The ISA Experiential Learning Abroad Program (ELAP) enables participants to address the needs of a community or an organization abroad while furthering participant’s personal goals of language and cultural immersion. ELAP adds another dimension to the study abroad experience through daily exposure and interactions, resulting in a greater understanding of the language, culture, and community of the host country.

Volunteering abroad through ELAP is very exciting, but it can be challenging at times since cross cultural miscommunications are inevitable in this environment. Personal initiative, patience and self-motivation are key characteristics of a successful volunteer, as well as flexibility, an open mind, and the desire to participate and learn. The program is designed to result in a greater sense of social responsibility and inspiration for continued involvement in a participant's home community upon his or her return. The program is also designed to encourage participants to learn about themselves, i.e. how to adapt in an unfamiliar environment, and thus experience personal growth throughout this intensely exciting experience.

At ISA we emphasize the value of commitment, and we believe that each participant will reap countless benefits throughout the program.

Minimum GPA

Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.50.

Minimum Admissions Prerequisites

Students must have completed or tested out of a minimum of four semesters (six quarters) of college-level Spanish.
In addition, an interview in person or via telephone will be conducted to ensure that participants have an intermediate level of Spanish.
Please contact the ISA office for more information regarding this.

Participants must be 20 years of age or older or have at least 2 years of college education.

Course Disclaimer

In order for participants to earn internship, field study or independent study credit from their university, proper arrangements must be made between the student and his/her home university before the program begins. Typically, ELAP participants volunteer 10-30 hours per week. ISA provides support throughout this process.
For students who participate in ELAP independent of the study abroad program, the following information applies:

For 6 to 12-week and 16-week ELAP 2009 programs: the volunteer will participate in one week of Spanish language tutoring before volunteering.

For ELAP 2009 programs added to an ISA intensive month or summer program: the volunteer will complete their classes before beginning to volunteer with their organization.

For 2009 ELAP programs added to a semester program: the volunteer will begin their placement 3-4 weeks after the start of their classes and volunteer when times do not conflict with classes.