GoAbroad

Spanish Language, Art History, History, Communication Madrid

by: Santa Barbara City College

5 (6)VerifiedSince 1944

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Spain through this dynamic study abroad program based in Madrid. The program blends academic rigor with unforgettable cultural experiences. Explore Madrid’s world-renowned museums, historic neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks as you deepen your understanding of Spain’s past and present. Whether you’re studying masterpieces in the Prado, tracing the city’s royal history, practicing Spanish in everyday settings, or examining global communication in a European context, Madrid becomes your classroom. With guided excursions to the city’s greatest sights and engagement with local culture, students gain both academic insight and a rich, immersive international experience. This program is ideal for those seeking intellectual growth, cultural exploration, and the excitement of life in one of Europe’s most inspiring capitals.

Program Highlights

Participate in weekly programs of free and subsidized cultural activities such as walking tours, cooking classes, sports fixtures, concerts, and film nights.

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Segovia, including city tour and entrance to the Alcazar.

Experience a full-day excursion to Toledo, city tour and entrance to the Cathedral, Church of Santo Tomé, and Santa Maria la Blanca

Take part on a local area walking tour covering housing and classroom location and local amenities.

Discover workshops with local staff about life in Madrid and the differences the students will encounter.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Madrid, Spain
Starts At: $600-900
Availability
Year(s) Offered: 2027Terms Available:
  • Spring
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Subjects & Courses:
  • Art History
  • Communications
  • History
  • Spanish
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • American
See all program details
Last Updated: May 12, 2026

Awards

IIESanta Barbara RecognitionState of CaliforniaGilman Scholarship Greatest GrowthTop Producer

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

5

Total Reviews

6

I'm Grateful for Every One of Them

April 19, 2026by: Marlowe Sutton
5

we quickly became one big family. We laugh and argue just like every family does, but I’m very thankful for everyone, particularly my roommates; they shaped this experience for me. I feel that every person has taught me a lesson I needed to learn before going home and I appreciate all of them.

Jon Made Learning Feel Like Living

April 18, 2026by: Sable Whitmore
5

Every Thursday in Jon’s class, we would either explore a new district in Madrid or visit a museum. He made our class feel like it wasn’t even a class. We were learning but we weren’t sitting at our desks, reading from textbooks. We were out in the city, seeing for ourselves the history that we were learning about.

I'm Going Home Happier and More Myself

April 11, 2026by: Jalen Frey
5

Every teacher, friend, and coworker has made this experience for me. I have made unforgettable memories and I know I am going home a much happier and more mature person than I was coming here.

Madrid Made Me Want to Speak Every Language

January 17, 2026by: Arden Cole
5

I was planning on minoring in Spanish before I came here, but now I am definitely set on becoming fluent. I have met so many people here who speak 3, 4 even 5 languages and it has really inspired me.

Madrid Exceeded Every Expectation

January 14, 2026by: Cypress Vann
5

All of the students and I have agreed that we are enjoying Madrid. There is so much to do and see, and we all appreciate the cultural differences here. The food is even better than I expected and the city is always so full of life, even late at night. Every day is a learning experience, and I am so grateful for this opportunity

Madrid as a Home Base

January 08, 2026by: Briar Langley
5

So far I’ve traveled to Toledo, Barcelona, Seville, Tangier Morocco, and Lagos, Portugal. Next weekend I’m planning a trip to Valencia for one night, and then my classmates and I are going to Ibiza for Halloween.

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Madrid, Spain

Types and Subjects

  • Subjects & Courses
  • Art History
  • Communications
  • History
  • Spanish

Availability

Years Offered: 2027

Terms Available:
  • Spring

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

Nationalities:
  • American

Starts At

$600-900

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Wifi Costs
  • Medical / Accident Insurance
  • Welcome Dinner
  • Public Transportation Pass
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Academic Advising
  • Financial Aid Counseling
  • Emergency Support

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • University Freshman (1st Year)
    • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
    • University Junior (3rd Year)
    • University Senior (4th Year)
    • Some college credit, no degree
    • Trade/technical/vocational training
    • Associate degree
    • Bachelor’s degree
    • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
    • Some high school, no diploma
    • Grade school to 8th grade
    • High School 5th Year or More
    • High School Senior (4th Year)

    Application Procedures

    • In-Person Interview when Feasible
    • Transcript
    • Online Application
    • Disciplinary Clearance Form

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is there a major requirement?

    No, our programs have neither a major nor a language requirement.

    I'm not an SBCC student. Can I still apply?

    Yes, anyone meeting the minimum requirements can apply for our programs. You must be 18 years old when the program starts, have a minimum 2.0 (college level) GPA, have completed 6 college-level units by the start of the program, and successfully compl

    Are the classes on the program transferable?

    Courses on our programs are UC and CSU transferable. Some exceptions apply. Review program Details.

    Do I have to pay when I apply?

    No, you don't pay anything up front. You will be required to make a non-refundable deposit to secure your seat after you have been accepted into the program. This is your first payment and part of your program cost.

    Related Programs

    Browse programs you might like