8 Best Study Abroad Programs in Spain in 2025

When searching for the best study abroad programs in Spain, you find that some make you go “ehh, no,” while other have you screaming “SÍ SÍ SÍ!” When you hop on the study abroad wagon, which will YOU rely on, not only as an investment in your safety, convenience, and learning, but also as the organization you’ll look back on someday and think, “Studying in Spain was the best choice I ever made.”  

Let’s not pretend like you’re not going to come home talking allllll about BarTHelona.

Even though Spain is one of the best study destinations in Europe and you've got your destination selection on lock, you have to take your study abroad plans a step further and figure out who you’re going to study with.

You might not realize it, but choosing between schools and study abroad programs in Spain is a big decision. Since we’re on YOUR team, we wanted to make your decision process a little easier for you so you don’t get stuck saying to yourself “Ay caramba!" 

Here are the best Spain study abroad programs according to our community of intrepid, meaningful travelers—just like you.

What makes these the “best” study abroad programs in Spain?

As you start to drill down and tune in more on all of the Spain abroad programs you fancy, there are a few key details you need to pay attention to in order to assess the quality of the experience. Yes we know you are looking at reviews, ratings, and other fancy shmancy data; but you have to find the right program for YOU. Just like you would never dare give that comfort food diner that’s so popular on Yelp five stars, so too might your needs, opinions, and goals vary from those who’ve left reviews of their study abroad experiences.

Start digging through your closet of options (here’s how to actually pick a study abroad program if you want a shortcut), and while doing so, pay attention to these factors:

• What reviews and other alumni have to say about their experiences. Again, your needs might not be theirs, but you can give some level of credibility to the “horse’s mouths.” Consider their feedback as you discern your options for study abroad programs in Spain. 
• Clarity and availability of information. If you have to hunt down basic program details, there might be something funky going on.
• Organizational partnerships—most are partnered or work with other respected national, local, or international organizations. 

Paella allllll day.

• Resources for alumni, like how to put your experience on your resume!
• Demonstrated respect and care for local culture, environment, individuals. You can get a feel for this in the photos and language they use to market themselves. 
• Level of support and assistance. Do they email you back promptly? 
• Respect within your field of study. Consider a program that makes people that you look up to go “Wow.” 

8 best study abroad programs in Spain

1. IES Abroad - Study in Granada—9.6 rating

“Studying abroad in Granada, Spain was truly a blessing. IES has a wonderful program in this beautiful city that will keep you up and moving from the time you step foot off of the plane upon arrival. The program includes many built-in field trips plus an optional excursion to Morocco. These trips allow you to further understand the Andalusia region and its relevance and context within society. In addition, the courses that the program offers are directly pertinent to the region and therefore, one is able to learn about the history, culture, and politics of the city that they walk through daily while in class...This experience was truly wonderful overall as it opened and broadened my perspective on the world in many ways! It is a program and city that I would highly recommend!” — IES Abroad alum

• Where: Granada
• When: Fall, Spring, Academic Year
• Why: Many travelers who visit Granada insist it's the must-see city in all of Spain. With one of the clearest windows into Spain's unique historical symbiosis of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, the IES Abroad curriculum takes full advantage of Andalusia and all southern Spain has to offer including cultural excursions. So come and immerse yourself in Spanish language and culture by living with a local family in a homestay, or meet other international and local students in a residence hall and Colegios Mayores.

2. AIFS - UAB: Semester or Year—9.5 rating

“My time in Barcelona with AIFS was without a doubt, the best four months of my life, and the most valuable of all of my college experiences. I chose AIFS initially because they were the cheapest option of all of the programs that I looked at. However, after becoming a part of the AIFS family, I really can say that I chose the best program, and not just the most affordable...” — AIFS alum

• Where: Barcelona
• When: Fall, Spring, Academic Year
• Why: AIFS is one of the largest, most distinguished, and most respected cultural organizations in the world with excellent options for study abroad schools in France. AIFS is a leading provider of study abroad programs with comprehensive fees, including tuition and housing, with USD 800,000 in scholarship and grant funding available each year. Our programs include meal plans, tours and excursions, insurance, and 24-hour emergency service.

3. CIEE - Summer Language and Culture in Seville, Spain—9.6 rating

“Everyone is very helpful and everything is very well organized. Seville is an amazing city and CIEE makes sure we get the best experience possible. We are fully immersed in the culture and I've never felt more comfortable in a foreign country. This is definitely the best summer of my life!” — CIEE alum

• Where: Seville 
• When: Summer
• Why: Through intensive language study, area studies courses, offered in English and Spanish, homestays, and a variety of cultural activities and excursions, this Summer study abroad program in Spain offers you a unique and exciting international experience. Enjoy a number of intercultural trips and dip into living life like a local Spaniard! Oh, and don’t forget about CIEE’s iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits.

4. API - The University of Granada—9.5 rating

“This experience has been worthwhile thus far. There are plenty of opportunities to explore what Spain has to offer along with an interesting learning experience both in and out of the classroom. I definitely recommend students to step outside of their comfort zones and see what the rest of the world has to offer.” — API alum

• Where: Granada
• When: Summer
• Why: This Spain abroad program is ideal for the student who longs for the excitement, strives for intellectually stimulating academics, and believes they would enjoy the fast pace of this culturally dynamic worldly city. The exceptional value, quality academics, and a full-time on-site support staff, as well as a variety of excursions to introduce each student to various cultural regions of Spain, truly set API apart.

