Summer Program in Spain – Common Questions
Everything students and families need to know before joining a summer program in Spain for High School Students
Understanding how a high school summer program in Spain works is an important part of planning a meaningful and enjoyable experience abroad.
Here are some of the most common questions students and families ask about accommodation, activities, safety, and daily life during the program.
Program Overview
What is the Summer Program in Spain?
The Summer Program in Spain is a short-term cultural and language immersion experience designed for high school students aged 13 to 18.
During the program, students live with carefully selected Spanish host families in Seville while taking part in a structured combination of:
- Spanish classes
- Cultural activities
- Excursions and day trips
The goal of the program is not only to improve their Spanish, but also to help them:
- experience daily life in Spain
- build confidence and independence
- make meaningful international friendships
All of this takes place in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment designed specifically for teenagers.
How long is the program?
The Summer Program in Spain runs from June 20th to July 19th, with fixed start and end dates.
This duration is carefully designed to offer the right balance between:
- language learning
- cultural immersion
- fun and social experiences
It allows students to fully adapt to their new environment, build friendships, and make the most of their time in Spain, while still being a manageable and comfortable experience for both students and families.
What ages can participate in the program?
The Summer Program in Spain is designed for high school students aged 13 to 18.
We aim to create a balanced and enjoyable environment by grouping students with others of a similar age and maturity level, helping them feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.
This age range is ideal for students who are ready to experience a new culture, gain independence, and enjoy an international summer experience in a safe and supportive setting.
Do students need to speak Spanish before joining the program?
No prior knowledge of Spanish is required to join the Summer Program in Spain.
Students are divided into different Spanish levels, ranging from complete beginners with no previous exposure to the language to more advanced speakers.
This allows every student to feel comfortable in class, progress at their own pace, and make the most of the experience regardless of their starting level.
Is the program more focused on learning or experience?
The Summer Program in Spain offers a balanced combination of learning and experience, with a strong emphasis on enjoying and living the culture.
While students attend Spanish classes adapted to their level, most of the program is designed around cultural activities, excursions, and social experiences that allow them to practice the language in a natural and engaging way.
The goal is not only academic progress, but also to help students experience Spain, build confidence, and create unforgettable memories during their time abroad.
What is a typical day like during the program?
A typical day in the Summer Program in Spain combines learning, activities, and free time, creating a balanced and dynamic experience for students.
In the morning, students usually attend Spanish classes adapted to their level, followed by lunch and some time to relax.
In the afternoon, they take part in cultural activities, sports, or workshops, such as city visits, flamenco, or outdoor activities.
Some evenings include group activities or social events, while others are spent with the host family, allowing students to experience daily life in Spain.
This structure ensures that every day is engaging, varied, and meaningful, while still leaving space to rest and enjoy the experience.
Will students be with other international students?
Yes, students will be part of an international group, although the majority of participants are typically from the United States.
Our students come from a wide range of states, including California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Texas, Massachusetts, New York, and North Carolina, among others.
Students from other countries such as Canada, Australia, or Europe are also welcome, and when they join, they become part of this international environment.
In addition, students are not only surrounded by international peers — they are also fully immersed in Spanish culture, as they spend time with their host families and their Spanish host siblings, who often join activities and excursions.
This combination creates a unique balance between international connection and real cultural immersion.
Host Families & Daily Life
How are host families selected?
Host families are carefully selected through a thorough screening process to ensure they provide a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for students.
A key aspect of our program is that many of the families we work with come directly from the schools we collaborate with. This allows us to ensure that they are well integrated into the local academic environment and have children of school age, which greatly supports the student’s experience.
Most of our host families are middle- to upper-middle-class families who live in good residential areas of Seville, with easy access to both the school and our offices.
Beyond logistics, we look for families who are genuinely interested in cultural exchange and committed to making the student feel comfortable, supported, and part of their daily life.
Do host families undergo background checks?
Yes, all our host families have their background checks fully up to date.
In Spain, it is legally required for anyone working with or hosting minors to hold an official certificate confirming the absence of criminal records related to minors. This certificate must be regularly updated.
We ensure that all our host families comply with this legal requirement, as part of our commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for every student.
Where do host families live in Seville?
Our host families live in well-connected residential areas of Seville.
