Dance Study Abroad Programs in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona did not feel like a classroom with walls. It felt like a city that quietly taught me how to see, listen, and live differently. My study abroad experience in the summer of 2025 unfolded not through lectures alone, but through streets warmed by sunlight, conversations half-spoken in different languages, and moments of discovery that could never be scheduled. Academically, learning in Barcelona was inseparable from the city itself. Museums, plazas, and neighborhoods became extensions of the curriculum. Studying art, architecture, and urban culture while standing inside their physical context gave every concept weight and texture. Gaudí’s buildings were no longer images in a book—they were experiences shaped by light, movement, and time. History felt alive, layered into the pavement beneath my feet. Culturally, Barcelona taught me the value of ease. Life moved with intention but without urgency. Meals were slow, conversations unhurried, and public spaces designed for gathering rather than rushing through. Navigating daily life in Spanish—and occasionally Catalan—pushed me beyond comfort and into awareness. Each interaction, no matter how small, became a lesson in patience, humility, and connection. Outside of class, the city shaped my independence. I learned to trust observation over instruction, curiosity over certainty. Walking through El Born, the Gothic Quarter, and Eixample revealed how architecture influences human behavior, how design holds memories, and how cities tell stories through form and rhythm. Even the moments of uncertainty became opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Most importantly, Barcelona shifted my relationship with learning. It reminded me that education does not only happen when answers are given, but when questions are allowed to linger. Creativity, I realized, is deeply rooted in place—in how people live, gather, and respond to the world around them. Studying abroad in Barcelona in the summer of 2025 was not just an academic experience; it was a quiet reorientation of perspective. I left with sharpened interests, a deeper sense of independence, and a lasting understanding of what it means to learn with openness. Barcelona did not simply host my studies—it reshaped the way I move through the world.

Studying abroad, especially in Barcelona through this program, brought me to see a new lifestyle and part of the world I probably would ot have been able to see in any other way. The opportunity to live in another country for months on end, without having to worry about paying bills, a job, or any real-world responsibilities, is why studying abroad during college is so vital and the best time to do so. Barcelona provided me with immense opportunities to explore other countries seamlessly, as Barcelona is easily connected ot many other countries in Europe and Northern Africa. On top of that, API was extremely helpful, as they provided me with numerous opportunities to meet other students and participate in popular excursions in Barcelona that I may not have planned for myself. It was also very calming to know there was a team of people behind me who I could connect with if I had any troubles, as living in a whole new country can be so intimidating.

During my time abroad I learned more about the world, myself and what i'm capable of than ever before. This was by far the most rewarding thing I have ever done and not a day goes by where I don't miss it. Ive made the best friends I could ever ask for, had some of the best food in my life, seen the most beautiful architecture and learned so much history about other regions its amazed me. I learned how to navigate new environments all on my own in countries where English was not a first language. Ive grown so much independently and mentally from this and will take it with me in my future success! For anyone that is on the fence about going abroad I strongly encourage that you won't regret it, the worst part about abroad for me was having to leave a place that I quickly called home!

Studying in Barcelona had been a dream! I took classes in Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation, and Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. My 7 weeks in that paradise were filled with exploration, inspiration, and so much fun. From amazing people to the delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture to the colorful culture, Spain should be at the top of the must-visit countries list. My favorite activity, besides spending my day at the beach, was wandering around the city without a map and being amazed by the beauty hidden in every corner of Barcelona. Thanks to the Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage class, I learned even more about this impressive history and culture. CIS helped me through every step of adapting to studying and living in Barcelona. They planned fun events for us, such as various tours in famous parts of Barcelona, beach picnic and volleyball, wine tasting, tours to towns in Spain, and cooking classes. I stayed at Aparto Pallars, which is conveniently located near the metro station, from which you can take the metro anywhere. I'm so grateful for this experience, and I'm definitely willing to go back to Barcelona or any other program with CIS!

