Get up to $500 in flight credits or grants toward study or internship programs abroad when you apply by March 15, 2025. See our Official Rules for full details.
Language: Spanish, Catalan
Climate: Mediterranean
Currency: Euro
Stylish. Cosmopolitan. Eccentric. There are many reasons why our study abroad program in Barcelona is CEA CAPA's most popular — explore this amazing metropolis with us! It's really the all-in-one-city where nature, culture, gastronomy, and social life meet all in the same place. Spain's second-largest city offers an ideal blend of historic and modern, combining Gothic charm with thriving immigrant cultures, Gaudí's quirky architecture with world-class dining and shopping... and some of Spain's best universities are here, too. Whether you want to study business or liberal arts, immerse in Catalan culture, or improve your Spanish skills, you'll find what you seek when you study abroad in Barcelona.
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $5,995
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $21,395
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Pompeu Fabra University
Starting at $21,395
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $21,395
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $21,595
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $7,895
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $21,395
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, CETT - University of Barcelona
Starting at $21,395
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, University of Barcelona
Starting at $5,995
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, Pompeu Fabra University
Starting at $21,395
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $5,995
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia
Starting at $21,395
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $7,595
CEA CAPA Seville Center, CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $8,295
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
Starting at $21,695
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.
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. To learn more about UNH's service as a School of Record for CEA CAPA, please contact Academics@ceacapa.com.
The following grading scale is in use for CEA CAPA center-delivered syllabi:
| DESCRIPTOR | ALPHA | NUMERIC | GPA | REQUIREMENT/EXPECTATION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding (High Distinction) |
A | 93+ | 4.0 | Maximum grade: In addition to description for grade "A-", the participant shows detailed understanding of materials about which he or she can show independent analytical ability. This means the ability to question an issue from different perspectives and evaluate responses in an objective manner. |
| Excellent (Distinction) |
A- | 90 - 92.99 | 3.7 | Participant shows understanding of literature beyond the textbook/class hand-outs/class notes, and the work shows a high level of independent thought, presents informed and insightful discussion, and demonstrates a well-developed capacity for evaluation. |
| Very good (High Credit) |
B+ | 87 - 89.99 | 3.3 | Shows evidence of a capacity to generalize from the taught content, or the material in literature, or from class lectures in an informed manner. Also, the work demonstrates a capacity to integrate personal reflection into the discussion and an appreciation of a range of different perspectives. |
| Good (Credit) |
B | 83 - 86.99 | 3.0 | The work is well-organized and contains coherent or logical argumentation and presentation. |
| Good (Credit) |
B- | 80 - 82.99 | 2.7 | Participant shows understanding of literature beyond the textbook and/or notes, and there is evidence of additional reading. |
| Average (Good Pass) |
C+ | 77 - 79.99 | 2.3 | The work demonstrates a capacity to integrate research into the discussion and a critical appreciation of a range of theoretical perspectives. Also, the work demonstrates a clear understanding of the question and its theoretical implications and demonstrates evidence of additional reading. |
| Adequate (Pass) |
C | 73 - 76.99 | 2.0 | Shows clear understanding and some insight into the material in the textbook and notes, but not beyond. A deficiency in understanding the material may be compensated by evidence of independent thought and effort related to the subject matter. |
| Below Average (Borderline Pass) |
C- | 70 - 72.99 | 1.7 | Shows some understanding of the material in the textbook and notes. A deficiency in any of the above may be compensated by evidence of independent thought related to the subject matter. |
| Inadequate (Borderline Fail) |
D+ | 67 - 69.99 | 1.3 | Fails to show a clear understanding or much insight into the material in the textbook and notes. |
| Poor (Fail) |
D | 60 - 66.99 | 1.0 | Besides the above for D+, participant has not shown interest or engagement in the class work or study. |
| Poor (Fail) |
F | <60 | 0 | Shows little or no understanding of any of the material. |
Courses at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center are transcripted by the University of New Haven (UNH), CEA CAPA’s School of Record.
The Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) was founded in 1968. Today, UAB offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctorate programs in the fields of humanities, social sciences, health sciences, experimental sciences and engineering. UAB’s links with local institutions, industry, and businesses provides students with practical experience helping them to be better prepared as they enter the professional world. More than 17% of UAB’s 50,000 students are international.
UAB encompasses several campuses; CEA CAPA students may attend classes at la Casa de Convalescencia in the city center, close to Gaudi's famous Sagrada Familia. The building was completed in 1930 and granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1997. CEA CAPA students may also attend class on the Eixample campus, located on the same metro line (and within walking distance) of the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center.
The Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree-granting institution of higher learning. Additionally, UAB is accredited through the Catalan University Quality Assurance Agency.
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona awards credits based on the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) system. CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations are based on the following conversion: 2 ECTS credits equals 1 U.S. semester credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Students receive a transcript from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona upon successful completion of the program. The transcript reflects ECTS credits and contact hours.
Founded in 1450, the University of Barcelona (UB) is the oldest and largest university in Catalonia with a student population of over 90,000. UB emphasizes international relations and has been a leading host of study abroad students for many years, welcoming 5,000 international students each year. The university awards more than 10,000 bachelor’s degrees and 450 doctorates annually.
UB operates four campuses throughout the city. Classes are instructed by university faculty through Estudios Hispánicos at both the main campus—centrally located in a 16th century building—and a secondary campus located just outside the city center and easily reached by metro or bus.
The University of Barcelona is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree-granting institution of higher learning.
The University of Barcelona utilizes a 60-minute contact hour whereas the United States higher education system utilizes a 50-minute contact hour. Recommended U.S. credits listed on CEA CAPA's website reflect a conversion of these contact hours. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Students receive a transcript from University of Barcelona upon successful completion of the program. The transcript reflects ECTS credits and contact hours.
