High School Language Immersion Programs in Madrid

I spent two weeks of July in Barcelona with Expanish School and it was one of the best experiences of my life. In two weeks I learned a lot thanks to the teachers and the trips we did during the week and in the weekends. I got to know some amazing people that became my friends and with them I shared this magnificent experience. My host family was so lovely, they immediately made me feel comfortable and at home. Now that my experience has finished I find myself thinking about the days spent in Barcelona with Expanish. I already recommended the school to my friends because I think it is really really valid.

aswell as improving my grammar, speech and understanding in spanish, I had a great time on activitys, excursions and free time. met a lot of new people and had a lot of fun with them and interacting with others

My host family was amazing, the teacher was very nice and helpful and I could learn a lot. The activities were fun and were helping me learn more about the place and the culture. Unfortunately not many people my age were attending them but they were still very fun

We had a wonderful experience with Expanish! Communication was excellent from the time we enrolled and throughout the entire program. They were always very responsive whenever we emailed with questions, and everything was extremely well organized. The paperwork was easy to complete electronically. We dropped our 14 year old son off and picked him up in person, so we also had a chance to see the facilities and meet the staff. The facilities were clean, modern, and well maintained, and the counselors were very friendly and welcoming in person. Most importantly, our son had a great time. He attended just one week this summer and enjoyed it so much that he’s already asked to go back for three weeks next summer. I think that says it all! We would definitely recommend Expanish!

My experience with MEI was life changing. I cannot recommend them enough. The teachers are some of the best I have encountered throughout high school and university. Every destination and experience enhances the curriculum, creating an education experience like no other.

Making the decision to attend MEI Academy is hands down one of the best decisions I have made. I attended the 2018 Adventure Down Under summer session and I loved it so much I signed up for the 2019 Kingdoms and Empires group for my second semester of grade 12. During these trips I learned a lot about myself and became more independent. The other students I met on these trips are still some of my best friends and I will always cherish the times we spent together. On top of this, the teachers educate you on much more than just academics. They help you reach outside of your comfort zone and support you as you learn more about yourself and the world around you. MEI Academy immensely helped me grow as an individual and prepared me to live away from home for University. I would take this opportunity again in a heartbeat!

During grade 11, I decided to go to Asia for my spring semester with MEI and transitioned to Europe in the fall of grade 12. This ‘reverse’ big year approach set me apart from my peers, yet I found myself enjoying it just as much. I chose to apply for MEI because I was looking for deeper knowledge than what was available at my local public schools. I went into it pretty blindly, not knowing anyone, as most of the students do. My high school experience has been anything but ordinary, as I have attended four different high schools, including MEI Academy. It was during the two MEI programs, where I discovered an incomparable educational experience. The teacher’s high expectations fueled my growth as a student, thinker, and peer. Coming from an online school, I initially lacked certain public speaking skills and certain social abilities. However, the immersive and supportive environment at MEI sparked my personal transformation. I came out of my programs, not only as a more articulate individual but also as someone who can easily speak for myself and confidently form friendships with people who I might not have connected with otherwise. One aspect of the program that particularly resonates with me to this day was the structured routine of our days, which was nothing like my life at home. Waking up each day surrounded by individuals who were equally as eager to embrace the new experiences was a breath of fresh air. From daily morning workouts in constantly changing locations to reflective writing and collaborative projects, I truly would not have found this anywhere else. Unlike a conventional school setting where teacher interaction is limited to the class period, with MEI I had constant engagement with both educators and students, creating meaningful relationships that extended far beyond the classroom. Not only did my relationships extend beyond the classroom, but so did my education. MEI stands out as a transformative educational experience. Something I had never experienced in a traditional classroom, but had the opportunity to learn on my MEI program was the blend of courses with real-world application. The academic skills –from public speaking to essay writing– that were taught during my time with MEI, I continue to actively apply to all of my courses at home. These are valuable skills that will continue to allow me to prosper as I begin post-secondary education. For those who want to broaden their horizons and grow as an individual and as a student, MEI Academy is the perfect place to do that. I wholeheartedly recommend these programs for anyone who is considering it. I would not be the same without this experience.

I departed on MEI's big year in 2013/2014. Ten years later it is still a core memory and an essential aspect of my education. I continue to employ the values, experiences, and educational techniques gained during my experience in both day-to-day life, as well as professionally. I am forever grateful for my experience with MEI International Academy.

In 2019 I went to western Europe with MEI Academy and had the most amazing experience in my life! The teachers on MEI are the most caring, supportive and hands on teachers I’ve ever had. They are very invested in getting to know each individual student to insure the get the most out of their education and experience abroad. I highly recommend traveling with MEI for the most rewarding and fun experience you’ll have.

Our family sent two of our daughters with MEI Academy. One completed the International Business summer program and we were so impressed that our other daughter completed her entire Grade 12 year with MEI. The experience was outstanding! Their English and communication skills, understanding and interest of world issues, politics, human rights, history and geography all emerged from their lessons They were taught by extraordinary teachers with real passion for their subjects plus a nurturing personal style while the students were on the road. They were inspired and energized with daily exercise and learning in such unique and wonderful locations It was an exciting time for us as parents as well, as the school takes excellent care to publish photos and blogs along with carefully detailing the homework and projects the students were working on. We were able to follow along with every step of the journey. The girls have gone on to complete excellent University degrees and have found meaningful work in their lives I can't express how important this decision was for our family and how life-changing the programs were. I would highly recommend MEI Academy to anyone thinking about a travel abroad program for their students.