Studying abroad in Barcelona was one of the most enriching and transformative experiences of my life. From the vibrant culture and stunning architecture to the engaging academic environment and diverse international community, every aspect of my time in Barcelona exceeded my expectations. One of the standout features of the program was the academic structure. I enrolled in courses that not only deepened my understanding of Spanish and Catalan culture but also offered a global perspective on subjects like international history, and art. The professors were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, often integrating field trips into the curriculum. One of the most memorable academic experiences was studying the works of Gaudí in a classroom and then stepping outside to see La Sagrada Familia or Park Güell in person; it was truly a learning experience like no other. Living in Barcelona provided constant opportunities for cultural immersion. Whether it was navigating the bustling markets of La Boqueria, joining locals for a late-night tapas dinner, or strolling through the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinthine streets, every day felt like an adventure. One of my favorite parts of the experience was the emphasis on community. From new friends from around the world and local classmates, I always felt welcomed. The city’s unique blend of traditional Catalan heritage and modern European influence made it an exciting place to explore and learn from. One of the biggest advantages of studying in Barcelona was its prime location. The city itself offered countless attractions, from the breathtaking beaches to the historic Montjuïc Castle, but its proximity to other European destinations made weekend getaways effortless. I was able to travel to places like Montenegro, Switzerland, Italy, London and even the south of France, all of which further enriched my study abroad experience. Beyond academics and travel, this experience was vial in my personal growth. I became more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. Navigating a new city, learning a new language, and immersing myself in a different culture pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. The friendships I made and the lessons I learned continue to shape my perspective on the world.

I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad with CIS Abroad in Thailand during the fall of 2024, and I can confidently say that it was an experience of a lifetime. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to broaden their horizons. The on-site staff were exceptional, offering unwavering support throughout the entire journey. Their dedication truly made a difference. The cultural richness of Thailand is something I’ll never forget. Thanks to CIS Abroad, I was able to explore countless temples, enjoy local cuisine, and visit beautiful islands and vibrant cities. One of the program’s standout features is its encouragement for students to travel and immerse themselves in new experiences. The staff not only helped prepare us for academics but also ensured we felt confident navigating the country independently. This experience reshaped my perspective on the world. I had the privilege of meeting people from diverse backgrounds, which allowed me to learn and grow in ways I never expected. I also gained a sense of confidence that I didn’t know I needed, thriving in an unfamiliar environment where communication was often challenging due to language barriers. CIS Abroad goes above and beyond to support its students. From teaching about local culture to offering academic assistance (specific to Thailand), they foster an environment of growth and opportunity. Their consistent communication throughout the semester was invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend CIS Abroad. It’s more than just an academic program—it’s a transformative experience that will empower you to truly live your best life while exploring the world.

I had a once in a lifetime opportunity, living off passé de gracia and attending the universitad autónoma de Barcelona. I took a international business class as well as international marketing strategies. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and have some knowledge in French which eased my experience in the hospital due to a stomach bug of some sort after shortly first arriving to Barcelona.

Studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain did more for my personal growth and career than anything I have experienced in my life thus far. I made my very first friend there while in line at customs and since then she has not only been a constant in my life, but a reminder of how truly life changing this experience has been. A year ago I was a completely different person who couldn’t be away from home for more than two weeks and who needed a friend to go to the grocery store with her. When I went to Barcelona, I got lost on my second day trying to find a croissant and a ‘cafe con leche.’ What should have been a twenty minute walk turned into two hours of me wandering around the city. But while that was considerably aggravating and anxiety inducing then, it was only the start of the many obstacles I would face and overcome. A month after that incident I was riding the metro without using google maps, and I had memorized my walk home. I knew exactly where ‘Mercadona’ my favorite grocery store was, and I could order my morning coffee with ease. The point here, studying abroad will force you to take a giant leap outside your comfort zone, and while that leap is met with some challenges-once you land on your feet you feel more capable and confident in yourself. You will set higher goals, you will meet those goals, and you will keep going. API gave me a truly remarkable experience living in Aparto Pallars and going to school at UAB. The people I met were unforgettable and I still keep in touch with them to this day. I felt that this was the perfect balance for me because even though I was alone, I was living with students from all over the United States, so it was easy to bond over the fact that we were all strangers to Barcelona and Europe in general. We started out as tourists gushing over the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and Casa Batllo, and we ended that experience more connected to the city. We understood the significance of holidays like St. Jordi’s day or Carnival, and knew that in a place that once felt so foreign we now felt at home in. API gave us those friendships, but also gave us the opportunity to have wonderful relationships with our professors at UAB. From visiting local businesses with my International Business professor who had so much personal knowledge on the city to being immersed in the art scene of Barcelona for my art class. I was exploring the city in my free time, but API connected us with the most amazing university that understood the importance of letting us explore the Catalan culture of Barcelona, Spain during class time. There is something so confidence building about studying abroad that you will never understand unless you just go. I had never been out of the country before, had never flown on an airplane alone, and I embarked on this journey to a new, non english speaking country all by myself. The only thing I would have changed about my experience is extending it. I never felt alone with API. We had the best staff in Barcelona, I made the most amazing friends, and knew that wherever I turned someone was excited for me about the experience they were creating for us. A year ago I was about to leave for this amazing adventure, and now all I think about is going back to Barcelona, my second home.

