Discover Barcelona Through CEA CAPA Education Abroad Programs

Barcelona, Spain’s second-largest city, is a diverse and welcoming destination known for its laidback lifestyle. CEA CAPA Education Abroad offers a variety of programs in Barcelona designed to immerse students in the local Catalan culture while providing opportunities for academic and personal growth. Whether you want to learn more about business, hone your Spanish language skills, or explore a new academic subject, Barcelona is your chance to do it, as it has something to offer for everyone. Spain’s most popular study abroad destination is overflowing with exciting opportunities to increase your knowledge and learn more about the local culture.

The CEA CAPA Barcelona Center

The CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, located in the bustling Plaza de Catalunya, places you in the heart of one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. Surrounded by the vibrant neighborhoods of Eixample, Gothic, and Born-each just minutes away on foot-the Center offers convenient access to Barcelona’s iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, and diverse culinary scene. From the famous Las Ramblas to the elegant Passeig de Gracia, you will have access to every corner of Barcelona allowing you to maximize your study abroad experience.

The Barcelona Study Center offers an interdisciplinary liberal arts education, utilizing the city as an immersive learning environment. Courses, offered in both English and Spanish, cover subjects like history, politics, culture, economics, and art. You can actively engage with Barcelona’s rich history and contemporary relevance through visits to monuments, museums, and local markets, along with unforgettable excursions to rural Spanish cities.

The dedicated onsite team provides personalized support, helping you navigate your academic and professional goals while curating cultural events and activities to enrich your time abroad. With modern facilities, including study spaces, and social areas, the Barcelona Center creates a welcoming environment for collaboration and connection.

With its dynamic setting and innovative programs, the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center delivers a transformative study abroad experience rooted in cultural exploration and academic excellence in one of Spain’s most iconic cities.

Read also: Studying Abroad with CEA CAPA

Academics and Coursework

The CEA CAPA Barcelona Center’s diverse curriculum allows you to choose the liberal arts and social sciences courses that best meet your interests. Elective courses are taught in English or Spanish, making this program appropriate for all levels of Spanish language ability. Your courses allow you to gain insight into the history and society of Spain through active engagement with the host city and its people, institutions, and culture. Instructors use the city of Barcelona as an extended classroom, encouraging you to draw connections between your personal observations and the related topics addressed in class.

Courses taught at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center have been designed in conjunction with, and approved by, the University of New Haven (UNH). In addition, faculty appointments have been approved by UNH. After the successful completion of a session at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, you will receive credit for your work from UNH. Located in Connecticut, the University of New Haven is a student-focused, comprehensive university that’s fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The agreement between CEA CAPA and UNH follows the highest standards of good practice in education abroad and satisfies the rigorous requirements of the University's institutional accreditor, making credits earned at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center easily transferable to US-accredited institutions. Professors at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center carefully evaluate students' work and progress throughout their academic session.

Classes meet daily, Monday - Thursday. The maximum class size is 15 students for language courses and 25 students for electives. You’ll enroll in 1 CEA CAPA core course, and 3-4 CEA CAPA courses. Courses meet for 45 contact hours/3 credits. Core and elective courses meet twice per week, Monday-Thursday. Prior to departure, you will select your preferred courses and take an online language placement exam. You will be enrolled into courses based on their availability. It is in your best interest to have multiple alternative courses approved by your home university prior to your departure due to course availabilities. If you choose to take a Spanish language or elective course, to ensure that you receive credit for the language level you place into, have your home university pre-approve courses at several levels before you leave for Spain. Please consult with your academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines. The following courses have been confirmed for this term.

CEA CAPA partners with some of Spain’s best universities, including the University of Barcelona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, University of Vic, ESADE Business School, CETT-University of Barcelona, and Pompeu Fabra University. You can study at one of these prestigious institutions, at CEA CAPA’s Barcelona Center - located in the heart of the city, or experience both with a hybrid learning program.

Housing Options

CEA CAPA Barcelona students enjoy vibrant city-living apartments as their standard housing option. Perfect for students who want to immerse themselves in local life. Picture yourself strolling past some of Barcelona's most stunning landmarks on your way to and from your Spanish home.

Read also: CEA CAPA Internship Program

Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term.

