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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Spanish Language, Literature & Electives in English
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Location
Málaga
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Host University
Universidad de Málaga
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Term
Summer 1 + 2 2025
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Program Dates
Jun 01, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
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Program Length
Summer
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Application Deadline
Mar 25, 2025
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Apr 10, 2025
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Credit
180 Contact Hours
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Eligibility
2.50 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$9,995
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
This program accommodates students at all levels of Spanish proficiency. Courses are taught by host university faculty at the Universidad de Málaga’s Centro Internacional de Español. Beginning and intermediate level Spanish courses are held with international students, while advanced Spanish and courses in English are held with ISA students only. Students will complete a placement test upon arrival in Málaga to confirm their language level and Spanish courses.
You may combine the Summer 1 and Summer 2 sessions for a discounted price by selecting both sessions when submitting your online application. For more information about this option, please contact your Málaga Program Manager.
Visa Information:
*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 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
Contact Hours
180
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
18
Academic Information
Course Selection and Placement
- Students enroll in 90 contact hours. Course enrollment and final schedules are confirmed onsite following a required placement exam.
- Students at the Beginning, High Beginning, or Intermediate levels of Spanish will be able to take either a Spanish language course OR electives in English.
- Students at the Advanced level of Spanish will be able to choose from Spanish language coursework and/or electives in English.
Language Requirement Policy
- There is no language requirement for this program.
Course Credit
- The transcript from the Universidad de Málaga will reflect contact hours for each course listed below. Please be in touch with your U.S. university regarding transfer credit for this program.
Courses
select allclear all
Course Disclaimer
- Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.
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
Nina Ellsworth
Program Manager, Spain
A born and raised Michigander, Nina obtained her degree in Psychology and Social Relations & Policy from Michigan State University. Nina’s passion for global understanding started from a young age, which led her to participate in service learning and education abroad in Ecuador, Brazil, Amsterdam, and Spain, ultimately bringing her to the role of Program Manager at ISA. In her free time, you’ll often find her relaxing by Lake Michigan or cooking with family. Her background in international relations and experience living and studying abroad allowed her to see firsthand the transformative impact of cultural exchange. Nina is dedicated to helping students navigate their own journeys abroad, ensuring they have meaningful, enriching experiences.
MÁLAGA TEAM
Iker Villamarin Renteria
Resident Director, Spain
Iker Villamarin Renteria
Resident Director
Iker was born and raised in Barcelona. After the 1992 Olympic Games, he moved to Marbella, a beautiful town located in the Costa del Sol. Then he moved to Malaga, where he studied Business and Economics at UMA. In 2008, he started working at ISA in Malaga and in 2018 he moved to work at ISA in Seville. Iker has traveled all around Spain and Europe. He loves music, going to concerts and festivals, but he especially loves to collect classic rock records. He also loves the beach, and spending time with friends and family. At work he’s passionate about helping students feel at home. One of Iker’s favorite sayings is: "if you love your job, you won’t work a day in your life!”
Eugenio Aguilar
IT Director - Europe, Spain
Eugenio Aguilar
IT Director - Europe
Originally from Granada, Spain, Eugenio attended the University of Granada, where he studied career counseling and educational psychology. He also holds an advanced degree in occupational health and safety, and has completed his Master's degree in computer science. In his spare time, he likes exploring nature, traveling and learning about other countries, and discovering different charming places to taste local wine in whichever city he finds himself. Eugenio finds study abroad to be one of the best ways to contribute to personal growth and loves being a part of a team that offer this to students.
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 have a short commute to class. Travel times to the various university buildings generally range between 15 and 40 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 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) and laundry service 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 similar to a small dorm and is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. There is an additional cost for this housing option. The residencia houses Spanish and international students, giving you the opportunity to meet Spaniards and practice your language skills. Please note that the residencia is a private business and does not have a direct affiliation with the University of Málaga. Meals are not included, and students will have access to an equipped kitchen to prepare meals. Laundry facilities can also be found on the premises. Students usually share a room with another ISA student but have the option of paying extra to secure an individual room. This option is only available for semester or year program students.
A $300 housing deposit is required from students choosing this option as well as an extra surcharge. ISA may retain some, or all, of the housing deposit in the case of damage to property.
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
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.
Seville & Córdoba
On this overnight excursion, you will tour the famous Mezquita in Córdoba, a 10th-century mosque that curiously houses a 16th-century cathedral. You will explore the historic Jewish quarter and visit one of three original synagogues remaining in Spain. Córdoba was once home to Romans, Muslims, Christians and Jews, each leaving imprints that you will be able to identify by the time you leave.
Seville & Córdoba
On this overnight excursion, you will tour the famous Mezquita in Córdoba, a 10th-century mosque that curiously houses a 16th-century cathedral. You will explore the historic Jewish quarter and visit one of three original synagogues remaining in Spain. Córdoba was once home to Romans, Muslims, Christians and Jews, each leaving imprints that you will be able to identify by the time you leave.
Cultural activities in Málaga
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Málaga. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Málaga special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included visiting the Alcazaba, taking a boat ride around the Málaga Bay, taking a cooking class, and wine tasting.
Cultural activities in Málaga
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Málaga. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Málaga special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included visiting the Alcazaba, taking a boat ride around the Málaga Bay, taking a cooking class, and wine tasting.