Since it was founded in 1990, Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) has had two goals: to train responsible professionals and citizens who are committed to civic values, and to contribute to the development of research. UPF welcomes approximately 10,000 students each year, 800 of which are international, and offers coursework in three areas of knowledge: social sciences & humanities, information technology & coding, and health & life sciences. The university operates six campuses scattered around Barcelona's city center. CEA CAPA students take most classes at the campus located near Olympic Village.
Unlike most Spanish institutions, UPF follows a trimester-based academic calendar. The university prides itself on offering small class sizes, dedicated teaching staff, and advanced technological and information systems. Spanish language and elective courses for international students are instructed by university faculty in both Spanish and English through the Hispanic & European Studies Program, the Pre-Law Honors Program, and International Business. In addition, you may choose to take integrated courses in Humanities, Business, Communications, and more alongside Spanish students.
Pompeu Fabra University is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree granting institution of higher learning, and holds accreditation from EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System) and AMBA (Association for MBA programs).
Pompeu Fabra University awards credits based on the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) system. CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations are based on the following conversion: 2 ECTS credits equals 1 U.S. semester credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Students receive a transcript from Pompeu Fabra University upon successful completion of the program. The transcript reflects ECTS credits.
The University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC) is an independent, state-supported, educational institution with a distinctive international focus. UVic-UCC is committed to the economic and social development of Barcelona and Catalonia through teaching, research, and knowledge transfer. The university emphasizes multilingual training as a key to increased mobility of university students and staff, and views the study of language and culture as an excellent vehicle for gaining a wider awareness of today’s world.
UVic-UCC offers 32 bachelor’s degrees in the fields of arts, humanities, science, health sciences, social sciences, and engineering, 15 master’s degree programs, and six doctoral programs. UVic-UCC’s compliance with European directives on higher education, and the more-than 20,000 students who have put their trust in the university over the years, is testament to UVic-UCC’s dynamism, innovation, and quality. The UVic-UCC International Campus, an umbrella organization for UVic-UCC activities aimed at an international public, provides mobility and exchange programs, postgraduate courses, research programs, continuing education, and international cooperation projects.
The UVic-UCC campus is on the same metro line as the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, just a 10-minute ride away.
The University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC) is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree granting institution of higher learning.
University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia awards credits based on the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) system. CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations are based on the following conversion: 2 ECTS credits equals 1 U.S. semester credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Students receive a transcript from University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia upon successful completion of the program. The transcript reflects ECTS credits.
CETT-University of Barcelona (CETT-UB) is the University of Barcelona’s School of Tourism, Hospitality and Gastronomy. Over the past 50 years, CETT-UB has become the international gold-standard for academic excellence in the fields of tourism studies, hospitality management, and gastronomy. The school is very closely linked to the tourism, hospitality, and gastronomy industries on national and international levels, through projects, research, professors, and partnerships. All CETT-UB professors have been or are currently active in the tourism, hospitality, and gastronomy industries, bringing real world experiences and knowledge to the classroom. CETT-UB actively participates in the sustainable development of the industry through education, research, innovation, and expert knowledge.
CETT-UB offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, professional training, and continuing education for active professionals through its own educational model recognized by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). Programs are delivered in close collaboration with professors from the University of Barcelona and professional experts from the industry.
Students enjoy access to state-of-the-art classroom facilities, demonstration and training kitchens, and student-run onsite restaurant and coffee shop.
Classes are taken at the CETT-UB Campus located 25 minutes by metro from the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center.
CETT – University of Barcelona (CETT-UB) is an affiliated center of the University of Barcelona, dedicated to the education, research, and knowledge transfer in the fields of tourism, hotel management, and gastronomy. CETT-UB is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree-granting institution of higher learning.
CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations for CETT-University of Barcelona courses are based on the following conversion:15 contact hours equals 1 U.S. credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Students receive a transcript from CETT-University of Barcelona upon successful completion of the program. The transcript reflects ECTS & contact hours.
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Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You'll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we've offered in the past.
*Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.
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. 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. A/C choices are not guaranteed. Note if you choose to live with friends, they must also select A/C.
Shared Double Room
Shared Double A/C Room
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
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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. 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.
N/A
Private Room
Private A/C Room
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. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
Summer
Semester
If you're seeking an enhanced university experience abroad, consider upgrading to a Barcelona residence shared exclusively with local and international students. This residence offers front desk service, a gym, study rooms, community activities, and vibrant communal spaces such as a cinema room, game room, and terraces. It also features an outdoor swimming pool. Ideal for those desiring greater independence while enjoying dynamic communal areas. Located in the lively San Marti district of Poblenou neighborhood, the rooms are designed with a modern loft bed layout, accessible via steps, combining style with functionality. 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. The exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
If you're seeking an enhanced university experience abroad, consider upgrading to a Barcelona residence shared exclusively with local and international students. This residence offers front desk service, a gym, study rooms, community activities, and vibrant communal spaces such as private dining rooms, movie rooms, coffee lounges, and an outdoor swimming pool. It also includes a complimentary weekday grab-and-go breakfast. Ideal for those desiring greater independence while enjoying dynamic communal areas. Located in the lively 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 housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
Engage in Barcelona’s vibrant Catalan culture firsthand when you live in a homestay with a local family. For the culture-seeking type who want to live life abroad exactly as their host locals do, homestays enable students the opportunity to dive headfirst into Spanish life for an additional fee.
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
Studying abroad in Spain is a life changing event for many students. When you study abroad or intern abroad in Barcelona, you experience learning outside the traditional classroom setting, gain international experience, and expand your sense of cultural awareness. You will experience new culture, food, and meet people from all over the world making lifelong friends and expanding your network. Plus, you get to travel to places you've only read about.
