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Semester in Barcelona - Universitat de Barcelona

by: CIS Abroad

5 (6)VerifiedSince 2000

The Semester in Barcelona – University of Barcelona (UB) program is the perfect location for you to elevate your Spanish, study culture and politics, and discover the secrets of this captivating city. Barcelona is an intriguing mix of Spanish, Catalonian, and European culture, and you’ll immerse yourself at a level no tourist could ever achieve. There’s more good news: The UB ranks as the #1 university in Spain, so you’ll study with ace professors in a thrilling, multicultural academic environment. And did we mention the warm climate, the superb shopping, the blissful beaches, and the Gaudí architecture? Once you set foot in Barcelona, you may not want to leave.

Program Highlights

Study on a beautiful campus close to the city center.

Join a strong community of international students.

Enjoy two-day trips to places like the Dalí museum, Tarragona, or Sitges.

Choose the homestay option with a local family to truly experience traditional way of life in Barcelona.

Participate in fun social and cultural activities, including movie night, cooking classes, a flamenco show, and multiple tours and excursions.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Barcelona, Spain
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundTerms Available:
  • Fall
  • Spring
  • Trimester
  • Academic Year
Age Requirement: 18-30
Types & Subjects
Subjects & Courses:
  • Art History
  • Business
  • Culture
  • Economics
  • European Studies
  • International Business
  • International Relations
  • Political Science & Politics
  • Spanish
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • American
  • Canadian
See all program details
Last Updated: Nov 26, 2025

Awards

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2025 - Notable Mention2025 Winner - Innovative Student VideoGoAbroad Innovation Awards 2024 Winner - SustainabilityInnovative Student Video 2023 FinalistInnovative Intern Abroad Program 2023 FinalistInnovative Student Video Finalist 2022Innovative New Program – Intern Abroad Finalist 2022

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

5

Total Reviews

6

A Life-Changing Experience Abroad

September 03, 2025by: Nora Leach - United States
5

Studying abroad in Barcelona with CIS Abroad was an incredible experience that pushed me to grow personally and culturally. From exploring the city’s beautiful landmarks to participating in immersive cultural activities and traveling to other spots in Spain, every day was an adventure. I gained confidence navigating a new city, tried new foods, met people from all over the world, and fully immersed myself in a vibrant culture. This program challenged me, expanded my perspective, and created memories I’ll never forget!

The Sagrada Familia never fails to impress.When in Spain… tapas all day, every day!Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter never gets old; there is so much to see and experience!

DO IT!!!

September 14, 2024by: Isabella Zabaneh - Belize
5

I was in Barcelona in Spring 2023. I went alone, I didn’t know anyone, my Spanish was rusty and I was super nervous. The second I landed in Barcelona, my on-site director welcomed me with open arms and walked me through everything I needed to do. My 4 months abroad turned into 7. I met so many people who have all left a mark on my life. CIS and my group felt like family. Living, cooking, learning and traveling together really helped me feel comfortable. I never felt unsafe, people were patient with my Spanish and after being in a country consistently for that long, you begin to become part of it. Barcelona is now one of the many places my heart calls home. I 100%, 10/10 recommended studying abroad with CIS.

Prague - stairs to the top of the Staroměstská radnice (city hall)Rome - tour of the colosseumRomania - Corvins’ Castle

The best semester!

September 07, 2024by: Brooke Zamberlin - United States
5

Studying abroad for a semester in Barcelona was a life changing experience! I grew a significant amount as an individual and was able to fully immerse myself into the Spanish culture. CIS Abroad made this opportunity so enjoyable for me and I am so grateful!

10/10 would recommend

September 11, 2019by: Kayla Reumann - United States
5

I absolutely LOVED my time in Spain. From the people, to the food, to the city itself, Barcelona was AMAZING! CIS Abroad staff was extremely helpful with all of the pre-departure paperwork and I had no worries at all about my semester abroad. Upon arrival, the on site staff were extremely helpful in facilitating anything that I needed. In addition, the program has many fantastic excursions that really generate a love for the culture of your chosen country. I cannot more highly recommend any other experience. To this day I still talk to the friends I made while abroad in addition to my host parents on an almost daily basis. The connections I made in my semester abroad will be connections that I carry with me for a long time to come. Again, 10/10 would recommend.

CIS Abroad logo
CIS Abroad responded to this reviewOctober 25, 2019

Thank you so much for your recommendation, Kayla! We’re so glad you had such a great experience in Spain! It’s wonderful to hear that you’ve stayed in touch with your host family and the friends you made abroad. We’re also so happy to know that you had a good experience with CIS Abroad staff, and that they were helpful throughout your journey. Thanks again for your review!

Water Gardens in Sevilla, Spain

An unforgettable semester

October 21, 2016by: Alexa - United States
5

My study abroad experience with CISabroad was truly one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I was able to make lasting friendships, experience an amazing new culture, study a new language, and have a deeper appreciation for diversity. While living a block away from the Sagrada Familia, I attended class at the University of Barcelona. I was able to expand my Spanish skills while meeting other students from the United States, as well as students from all over the world. With CISabroad, I also got the opportunity to go on cultural excursions to other parts of Spain. Our CISabroad mentors were very helpful and provided us with resources so we could make the most of our time in Barcelona. I highly recommend this to anyone considering studying abroad! My semester in Barcelona was an experience I'll never forget.

Sagrada Familia

My Semester Abroad

May 19, 2015by: tessheron - United States
5

It's difficult to put into words how amazing my semester abroad was. I learned so much about the Spanish language and culture. I made friends abroad very easily and met so many amazing people. My classes were great and I enjoyed the social life in Barcelona

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Barcelona, Spain

Types and Subjects

  • Subjects & Courses
  • Art History
  • Business
  • Culture
  • Economics
  • European Studies
  • International Business
  • International Relations
  • Political Science & Politics
  • Spanish

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Terms Available:
  • Fall
  • Spring
  • Trimester
  • Academic Year

Age Requirement

18-30

Guidelines

Nationalities:
  • American
  • Canadian

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Medical / Accident Insurance
  • Welcome Dinner
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Guide / Chaperone
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Financial Aid Counseling
  • Assistance Booking Travel
  • Academic Advising
  • Transcript Fees
  • Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
  • Micro-Credential(s) / Certification(s)
  • Academic Credit
  • Emergency Support

Accommodation Options

  • Apartment/Flat
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)

    Application Procedures

    • Online Application

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