Shared Double Room in an Apartment

Ideal for easygoing students who prefer sharing a bedroom with one CEA CAPA peer. Apartments are shared with 3-10 peers in other rooms. Beware rooms vary in size, styles, storage, location, extra amenities, age, etc. A/C bedrooms only guarantee A/C units or vents are within the room.

Shared Double Room includes:

Shared kitchen with basic utensils
Bathroom co-ed shared with max.

This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length.

Private Room in an Apartment

Most apartments combine single and double rooms, making them ideal for students who prefer a single bedroom within a shared apartment. Apartments are shared with 3-10 peers in other rooms. Beware rooms vary in size, styles, storage, location, extra amenities, age, etc. A/C bedrooms only guarantee A/C units or vents are within the room. A/C choices are not guaranteed. Note if you choose to live with friends, they must also select A/C.

Private Room includes:

Shared kitchen with basic utensils
Bathroom co-ed shared with max.

This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length.

Single Room in a High-Comfort Apartment

Ideal for students seeking high-comfort apartments and shared living. Stay in an A/C single room within stylish, fully furnished units featuring Wi-Fi, modern kitchens, and cozy common areas. Enjoy rooftop views, a pool, BBQ zone, gym, and movie lounge. Located just 15 minutes on foot from the Barcelona Study Center. Includes one basic linen set, washing machine, and shared kitchen with utensils.

Shared kitchen with basic utensils
Co-ed shared bathroom (max.

This housing option carries a supplemental fee that may vary based on inclusions (e.g., meals, amenities) and program length.

Residence with Local and International Students

If you're looking to experience university life abroad with added perks, upgrade to a Barcelona residence shared exclusively with local and international students. Residences feature front desk service, a gym, study rooms, and in some cases (though not guaranteed for all options), extra communal spaces like a swimming pool, projection room, games room, billiards, table soccer, and more. Ideal for those seeking independence while sharing kitchen and communal spaces. Located in the vibrant Sants and Poblenou neighborhoods. Note that there is a limited number of Residences Available. If you wish to be housed with your friends, bear in mind, they will have to select the same housing option and even then, each will have an independent unit within the building. This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length.

Enhanced Residence Options

If you're seeking an enhanced university experience abroad, consider upgrading to a Barcelona residence shared exclusively with local and international students. These residences offer a variety of amenities and communal spaces, such as:

Front desk service
Gym
Study rooms
Community activities
Cinema room
Game room
Terraces
Outdoor swimming pool
Private dining rooms
Movie rooms
Coffee lounges
Complimentary weekday grab-and-go breakfast (in some locations)

These residences are ideal for those desiring greater independence while enjoying dynamic communal areas and are located in the lively San Marti district of Poblenou neighborhood or the Poblenou neighborhood. Note that there is a limited number of Residences Available. If you wish to be housed with your friends, bear in mind, they will have to select the same housing option and even then, each will have an independent unit within the building. This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on program length or housing inclusions.

Homestay

Engage in Barcelona’s vibrant Catalan culture firsthand when you live in a homestay with a local family. This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length.

Independent Housing

While CEA CAPA highly recommends that you choose one of our Barcelona housing options provided, you also have the option to arrange independent housing. Use the online housing application form to request permission for this option no later than the application closure date. You'll receive a rebate for your CEA CAPA housing payment if and when your request is approved. Rebates are not granted to students who move out of their CEA CAPA housing or who pursue independent living arrangements after the application closure date.

Excursions and Cultural Immersion

Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. From housing to excursions, our programs include a variety of inclusions to enhance your study abroad experience! in Barcelona. Below is a tentative itinerary for your program. Please note, dates and events below may change without prior notification. Note: Additional cultural activities/excursions or required course-related activities may be incorporated into your final itinerary.

CEA CAPA helped make the city feel comfortable by offering excursions like tickets to an FCB game, a trip to Valencia, tapas workshops and more to help us acclimate to the city with direction.

Sample Itinerary

Official Program Start Date. Students must arrive at the Josep Tarradellas on this date in order to be eligible for airport pickup.
CEA CAPA is closed for Spring Break.
Official Program End Date.

