Semester in Alicante
Unique Experiences
Take a Quick Tram Ride
into the city center to explore
Meet Local Friends
for a typical Alicante tardeo full of tapas and wine while practicing your Spanish
Enjoy All Alicante Has To Offer
including its delicious eateries, amazing museums, and beautiful port
8
Renowned Museums
6.6 M
Tiles Paved Onto the Palm-Tree-Lined Explanada de Espana Promenade
70
Light Rail Tram Stations Around the City
Your Destination
With a historic cultural heritage dating back thousands of years, Alicante is a booming Spanish port city best known for its miles-long beaches, award-winning museums, and beautiful weather year-round. The city’s most iconic landmark, the medieval Castle of Santa Barbara, keeps watch over all of Alicante from its central location atop Mount Benacantil.
Considered one of the safest cities in Europe, Alicante is an excellent place to study. From its large student population to its reliable public transportation network, first-class educational opportunities, green parks, and café culture, this budget-friendly city is the perfect place to live and learn abroad.
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Alicante.
The Culture
Excursions & Activities
- Tour Santa Bárbara Castle and the Archaeological Museum of Alicante
- Visit important cultural and historical landmarks in Granada, Madrid, Seville, or Valencia
- Explore sites like Guadalest Castle, the Canelobre Caves, the Algar Waterfalls, or Altea on the Mediterranean coast
- Go on walking tours of the different neighborhoods of Alicante and its surrounding villages and towns
- Play soccer and watch the local team (Hercules) win
- Try your hand at cooking tapas to partake in Alicante’s traditions with local peers
Projects
INTERNSHIP: A for-credit internship (in English or in Spanish) allows students the opportunity to gain practical work experience in a local company within a variety of industries . In addition to the on-site business experience, students participating in an internship program have a weekly classroom component, which provides academic support for their practical experience.
Program Blogs
Spain Celebrations: Top 5 Holidays in Spain
Let’s talk about Spain, where the sun shines brightly, the tapas are endless, the culture is electric, and the celebrations in Spain are plentiful. Whether you’re snacking on late-night churros... keep reading
Should I Study Abroad in Spain or Italy?
When weighing your study abroad options, it’s easy to get stuck on a few favorite destinations. We get it! After all, we offer a ton of different study abroad programs... keep reading
Is Uber in Spain? Top 5 Travel Apps to Use in Spain
You’re already doing something right if you’re considering a study abroad program in Spain . Now for the fun part: planning your adventures while you’re there. Unfortunately, sorting through the... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Alicante offers diverse housing options to ensure that you are comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to shared apartments or residence halls, we will strive for your accommodation preferences to be met. Additionally, all housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, cafés, and eateries.
Standard Housing: Includes a room at a homestay or a shared apartment.
- In homestays, students live with a Spanish-speaking family, with or without another CIEE student, and immerse themselves in the city’s language and culture. Homestays boast a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family, but each student has an individual room, and three meals a day are provided. Host families are located in the city center, under a 30-minute commute from CIEE Alicante and the University Campus.
- In shared apartments, students share a double room with other CIEE students with access to the kitchen, laundry, and shared common spaces. Apartments are located within 30 minutes of the city center, CIEE Alicante, and the University Campus. Meals are not included.
Select Housing: Includes a single room in a residence hall near CIEE Alicante and the University Campus, and about 30 minutes from the city center. Students living in residence halls have kitchen access, and meals are not included. Residence Halls also boast common areas and laundry facilities. Select housing requires an additional fee.
Select Plus Housing: Includes a single room in a shared apartment with other CIEE students with access to a kitchen, laundry facilities, and shared common spaces. Shared apartments are located in the city center, roughly 30 minutes from CIEE Alicante and the University Campus. Meals are not included. Select Plus housing requires an additional fee.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive.
Meals
Homestays: Three meals per day are provided by your host
Apartments: Meals are not included
Residence Hall: Meals are not included
Academics
Students will have the opportunity to diversify their learning with a full range of course offerings from CIEE Alicante and CIEE’s renowned partner institution, the Universidad de Alicante (UA). At CIEE Alicante, courses will focus on business, language, and culture courses. Students can also dive into UA’s diverse course catalog, from business and economics to architecture and telecommunications.
CIEE courses are supplemented with co-curricular experiential learning experiences. These may include a cooking and/or wine-tasting session to complement gastronomy-based courses, language exchange activities with local students to practice Spanish, a hike to Santa Bárbara Castle to learn about the role of this strategic 9th c. fortress, a visit to the Archaeological Museum (MARQ) to learn about the history of Alicante, guided visits to Alicante’s best art museums (MACA and MUBAG), and more.
