Programs : Brochure

This page is the brochure for your selected program. You can view the provided information for this program on this page and click on the available buttons for additional options.

Locations: Madrid, Spain
Program Terms: Fall, Semester, Spring
Homepage: Click to visit
Program Sponsor: Expanish

Fact Sheet:

Fact Sheet:
Click here for a definition of this term Language of Instruction:	English, Spanish	Click here for a definition of this term Class Status:	1-first year, 2-sophomore, 3-junior, 4-senior, 5-grad student, 6-other
Housing Options:	Apartment (shared), Dormitory, Homestay	Click here for a definition of this term Areas of Study:	Advertising & Design, Anthropology, Architectural History, Art, Business Administration, Communication Design, Culture, Environmental Studies, European Studies, Fashion Design, Gastronomy, Global Studies, Humanities, Iberian Studies, Other Language & Literature, Political Science, Public Policy, Spanish, Sustainability, Urban Design, Urban Studies
Program Type:	Study Abroad	Minimum GPA:	2.5

Program Description:

Madrid, Spain · Semester Program

Your semester starts here.

Live, study, and think like a Madrileño for 16 weeks. Take real university courses at Universidad Nebrija, tackle Madrid's biggest urban challenges as your classroom, and come home fluent in more than just Spanish.

Apply Now Explore the Program

Program

Global Sustainable City

Terms

Spring & Fall

Dates

Feb–May / Mid Sept–Mid Dec

Credits

12–15 US

Duration

16 Weeks

See exact application deadlines and fees on our Dates & Fees page.

A Semester in Madrid

Madrid becomes your classroom.

On this semester program, you'll examine how global cities respond to today's most pressing challenges: sustainability, urban development, policy, and innovation, all while living and studying in Spain's capital. Courses are delivered through a hybrid model at the Expanish Study Center and our partner university, Universidad Nebrija, blending international perspectives with local academic expertise. Classroom learning is reinforced through site visits, guest speakers, and applied projects that connect sustainability theory to real-world urban practice.

Madrid Beyond the Classroom

Faculty-led activities, cultural visits, and neighborhood exploration connect you directly to how sustainability, culture, policy, and daily life intersect in one of Europe's most influential capitals.

Study Like a Local

Take select courses at Universidad Nebrija, studying alongside Spanish and international students while experiencing Spain's higher education system firsthand.

Tailor It to You

Built for students interested in sustainability, urban studies, international relations, public policy, business, or social sciences. The interdisciplinary structure follows your academic goals.

Build Real Skills

Collaborative projects and engagement with Madrid's institutions sharpen cross-cultural communication and a global perspective that outlasts the semester.

Your Courses Abroad

Academic Breakdown

During your semester in Madrid, you'll take 4–5 courses, earning a total of 12–15 U.S. semester credits, split between a local university and Expanish.

12–15

Total US Credits

4–5

Courses per Semester

Mon–Thu

Class Days

Weeks, Long Weekends Free

Expanish Courses Universidad Nebrija Courses Program Requirements

6–9 U.S. credits come from Spanish language and/or content courses at Expanish, taught in Spanish or as English-taught content courses depending on level and interest.

Spanish language courses from elementary through advanced levels
English-taught content courses connected to the program theme
Small class sizes with dedicated language faculty
Explore classes on our program page here.

6 U.S. credits come from courses at Universidad Nebrija, Madrid's private local university partner, all taught in English.

Study alongside Spanish and international degree-seeking students
Coursework centered on sustainability, governance, and urban development
Full course list available in the Nebrija academic year catalog

Explore Nebrija Courses

Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors in good academic standing
No prior Spanish required, placement testing determines your language course level
Full-time enrollment across Expanish and Nebrija coursework required
Official transcripts issued for all coursework completed

Sample weekly schedule for Madrid semester students

Schedules vary for each student and each semester. This is an example schedule.

Studying at Our Madrid Study Center

A campus in the heart of the city.

Located in the heart of Madrid, our Expanish Study Center provides modern facilities, passionate instructors, and a strong support network. You'll join a diverse international community, balancing academic excellence with meaningful cultural exchange.

International Student Body

Our Madrid campus hosts students from around the world, giving you the chance to connect with Spanish culture and with the world.