Studying abroad was the best choice I’ve made in my life. I was anxious to to go at first and leave the United States but I took a leap of faith with my teammate. We created friendships right from the airport in Spain. Those girls we met turned out to be our roommates and our best friends for life. I still talk to my roommates from abroad to this day and that is one of the key things that made me love abroad; the people I met along the way. I created so many memories in Spain and also in all the other countries I traveled to with my roommates.

I love studying in South Korea! It was a bit of a culture shock when I arrived as this trip was a lot of firsts for me, like my first plane ride, time in an airport, and trip outside the country! The sunrises are beautiful, and the Cherry Blossom season is one of a kind. As a picky eater, Korea helped me find more foods to try and experiences I liked. If I had to do something different, I would travel more independently and get lost through exploring. The biggest advice I have is to give it a fair shot and do it. There will be moments when you'll get frustrated with not knowing what to expect, but take those in stride and be patient with yourself.

Barcelona is an amazing city. I did the program alone, not knowing anyone else in it and it was the best decision. I met amazing people and really immersed myself in the culture. I met new people from all over the world, tried new foods, learned different traditions, and saw so many beautiful scenes. Not only did I learn about art and history through courses and the city itself, but I learned how to be independent and confident in myself. I definitely came back as a changed person and gained a new perspective on life.

I was hesitant to study abroad for the first time and CIS Abroad exceeded my expectations. CIS Abroad is there to make all steps in your study abroad journey as seamless as possible. The application process is simple and straightforward, and if you have any questions they are always there to help and respond quickly. During the pre-departure meetings, and onsite orientation I knew that I was going to be okay, and this was going to be a journey I would never forget. Arriving in Florence with CIS Abroad, they truly made you feel at home, and the onsite directors were so friendly towards all of us. Without CIS Abroad there to help, my journey would not been of amazing as it was.

Studying abroad in Tokyo, Japan for a month was the most amazing time of my life. I was quite anxious to go to Japan especially since it was going to be my first time leaving the US and flying by myself, however, I received incredible and immense support from the on-site program directors. Being immersed in Japanese culture through program activities like kimono wearing, calligraphy, tea ceremony, and just interacting with locals overall was wonderful. I was able to make friendships with some Japanese students which was so nice because they showed me beautiful places and foods to try. Not only did I make become friends with Japanese students, I also became close with the other study abroad students so I often went out to explore and have tons of fun with them everyday. Waking up everyday in Japan brought so much excitement because there is so much to see and do so I NEVER felt bored. As for Seisen University, the campus I attended in Tokyo, was beautiful and quiet. It was only a short train ride and walk away from my accommodation, so maybe a 20 minute commute. However, it is on a hill so it was quite a workout to walk to campus from the train station especially with the really hot and humid weather during the summer months. Then, the teachers were great! They were really interactive, entertaining, and passionate about what they were teaching. Since it was a summer program that only lasted a month, the courses were very fast paced especially the Japanese language courses. Also, the Japanese students were super friendly and kind and I always enjoyed talking to them and eating lunch with them. It was truly fascinating learning from them and I learning from them about our lives. Overall, I definitely recommend studying abroad with Cis abroad and choosing one of their Japan programs. It was a decision that I was highly doubting before I went but after experiencing it, I have no regrets at all and am very grateful for it. It is an opportunity that I wish everyone to experience.

