish Immersion Programs with CIEE Study Abroad

Let’s be real: There’s no better way to learn Spanish than actually living it. Forget the textbook exercises and Duolingo streaks – envision yourself chatting with locals about fútbol (not soccer), bargaining at a lively market, or dancing to reggaetón in a club where nobody’s speaking English. 

CIEE Study Abroad offers a handful of Spanish immersion programs that will have you rolling your R’s like a pro in no time! Keep reading to explore our top seven Spanish immersion programs that will have you speaking and living the language. 

Read More: The 6 Best Places to Learn Spanish Abroad 

Where Can I Take Spanish Immersion Classes Abroad? 

When it comes to Spanish immersion, CIEE has you covered with programs in six fantastic countries! Whether you're drawn to the energetic streets of Spain, the biodiverse environment of Costa Rica, the rich history of Mexico, or the vigorous cultures of Chile, Argentina, and the Dominican Republic, there's a perfect destination waiting for you. No matter which destination you choose, you'll have the chance to sharpen your Spanish skills while soaking up the local traditions, culture, and cuisine! 

Spain 

Spain is the ultimate destination for Spanish immersion, offering a perfect mix of culture, history, and fun. With six incredible cities to choose from – Madrid, Seville, Barcelona, Alcalá de Henares, Palma de Mallorca, and Alicante – you can study Spanish while experiencing everything from the energy of the bustling capital to the laid-back beach vibes of the Mediterranean coast. Whether you're exploring Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona or enjoying tapas in Seville, Spain is the perfect place to live and breathe the Spanish language!  

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Spain

Costa Rica 

Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers and Spanish learners alike. In the lush, cloud forest town of Monteverde, you’ll immerse yourself in Spanish while surrounded by some of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. With its stunning wildlife, laid-back culture, and eco-friendly vibes, Costa Rica is an ideal country to practice your language skills, all while hiking through misty forests and learning about conservation efforts. 

Read More: 8 Best Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

Mexico

With its colonial architecture, Mayan ruins, and lively festivals, you’ll experience the true essence of Mexican culture in Yucatán while sharpening your Spanish skills. Merida, the colorful capital of the Yucatán Peninsula, offers an immersive environment where you’ll not only learn the language but also live it. From exploring ancient pyramids to enjoying the city's busy markets, there’s always something new to discover while practicing Spanish with locals. 

Read More: Top 6 Mexico Study Abroad Programs

Chile 

Surrounded by the stunning Andes, Santiago blends modernity with rich history, offering you a wonderful setting to improve your Spanish. As you navigate the city’s spirited streets, interact with locals, and indulge in traditional Chilean cuisine, you’ll have countless opportunities to practice and refine your language skills! 

Read More: 6 Best Study Abroad Programs in Chile

Argentina 

Buenos Aires, often called the “Paris of South America,” is a paradise for Spanish learners seeking to immerse themselves in the language while diving deep into Argentine culture. With its vibrant neighborhoods, passionate tango rhythms, and iconic cafés, this city is a living classroom for anyone eager to practice Spanish in an authentic setting. 

Read More: Spain vs. Argentina: Which is Better for Study Abroad?

Dominican Republic 

Immerse yourself in the rhythm of Dominican life in Santiago de los Caballeros – from street vendors chatting in fast-paced Spanish to hanging out with locals at the crowded plazas. You'll get a unique mix of culture, language, and unforgettable experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. 

Read More: 4 Best Dominican Republic Study Abroad Programs

Top 7 Spanish Immersion Programs Abroad 

Let’s jump right into the top seven Spanish immersion programs offered in our incredible cities! 

Spanish Immersion Program #1: Advanced Liberal Arts in Barcelona 

Perfect for students from all majors, this 16-week program drops you right into the heart of Spain’s education system, giving you the chance to practice your Spanish with local university students. You’ll take courses at CIEE’s partner school, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), and have the flexibility to choose electives through CIEE Barcelona to complete your academic experience! Beyond the classroom, you’ll dive into Barcelona’s culture through exciting co-curricular activities and excursions, offering you a chance to experience the city’s rich history and hidden gems firsthand. 

Spanish Immersion Program #2: Communications, New Media + Journalism Spanish in Seville 

Develop your video or magazine reporting skills while taking your Spanish language skills to the next level in Seville! This 14-week program offers you a range of possibilities while using the Spanish language as the main vehicle. Get ready to dive into a mix of exciting CIEE and host university courses from the University of Seville, Pablo de Olavide University, and EUSA School of Communications! Throughout your program, you’ll sharpen your tech and creative skills while working on real-world communication projects that’ll set you up for success in the industry. 

Read More: Advantages of Studying a Foreign Language Abroad  

Spanish Immersion Program #3: Liberal Arts in Santiago 

This 19-week program is your chance to refine your language skills while gaining a deeper understanding of Chilean history and culture in Santiago. Chile’s dynamic capital is the perfect spot to study, where you’ll learn alongside local Chilean students at CIEE’s partner schools – Universidad de Chile, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (PUC), and Universidad Diego Portales – setting you up for an unforgettable cultural and academic experience! 

Spanish Immersion Program #4: Summer Tropical Ecology + Conservation in Monteverde 

Designed for students passionate about environmental and natural sciences, this eight-week summer program offers a unique opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience. Dive into the rich biodiversity of the tropics while learning about the ecological processes that shape these environments – and how human activity impacts them. Throughout your time abroad, you’ll also have the chance to enhance your Spanish language skills, engaging in authentic conversations with locals to become truly proficient. 

Spanish Immersion Program #5: Semester in Santiago de los Caballeros 

Spend 16 weeks of your semester in Santiago de los Caballeros, where stunning beaches, rich history, and lively music create the perfect setting for cultural and academic adventure. While abroad, you’ll take courses in English at the renowned Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM) and at CIEE Santiago. For language learners, optional immersive Spanish classes are available, while advanced speakers can challenge themselves with higher-level Spanish classes at local institutions! 

Spanish Immersion Program #6: Summer in Yucatán 

Explore Yucatán where history, an infectious culture, and Spanish language immersion await. This four-week program offers a perfect blend of academic courses and cultural adventures, allowing you to visit ancient Mayan ruins like Chichén Itzá, discover natural wonders such as cenotes, and enjoy local traditions through cooking classes and dance performances. You'll also have the chance to enhance your Spanish skills, engaging with locals and experiencing daily life while staying with a host family in one of Latin America's safest cities. 

Spanish Immersion Program #7: Open Campus Block in Buenos Aires 

With CIEE's Open Campus Block Program, you can personalize your term by choosing one, two, or three consecutive six-week blocks, selecting courses across various subjects. Immerse yourself in the energy of the city, study at our center located in the heart of Buenos Aires, and enhance your Spanish language skills while exploring the city’s parks, cafes, restaurants, and local life. 

Study Spanish Abroad 

CIEE’s Spanish immersion programs open the door to indelible moments, lifelong friendships, and a deeper connection to the language and culture – it’s your time to make it happen! 

EXPLORE SPANISH PROGRAMS