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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Business, Neuroscience & Social Sciences
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Location
Madrid
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Host University
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
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Term
Spring 3 2025
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Program Dates
Jan 20, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Oct 10, 2024
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Oct 15, 2024
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Credit
24 ECTS Credits
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Eligibility
3.00 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$17,450
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
Providing for a stimulating and academically-challenging experience, this program at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) offers lower and upper division courses in a variety of subjects. Students have the opportunity to take courses in English with local Spanish students and international student in areas such as business, economics, international studies, communications, politics, and journalism.
Students with an advanced level of Spanish or higher (minimum 5 semesters of college-level Spanish) may also take liberal arts courses instructed in Spanish with international students through UC3M’s Cursos en Estudios Hispanicos (CEH). Beginning level students have the option to take a Spanish language class through the UC3M’s Study Abroad Program (SAP).
All courses are instructed by faculty from the host university and are held with either local or international students. Students commute via short-distance train (Cercanías) to the Getafe campus for class, located southwest of Madrid's city center.
*Please note that the UC3M Getafe and Leganés campuses are a 30-40 minute commute from one another. For this reason, ISA does not allow students to cross-enroll in the STEM and Business, International Studies & Communication programs.
Visa Information:
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.00.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
There is no language prerequisite for this program.
In order to take liberal arts courses in Spanish at the advanced level, you must have completed at least 5 semesters of college-level Spanish (or tested out of the equivalent).
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception*
Airport Reception*
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
*Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs, as well as programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Meals and Laundry Service*
Meals and Laundry Service*
*The possibility for included meals and/or laundry services vary per location and housing option. Meals and laundry services are provided with most homestays to a degree. For more details, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Spanish Visa Support
Spanish Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for Spain, if a visa is needed for your program. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed. A Spanish student visa is required for U.S. students participating in academic programs in Spain lasting 91 days or more. For non-U.S. citizens, you should contact your consulate to verify specific entry requirements.
To obtain a Spanish student visa, you must:
A) schedule an appointment (where applicable) and apply in person at the consulate, or
B) take part in the ISA Spain Visa Service* (if applicable), where you may pay an extra fee for ISA to schedule and attend an appointment on your behalf.
Note: the ISA Spain Visa Service typically has deadlines well in advance of your program application deadline, often 1 month earlier or more. This is due to the appointment dates the consulate gives ISA. Should you want to use the ISA Spain Visa Service, we encourage you to apply to your program as early as possible.
Failure to obtain a visa for programs lasting 91 days or more could result in you having to cancel or switch programs.
Please contact your ISA Program Manager for more information regarding the Spain Visa Service or any visa related questions or concerns.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions*
Excursions*
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
*Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, some summer sessions, as well as some programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
ECTS Credits
24
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
18
Academic Information
COURSE SELECTION
- This UC3M program offers two types of courses: those designed for visiting international students (through UC3M’s International School) and courses designed for local, degree-seeking students.
- You may enroll in 4 courses (24 ECTS credits).
- Due to the academic rigor of UC3M courses, ISA recommends that you enroll in no more than two courses designed for local students. Instead, you are encouraged to combine business, international studies, and communication courses with locals with history, culture, and language courses through the UC3M International School.
- ISA students are not permitted to enroll in fourth-year courses at UC3M. Third-year courses are not recommended due to differences in prerequisites for UC3M third-year coursework and typical prerequisites for third-year coursework at US universities. If you select third-year courses, our academic team will conduct a review of your transcript and provide a recommendation regarding whether your previous coursework qualifies you for third-year courses at UC3M. We also recommend that you speak with your US university academic advisor for their recommendations. Past ISA students who have taken courses with locals at UC3M report that they are highly challenging in comparison to their US university courses.
COURSE PREREQUISITES
- It is extremely important to take note of any prerequisites for courses at UC3M. Both lower and upper division courses require prior knowledge of the subject area, as the material covered in the prerequisites is often the foundation for the class.
