Seville, Spain

In partnership with the International College of Seville, the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) offers a fall and spring semester programs, and a summer month-long program (link to summer page) in the beautiful city of Seville, Spain.

Summer

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:

The International College of Seville (ICS) is an independent study abroad program that provides U.S. undergraduates with a genuine academic and cultural experience in Seville, Spain. Located in a three-story Andalusian villa in the charming El Porvenir neighborhood right next to María Luisa Park, the campus serves as a student’s personal anchor in the city. Since 1982, the program has paired rigorous, U.S.-aligned coursework with vetted homestays and tuition-included excursions, including a three-day trip to Morocco. With strong local ties and a 24/7 support network, ICS empowers students to step out of the tourist bubble and truly belong in Seville.

Academics
The International College of Seville offers three distinct terms: Fall/Spring semesters (link to fall/spring), and an intensive Summer program (link to summer page). During this summer language intensive program in Seville, students take one Spanish Language course, offered in six levels: Beginning I or II (4 credits), Intermediate I or II (4 credits), Advanced I or II (3 credits), in addition to the Culture and Society of Spain (3 credits.) No previous Spanish is required. Placement test is not conducted during summer semester and placement is determined by existing college-level Spanish credit (if any).
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?
  • March 1 (Late applicants may be accepted if space is available.)
Other Important Info: (VISA, flights, etc)
  • 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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