The Spanish Studies facilitates a true cross-cultural exchange by inviting students to expand their world-view through intense immersion of the culture. With a strong dedication to academic integrity and an emphasis on the personal growth of the student, Spanish Studies has developed a reputation for the superior quality and value of its programs. Some features of the program include:

• U.S. compatible curriculum
• Native Spanish professors
• All classes taught in Spanish
• Average class size of 10-12 students
• On-site Resident Director & staff
• Internships
• All-inclusive day & overnight study trips
• Weekends for independent travel
• Intercambios with native speakers

UA was founded in 1979 to carry on the traditions of the University of Orihuela (1545-1834). As the fastest growing university in Spain, with an enrollment of 33,000, the UA is dedicated to its mission to cultivate students' academic and professional skills, while developing critical thinking and social sensitivity.

Visit the Universidad de Alicante website

Summer Term Course Descriptions

Since the Alicante, Spain, summer abroad program does not occur during the regular academic year, Federal, State, and SMU institutional aid may not be applied to the program's costs.

Costs Include:

    Tuition
    Double occupancy room & full board
    Laundry
    Overnight & local study visits & cultural activities
    Orientation
    Health Insurance
    Computer access & high-speed internet access
    Spanish Studies transcript
    Support of onsite staff

Scholarship Information

CC-CS has a scholarship program that is open to all participants. Award recipients are chosen based on the submission of an original essay in Spanish, an essay in English and a faculty recommendation. Students may receive awards up to $2,500.

Scholarship Program Instructions

Students should research the details of non-SMU scholarships for applicability and see the Director of Study Abroad for other scholarship and grant opportunities.

Click here for Program Dates

Click here for Application Deadlines

Apply online to the Spanish Studies Abroad. Complete the Saint Mary's required paperwork, application may be picked up in the Study Abroad Office, Saint Mary’s Hall, Room 136.

Acceptance is contingent on a thorough review of the student's application and subsequent approval from Spanish Studies. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. Spanish Studies recommends that you apply as early as possible to allow more time for pre-departure arrangements.

1.  Obtain a passport. Submit a copy of the first page to the Study Abroad Office.
2.  Attend all orientation sessions.
3.  Arrange travel plans. Submit a copy of your flight itinerary to the Study Abroad Office.
4.  Purchase the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for $25 in the Study Abroad Office.
5.  Review the health information provided to you.

Alicante, the jewel of the Costa Blanca with beaches stretched along the Mediterranean, is a harbor city that is both rich in history and pleasantly relaxed. The city’s long promenades and endless white beaches have long been guarded by the Castle of Santa Barbara on top of the Benacantil Mountain.

Learn more about the culture of Alicante

Climate
Alicante to the city of Valencia is a humid region, making the weather generally less pleasant than the southern coast. However, the climate is fairly temperate year-round, with ideal conditions in fall and spring. The summer brings an influx of tourists to the coast, especially affecting a smaller town like Alicante.

Time
When Central Standard Time is in effect in the United States, Spain is seven hours ahead.

Currency
The currency in Spain is the Euro. Euro bank notes come in the following denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Coins are in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 1 euro and 2 euro.

More Information

• Alicante City Guide
• Alicante, Spain
• Consulate General of Spain in Chicago
• Embassy of the United States Spain
• Spain Adventure
• US Department of State Consular Information Sheet Spain