COURSE LEVEL RECOMMENDATIONS
- ISA offers course level recommendations for the courses listed below. Please note that the course level recommendations are based on Universidad Carlos III de Madrid’s curso (year) classifications of 1, 2, 3 or 4, which correspond with the typical four-year bachelor's degree cycle. Courses offered in the first or second years of a degree plan are recommended as lower division. Courses offered in the third or fourth years of a degree plan are recommended as upper division. These ISA recommendations are intended to facilitate the determination of course equivalencies by advisors and credential evaluators at participants' U.S. home institutions.
ESTIMATED LANGUAGE LEVEL
- If you are planning to take a Spanish language course through the UC3M International School, you will complete a placement online with the host university prior to your arrival in Madrid. As you are making your course selections for the pre-registration process, please use the following only as a guideline to determine what your language level may be.
- Your language level and eligibility for Spanish courses will ultimately be determined by the results of your placement test taken online prior to arrival in Madrid.
- Beginning = 0-1 semesters/0-2 quarters
- High Beginning = 1-2 semesters/2-3 quarters
- Intermediate = 2-3 semesters/3-5 quarters
- High Intermediate = 3-4 semesters/5-6 quarters
- Advanced = 4-5 semesters/6-8 quarters
- High Advanced = 5-6 semesters/7-9 quarters
- Superior = 6+ semesters/9+ quarters
ACADEMIC RIGOR
- Keep in mind that when choosing courses, even lower-level courses at UC3M can be quite challenging and academically rigorous. Compared to university classes in the U.S., UC3M classes require more self-study and independent work outside of the classroom.
COURSE CATALOG
- The courses (taught in English) listed below are only a sampling of courses available; please click on the academic department links in teal to view the entire course listing for each department.
- Semester 1 = FALL semester offerings
- Semester 2 = SPRING semester offerings
TRANSCRIPT
- The transcript from the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid will reflect the ECTS credit values indicated below. Please be in touch with your home university regarding transfer credit for this program.
- *The list below is only a sampling of courses available. For the most updated list of courses offered during your semester of study, please use the UC3M department pages linked in the next section.
The following links showcase the departments available in this program. You may only select courses from these departments taught in English (as indicated by the British flag)
Business Administration
Economics
Film, Television and Media Studies
International Studies
Finance and Accounting
Journalism
Philosophy, Politics and Economics
1. Click on the department name followed by "Program" to find a list of the available courses.
2. Click on the course title to view the syllabus
NOTE
- Courses are listed in the order that local students must take them in their degree program; beginning with Course 1, Semester 1
- "Course" refers to the year in college the class is typically taken at the host university
- "Semester" refers to either Fall or Spring, Semester 1 = Fall, Semester 2 = Spring
Go to Host University Course Search Here
Go to Course SearchCourses
select allclear all
Course Disclaimer
- Availability of courses is based on enrollment numbers. All students should seek pre-approval for alternate courses in the event of last minute class cancellations
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating identity questions related to traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
U.S. Team
Alana Ladd
Program Manager, Spain
While growing up in South Florida, Alana had the opportunity to study abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina the summer between her Sophomore and Junior years of high school. This trip abroad led her down the path of wandering all over the world while pursuing a BA in Spanish at DePaul University in downtown Chicago. During college she traveled to Peru, Chile, Turkey, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, Greece, and Japan. She then lived in the Basque region of Spain upon graduation to work as a certified English teacher. She then moved to Napa Valley to follow a passion for wine making which she had discovered while working at a winery in Tuscany. She moved to Austin in 2021 to be closer to family while she taught English to Spanish speaking professionals. In her free time, she is always making travel plans whether it be domestically to a national park, or abroad to continue to wander about world. Alana loves the quote “Not all those who wander are lost.”
