Your Guide to the Ultimate Barcelona Study Abroad Experience

• “You get to learn from local faculty at some of the most important Spanish universities.” True story. CIEE partner schools include Universitat de Barcelona, ESCI-UPF School of International Studies, Universitat de Vic – Central University of Catalonia, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia. A pretty amazing list, if we do say so ourselves. 
   
• “Your academic experience is immersive, no matter the program you pick.” Also, spot on. Depending on your program, you can expect direct enrollment courses or CIEE courses taught by local faculty. Or, if you go the internship route, you get hands-on experience at a local company. In short, no matter your program, you dive right in alongside locals. 
   
• “You get to experience the real Barcelona.” Studying abroad is very different from taking a vacation. The latter gives you a bird’s-eye view of what Barcelona is like. But living and learning here, well, you’re immersed in it. And our students frequently connect with local students from our partner institutions to discover the city’s hidden gems only a local would know to visit. 
   
• “You will learn so much more than academics.” All CIEE courses include out-of-classroom experiences to enhance classroom learning. Think guided tours of the Picasso Museum, day trips to the Dali Theatre Museum in Figueres, hikes in the Collserola Natural Park, visits to Roman ruins, and more.  
   
• “Your Spanish language skills will get significantly better.” Studying abroad in Barcelona gives you endless opportunities to improve your Spanish. And this is true for Spanish speakers of any skill level. We promise you that. 

How to Study Abroad in Barcelona 

Now that your heart is set on studying abroad in Barcelona, it’s time to get your brain on board so you can make it happen. And really, the process is easier than you may think.

Follow our six-step process to get started: 

1. Find your why. Is your focus on improving your Spanish-language skills? Are you an architecture student eager to play in Barcelona’s FabLab? Or do you really want to take on an international internship? Establish your core goal first. 
    
2. Determine your availability. You may have a lot of flexibility in your schedule, or maybe you don’t. No worries – we offer programs that are as short as 20 days, as long as 18 weeks, and a lot of others in between. 
    
3. Choose a program that fits. Check out our many Barcelona programs and find the one that best fits your goals and timeframe. 
    
4. Make sure you’re eligible. Different programs have different requirements, such as GPA, language skills, etc. Match your skills to the program. 
    
5. Budget for it. Our fees go a long way and typically cover tuition, tours, excursions, orientation, on-site support, airport meet-and-greet, and more. We also offer millions of dollars in scholarships and grants each year based on financial need and merit. Your college’s study abroad advisor may also know of other avenues of financial support. Be sure to check with them. 
    
6. Book it! Need we say more? 

Read More: The 8 Best Study Abroad Programs in Barcelona 

Barcelona Study Abroad Packing List  

We’d be remiss not to offer you advice on packing. Bring the right stuff and you’ll enjoy Barcelona that much more.  

• Winter gear: Coastal Barcelona can get quite chilly and cloudy in wintertime, especially in the evenings and early mornings. You’ll want warm layers such as sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, thermals, a coat or jacket, as well as a scarf, gloves, and a hat. 
   
• Spring gear: Spring in Barcelona is generally mild but can get warm during the day, so pack light layers such as t-shirts, shorts, and dresses. 
   
• Summer gear: Lightweight clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, and dresses are perfect for Barcelona’s hot summer days. Pack breathable, light-colored clothes suitable for the heat. And don’t forget your swimsuit and beach towel. 
   
• Fall gear: The weather in fall can vary quite a bit, so it's important to have layers. Pack items like a light jacket, sweater, long-sleeve shirts, and pants. 
   
• All-season gear: No matter the season, you’ll want comfortable walking shoes, as well as sunglasses, sunscreen, a rain jacket, and an umbrella.
   
• Absolutely do-not-forget gear: This includes your passport (plus a photocopy just in case), visa, a second form of valid ID (e.g., driver’s license or government-issued ID), proof of health insurance, euros or cash to exchange into euros, a credit card accepted in Spain, any prescription medications you take, and prescription eyewear. We recommend packing these in your carry-on, and checking twice.