madrid kio towers busy traffic
Madrid, Spain

Summer Global Internship

New for Summer 2025!

Full-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

8 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 semester hours

9 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Madrid is not just Spain’s capital city, but also doubles as a bustling center for businesses and nonprofits alike. This booming entrepreneurial hub houses several startup labs that develop their main activity in sustainability, software technologies, and the service industries. Countless organizations are also dedicated to social causes, the arts, and quality of life for residents across demographics. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding international internship, look no further than our Summer Global Internship program in Madrid!

As a global intern, you’ll spend eight weeks of your summer gaining practical, real-world work experience in Madrid, either through a placement in the nonprofit sector or in startups and related business areas such as the arts, tourism, and more. During your placement, you can expect to gain soft skills like communication, problem-solving, time management, conflict resolution, creative thinking, and teamwork. Similarly, you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture, getting an inside look at how the organization you’re working for operates, as well as its place in the sector. In addition to gaining relevant work experience, you’ll discover for yourself why Madrid and its lively culture, entrepreneurism, and pulse for social networking together make this capital city an ideal place to intern abroad.

When you apply to become a CIEE intern, our staff will work directly with you to match you with an internship opportunity that suits your unique needs and professional goals. While internships are competitive, CIEE will help you navigate the internship interview process to set you up for success. Our staff will offer constructive resume revisions and provide you with the tools to succeed in your interview to ensure you are placed with the right opportunity. Learn more about our personal placement process

Unique Experiences

\

Experience the breathtaking works of art

at the Prado, the most visited art museum in Spain

Treat yourself to an organized bike tour

to explore the changing urban landscape of Madrid

Try kayaking and hiking

while learning about Spain's approach to environmental preservation

3.3 M

INHABITANTS AND 21 DISTRICTS FULL OF PARKS, ICONIC BUILDINGS, AND GASTRONOMY TO DISCOVER

5

SITES INCLUDED IN THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LIST

13

METRO LINES TO NAVIGATE THE CITY!

Experience
  • madrid sun gate
  • madrid students castill de consugra

Your Destination

Madrid's influence in politics, education, science, entertainment, media, fashion, and art makes it an important international metropolis and a primary hub in southern Europe. Spain's capital city is full of exciting events, including the annual Pride celebration, World Tapas Day, art festivals like PhotoEspaña exhibit, and offers access to world-renowned art museums, soccer matches, and more. Only steps away from the historic Puerta del Sol, CIEE Madrid is in the heart of Madrid's downtown area, and all the city's vibrant culture has to offer.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while interning abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Madrid. 

The Culture

madrid students at el escorial

Excursions & Activities

  • Visit the world heritage site of El Escorial – the largest Renaissance palace and monastery in the world – built under the “Golden Age” reign of King Philip II of Spain in the 1500s; located in the northern mountains, El Escorial gives visitors a view of daily life in the royal court and its impressive architecture, where decisions were made at the height of the Spanish Empire (students also have an opportunity to explore the neighboring 18th-century village of San Lorenzo)
  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the medieval city of Alcalá de Henares, or hike the trails in the Guadarrama Mountains, on a CIEE-organized day trip  
  • Discover the flavors of Spain while trying out some typical tapas, such as croquetas, Spanish egg tortilla, and spicy potatoes  
  • Soak up Spanish culture with museum visits or popular neighborhood visits to Lavapiés, Malasaña, or La Latina  
  • Savor downtime with other students while you play basketball, frisbee, hike, swim, or catch a theater, dance, or music performance in some of the local parks, such as El Retiro 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Getting out of My Comfort Zone in Madrid

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Ava Maloney "If it’s out of your comfort zone, then it’s probably good for you.” That was the text that I had received from my friend after I had... keep reading

From CIEE

Exploring Cuenca: My Overnight Trip with CIEE

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Chloe Nutor During my study abroad in Spain with CIEE, I got to go on an overnight trip to Cuenca, a small but beautiful town about two hours from... keep reading

From CIEE

Budgeting (and enjoying!) your study abroad experience

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Anneliese Crayton Hi! My name is Lisee, and I am currently studying abroad in Madrid. I saw the opportunity to study in Spain as a great way to explore... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

As a global intern in Madrid, you’ll work in a non-paying position within a wide range of opportunities across a diverse set of innovative industries. Extracurricular cultural activities in and around Madrid complement your coursework and immerse you in the history and culture of the city.  

This eight-week program includes a full-time internship placement that includes in person hours from Monday to Friday and an integrated academic course. 

GPA

2.5 

Additional Requirements

Additional visa restrictions may apply and CIEE will advise students as part of the early application process. 

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Participation in the integrated academic course and internship is mandatory for all participants. 

Program Credit

Total credit: 6 U.S. semester/9 quarter credits   

Course Credit

Internship: 6 U.S. semester/9 quarter credits; 15 integrated academic course hours, 225-300 internship placement hours   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

Students are expected to dress and behave professionally throughout their internship project and are subject to the agreed-upon internship protocols arranged by CIEE and the host organizations. The academic course is designed to prepare students for leadership in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse workforce. Internship placements in Madrid are competitive and follow a Monday-to-Friday schedule. Free time is on weekends albeit keep in mind that some internship placements offer unique events outside of work hours that you may want to participate in. 

Class Format

Students participate in an eight-week CIEE full-time internship and academic course taught in an online learning environment. Class and/or work hours may be scheduled Monday-Friday, and attendance is strictly enforced for all. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel away from the city during the work week. Students are expected to be available for internship placements from Monday to Friday. 

Grading

Students will be assessed via assignments and activities related to the academic course, including but not limited to online discussion forums, reflective papers, individual or group presentations, analysis of readings, an internship work plan, and feedback from internship supervisor. Internship supervisors and students each provide written evaluations of progress towards goals.   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Summer Session I 2025

Course
Language
Semester Credit

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.

Internships

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

Madrid's work scene spans sustainability, NGOs, tourism, and education. Growing coworking spaces cater to freelancers and remote workers. While Spanish dominates, some companies operate in English. The city blends traditional Spanish culture with modern business practices, balancing professionalism and a relaxed vibe. 

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A student intern sitting at a microscope in a lab

Health Science

Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

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

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
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE STEM Scholarship
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

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 Summer 2025 8 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $7,950

*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 = $4,860*

Housing = $2,590**

Insurance = $200

Total Fees = $7,950

Estimated 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 = $520

International Airfare = $1,200††

Local Transportation = $75

Books & Supplies = $30

Visa Fees = $0

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $0

Personal expenses = $180†††

Other = $30

Total Costs = $2,035

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.

See Scholarships

*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 groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††Round trip based on 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

Staff

Our Staff

Eero Jesurun

Center Director

Eero Jesurun, Ph.D. completed his B.S. and M.A degrees from Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service. Eero studied at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid where he obtained a Ph.D...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Utilize the Internship Search Tool

Search our catalog of internship opportunities to view the placements that align best with your academic and professional goals.

2

Start a Program Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

3

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

4

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Email us if you have questions or need help applying to this program. Upon your acceptance, you'll speak with on-site CIEE staff about your internship goals. CIEE will reach out to companies that align with your goals, interests, and qualifications.

Request Info