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.

*prices and dates are subject to change

Note: About pricing...

ELAP program price is added to an intensive month or summer program price.

*Please inquire if you are interested in adding ELAP to the end of your ISA semester program, as there is a special program price.

Note: About dates...

Dates for 2009 programs*:
Jan 3, Jan 31, May 13, and Jun 17.

Profile form, résumé in Spanish, and ISA application are due at least eight weeks before departure. Final payment and completed paperwork are due at least four weeks before departure.

*These are the start dates for the ISA program. You will begin your ELAP program directly after the ISA program ends.

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.