The School for International Studies through CIS abroad was the most perfect program for me. The program is three months long which is a little shorter than most programs however it is great for someone who is on trimesters, is nervous about getting homesick, or like myself- wants to travel for a while before their summer job starts. The academic coursework was challenging in a way that was incredibly rewarding. The professors don't give you hours of studying and homework to do because they understand that you are there to travel just as much as you are to take classes. I took several classes on the history of Spain and Barcelona and I learned more than I have from any professor or school because after learning about things like Gaudi's style of architecture we went out into the city and got a first hand experience by seeing things like casa batllo. My professors were so engaging, entertaining, and helpful, I still keep in contact with many of them today. They helped me to learn the rich and diverse history and context of the city I was living in. The CIS staff on sight at SIS was incredibly helpful in getting students involved in the Catalan culture and making us feel comfortable. It can be frustrating trying to get a hold of them before you go abroad for questions but as soon as you step foot in Barcelona the staff is ready to help out any time of the day. Whether it is a safety concern, you are sick and don't know where to go, or you are struggling in your classes the staff at CIS can help put you on the right track. The trips and activities (which are included in the cost of your tuition) are absolutely amazing and everything is paid for. My semester we went on two overnight trips, Sevilla and Zaragoza, where the food, accommodations, and planned activities were all paid for. We also went to the Dali museum, took a cooking class, and went out to dinner with our CIS mentor- all completely paid for by the initial cost of your program. This was absolutely amazing, especially for someone who wanted to experience Spain on a tight budget. As far as housing, I stayed in a shared room/ shared apartment with American students from other programs. This gave me the opportunity to get to know people outside of just the school I was studying at. The apartment I stayed in was in an amazing location and we had everything we needed (washing machine, dishes, bedding, towels). Our apartment was very close to a metro stop however most days I walked about 15 minutes to class to get to know my way around the city better. The CIS on site coordinators were available 24/7 through a cell phone in case of any emergency. I never felt unsafe in my apartment or walking around the city. I also purchased the international health insurance both through my home university and through CIS. I never thought I would need it but when I got sick while traveling outside of Spain, I was happy that I had insurance. The appointments, tests, and medication I received were completely free of charge and I visited a private travelers clinic where they spoke english and I had absolutely no wait time. Overall I think the CIS School for International Studies program in Barcelona is amazing for anyone who wants to travel a ton and get the most out of what you pay for. The only suggestion I would make is that about 2-3 times throughout the semester we had class on Friday. I had wished that our overnight trips were on the weeks where we had class on Friday because it was kind of difficult to travel out of the country on those weekends with Friday class. I ended up staying in Barcelona those weekends though which was a great decision so that I could take some time to get to know the city I was staying in and experience the weekend night life in Barna.

Costa Rica was truly the experience of a lifetime for me. As someone who is an environmental science major, this country spoke so near and dear to my heart as they are very environmentally oriented overall and really are striving to keep their forests thriving. I had the sweetest host mom, an absolutely amazing site director, great university staff and I made some of the greatest friends on my trip, not to mention the vast number of breathtaking places I got to visit during my summer in Costa Rica. I have gained such an appreciation for the Spanish language and can speak more now than I ever could before! And I truly fell in love with the Costa Rican culture - Pura Vida!