In Spain, there is a strong preference for urban living, and all of our host families live in central or well-connected urban neighborhoods. This means that most families live in apartments rather than houses.
The lifestyle in Spain is also quite different. People spend a lot of time outside, walk frequently, and move around the city throughout the day. For this reason, families tend to prioritize living in central areas, often choosing location and quality of life over having a larger house or a private garden.
Seville is also considered a very safe city, with low levels of crime. Moving around the city and its neighborhoods is generally safe and easy, both on foot and using public transportation.
In addition, all of our host families live in middle- to upper-middle-class neighborhoods, which further contributes to a safe, comfortable, and high-quality living environment for our students.
These areas are lively, well connected, and allow students to easily access their school, our office, and everyday activities.
What happens if a student is having difficulties adapting to the host family environment?
It is completely normal for students to go through an adjustment period, especially during the first days or weeks.
Because we see our students on a very regular basis, we are usually able to notice very quickly if someone is feeling unhappy, struggling, or having difficulties adapting to the host family environment.
When that happens, we act fast. Our team stays in close contact with both the student and the host family to understand the situation and provide the support needed.
In many cases, small adjustments and open communication are enough for things to improve naturally. However, if a change is needed, our host family network is wide enough to allow us to find a new placement, usually in less than 5 days.
Our priority is always to make sure that every student feels comfortable, supported, and in the right environment to have a positive experience.
Do students have their own room?
Yes, students have their own private bedroom in the host family home.
In some cases, they may share a bathroom with other members of the family, such as siblings, but the bedroom itself is always private.
Having a private space is important for students to rest, study, and have time for themselves as they adapt to their new environment.
What is daily life like with a host family in Spain?
Daily life with a host family in Spain is an important part of the overall experience, as it allows students to fully immerse themselves in Spanish culture and daily routines.
Students typically follow the family’s everyday schedule, including meals, school routines, and time spent together at home. This gives them a real understanding of what everyday life in Spain is like.
At the same time, students also have their own space and independence, balancing family life with school and social activities.
Over time, many students develop close relationships with their host families, often describing them as a second family by the end of their stay.
How much independence do students have in daily life?
Students have a good level of independence in their daily life, but always within a structured and supportive environment.
They are expected to follow the basic rules and routines of the host family, such as schedules, meals, and general household norms, just as any other member of the family would.
At the same time, students are encouraged to develop autonomy, manage their time, and gradually become more independent as they adapt to their new environment.
The level of independence can vary depending on the student’s age, maturity, and the specific family, but the goal is always to find the right balance between freedom and responsibility.
Do host families speak English?
Most host families in Spain have at least a basic understanding of English, and in many cases, their children have a higher level of English than the parents.
That said, the level of English varies from family to family. Some may speak English reasonably well, while others may have very limited or no English at all.
However, regardless of their level, the general rule is that Spanish is always spoken at home. Host families do not switch to English in daily life, as the goal of the experience is full immersion.
While this can feel challenging at first, it is one of the main reasons why students improve their Spanish so quickly and gain confidence in a real-life environment.
What if a student has dietary restrictions or allergies?
We take dietary restrictions and allergies very seriously, but the level of complexity can vary greatly from one student to another.
For example, it is not the same to accommodate a student who is vegetarian, gluten-free, or allergic to nuts — which are situations more commonly managed in Spain — as it is to place a student with multiple severe allergies or a highly restrictive diet.
Because of this, each case must be evaluated individually. In some situations, finding the right host family may require a much more specific placement process and a significantly higher level of support.
Our priority is always to ensure that the student can live in a safe, realistic, and sustainable environment for everyone involved.
Can students stay with a friend?
Yes, students can request to stay with a friend during the Summer Program in Spain.
We do our best to place friends together in the same host family whenever possible, so they can share the experience while still being fully immersed in Spanish culture.
Students can also choose between:
- being the only student in the host family, for a more immersive experience
- sharing the host family with another student, creating a more social and shared experience
We always aim to create the best possible match based on each student’s preferences while maintaining a balanced and positive environment for everyone.
Experience & Activities
Are cultural trips included in the program?
Yes, cultural trips are an essential part of the Summer Program in Spain and are included in the overall experience.
Students take part in a variety of excursions and day trips to discover the culture, history, and lifestyle of southern Spain.
These may include visits to iconic cities such as Córdoba, Cádiz, or Ronda, as well as beach days and local cultural experiences.
Students also have the opportunity to visit Granada, where they typically enjoy an overnight stay as part of the program.
All trips are carefully organized and supervised, ensuring a safe, enriching, and memorable experience for every student.
What kind of activities do students do during the program?
Students take part in a wide variety of cultural, social, and recreational activities designed to make the experience both fun and meaningful.
Activities may include:
- flamenco workshops and Spanish cultural experiences
- sports activities such as paddle, kayaking, or outdoor games
- guided city visits and cultural tours
- beach days and group outings
All activities are organized to encourage students to interact, build friendships, and experience Spain in an active and engaging way.
The program is designed so that students are not just visiting Spain — they are living it.
What is student life like outside Classes?
Outside of classes, student life is dynamic, social, and fully integrated into the local culture.
Students spend time with their host families, sharing meals, conversations, and daily routines, which is one of the most valuable parts of the experience.
They also take part in afternoon activities, group outings, and social events, where they connect with other students and enjoy their time in Spain.
This balance between structured activities and personal time allows students to relax, build friendships, and truly experience everyday life in Spain.
Will students make friends easily?
Yes, students usually make friends very quickly during the Summer Program in Spain.
From the very beginning, they are surrounded by other international students of a similar age, all sharing the same experience, which naturally creates strong connections.
In addition, students have the opportunity to connect with local Spanish teenagers through their host families, especially when there are host siblings of a similar age.
We also encourage Spanish host siblings to join activities and excursions, creating even more opportunities for authentic cultural interaction.
Of course, the level of connection depends on each student’s attitude and willingness to engage, but those who make the effort often build meaningful and lasting friendships, both international and local.
How much free time do students have?
Students have a balanced amount of free time throughout the Summer Program, as we believe it is an essential part of the experience.
As specialists in working with teenagers, we understand that students need space to relax, explore, and develop independence during their time abroad.
Free time is always integrated within a well-structured and carefully supervised environment, ensuring that students can enjoy a certain level of autonomy while maintaining safety at all times.
This allows students to experience the city, spend time with friends, and gain confidence, while being supported by a team that is always present and attentive.
Travel & Logistics
Are flights included in the program?
Yes, flights are included in the program for students traveling from the United States.
The program includes round-trip flights from New York to Seville, both outbound and return, organized as a coordinated group journey.
If a student does not live in New York, they will need to arrange a domestic flight to New York, which is not included in the program fee.
For students traveling from other countries, the program price may be adjusted based on the cost of flights from their country of origin.
All international flights are carefully coordinated to ensure a smooth, safe, and well-organized travel experience for every student.
What documents do students need to travel to Spain?
The required documentation depends on the student’s nationality and length of stay.
For students coming from the United States, no visa is required, as the program duration is under 90 days. Students can travel to Spain with a valid passport.
At the moment, the ETIAS travel authorization is not yet in effect, so no additional authorization is currently needed to enter Spain.
Students from other countries may have different requirements. In some cases, a visa may be required, and we always guide each family individually depending on their nationality and travel situation.
For the international flight organized by Seville Abroad, students do not need any additional parental authorization, as they travel accompanied by one or two adult team members from Seville Abroad.
For any domestic flight within the United States, requirements may vary depending on the student’s age and the airline, so families should always check directly with the carrier in advance.
Our team provides clear guidance and support throughout the entire process to make sure all travel arrangements and documentation are correctly prepared before departure.
Do you help students with travel arrangements?
Yes, we provide full guidance and support with travel arrangements to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both students and families.
For students traveling from the United States, we organize a coordinated group departure from New York, where students travel together to Spain accompanied and supported by our team.
We also guide families on flight selection, timing, and travel logistics, making sure everything is well organized from departure to arrival.
Our goal is to make the travel process simple, safe, and well-structured, especially for students traveling internationally for the first time.
Is airport pickup included?
Yes, airport pickup is fully included as part of the Summer Program in Spain.
For students traveling from the United States, we organize a group departure from New York, and students are supported throughout the journey by our team.