MADRID TEAM
Neftalí González
Resident Director, Spain
Neftalí González
Resident Director
Although originally from Burgos, in Northern Spain, Neftalí has spent most of his life living around Spain and South America. He studied Social Education and Hispanic Studies at the University of Granada, after which he completed a master's degree in Cultural Management and Latin American Studies. He also worked as an educator addressing the needs of disadvantaged adolescents. Neftalí enjoyed his experience in the Andes, working for five years as a literature professor and Academic Coordinator of ISA in Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, and traveling throughout Latin America. After that, he returned to Spain to take over the position of ISA Barcelona Senior Academic Coordinator. In this role, he had the opportunity to interact with students and provide his support across a wide range of issues. In 2019 he finally assumes the position of Resident Director of our program in Madrid, a city he has been deeply in love with since his teenage years for its wide cultural offerings, deep history and vibrant and colorful social life. Nef is a literature and photography enthusiast who enjoys exploring the wonders of nature and riding his motorcycle across the continent.
Carlos Marín Muñoz
Assistant Resident Director & Housing Coordinator, Spain
Carlos Marín Muñoz
Assistant Resident Director & Housing Coordinator
A native of Granada, Carlos moved to Madrid in 2002. He studied Business Computer Science in high school and Labor Relations at the University of Granada. He worked at a bilingual (English-Spanish) primary school in Granada. Carlos is also a professional actor and a voice actor. He has participated in various short films, theatrical performances, musicals, and commercials for TV. He loves to travel, meet people, and learn about different cultures. Carlos is a dynamic and extroverted person who is accustomed to working in a team environment. He has been working for ISA since 2004, and is a wonderful addition to the ISA Madrid team.
Anna Beltrame
Cultural Activities Coordinator, Spain
Anna Beltrame
Cultural Activities Coordinator
Anna was born in Italy and has always been passionate about foreign languages and cultures. This led her to focus her studies on translation, interpreting and literature. With her experience studying abroad, she's eager to help students discover a new city and all the amazing things Madrid has to offer, from its rich history and culture to its vibrant nightlife. She loves reading, music, sports and nature. Anna is fond of traveling and meeting new people.
Rachael Eckersley
Student Services Coordinator, Spain
Rachael Eckersley
Student Services Coordinator
Rachael is from the US (born in Arizona and later moved to North Carolina). She earned a Bachelor's in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Appalachian State (Go Neers!) but upon graduating decided to spend a year abroad in Madrid learning Spanish and preparing for her Master's degree. But what was meant to be one year turned into 7, with no plans to return to the US. Rachael has fallen in love with Madrid and all the amazing things it has to offer. In her free time she enjoys grabbing some vino and tapas with friends on a beautiful, sunny terrace; exploring all the hidden corners of Spain and Europe beyond; growing her at home library and TBR list; and playing on a new softball team here in Madrid. She is excited to be a part of the ISA Madrid team and can't wait to help students explore this beautiful city.
Matthew Rizzo
Academics and Student Care Coordinator, Spain
Matthew Rizzo
Academics and Student Care Coordinator
Identity Resources
Accessibility & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@worldstrides.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
Destination Information
Our diversity pages for each ISA destination include information on Indigenous communities, languages, race and ethnicity, religion, LGBTQIA+, and disability access. We hope it will help when reflecting upon and contextualizing intersectionality in your host community.
Identity Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog, and interested students should email diversity@studiesabroad.com for more information.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
Living in ISA housing will give you the opportunity to experience aspects of the Spanish lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor. Uncovering the uniqueness of your neighborhood and the surrounding areas will help you to feel right at home. No matter which type of housing you choose, you will commute to class as most Madrileños do, via metro. Travel times to the various university buildings generally range between 30 and 60 minutes depending on housing and class locations. With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
We strive to match your housing preferences with our available accommodations, however, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Homestay
Homestays are best if you are seeking full linguistic and cultural immersion during your time abroad. Each host family has been carefully selected by ISA's resident staff in order to best accommodate your needs and to ensure a comfortable living situation. Homestays will provide two meals a day (except on ISA excursion days) and laundry service, including a change of sheets and towel, once a week. You will typically share a room with another ISA student of the same gender. Single rooms may be available for an additional fee.
