** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.
Your Open Campus Block in Madrid places you in a capital known for its rich artistic heritage, lively atmosphere, and strong sense of tradition, while allowing you to design an experience that aligns with your academic interests and personal goals. You’ll enroll in CIEE courses and online courses taught through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Through co-curricular and extracurricular experiences, you might explore renowned museums like the Prado, spend time in bustling plazas such as Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, and experience the city’s food culture through traditional markets like Mercado de San Miguel and neighborhood tapas spots. Madrid invites you into a rhythm shaped by late nights, social energy, and a deep appreciation for art, food, and everyday connection.
Unique Experiences
Catch a football game
where you can cheer on Madrid’s legendary international football team
Visit the Prado
and explore one of the world’s most renowned art collections
Madrid is Spain’s vibrant, cultural capital, offering an inspiring environment for students of all disciplines. Spend 6-, 12-, or 18-weeks exploring Madrid’s world-class museums, thriving arts scene, and historic landmarks like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. Whether you’re studying business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Madrid is the perfect place to study abroad.
Housing
CIEE Madrid offers diverse housing options to maximize your study abroad experience, including homestays, student residence halls, or shared apartments. Housing is typically situated in well-connected residential neighborhoods or nearby suburbs outside the city center with access to public transportation, local shops, and daily amenities, allowing students to experience everyday life in one of Europe’s largest capital cities. All housing options are located near supermarkets, restaurants, gyms, and public transport and provide the convenience of urban living.
Unmatched Flexibility: Spend one, two, or three consecutive 6-week blocks in the same host city or travel between cities for a comparative cultural experience.
Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE courses and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
Community Impact Initiative: Get involved with local organizations through service opportunities that address real community needs while building cross-cultural connections and hands-on experience.
Academic Projects: Enroll in an optional for-credit academic project that aligns with your goals, qualifications, resume, and availability of placements.
Activities
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Madrid will open doors for you to explore Spain's rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.
Samples of excursions and activities:
Explore beyond Madrid with day trips to the medieval city of Toledo or other UNESCO World Heritage cities such as Alcalá de Henares
Take visits to popular neighborhoods in Lavapiés, Malasaña, or La Latina
Go kayaking, snow walking, or hiking in the outskirts of Madrid city
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Academics
CIEE Madrid: Study in the historic center of Spain’s capital near Puerta de Sol, conveniently located near shops, cafés, tapas bars, theaters, museums, copy centers, and metro stations. CIEE Madrid features five classrooms, a student lounge, an academic advising office, and a student life office.
Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
View CIEE's program page for additional academic information, eligibility requirements, and courses.
Internships
Madrid's work scene spans sustainability, NGOs, tourism, and education. Growing coworking spaces cater to freelancers and remote workers. While Spanish dominates, some companies operate in English. The city blends traditional Spanish culture with modern business practices, balancing professionalism and a relaxed vibe.
Industry options include:
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications
Business Management and Administration
1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!
GAIN Travel Grants - Up to $1,500 toward travel costs guaranteed to students with a FAFSA SAI of $10,000 or less. Higher should still apply!
Gilman Go Global Grants - Up to $2,500/semester, $1,500/quarter, and $1,000 guaranteed to Benjamin A Gilman International Scholarship applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships - Up to $2,500/semester, $1,500/quarter, and $750/summer awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.
Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.