7 Tips for Learning Spanish While on a Gap Year Abroad

The Spanish immersion participant experience while on a CIEE Gap Year Abroad is the absolute best way to learn the language. While abroad, you'll hear, read and speak Spanish everywhere you go. That constant exposure can help you advance your Spanish further than any single class could.  

But simply immersing yourself in the language isn't enough! While on your Spanish Language & Culture program, participants serious about bettering their Spanish should put forth extra effort to reap the full benefits of the language immersion experience.  

This guide shares helpful tips for learning Spanish on a gap year abroad that'll help accelerate your abilities!  

1. Don’t Be Afraid of Making Mistakes  

When learning a new language, one of the biggest barriers can be ourselves. It's not easy putting yourself out there, mistakes and all! But having the confidence to write and speak with native speakers, even as you're learning, will only help you in the long run. You may be surprised to find that most people will appreciate the effort and even offer a helping hand when you do make a mistake.  

This is also important while you attend your CIEE language classes: Don't be afraid to raise your voice and participate in front of your classmates and local instructors. Your instructors are there to offer their support and help you overcome your fears of making mistakes when using the language.   

2. Say Yes to Spending Time with Your Host Family 

CIEE's Gap Year Abroad language immersion programs recognize the invaluable resource of staying with a local host family. They're your home base, local support system and cultural experts when it comes to navigating your new life in your host country!  

So, when your host family members speak Spanish with you, offer to take you to community events, and share language and cultural tips, don't shy away from it. Your host family is crucial to your Spanish and cultural immersion experience, and you don't want to waste this rare opportunity! Plus, going on outings with your host family is an excellent chance to practice speaking Spanish in public. 

Watch this video about the CIEE Gap Year Abroad experience in Spain: 

3. Make a “No-English Pact” with Yourself  

One of the best tips for learning Spanish, yet also the most challenging, is to avoid using English altogether. If you can vow to speak only in Spanish, even when a word escapes you, you'll improve leaps and bounds in your speaking ability.  

It's through practice and overcoming mistakes that you'll grow and flourish. So when you're abroad and running errands at the post office, grocery shopping, visiting the doctor's office or shopping mall, challenge yourself to speak Spanish over English.  

4. Consume Content in Spanish 

An easy and fun way to learn Spanish is by watching or listening to Spanish content! You probably already spend part of your free time watching YouTube, TV shows and videos on social media, so why not do it in Spanish and learn the language in the process? Listening to podcasts and music in Spanish is another great way to pick up the local language.  

5. Make Friends with Locals 

Learning a language can be easier when you have a friend to help you. Having someone you're comfortable with not only makes it fun to practice having conversations in Spanish, but they're also an excellent resource for any questions you may have. Plus, the friends you make abroad will last you a lifetime and can offer an inside look at Spanish culture and language.  

6. Take Spanish Notes Throughout Your Day 

Your time spent abroad is one big lesson, and you should treat it like so! Everywhere you go and every activity you do, you'll be surrounded by Spanish speakers. A great way to improve your Spanish is to act like your daily life is a study sesh.  

Whenever you hear new words and phrases or have questions on how to say certain things or the meaning of what you hear, jot it down. These notes can help you advance closer to speaking like a local.  

7. Go on Local Adventures and Take Part in Cultural Activities  

Another opportunity to learn Spanish abroad can be found in the local adventures around your new home. During your Gap Year in Spain, you'll have the chance to do things like see the traditional art of Flamenco dance, get a history lesson at ancient palaces and venture to historic towns and UNESCO World Heritage sites. You'll gain a deeper understanding of Spanish culture and have the chance to practice speaking with locals. 

Go on a Gap Year Abroad Program and Watch Your Spanish Abilities Soar 

Participating in a CIEE Gap Year Abroad program after high school graduation is a fun way to grow as a person while improving your Spanish abilities. You’ll also get to see a new corner of the world as you set yourself up for future success!  

Learn more about CIEE’s Gap Year Abroad in Spain.