Spain

Age and eligibility

Applicants are eligible to apply from 14 – 17 years of age. Students with special diets (including personal preferences) or health conditions must be disclosed at the time of application. Students with special dietary requirements should be open to buying or preparing their own meals, and may be required to pay an additional fee.

Language criteria

You are required to be able to converse in basic conversation.

Program length

Academic Semester program duration can vary between 4 ½ to 5 months, depending on the academic year you will be enrolled in.

Academic Year program duration can vary between 9 to 10 months, depending on the academic year you will be enrolled in.

January Academic Year Programs: Students may be placed in 3+ host families for the duration of the exchange program.

Short programs are available for 2 or 3 months. Area choice options are not available in Spain.

Schools

As a student in Spain, you’ll experience everyday life alongside Spanish teenagers. The education system consists of four stages, with primary and secondary school being compulsory. As an exchange student, you’ll likely attend Bachillerato or the final years of ESO. You’ll have a timetable in one of three high school programs: Science, Social Science, or Humanities. Core subjects include Spanish, English, Spanish literature, Physical Education, and Philosophy. Depending on your program length, you may choose one or two elective courses. While extracurricular activities may vary, some schools have soccer and basketball teams. Outside of school, you can join local clubs for specific sports with the help of your Local Coordinator.

Vaccinations

Students are required to be vaccinated and have received their standard childhood vaccinations for their age group. Covid-19 is recommended (not compulsory). Please be sure to note all vaccinations you have received in your application.

Visa

Students require a visa for Academic Semester and Academic Year programs. For short programs, students will travel on a tourist visa. Further information will be provided by your program coordinator.

This program is only available to some September programs. Your Program Coordinator will confirm if this is an option available.

5 days/4 nights arrival camp in Barcelona, at an additional cost (AU$1,095/NZ$1,195). Only available to students departing on exchange in September.

The Soft Landing Camp in Barcelona is an exciting way to kick-start your Academic Year or Semester exchange adventure. Over a span of five days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the highlights of this vibrant city while also preparing yourself for your new life in Spain. The camp is open to exchange students from Australia, New Zealand and other parts of the world, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience.