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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Hispanic Studies
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Location
Valencia
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Host University
Universitat de València
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Term
Summer 1 2025
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Program Dates
May 22, 2025 - Jun 28, 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
90 Contact Hours
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Eligibility
2.50 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$5,550
- This session is closed and is no longer accepting applications.
Study Abroad Program Description
With content course offerings exclusively at the advanced level of Spanish in art, culture, history, and literature, this program is perfect for students looking to enhance their Spanish skills. All classes are taught in Spanish by host university faculty at the Universitat de València and will be taken with other ISA students.
Veritas Christian Study Abroad in Valencia
Veritas Christian Study Abroad enhances the traditional WorldStrides program by adding comprehensive Christian support through mentorship, ministry service opportunities, and faith-centered academics. Visit the Veritas webpage for more information.
*Eligibility
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
For Summer 2, Fall, and Academic Year: 4 college semesters of Spanish
For Summer 1: 2 college semesters of Spanish for the Intermediate courses and 4 college semesters of Spanish for the Advanced courses
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.
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.
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.
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
90
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
6
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
9
Academic Information
Course Availability
- The course list below indicates the proposed courses for the upcoming semester. The host university has not yet confirmed the current course list at this time. This site will be updated once ISA receives the updated list of courses, along with a note notifying students of the change.
- Availability of courses is based on enrollment numbers. All students should seek pre-approval for alternate courses in the event of last minute class cancellations.
Language Level Requirement
- Students must have completed at least 2 semesters of college-level Spanish or the equivalent to be accepted into the program.
Course Selection
- Courses and course hours of instructions are subject to change.
- Requests for sample syllabi can be made to the ISA Valencia Program Manager.
Course Credit
- Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
Transcripts
- The transcript from the Universitat de València will reflect recommended U.S. semester credits. The ISA Cover Letter that will accompany your transcript will reflect the contact hours for each course. Please be in touch with your U.S. university regarding transfer credit for this program.
Courses
select allclear all
Course Disclaimer
- Availability of courses is based on enrollment numbers. All students should seek pre-approval for alternate courses in the event of last minute class cancellations
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating your questions about 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.
VALENCIA TEAM
Manuel Gutierrez
Resident Director, Spain
Manuel Gutierrez
Resident Director
Manuel "Manu" Gutiérrez Olavarría began working with ISA in 2001 as a Resident Dirctor in several ISA sites: Sevilla, Santander, Barcelona, and is now in Valencia. Manu enjoys being surrounded by different cultures and believes this aspect of the job is the most rewarding.
Julia Simó
Student Services Coordinator, Spain
Julia Simó
Student Services Coordinator
Julia was born and raised in Valencia, Spain. She studied Audiovisual Communication and has always been fascinated by cinema, as it allows her to travel to different countries, cultures, and times without ever leaving her seat. She loves cycling and uses her bike to get everywhere, embracing the freedom it gives her to explore her city. She thrives in the sunshine but also finds beauty in gray, rainy days. She lived in Utrecht, Netherlands, where she connected with an international community and made friends from all over the world. This experience broadened her perspective and deepened her appreciation for cultural diversity. In her free time, she enjoys discovering new films, spending time with friends, and soaking up the outdoors. She believes in the power of stories to connect people and inspire understanding.
María Vilar
Student Services Coordinator, Spain
María Vilar
Student Services Coordinator
Francesco Pomponio
Cultural Activities Coordinator, Spain
Francesco Pomponio
Cultural Activities Coordinator
Resources
Access & 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.
ISA Student 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.
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
Studying abroad in Spain gives you the opportunity to experience various aspects of the Spanish culture you wouldn't otherwise have. Depending on your housing option, you will either be within walking distance to your university or conveniently located near public transit routes. Travel times to the various university buildings (with the exception of the Residencia to the UCV and FSU) generally range between 15 and 40 minutes will be contingent 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 preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Apartment
Apartments are a great housing option if you are seeking complete independence during your time abroad. Apartments are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and availability is limited. Rent and utilities are included in the program price, and each apartment is fully furnished. Apartments, spread throughout the city, typically house three-five ISA students, with shared room occupancy. Meals and laundry service are not included.
In this ISA housing option, you will pay a $300 security deposit. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Homestay
Host families are a great choice 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 situation. Homestays will provide three meals a day and laundry service once a week. You will typically share a room with another ISA student of the same legal gender. Single rooms may be available for an additional fee.
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
Barcelona
During the weekend that you will be in Barcelona, Spain's most cosmopolitan city and one of Europe's top destinations for tourism, culture and commerce, you will explore the medieval part of Barcelona such as the Gothic Quarter and the bohemian El Born district, as well as the emblematic monuments such as Park Güell, Casa Batilló, and La Sagrada Familia.
Barcelona
During the weekend that you will be in Barcelona, Spain's most cosmopolitan city and one of Europe's top destinations for tourism, culture and commerce, you will explore the medieval part of Barcelona such as the Gothic Quarter and the bohemian El Born district, as well as the emblematic monuments such as Park Güell, Casa Batilló, and La Sagrada Familia.
La Albufera & Gandia
Albufera Natural Park is one of the most representative and valuable wetlands nature preserves of Valencia and, more generally, of the Mediterranean coastal region. You will get to explore the Albufera Natural Park by going to El Palmar Island and riding a boat across the lagoon while gaining a better understanding of the park’s ecosystem and admire the typical Albufera houses, or barracas.
After this you will enjoy the Mediterranean Sea: sailing, windsurfing or kayaking in the Gandía Beach with your ISA resident staff.
La Albufera & Gandia
Albufera Natural Park is one of the most representative and valuable wetlands nature preserves of Valencia and, more generally, of the Mediterranean coastal region. You will get to explore the Albufera Natural Park by going to El Palmar Island and riding a boat across the lagoon while gaining a better understanding of the park’s ecosystem and admire the typical Albufera houses, or barracas.
After this you will enjoy the Mediterranean Sea: sailing, windsurfing or kayaking in the Gandía Beach with your ISA resident staff.
Cultural activities in Valencia
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Valencia. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Valencia special.
These activities vary each term, but previous offerings have included tours of local museums such as the Oceanografic Valencia and the Museo Fallero, and a Farm to the table paella cooking experience where students went to a local rice farm to see how ingredients for paella are produced before participating in a paella cooking course.
Cultural activities in Valencia
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Valencia. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Valencia special.
These activities vary each term, but previous offerings have included tours of local museums such as the Oceanografic Valencia and the Museo Fallero, and a Farm to the table paella cooking experience where students went to a local rice farm to see how ingredients for paella are produced before participating in a paella cooking course.