Centrally Located

Our school is in the heart of Madrid, walking distance from the best parks, museums, and restaurants.

Cultural Events

We host 3-4 weekly school events where you'll meet new friends and cultural traditions daily.

Watch: Study Spanish in Madrid and discover the best student activities

Where You'll Live

Housing in Madrid

Explore your housing options below. Every option is walkable or well connected to the Study Center. For detailed program fee information by housing type, visit our Madrid Semester program page.

Homestay

Single or double rooms
Shared bathroom (private option available)
Half-board: breakfast and dinner included
Bed linens, towels, and weekly cleaning included
20–35 min average commute, safe neighborhoods

Student Residence

Double room, private ensuite bathroom
All meals included: breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner
Live with Spanish and international students
Study room, gym, pool, laundry, bike parking
35 min via subway (L2 line) from Expanish

Student Apartment

Private single bedroom (double available for pairs)
Shared bathroom, private option may be available
Self-catering with access to a shared kitchen
20–40 min average commute, safe neighborhoods

Every Stamp in Your Passport

What's Included in Your Madrid Semester

Program Essentials

Tuition
Official Transcripts
Housing
Airport Transfer Service
International Medical Insurance
Onsite Support
24/7 Emergency Response

Cultural & Social Activities

Welcome City Tour
Welcome Pack
Orientation
Welcome & Farewell Dinner
Local Dance Class
Local Cooking Class
Two Day Trips

The Little Moments Matter the Most

"Studying abroad is so much more than just traveling or taking classes in a different country. It's an experience that helps you grow, become more confident, and see things in a new way. Some of my favorite memories came from last-minute plans, spontaneous trips, or just saying yes without overthinking it."

Scandra Ortega

"I've learned a lot of self confidence, independence, and how to take care of myself in a new city."

Sarah Lanel

University of South Alabama

"From the second we landed, everything was so well organized and flowed seamlessly."

Quincy Peters

University of California, Los Angeles

"Once I started with Expanish, finding the internship was simple. The companies they chose were on point."

Mary Martinez

Student Intern

"Even when I doubted my own language skills, being at Expanish pushed me to expand my vocabulary and become more confident."

Louisa Bayburtian

Student Intern

Plan Your Semester

Dates & Fees

Term	Dates	Duration	Credits
Spring	February – May	16 Weeks	12–15
Fall	Mid September – Mid December	16 Weeks	12–15

For confirmed application deadlines and full program fees, visit our Dates & Fees page. Scholarships available: see our Financial Aid page.

Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Madrid for a semester abroad?+

Madrid offers an authentic Spanish experience with fewer tourists than Barcelona, making it ideal for language immersion. It's also Spain's capital, with rich history, museums, and a lively student scene.

Do I need prior Spanish experience to study in Madrid?+

No, our core classes are taught in English. Spanish classes are available for beginners through advanced speakers, and many courses are designed to help you improve quickly during your stay.

Is Madrid a good city for U.S. students?+

Yes, Madrid is one of Europe's largest student hubs, with a welcoming atmosphere, affordable living, and excellent public transportation.

How much does it cost to study abroad in Madrid for a semester?+

Madrid is generally more affordable than other European capitals. Costs depend on housing and lifestyle choices, see the Housing and Dates & Fees sections above for full pricing.

Can I work or intern while studying in Madrid?+

We offer a semester internship program, and many students choose academic internships as part of their semester. Ask your advisor about the Madrid Internship & Cross-Cultural Studies program.

What makes Madrid different from Barcelona for study abroad?+

Madrid offers a more traditional Spanish cultural experience, while Barcelona has a more international and coastal vibe. Both are excellent, it comes down to the kind of experience you're looking for.

Questions? We're Here.

Contacts

Study Abroad Programs Manager

Lily Judge

Applications, enrollment, and general program questions for the Madrid Semester.

lily.judge@expanish.com

Madrid Study Center

Calle de Castelló 23, 28001 Madrid, Spain

USA Phone

+1 202 600 9810

General Inquiries

expanish.com/contact-spanish-school

Programs : Brochure

Expanish: Global Sustainable City (Semester) Madrid (Directory Program)

Your semester starts here.