Program Costs and Inclusions

This budget contains costs that you can take to your financial aid office. Please note that all costs and charges listed below are subject to change without notice. Includes books, school supplies, art supplies, and course fees. Does not include fees or supplies for optional courses. Includes telephone, laundry, local transportation, personal necessities and upfront payments for potential doctor visits. Please note, certain locations may require deposits to secure spots in CEA organized activities and excursions (deposits are returned at the end of the program if student attends activities/excursions or cancels participation before set deadlines). Includes additional travel outside of CEA excursions.

Price Details

Included: Personalized Pre-departure Advising; Tuition & Registration; Travel Medical Insurance; On-site Orientation; Housing; Volunteer Opportunities; On-site Staff Support; Excursions and Cultural Engagement; Host Institution Services & Amenities and more.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Claim up to $500 in flight credits! Get up to $500 in flight credits or grants toward study or internship programs abroad when you apply by November 17, 2025. See our Official Rules for full details.

Student Support and Resources

CEA CAPA was incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout the entire program. The classes were fun and related to the city which I loved, and the support was 24/7. I couldn't reccomend CEA CAPA enough, they were very support and they were very supportive and made the entire experience seamless.

CEA CAPA is willing and able to assist students with learning disabilities and physical disabilities. Students are requested to disclose disabilities through the application health forms as part of their application and in discussion with their application advisor or program manager.

Through our personalized advising, CEA CAPA takes steps to understand the needs of a diversity of student identities like the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to diversity and identity training, CEA CAPA leadership engage in continuous department level project work to identify and revise policies and practices using the appropriate Justice, Equity, Diversity or Inclusion lens as a frame to reduce bias and barriers that impact students, faculty, and staff. CEA CAPA is intentional in elevating diverse student voices and providing a platform for a broad array of identities to share their experiences abroad. CEA CAPA Education Abroad offers high-quality study abroad programs and international internship opportunities for students like you.

Internships in Barcelona

My experience study abroad was amazing and a once in a lifetime experience. I was an intern at Clic Recycle as a marketing and sustainability intern, which was so educational and I learned so much from this. Being able to work in a real life non profit organization, where I was able to do tasks and be apart of projects that I want to do in my future was an overall eye opening experience.

Navigating Barcelona

Barcelona is considered one of the safest cities in the world and a great choice for students to study abroad. The streets are full of tourists and other study abroad students enjoying the city, so the risk of serious crime is very low. However, pickpocketing is something to watch out for, so using some precautions will help you to avoid incidents while studying abroad.

The area that CEA CAPA is in was perfect for students, centered in a busy area there was a plethora of shops and restaurants, as well as transportation for easy access.

Student Experiences

"I studied abroad in Barcelona in June of 2025. I had the most amazing experience due to the unique culture that I loved and miss already. I took a class on the culture, and while there was a lot of information to learn, I found it all very interesting and liked how first-hand experience in the city is integrated into the classes. I went abroad without knowing anyone else in the program, but I made lifelong friends while I was there that I am super grateful for. Barcelona is so full of life that even with the lack of sleep, I felt awake and full of energy all the time. I would recommend a longer program because a month was not long enough for me to see and experience all the amazing things that Barcelona has to offer."
"My time abroad in Barcelona was amazing!! It seriously was the best 4 months of my life, and I wouldn't change a thing. I developed a great deal of independence while abroad and learned how to navigate different cities and new cultures. I met so many students from various schools, and my roommates became some of my best friends."
"After studying in Barcelona, I look back and there is no other place I would have wanted to go! The culture and diversity was beyond imagine, making it comfortable and easy to adjust. The city was lively with unlimited attractions and activities -- from tourist attractions to simple navigation, it was perfect. CEA CAPA was also super helpful in providing opportunities to explore the city, from vineyards to Barca games."
"This program catapulted me into a new era of my life, which I would call the best one yet. My professors were so kind, helpful, and accessible. I learned so many valuable skills that I wouldn't have learned had I stayed in my American university's classes. most notably, public speaking and presentation skills."

Advice for Future Travelers

To future travelers, I recommend walking around the city with no end location in mind. I think allowing yourself to get lost and explore what feels the most interesting or entrancing to you is a great way to familiarize yourself with the city and the area you live in.

Barcelona's Allure

Barcelona-Spain’s second-largest city-features a cosmopolitan atmosphere, a temperate climate, marvelous art, and fantastic opportunities to learn. Gaze upon Antoni Gaudí’s gothic Sagrada Familia church. Enjoy delicious tapas while socializing with new friends. Experience the thrill of soccer at Europe’s largest stadium, Camp Nou.