When you can’t choose between Barcelona and Madrid.

5. USAC SPAIN - Basque & European Studies—9.2 rating

“I cannot begin to explain my love for the Basque Country after spending a Fall semester abroad in San Sebastian. I considered myself fluent in the Spanish language prior to packing my bags and setting of for for study abroad trip. I was completely taken aback when I arrived and realized just how much more I had to learn! The USAC program was so helpful - all of the circumstances that would have been so stressful upon arrival, like finding a place to live and coordinating a class schedule, was made so easy by USAC!” — USAC alum

• Where: San Sebastián
• When: Fall Semester, Spring Semester, Summer
• Why: By choosing a USAC program, you have flexibility in the length and time of your study and a wide range of courses to choose from, plus language study at any level of proficiency from beginning to advanced and with no language prerequisite. USAC programs feature outstanding on-site staff and support from USAC and/or host university staff and services. In addition to excellent academic offerings, programs offer a wide array of informal and formal opportunities to enrich your time abroad and immerse yourself in your host culture, integrating with the local and global community.

6. Atlantis - Shadow Doctors in Spain—9.7 rating

“On this trip to Spain to shadow medical doctors in a hospital, I gained a sense of self-awareness as well as cultural appreciation. I was humbled and forced to recognize that my view of the world and health and healthcare is only as wide as my experiences…. I have truly been “forever touched” by this experience, the people I have met, the knowledge that I have gained, and places I have seen and I will carry this with me throughout my entire life. This was an experience of a lifetime.” — Atlantis alum

• Where: Canary Islands, Cuenca, Ourense, Pontevedra, Toledo, Zaragoza
• When: Summer, Winter
• Why: Join an Atlantis Fellowship and make the most of your Winter or Summer. You won’t have to take time off during your semesters, so no need to worry! Immerse yourself in Spanish life abroad to understand healthcare in a global context, and embark on weekly excursions to experience international culture, sights, and food. Join a network of accomplished Atlantis Fellows and doctors from around the world. Also get the chance to rotate through different specialties to gain exposure to various medical practices and procedures. You’ll get the experience you want and need with Atlantis without a doubt!

7. CISabroad - Summer at Barcelona School for International Studies—8.4 rating

“CISabroad provided an incredibly enticing opportunity to study abroad in the beautiful city of Barcelona. My classes far surpassed my expectations. I took an art history class focusing on Dali, Miro, and Picasso and a cross-cultural psychology class. Both classes were engaging and the professors were fantastic. The classes included preplanned "field trips" led throughout the city, which was really refreshing and fun...The program itself included two trips, one to Valencia and one to Girona. These trips were so much fun and very well organized. They were included in the program fee, so there was no hassle with money once we got there, and they were incredibly organized with the transportation and hotels for the trips...Overall I am incredibly happy and grateful to have spent the summer in Barcelona, and would do it again in a heartbeat.” — CISabroad alum

• Where: Barcelona
• When: Summer
• Why: The mission of CISabroad is to foster the development of more engaged world citizens, by providing educational programs that are innovative, promote global awareness, encourage personal growth, and broaden students' academic perspectives.

8. CEA - Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain—8.4 rating

“I do not have enough good things to say about my study abroad experience with CEA. The staff were helpful and welcoming, and I developed close relationships with many of my teachers. I learned more about myself and the world than I have learned in my previous two years at university combined (Don't get me wrong, I love my home university, but there is something truly special about learning in a new country). I discovered a renewed love of learning and appreciation for people of other cultures. My cross-cultural communication skills have increased exponentially, and this has enhanced my personal life in the United States. And, of course, it was also the most fun four months of my life!” —CEA alum

• Where: Barcelona
• When: Fall, Spring, Summer, Academic Year
• Why: CEA aims to expand students’ global education by giving them on-the-ground international business experience. They encourage engagement between cultures around the globe with the goal of fostering a collaborative environment between top students and top companies worldwide.

More resources for study abroad in Spain

We’re hoping some of these programs already have you packing your stuff and ready to say “Bye” to Felicia and “Adios” to your amigos. However, if none of these programs are quite what you’re looking for, take a gander through our entire Spain study abroad program directory. There are filters galore, allowing you to really hunt down the program that you’ve been daydreaming about.

Overwhelmed by the options? We get it. Our Online Advisors are here to save the day. Just tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll do your homework for you / send you a handful of specific recommendations to your preferences. No sweat!

Picture yourself in Spain.

Pro tip: One of the most important steps to figuring out which study abroad programs in Spain are right for you—that many students unfortunately skip—is identifying your WHY(s). Why are you studying abroad? Why study abroad in Spain in the first place? To learn and get more familiar with the language, to travel far and wide, to make buddies from all over the world, to learn beside the experts in your industry of choice? Set goals, then use them to influence the Spain study abroad programs you’re thinking about.

And last but not least, since we all know studying abroad comes at a cost, we put together this guide of how to pay for study abroad. Scholarships and loans and financial aid, OH MY! Don’t forget that some of that good ol’ fashioned savings wouldn’t hurt either.  

Study abroad in Spain in 2025!

Spain is a big ol’ fun fair of cultures from all around the world; and you can experience it all! Choosing to study and seek more knowledge in your area of interest can’t hurt. So why wait? This is your year! You will be amazed at what you can accomplish. Buena suerte!