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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Program Name
Hispanic Studies
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Location
Madrid
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Host University
Universidad Antonio de Nebrija
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Term
Spring 2A 2020
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Program Dates
Jan 04, 2020 - May 21, 2020
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Oct 01, 2019
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Credit
270 - 315 Contact Hours
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Eligibility
2.50 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$15,650
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Program Description
Designed to hone your knowledge of Spanish language and culture, this program offers courses to international students in all levels of Spanish, from beginning to superior. Courses are taught in Spanish, covering topics such as language, culture, art, literature, and current events. All courses are taught by faculty from the host university and are held with international students. The Fall 2A, Spring 2A, and Academic Year 2A sessions of this program offer the option to begin with a preparatory Spanish language course before the start of the semester. Fall 2B, Spring 2B, and Academic Year 2B students will not take this preparatory course.
Spanish student visa is required for programs over 90 days and obtaining one may require out of state travel. Please contact your Site Specialist for more information pertaining to the process of acquiring a Spanish student visa.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.50.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
There is no language prerequisite for this program.
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 Site Specialist will 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 Intensive Month or J-Term programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Site Specialist will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
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 amount of meals and possibility of laundry services vary per location. Meals and laundry services are provided with most homestays. For more details, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Program
Bridging Cultures Program
The Bridging Cultures Program (BCP) encompasses the ISA on-site orientation which will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. The BCP 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 BCP, 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, and some summer sessions.
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
Contact Hours
270 - 315
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
18 - 21
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
27 - 31
Academic Information
Required Intensive Spanish Language Courses
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You will take two 6 ECTS-credit (45-hour) Intensive Spanish Language classes prior to the start of the semester, for a total of 12 ECTS credits (90 contact hours).
Course Selection
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You will choose 4-5 classes. You may only take classes taught in Spanish within your specific language level.
Spanish Language Requirement
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Students at the Beginning, High Beginning and Intermediate language levels must choose between one and three Spanish Language classes during the regular semester.**
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Beginning-level students may take High Beginning Spanish Language I and II. High Beginning-level students may take Intermediate Spanish Language.**
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Students at the Intermediate level must take the Specific Grammar Problems course in addition to Spanish Language.
**These Spanish classes are in addition to the Intensive Spanish Language course taken prior to the semester.
Estimated Language Level
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Please use the following only as a guideline to determine what your language level may be. Your language level will ultimately be determined by a placement exam that you take on site. Each semester/quarter is of COLLEGE-LEVEL Spanish or the equivalent:
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Beginning = 0-1 semesters/0-2 quarters
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High Beginning = 1-2 semesters/2-3 quarters
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Intermediate = 2-3 semesters/3-5 quarters
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High Intermediate = 3-4 semesters/5-6 quarters
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Advanced = 4-5 semesters/6-8 quarters
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High Advanced = 5-6 semesters/7-9 quarters
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Superior = 6+ semesters/9+ quarters
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ECTS Credits on Transcript
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The transcript from the Universidad Antonio de Nebrija will reflect the ECTS credit values indicated below. The contact hours for each course will not be reflected on the transcript but are listed in order to help determine transfer credit. Please be in touch with your U.S. university regarding transfer credit for this program.
Courses
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Support & Funding
U.S. Team
Vanessa Restifo
Program Manager, Spain
Vanessa is from Lisbon-- not the cool one in Portugal, but a small town in Northeastern Ohio-- and graduated from Westminster College with degrees in Public Relations and Spanish. Vanessa credits her passion for foreign places and cultures to her grandfather, whose stories of growing up in Italy were devoured as indulgently as grandma's homemade meatballs. While in college, Vanessa hiked Machu Picchu and played with llamas in Peru; played mango baseball and went cave jumping in the Dominican Republic; and cooked paella and sometimes got mistaken for a local in Spain. When she's not at work, Vanessa can be found writing, doing yoga, trolling coffee shops, DIY-ing a new project, roaming the aisles of TJ Maxx, or binging Food Network and trying (mostly unsuccessfully) to recreate those recipes at home.
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. Nef is a literature and photography enthusiast who enjoys exploring the wonders of nature and riding his motorcycle across the country.
Carlos Marín Muñoz
Assistant Resident Director, Spain
Carlos Marín Muñoz
Assistant Resident Director
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 loved foreign languages and cultures since she was a toddler. This led her to focus her studies on translation, interpreting, and literature, specializing in Spanish and English. Anna previously worked as an English and Spanish language teacher for many years, with students of all ages and backgrounds. She loves music, dance, sports, and nature. Anna is fond of traveling and meeting new people.
Matthew Rizzo
Student Services, Spain
Matthew Rizzo
Student Services
A native of the United States but with extensive family ties in Spain, Matt has always had an interest in Spanish culture and international travel and exchange. He earned a dual degree in Marketing and Spanish at Florida State University where he also discovered the joy of studying abroad through a semester spent in Valencia. Matt's work experience includes several years with international exchange groups through the U.S. Department of State and a year spent teaching English in Spanish schools. He loves to read, discover new places (especially the food in those new places), and continue to explore the delightful hidden corners of Madrid. Matt, like the rest of the ISA Madrid team, is fully dedicated to supporting ISA students during their time abroad and ensuring that their experience is culturally enriching, educational, and safe.
Sara Garrido
Student Services, Spain
Sara Garrido
Student Services
Born and raised in Valencia, Sara attended the University of Valencia. There she obtained her Bachelor´s degree in Art History. Before working with ISA, Sara volunteered in children's education and as an environmental advocate. Sara joined ISA in 2004 in the ISA Valencia office. She worked there until 2012 when she moved to Madrid to work in the ISA Madrid office. Within ISA, Sara has worked in housing, cultural activities, and is currently in the academics department. In addition, she does guided visits for the students. One of her passions is to travel and discover the monuments and history she studied in college. She has traveled to several countries including Egypt, Italy, and Ireland, as well as throughout Spain. She loves her job, travel, music, nature, and animals-- especially dogs.
Funding Your ISA Program
As an ISA participant, you have the opportunity to apply for scholarships and grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad programs. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Scholarships and Grants page.
View all Funding OptionsHousing
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 three meals a day (except on ISA excursion days when you will receive a picnic lunch for the first day) 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.* You will pay a $500 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.
*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 $500 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, Ávila & 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. On the way back to Madrid, you will explore the beauty of Ávila, the “City of Stones and Saints”, and its many Romanesque and Gothic churches.
El Escorial, Ávila & 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. On the way back to Madrid, you will explore the beauty of Ávila, the “City of Stones and Saints”, and its many Romanesque and Gothic churches.
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, El Tránsito, 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, El Tránsito, 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.