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, or the equivalent. Students must have completed at least 2 of these college-level Spanish courses within the past year.
Students who have only completed three semesters (five quarters) of Spanish will be required to enroll in the intensive month of Spanish at Veritas University. All students have the option to enroll in this intensive session from August through May.

In addition, those having only 3 semesters of Spanish or the equivalent, an interview will be conducted in person or via telephone to ensure that participants have an appropriate 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:

2 to 4 month programs: the volunteer will participate in an intensive month of Spanish language at the beginning of the program. During that month participants can volunteer during times that do not conflict with classes; during subsequent months, participants can increase their volunteer hours. The intensive month of Spanish will include 60-90 hours of instruction (4-6 semester hours or 6-9 quarter units). You will receive an official transcript from the host university upon completion.

6-week programs: will include Spanish instruction and an orientation. Spanish instruction is for 1 week. You will not receive a transcript for these classes.