Student Residence
The student residence (residencia in Spanish) is best if you would like to be independent while living in a more student-centered environment. These single-student residencia rooms include their own bathroom and have limited availability. They are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. The residencia houses international and local students and has shared kitchens and lounges. Meals and laundry service are not included, but students have access to kitchens, and washer/dryer facilities are available for an additional cost. Students may also contract a meal plan at the residencia kitchen for an additional cost upon arrival in Madrid.
A $300 housing deposit is required from students choosing this option as well as an extra surcharge. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
*The meal plan is not offered July and August.
Apartment
Apartments are a great housing option if you are seeking a greater degree of independence during your time abroad. Apartments are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and availability is limited. Rent and utilities are included in the program price, and each apartment is fully furnished. The apartments are located throughout the city of Madrid, rather than all in one building. All apartments are either within walking distance or conveniently located near public transit routes relative to the university. Apartments typically house three to four ISA students, with single or double bedrooms and shared common spaces. Meals and laundry service are not included.
You will pay a $300 refundable security deposit if living in this ISA housing option. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Independent Housing
You may elect to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you will receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
El Escorial & Salamanca
You will explore El Escorial, the 16th-century monastery that includes an ornamented church, an expansive library, and a royal mausoleum. In Salamanca, you will walk the quaint cobblestone streets to learn the history of this world-renowned university town.
El Escorial & Salamanca
You will explore El Escorial, the 16th-century monastery that includes an ornamented church, an expansive library, and a royal mausoleum. In Salamanca, you will walk the quaint cobblestone streets to learn the history of this world-renowned university town.
Granada
Granada is a picturesque and mountainous university town. It has always been a multicultural city and was the last Moorish stronghold during the Catholic reconquest of Spain. You will explore Granada’s multicultural past through visits to historic neighborhoods like the Albaicín and Realejo. During an unforgettable evening flamenco show, you will have the chance to soak up Spanish music and culture. You will also visit important cultural sites including the Alhambra fortress, Spain’s most popular tourist attraction.
Granada
Granada is a picturesque and mountainous university town. It has always been a multicultural city and was the last Moorish stronghold during the Catholic reconquest of Spain. You will explore Granada’s multicultural past through visits to historic neighborhoods like the Albaicín and Realejo. During an unforgettable evening flamenco show, you will have the chance to soak up Spanish music and culture. You will also visit important cultural sites including the Alhambra fortress, Spain’s most popular tourist attraction.
Morocco * Optional
This multi-day, optional excursion takes you across Morocco, one of the most colorful and diverse countries in the world. It encompasses direct cultural encounters with locals, guided tours through the medina, and opportunities to learn the ins and outs of haggling with Moroccan vendors. You will have unforgettable experiences in the Sahara desert riding camels and waking up to see the spectacular views of the sunrise.
Morocco
This multi-day, optional excursion takes you across Morocco, one of the most colorful and diverse countries in the world. It encompasses direct cultural encounters with locals, guided tours through the medina, and opportunities to learn the ins and outs of haggling with Moroccan vendors. You will have unforgettable experiences in the Sahara desert riding camels and waking up to see the spectacular views of the sunrise.
Toledo
Your visit to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will begin with a panoramic bus tour of Toledo's unique hilltop then will continue on to the monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, Santa María la Blanca synagogue, Santo Tomé Church, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria.
Toledo
Your visit to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will begin with a panoramic bus tour of Toledo's unique hilltop then will continue on to the monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, Santa María la Blanca synagogue, Santo Tomé Church, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria.
Cultural Activities in Madrid
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Madrid. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Madrid special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included cooking classes, museum visits (Reina Sofia and el Prado), tours of the Royal Palace and activities in Retiro Park.
Cultural Activities in Madrid
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Madrid. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Madrid special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included cooking classes, museum visits (Reina Sofia and el Prado), tours of the Royal Palace and activities in Retiro Park.