I’ve always loved travel and intercultural exchanges, but I somehow wrote off study abroad during my first year of college. When the discussion opened up again in my second year, I was apprehensive and anxious if anything was the right decision. But now I can say without hesitation that choosing to study abroad and choosing to do so with API was the right decision for me. I was initially impressed with how well API combined diverse location, university, and course options with a smooth and personalized experience. Pre-departure, I could email the program coordinator with any questions or concerns and (even when my emails probably got annoying) my program coordinator would help address any issues I had. Once in Barcelona, the on-site staff continued that personalized experience acting as our support and helping us to transition, but also by being our friends. They knew all of our names and that really made all the difference. They helped to make our transition into our new homes incredibly easy. I felt so engaged in the culture and my classes even took trips around the city to museums and neighborhoods for hands-on experiences. Our apartment with a view of the Sagrada Familia was like a dream with access to supermarkets, the metro, and a short walk or train ride to class. I preferred traveling with a third-party provider because all of API’s amenities and services were fantastic and I felt comfortable engaging with them when they offered excursions like a cooking class or weekend trips to places like Paris and Montserrat. I don’t know that I would have been able to find and take advantage of the same opportunities had I traveled without API. In all, I loved my experience with API in Barcelona and still fantasize about it. And I am happy to call Barcelona my second home (which is a lot coming from a New Yorker.)

Barcelona is a city full of life, and I am so happy I decided to spend my semester abroad there! I still have a bucket list unfinished of things to do in Barcelona and in Spain, because there is so much to see and do. I enjoyed the Mediterranean culture and cuisine, and the languages of Catalonia are fun to learn and listen to. I felt so immersed in the culture, especially living with a host family in a neighborhood of the city that was less touristy. I liked getting to know a unique area this way as well as celebrating holidays with my host family. The cost of living was very affordable, and I learned a lot about living in a country where I don't speak the main language and how to cope with it. The key to studying abroad is being open-minded! Allow yourself to take everything in without judgement or expectations. My classes were fun too, and I studied Spain and the Mediterranean culture which enhanced my overall experience. I made so many wonderful friends and saw some really beautiful places. I would recommend a full Sagrada Familia tour, hitting L'Ovella Negra as much as possible and ordering sangria, and making a trip to the insane mountains at Montserrat. I would live in Barcelona again without hesitation!

During my four months in Cusco, Peru, I was able to gain experiences and memories I never thought possible. I studied abroad with CISabroad as my program, and the support I received was amazing. Every question I had before leaving for my trip was thoroughly answered, and I felt more than prepared. While in Peru, I loved being able to take courses that were drastically different from those that are traditionally offered here in the U.S., such as Healing and Shamanism. I was able to travel all over the country and experience different ecosystems including the desert in Huacachina, the Amazon rain forest in Puerto Maldonado, the coast in Paracas, the cloud forest at Machu Picchu, and various Incan ruins throughout the country. We also hiked (all the way up to 14,000 feet!), went horseback riding, and volunteered at schools, an animal shelter and an orphanage. I think the best part about studying abroad is learning to love the culture shock and being in new situations you may never have thought you’d be in but are so glad you had the privilege to experience. Overall, studying abroad was one of the best experiences of my life.

Overall my experience with this program was excellent. My transition was very smooth and i was always comfortable and safe even when I kept questioning my decision of studying abroad on my last fall semester of college. As I am back on home university I don't regret my decision at all. This program gave experiences that you would never gain anywhere else by giving you the opportunity to engage with the community and also apply what you learned in the classroom to the outside world. It was difficult because we didn't get enough interaction with other Peruvian university student besides those that we had in our tandem session which were for students who were trying to practice there English or Spanish. Maybe it was just my group but we were pretty small with only 10 people which was nice but we lacked the ability to be more diverse in the international and national student. But if you are looking for a program that isnt too overwhelming and that gives you opportunities to interact with outside communities but also still have the ability to learn in spaces with other who are also international student this is a great program for that. I would also want to mention that besides the academics with the program you are able to go on excursions for free or for a reduced price, in my time in Cusco i got a trip to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu included in my program.

I spent Fall of 2019 studying at RMIT University in Vietnam. This was an amazing experience for my first time in an Asian country. Vietnam is a place full of culture and history. Being with the locals, going hiking, meeting interns from other countries, and meeting my closest friends is something I will never forget! The cultural experience that I had was unbeatable. School wise, my course at RMIT were not that challenging for me and structured differently than in the States. I recommend taking more classes than suggested if you want a harder course load, or use your free time to really explore Saigon, its food, and interact with the locals just as I did.