An amazing journey and a life-changing adventure. My son recently returned from your Fall Europe trip and he loved it and learned so much; he is so glad that he went and I loved following along with the photos posted by the teachers. The places that he saw and learned about were incredible, and the teachers excellent. I can't say enough great things about the experience from start to finish. Thank you for making these programs happen through excellent organization, extensive knowledge of your destinations, and dedication to guiding young people to grow, reflect and become independent.

In 2018 I joined many other students on the most amazing 'school trip' ever! During the Fall Semester with MEI, I travelled to Southeast Asia and Australia and I am beyond grateful for the knowledge and lifetime friendships I gained on this journey. Every day was a new adventure and the lessons we would learn were that much more engaging because we were surrounded by the history of that days' topic. Now, almost three years later, I am still in touch with many of the friends I made on that trip and we have shared so many memories since. I would recommend this trip to all students as it is a 'once in a lifetime' kind of experience that I would not trade for the world.

Last summer, I spent three weeks in Spain, and it honestly changed the way I see things. Being in a totally new place pushed me out of my comfort zone in a good way. I had to figure things out on my own, try new foods, get used to the language, and adjust to a completely different lifestyle. What I loved most was how social and laid-back everything felt. The people there really take time to enjoy life, food, and each other. I met so many kind people and learned a lot just by being present and open. That experience helped me grow more confident, independent, and open-minded. It wasn’t just a trip for me. It was a moment that helped shape who I am now. Hopefully I can go back!

Personally I found that the program was an amazing way to improve my Spanish skills while also enjoying my summer break. My language class teacher and all other staff were really friendly and always willing to help me out when I needed anything. Even though, I came to Expanish without knowing anyone it was really easy to connect with my classmates and make friends. Many of them lived in the same student residence as I did which was very convenient since we could take the train together to go to class or meet up in the lobby to do some sightseeing. Overall, I can really recommend this program!

Expanish responded to this reviewAugust 24, 2025

¡Hola, Josefine! Thank you for your comments! We are really happy to know you've enjoyed your time with us and made friends during your Young Adults program! Hope we get to see you again someday! ¡Un abrazo!

IT WAS GREAT LOVED IT MET THE BEST PEOPLE AND MET MY NOW BESTFRIEND LOVE THEM LOVE BCNㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ

Expanish responded to this reviewAugust 24, 2025

¡Hola, Tomas! We are really happy to know that you not only enjoyed your classes but also met your best friend in your Young Adults program! :) Hope we get to welcome you again in the future! ¡Un fuerte abrazo!

Not a first time my kids attend sleep away camp in Europe, Everything was great from step one. My communication with admissions was prompts, clear and informative. Cost is very low in comparison to many other places. Spanish lessons are appropriate with different levels and were challenging enough. Accomodations are wonderful, in a new dorm building with 2 person occupancy rooms and private bathroom. Kids appreciates a lot of independence with good security. Counselors were very responsive and accommodating. Kids got accustomed with subway, old city, shopping, beaches etc. After lesson hours were filled with appropriate activities that could have been a bit better timed but overall kids liked it. Made many friends and plan to join it next year! Hope there won't be changes to worse, such a huge price increase or drop in activities quality. Thanks a lot!

Expanish responded to this reviewAugust 24, 2025

¡Hola, Ekaterina! Thank you very much for your comments! We are really happy to know your kids enjoyed their time with us. We look forward to welcoming them next year in Barcelona again or in our Summer Camps in Málaga or Madrid :) ¡Un abrazo!

As a parent I would like to thank your Organization for this great program my daughter has attended this summer. She enjoyed it a lot, made new friends, experiences, have seen beautiful places and forgot about us completely LOL. I am happy for this opportunity we shared and feel lucky we trusted Expanish. I recommend this program for every teen who look forward to socializing with foreigners of the same age and wants to spend valuable time during summer, full of fun and social activities! Te deseo todo lo mejor!

Expanish responded to this reviewAugust 16, 2025

Thank you so much for such a nice comment! :) We are really happy to know that Elsa enjoyed her time with us! Hope we get to see her again in the future! ¡Un fuerte abrazo!

The only problem was that two weeks were not enough for the fun had. Amazing experience. Best people, best location. Looking forward to going again to expanish next year. Leaving the place was difficult.

Expanish responded to this reviewAugust 16, 2025

¡Que lindo comentario, Caterina! :) Thank you for your words! We are really happy to know you've enjoyed your time with us again! Hopefully we see you next year in Madrid ;) ¡Un fuerte abrazo!

Fun few weeks in Barcelona. Staff and counselors were wonderful and had a good time with other kids. Enjoyed the excursions but would have preferred seeing some famous landmarks from inside and not just outside. Food except for a handful of meals was not very good and could be improved. Accommodation was comfortable and it was fun hanging out in the common areas and around.

Expanish responded to this reviewSeptember 03, 2025

Hello Anooj, thank you for your review! We are very happy that you enjoyed your time at our summer camp in Barcelona, getting to share with students from all over the world. We appreciate this feedback. Our residence focuses on providing a healthy and diverse menu, trying to cater to international students. We understand this can be improved so all students are satisfied, and will focus on doing so for future programs. We are always looking for ways to improve and make the student's experience the best possible in our summer camps! Best regards, Expanish BCN Team

C’était une très bonne expérience, mon niveau en espagnol s’est vraiment amélioré. Mon expérience avec la famille était vraiment géniale et les activités proposées par l’école étaient vraiment bien choisies que ce soit sur le plan culturel ou historique. Merci beaucoup pour ce séjour !

Expanish responded to this reviewAugust 16, 2025

¡Muchas gracias por tus comentarios, Clément! Nos alegra mucho saber que has disfrutado tu tiempo con nosotros! Esperamos poder volver a verte algún día. ¡Un fuerte abrazo!