Immerse yourself in one of Europe's most vibrant cities with AIFS Abroad's semester program in Barcelona, Spain. Based at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), you'll take courses at the historic Sant Pau Campus in the beautiful modernist architecture building UAB-Casa Convalescència. This program is designed for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking a comprehensive study abroad experience that combines rigorous academics with deep cultural immersion.

You'll have access to a wide range of course options across Spanish Language, Liberal Arts, and Business disciplines. Most elective courses are taught in English, though you can also challenge yourself with Spanish-taught courses if you've completed at least four semesters of Spanish (B1.2 Upper Intermediate level or above). Spanish language instruction is available at all levels, from Beginner through Proficiency, allowing you to strengthen your language skills while earning up to 15 semester credits through the European Credit Transfer system (ECTS). The university's small teaching groups and native Spanish and international professors create an engaging learning environment where you can develop meaningful academic connections.

Beyond the classroom, you'll experience authentic Spanish culture through an extensive array of included activities and excursions. Your program fee covers guided city tours, visits to iconic Barcelona landmarks like Park Güell, the Sagrada Família, and the Gothic Quarter, as well as cultural experiences such as cooking classes, flamenco performances, and wellness weeks. Included multi-day excursions take you to Tarragona and Southern Catalonia (spring option) to explore Roman ruins and nature reserves, plus day trips to medieval towns like Girona and the Salvador Dalí Museum in Figueras. Optional extended excursions to Seville and Granada or the Basque Country offer deeper exploration of Spain's diverse regions.

Your housing options reflect your preference for integration: live with a Spanish family in a homestay (the most immersive option with breakfast and dinner Monday-Friday), share an apartment with other AIFS Abroad students in a central Barcelona neighborhood, or stay in a modern student residence near the beach with gym and rooftop pool amenities. All housing includes internet access, and laundry services are provided. The program's comprehensive support system includes a dedicated on-site Program Director (Maya Edwards, an experienced educator and Spain specialist), 24/7 emergency support, comprehensive health insurance, and access to professional development tools like the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment and the AIFS Abroad alumni network. An optional travel package provides round-trip flights from 25 U.S. gateways and airport transfers, simplifying logistics so you can focus on your transformative semester abroad.

This program is ideal if you're seeking to advance your Spanish language skills, explore career interests in an international context, and develop cultural competency through direct engagement with Spanish life. Whether you're studying business, humanities, social sciences, or language, Barcelona provides the perfect backdrop for personal and academic growth.