Seville, Spain

In partnership with the International College of Seville, the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) offers a semester in the beautiful city of Seville, Spain . 

Semester Abroad (Fall, Spring)

At A Glance:

Seville is the capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region. Sitting on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, Seville has a rich Moorish heritage. The streets and squares in the historic quarter provide a lively version of the culture and beauty of the region. The ornate Real Alcázar castle and grounds, built during the Moorish Almohades dynasty, was registered in 1987 by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The gothic Cathedral de Santa Mariá de la Sede is the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb, and a minaret turned bell tower, the Giraldo. The General Archive of the Indies is the world-renowned repository of rare archival documents illustrating the history of the Spanish Empire in the Americas and the Philippines. Culturally, Seville is the heart and soul of flamenco, the national dance of Spain.

Program Description:

Study at the International College of Seville (ICS), a private, independent cultural institution, recognized by the Government of Andalusia under the Spanish Education Act of 1991, and authorized by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Junta de Andalucia to offer U.S. college-level courses. The classrooms, library, tech center, study areas and administrative offices occupy a three-story Andalusian villa located in the charming neighborhood of El Porvenir, next to the beautiful María Luisa Park.
Academics

During this language intensive semester in Seville, students take one sequence of Spanish Language courses, offered in four levels: Beginning I/II/Conversation (9 credits), Intermediate I/II/Conversation (9 credits), Advanced I (3 credits), or Advanced II (3 credits), in additional to the Culture and Society of Spain (3 credits.) Depending on the Spanish sequence, students can take an additional one to three elective courses, including courses in social sciences, business and humanities. No previous Spanish is required. Placement is determined by the placement test and existing college-level Spanish credit (if any). Students with college-level, advanced Spanish proficiency can enroll in courses taught in Spanish at the University of Seville.

Accommodations

Students live with local Sevilliana families, in a single room with shared bathroom, all within walking distance of the ICS facility and downtown Seville. Host families provide 21 meals per week, including the option to request a “meal to go” when necessary. Laundry and internet access is included.

Excursions and Extra-curriculars

Included in the program are various cultural excursions of the Culture and Society of Spain, including trips to Cordoba, and Morocco. Outings include faculty-led tours of local museums, Alcazar Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, and various Sevilliana neighborhoods. Students can participate in “intercambios” to practice speaking Spanish with local students, as well as service learning opportunities around Seville. Spanish cooking lessons and flamenco classes are offered.

Eligibility
  • 18 years or older
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA (on 4.0 scale)
  • Completion of at least 12 college credits by the time of departure
  • Completion of one college writing course (commonly known as English Composition I and/or II, or its equivalent) with a grade of B or better, by the time of departure.
Dates/Fees/Deadlines - How to apply?
  • May 15 (for fall study abroad.) Late applicants may be accepted if space is available)
  • October 15 (for spring study abroad.) Late applicants are not accepted due to the student visa application process.)
Other Important Info: (VISA, flights, etc)

Due to Spanish student visa application process length and requirements, students applying for spring study abroad:

    • should have unexpired passport valid at least through November of the study abroad program year on hand by October 15th;
    • should not plan any international travel during the winter break
    • Airline flight details will be communicated upon acceptance

Additional Information

Enroll in the U.S. Dept of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://secure.login.gov/  to receive important updates about your destination. STEP is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to register planned travel abroad. Get updates about health, weather, safety, and security for your destination. Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy. Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

Travel Tips

  • Before you depart, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
  • Always keep digital and physical copies of important documents like your passport, visa, and insurance details.
  • Research the local transportation options and familiarize yourself with the best routes to your university and other key locations.

    • Health and Safety

    Stay informed about any health advisories or vaccination requirements for your destination. It’s important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation. Consider packing a travel first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Familiarize yourself with the local healthcare system and know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic at your destination.

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