Barcelona is one of Europe's most dynamic and culturally rich cities, and the Universidad de Barcelona (UB) — founded in 1450 and the oldest university in Catalonia — places you right at the center of it all. Through WorldStrides (formerly International Studies Abroad), this semester or full academic year program offers you the chance to immerse yourself in Spanish language study, Hispanic studies, communications, and international business within a city that pulses with Catalan modernism, Mediterranean energy, and world-class art and architecture.

Academically, the program is designed to meet you where you are. Whether you're a true beginner in Spanish or an advanced speaker, you can enroll in a 110-contact-hour language course — completing a full year's worth of Spanish instruction in a single semester. You'll then choose two to three additional courses in areas such as Hispanic studies, communications, international business, or cultural subjects like Barcelona's creative industries, art history, and Catalan society. Courses are taught by Universidad de Barcelona faculty alongside fellow international students, with instruction available in both English and Spanish depending on the course.

From the moment you arrive, WorldStrides' on-the-ground team is there to support you. You'll be greeted at the airport and welcomed with an in-depth orientation to help you navigate Barcelona's neighborhoods, academic culture, and daily life. Throughout your semester, you'll have access to a local English-speaking team, 24/7 emergency assistance, mental health support, and a dedicated program manager back home — all included in your program fee.

Beyond the classroom, the program brings Barcelona to life through curated excursions and cultural activities. Past highlights include a coastal escape to Valencia and Peñíscola, a day trip to medieval Girona and the Dalí Theatre-Museum, a cava cellar tour in Sitges, language exchange intercambios, cooking classes, and a guided introduction to Gaudí masterpieces like the Sagrada Família and the Gothic Quarter. An optional excursion to Morocco is also available for those seeking an even broader adventure.

Housing options include city apartments, homestays with local families (including two meals a day and laundry), student residences, and independent housing — all with internet included. Assignments are made based on your preferences via a housing questionnaire completed after acceptance. The program fee covers tuition, an official transcript, housing, cultural activities, airport reception, orientation, and international insurance. You'll be responsible for flights, meals, personal spending, books, and your phone plan. A minimum 2.5 GPA is required, though exceptions can be requested via a letter of recommendation and statement of purpose. This program is open to students at least 18 years old and is offered for fall semester, spring semester, or the full academic year.