Barcelona, Catalan’s capital and Spain's second-largest city, offers an ideal blend of historic and modern, combining Gothic charm with thriving immigrant cultures and Gaudí's quirky architecture with world-class dining and shopping.

Must-See Landmarks

Parc Güell: A whimsical park designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its colorful mosaics, serpentine benches, and organic shapes that blend seamlessly with nature.

Other CEA CAPA Locations in Spain

In addition to Barcelona, CEA CAPA offers programs in other vibrant Spanish cities:

Madrid

The CEA CAPA Madrid Center, located in a historic building in the bustling Puerta del Sol neighborhood, offers an immersive experience in one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and Gran Vía, the Center provides you with a convenient base to explore Madrid’s rich history and dynamic culture. With Retiro Park and renowned museums such as the Prado and Reina Sofía nearby, the city’s artistic and green spaces are always within reach.

The Center’s central location ensures quick access to Madrid’s extensive public transport network, connecting you to every corner of the city and beyond. From the nearby Sol metro station to major train hubs like Atocha, travel becomes seamless, whether within Madrid or across Spain and Europe. The Madrid Center faculty curate excursions beyond Madrid to other historical cities like Toledo or Segovia, both known for their medieval architecture.

Designed to foster learning and growth, the Madrid Center combines modern classrooms with comprehensive student services. Internships and cultural excursions provide complementary options to help you build career-ready skills while gaining firsthand experience in a global setting.

With a focus on academic excellence and personal support, the Madrid Center creates a vibrant community. It’s a space where education, exploration, and cultural exchange come together in the heart of Spain’s capital.

Seville

The CEA CAPA Seville Center is in the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood, offers a study abroad experience in a vibrant neighborhood with rich cultural significance. The Center itself, housed in a beautifully restored residential palace, includes student classrooms, study rooms, a lounge, and a tranquil outdoor patio and terrace, creating an inviting and supportive environment.

Located next to the picturesque Jardines de Murillo, a lush historical park, this charming setting offers you an inspiring space for learning and connection. Courses offered in both Spanish and English, allow you to pursue several disciplines including history, sociology, art, business, and more. Faculty integrate the entire city of Seville into the curriculum, with visits to iconic landmarks like the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and the oldest royal palace in Europe, Real Alcázar. Easily accessible to other areas of Spain and to Portugal, you can easily explore cities like Córdoba, Granada, Baelo Claudia, and Lisbon, Portugal.

Seville’s Santa Cruz neighborhood’s maze of narrow streets, lively plazas, and traditional whitewashed buildings provides an energizing backdrop for exploration. Through a combination of academics and cultural immersion, the CEA CAPA Seville Center will provide you with global perspectives and lifelong memories in one of Spain’s most captivating cities.

Granada

The Alhambra: The Alhambra, perched on a hilltop in Granada, Spain, is a stunning example of Moorish architecture and design. This palace and fortress complex, dating back to the 13th century, features intricate tile work, ornate stucco, and lush gardens.

Spain: A Land of Rich History and Culture

Study abroad in Spain, delving into its rich histories and diverse cultures. A former seat of empire with global influence, Spain has been an epicenter of culture, world religions, and international trade for centuries. Rich in its traditions, from tapas, and flamenco to Gothic cathedrals and art, Spain is also at the forefront of contemporary social currents, from women's soccer to sustainability, pluralism and LGBTQ+ rights to social justice. Explore the colorful fusion of cultures and long, rich history of Córdoba. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range lies the legendary city of Granada. Experience centuries of fascinating history as you navigate the cobblestone streets perched atop the seven hills of Lisbon, Portugal. This day trip allows you to experience three distinct and influential cultures as you explore the European continent's gateway to Africa.

Other Iconic Spanish Landmarks

The Cibeles Fountain in Madrid: The Cibeles Fountain in Madrid is an iconic symbol of the city, located in the bustling Plaza de Cibeles. This neoclassical fountain features the Roman goddess Cybele riding a chariot pulled by lions.
Plaza de España in Seville: Plaza de España in Seville is a magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture. Built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, it features a vast semicircular building adorned with colorful ceramic tiles representing the provinces of Spain.

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