Spanish Language & Culture
Your gap year in Seville offers the perfect balance of structure and independence, giving you the freedom to explore Spain and yourself before college.
Imagine your life as a sevillano, practicing your Spanish in the warm capital of Andalusia. Bask in the stunning scenery where Moorish palaces, Gothic cathedrals, and the fiery rhythms of flamenco set the stage for your adventure. Devote your days to exploring your passion for the Spanish language and culture, dreaming about the possibilities for your future, and forming meaningful connections with worldly friends.
During the week, take 15–20 hours of Spanish classes with native instructors and enthusiastic peers. Afternoons and weekends are yours to uncover the wonders of Andalusia. Marvel at the intricate beauty of the Alcázar, stand in awe before the grandeur of the Seville Cathedral, and enjoy the lively ambiance of Plaza de España.
Every day, your welcoming host family will invite you into their home to share delicious meals, everyday traditions, and the vibrant customs of Spanish life.
Why Choose This Program?
Live the Language
Take 15-20 hours per week of Spanish language classes designed to improve real world skills. A final proficiency test (STAMP) will showcase your rapid language growth.
Strike a Balance
Benefit from CIEE's global support and cultural expertise, while exploring the world at your own pace.
Develop Skills
Build a strong foundation in the core components of intercultural learning. Come home with a better understanding of the world and skills for a globalized workforce.
96%
of alumni said their language skills improved
94%
said they learned to interact with different cultural backgrounds
89%
said their level of independence increased
The Destination
Seville’s rich history is reflected in its breathtaking architecture, with exquisitely preserved Gothic and Moorish landmarks set against the conveniences of modern life. From the top of the Giralda Tower, you can see it all: the winding Guadalquivir River, the intricate courtyards of the 700-year-old Alcázar palace, the soaring spires of the Seville Cathedral below, and a sea of terracotta rooftops stretching into the horizon. A famously walkable city, Seville also boasts a warm, dry climate, making it perfect for year-round exploration.
The cultural life in Seville is just as captivating. Tapas bars buzz with life, offering small plates of Andalusian delights like jamón ibérico and gambas al ajillo. Food is central to the Sevillano lifestyle, with long, leisurely lunches and vibrant evenings at outdoor cafés. Seville’s festive spirit shines at events like the Feria de Abril, the famous Easter Fair, where flamenco music and dance fill the streets. Whether wandering the flower-filled streets of the Jewish Quarter or marveling at the sprawling wooden sculpture Setas de Sevilla, Seville promises an unforgettable journey.
Sample Itinerary
Top Rated Activities
A Day Trip to Córdoba
The Andalusian sun warms the golden stones of Córdoba’s ancient Roman Bridge as you cross the glinting Guadalquivir River and enter the historic center of Córdoba. Once the capital of Islamic Spain, Córdoba is a city steeped in history, where the grandeur of the Umayyad Caliphate endures in landmarks like the Mezquita-Catedral, and its vibrant Jewish Quarter tells stories of a multicultural past.
You wander the flower-filled streets of the Jewish Quarter, stepping into a 14th-century synagogue to admire its intricate plasterwork. At Córdoba’s own Alcázar palace, you snap photos with friends in the lush gardens and marvel at the Moorish arches, patterned tilework, and serene courtyards that evoke a bygone era.
This excursion brings history to life with fascinating narratives of the past that deepen your understanding of Spanish culture today. It’s an experience that may spark a love of architecture or history—or simply leave you with lasting memories and a deeper bond with your gap year abroad peers.
An Overnight Trip to the Moorish Majesty of Granada
The snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range provide a stunning backdrop as you step into the Alhambra, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture from the era of Al-Andalus, a Muslim-ruled Spain from the 8th to 15th century. The intricate arabesque carvings, expansive reflecting pools, and sprawling Generalife gardens immerse you in the splendor of this remarkable period when art and engineering thrived in harmony.
Granada’s charm extends beyond the Alhambra. You’ll wander its winding cobblestone streets, uncovering hidden plazas and whitewashed houses in the historic Albaicín neighborhood. In the evening, the city comes alive with flamenco—passionate music and dance that capture the soul of Andalusian culture. As you taste traditional tapas in lively local taverns, you’ll connect with your gap year abroad peers over the flavors of Granada.
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Eligibility
- Program open to recent high school graduates (no more that 1 year post-graduation) who:
- Are at least 18 years old at the time of their departure
- Are in good academic standing
- Demonstrate—through the application and interview process—flexibility and maturity.
- No previous language experience required.
- Please note that participants may volunteer at local organizations with prior authorization from CIEE. Participants are not authorized to take any job or seek employment during their stay.
For more information, refer to our detailed GAP eligibility criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$50
Priority deadline discount
Apply to a fall semester or academic year program by June 1 and automatically get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by October 1 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from the final balance.
Insurance
The program fee includes iNext travel insurance. Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Academic Year 2025 34 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Costs $23,500 | |
| Program Spring 2026 12 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Costs $12,500 | |
| Program Spring 2025 12 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $16,250 |
| Program Fall 2025 13 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Costs $12,500 |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
Ready to change your life?
Our Staff
Salvador Parra
Center Director
Salvador has been working at CIEE since 2000 and is passionate about international exchange. He holds a degree in History and Geography from the University of Seville, and a Master of Business Administration.
Alayna Brown
Senior Program Manager, Pre-College Programs
Alayna is a Wisconsin native and CIEE alumna. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and master´s degree in Intercultural Education. Alayna has taught the CIEE core Intercultural Communication and Leadership course for more than ten years and is passionate about students´ intercultural learning and competence development. Alayna has been working at CIEE since 2005.
Claudia Gómez
Program Coordinator
Claudia has been working at CIEE since 2021. She was an exchange student herself. She has a tourism degree from the University of Seville. Claudia’s empathy and care for students is her hallmark.