Note for students taking Direct Enrollment courses at the University of Alicante: Students are required to stay in Alicante until they have completed their classes. Official host institutions’ fall exams are in January, and official host institutions’ spring exams are in June. However, early exams in December and May may be possible, and they should be confirmed on an individual basis with the professor at the start of the regular semester session, during the add/drop period. Please note that it is up to the discretion of each professor to allow the taking of final exams before the start of the official examination period. If it’s not offered, a proctored exam would be held on the official exam date in January/June. As it is impossible to confirm your exam schedule prior to your arrival, if your priority is to leave Alicante as soon as your university finals are finished, please book an airline ticket with a low change fee or a flexible departure date.
Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.
Course Information
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Literature, Linguistics, and Writing
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Literature, Linguistics, and Writing
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are 4 U.S. credits unless otherwise noted.
UA Centro Superior de Idiomas (CSI) language courses:
- Beginner A1
- Intermediate A2
- Upper Intermediate B1
- Advanced B2
- Proficiency C1
UA Centro Superior de Idiomas (CSI) Spanish culture courses in English:
- Intercultural Communication in Professional contexts (in English)
- Spanish Cultures from an Intercultural Perspective (in English)
UA Centro Superior de Idiomas (CSI) Spanish culture courses in Spanish:
- Género, lengua y poder (in Spanish) (Gender, language, and power). Pre-requisite: Upper Intermediate.
- Español de los negocios (in Spanish) (Spanish for business). Pre-requisite: Intermediate
- La sociedad española del siglo XX a través de la literatura (in Spanish) (The Spanish society of the 20th century through literature). Pre-requisite: Upper Intermediate.
- Turismo y cultura gastronómica española (in Spanish) (Spanish tourism and gastronomy). Pre-requisite: Intermediate.
- Enseñanza del español como L2/LE (in Spanish) (Teaching Spanish as a foreign language). Pre-requisite: Advanced.
UA regular courses in Spanish:
Language pre-requisite: it is recommended that students have a minimum of four (preferably five) previous semesters of college-level Spanish.
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Alicante offers a dynamic work scene that blends traditional and modern sectors. Its thriving tourism industry creates jobs in hospitality, while trade and logistics thrive due to its strategic port. The local culture emphasizes a balanced lifestyle, reflective of the Mediterranean way of life.
Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications
Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.
Business Management and Administration
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.
Health Science
Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.
Hospitality and Tourism
Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Spring 2025 16 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $18,950 |
| Program Fall 2025 16 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $18,950 | |
| Program Fall 2024 16 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $18,950 |
| Program Academic year 2024-2025 37 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $36,950 |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $13,956**
Housing = $4,500***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $18,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $0†
International Airfare = $1,250††
Local Transportation = $150
Books & Supplies = $60
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Total Costs = $2,380Optional Housing
CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.
Select Housing Fee = $750
Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $260 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $13,956**
Housing = $4,500***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $18,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $0†
International Airfare = $1,250††
Local Transportation = $150
Books & Supplies = $60
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Total Costs = $2,380Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $260 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $13,956**
Housing = $4,500***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $18,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $0†
International Airfare = $1,250††
Local Transportation = $150
Books & Supplies = $60
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Total Costs = $2,380Optional Housing
CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.
Select Housing Fee = $750
Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***includes two meals per day for homestay students; No meals included for students who select apartments or residence halls. Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $260 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $27,456**
Housing = $9,000***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $36,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $0†
International Airfare = $1,250††
Local Transportation = $150
Books & Supplies = $60
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Total Costs = $2,380Optional Housing
CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.
Select Housing Fee = $750
Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $260 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Rocío Díez
Center Director
Rocío oversees all semester and summer programs. Rocio, who joined CIEE in 2015, has extensive working experience in the fields of communication and cultural management. She holds a B.A. in...
Vanesa Ruiz
Program Manager
Vanesa was born and raised in Alicante and earned her BA in English Studies from Universidad de Alicante and a MA in Teaching. She has been working in the field...
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
4
Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!
You might also like
- Seville, Spain
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Learn the nuts and bolts of communication.
- ASU Courses
- Host Institution
- Small City
- Madrid, Spain
- Study Program
Spend J-term touring some of the world’s best museums.
- Big City
- Seville, Spain
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend your semester living and learning in the heart of Spain’s Andalusia region, Seville!
- ASU Courses
- Host Institution
- Small City
- Volunteering