***Please note: If you want to join the batch visa process being offered to Spring 2024 students, you must turn in your UAbroad application by September 15th***

Students choose 12 units of direct UA credit from the following courses: 
*Completion of SPAN 251 is required for this program

Alcalá de Henares, Spain

Alcalá de Henares is the birthplace of Cervantes, the epitome of Spanish and Modern Literature. Many other masters of Spanish Literature such as Lope de Vega, Nebrija, Juan de la Cruz and Quevedo studied and taught here. It is a historic city, dating back to the Roman city of Complutum. It was later named Alcalá, or "fortress," by the Arabs whose wall still stands. The 16th century churches have turned into restaurants and the 17th century convents now house the Law School and College of Economics. 

With a population of 170,000 people, Alcalá is a very comfortable and walkable city. Living in Alcalá’s pleasant surroundings, with the school just a walk from your accommodations, allows for a relaxing daily schedule. The friendly and peaceful atmosphere of the city, its beautiful Spanish Renaissance architecture and the hospitality of the local Alcalaínos create the perfect environment for immersing yourself in the Spanish language and culture.

Alcalá is located in the center of Spain, a short distance from the great metropolitan capital, Madrid. With easy access to bus, train and airplanes, the location offers the opportunity to travel and experience more of this great country.

Good to Know:

LGBTQ+ Equality Index rating: Spain rates 80/100 (with 100 being the most equal) on Equaldex’s LGBTQ+ Equality Index.

Global Peace Index rating: Spain ranks 32/163 in the Global Peace Index. The lower the score, the more peaceful the country.

Languages spoken: Castilian Spanish 74% (official nationwide); Catalan 17%, Galician 7%, Basque 2% (each official regionally)

Participating in the the Alcalá de Henares program provides a perfect opportunity to practice and expand on one's Spanish language skills. Living with a local family, or homestay, provides not only language practice, but a true immersion into the life and culture of the Spanish people. Additionally, you can expect many of your meals to be prepared by la Señora de la casa. Students with special dietary needs may incur a nominal fee payable upon arrival to host institution. Please note, participants are required to utilize the housing provided by the program.

UA Dept of Spanish and Portuguese Alcalá de Henares program page

Universidad de Alcalá - YouTube

Alcalá Academic Program Site

Spring 2023 Calendar

Hear experiences from an Arizona in Alcalá de Henares Alumni!

College of Humanities Scholarships

UA Study Abroad Scholarships

Gilman Scholarship (for Pell Grant recipients)

Fund for Education Abroad