Study Abroad in Alcalá de Henares
College Study Abroad
Explore Alcalá de Henares, Spain
When you study abroad in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, you'll discover a charming town filled with historic architecture, vibrant culture, and a welcoming atmosphere. Experience Spain's rich traditions through delicious tapas, lively social scenes, and picturesque green spaces that offer a serene escape from city life. Immerse yourself in the local community and improve your Spanish language skills while creating lasting memories in this hidden gem just outside of Madrid. It's undeniable that studying abroad in Alcalá de Henares on a CIEE program creates an authentic and enriching experience that embraces personal growth and cultural immersion.
While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in Alcalá de Henares, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, arts, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Top Activities in Alcalá de Henares
Every CIEE Alcalá de Henares study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Alcalá de Henares, past excursions have included:
- Step into history with exclusive visits to world-renowned museums and cultural landmarks, including the breathtaking UNESCO-listed city center
- Explore beyond the city on a captivating day trip to the opulent Golden Age Palace and the majestic Monastery of El Escorial
- Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a scenic group hike through the stunning Guadarrama Mountains, followed by a relaxing picnic in nature’s embrace
Where You'll Study in Alcalá de Henares
Universidad de Alcalá (UAH)
At the Instituto Benjamin Franklin, students study at the institute’s beautiful and modern home. Founded in 1499, the University of Alcalá hosts about 29,000 students in the city center where they study in renovated 16th and 17th century buildings.
Study Abroad Programs in Alcalá de Henares
- Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Study Program
With small classes, a local family host, and plenty of peer interaction, your already strong Spanish skills will further progress as the weeks fly by.
Currency
Euro
Spoken Languages in Alcala de Henares
Spanish
Available Transportation
Bus, train, taxi
Famous Local
Daniel Diges – famous Spanish singer, pianist, composer, and actor
Climate
Warm, dry summers with an average temperature of 84°F; cold winters with an average temperature of 59°F
Places to Explore
Cervantes Birthplace Museum – famous family home of Miguel de Cervantes, writer of novel Don Quixote
Airport
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD)
Social Norms
With Spain’s large coffee culture, it’s not uncommon to drink multiple cups of coffee throughout the day
What to Pack
Backpack, comfortable shoes, sunscreen
Frequently Asked Questions
Known for its medieval architecture, historical significance, and charm, Alcalá de Henares is a good place to study abroad for students looking to explore a smaller city outside of Madrid. Alcalá de Henares offers students an excellent opportunity to practice their Spanish and gain experience living abroad in Spain.
Alcalá de Henares is known to be a safe city with a very low level of crime. As with any study abroad destination, we recommend that students keep their belongings secure, stay aware of their surroundings, and travel in groups when possible.
Alcalá de Henares is considered a suburb of Madrid and is known for having a quieter, more student-centered atmosphere full of historic buildings. Just a short bus ride away, Madrid, the one of the biggest cities in continental Europe, is known for its famous European art museums, exciting sports events, and political and cultural significance. Alcalá de Henares may be a better fit for students looking for a small-town feel in a historic city, while Madrid may be the better option for students looking for a more urban, lively lifestyle.
In order to ensure our students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered while studying abroad, CIEE staff completes comprehensive diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) training. Staff provide students with advice, resources, and ongoing support both before and during their study abroad program in Alcalá de Henares.
For more detailed information on diversity in Alcalá de Henares, visit our Diversity in Alcalá de Henares page.
The cost of studying abroad in Alcala de Hernares varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Alcala de Hernares study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Alcalá de Henares. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Alcalá de Henares to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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Talk To A Student Who's Lived It...
Reach out to one of our Student Ambassadors to learn what CIEE Study Abroad is really like from alums who've lived it! Address any questions you may have about Alcalá de Henares, from your academic interests and travel planning to housing and cultural differences.