Upon arrival in Seville, host families are waiting at the airport to welcome the students and take them home.
For students traveling from Europe or other international locations with direct flights to Seville, airport pickup is also arranged upon arrival.
For students coming from more distant countries such as Australia, New Zealand, or the Middle East, arrivals are often through Madrid. In these cases, a member of the Seville Abroad team travels to Madrid to personally meet the student and accompany them to Seville.
This ensures that every student is supported and accompanied from arrival to their host family, regardless of where they are traveling from.
What happens on arrival and departure day?
Arrival and departure days are carefully organized to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both students and families.
On arrival day, students are either met by our team or travel as part of the coordinated group. Upon arrival in Seville, they are welcomed by their host families at the airport and taken home.
For students arriving through Madrid, a member of the Seville Abroad team meets them and accompanies them to Seville.
On departure day, students are taken to the airport by their host families or our team, depending on the travel arrangements, ensuring they are supported until check-in.
Throughout both arrival and departure, we maintain close coordination and communication with families to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Can students travel alone to Spain?
Yes, students can travel to Spain and return home independently, depending on their age and airline policies.
For students from the United States, who represent the majority of our participants, it is possible to arrive on different dates or return separately if needed.
However, we strongly recommend traveling with the group on the coordinated flights organized by Seville Abroad.
The travel day is an important part of the experience, as students begin to connect, build friendships, and feel part of the group from the very beginning.
Traveling together also provides an additional layer of support, structure, and peace of mind for both students and families.
What happens if a student arrives earlier or leaves later?
We offer a certain level of flexibility when it comes to arrival and departure dates, as we understand that many families combine the program with travel plans in Europe.
Students may be able to arrive earlier or leave later, or join the program for a shorter period, depending on availability and prior coordination.
For students traveling from the United States, the program includes group flights from New York (outbound) and Madrid (return). These flights follow a fixed itinerary and cannot be modified to depart from or return to other cities.
If a student chooses not to use the group flights, the program fee can be adjusted accordingly. However, partial use of the group flight (only one leg) may not result in a proportional price reduction, as airline pricing does not work on a simple one-way basis.
Students traveling from other countries typically arrange their own flights and can travel independently, as long as arrival and departure details are coordinated in advance.
In all cases, we work closely with each family to find the best possible solution while maintaining the structure and organization of the program.
Safety & Support
Is Spain safe for Teenagers?
Yes, Spain is considered a very safe country for international students.
It has relatively low levels of violent crime compared to many other countries, and daily life is generally calm and secure. Students can move around, attend school, and take part in everyday activities with a high level of safety.
Spain is also a stable and peaceful country, with a long-standing tradition of social safety and everyday normality.
As in any country, basic common sense is always important, but overall Spain offers a safe and welcoming environment for young international students.
Is Seville a safe city for teenagers?
Yes, Seville is a very safe city for teenagers.
It is a welcoming and manageable city where students can move around easily, both on foot and by public transportation. Daily life is very active, with people spending a lot of time outside, which creates a lively and secure environment.
Students quickly become familiar with the city and feel comfortable navigating their surroundings, whether going to school, meeting friends, or coming to our office.
As always, basic common sense is important, but overall Seville offers a safe, friendly, and comfortable environment for young students.
Do students have medical insurance during the program?
Yes, students are covered by medical and travel insurance during the program, including medical emergencies, accidents, repatriation, and other essential assistance services.
This means that if a student becomes ill or has an accident during the program, they will receive the necessary medical attention and support.
However, the insurance is intended to cover emergencies and unexpected situations. It does not generally include routine or non-urgent specialist appointments such as dermatology, traumatology, or similar private consultations.
It is also important to understand that the Spanish healthcare system is very different from the American one. In Spain, access to healthcare is widely guaranteed, and students would always be attended if medical care were needed.
In other words, whether through the insurance provided or through the healthcare system itself, families can have peace of mind knowing that their children would always receive medical attention if necessary.
What happens in case of illness or emergency?
In case of illness or emergency, students are fully supported at all times.
Depending on the situation, they will be taken to a medical center or hospital, where they can receive care through their private health insurance.
Our team is very closely involved and monitors each situation personally. We coordinate with the host family and keep parents informed at all times.
Students are never left alone. If needed, a member of our team will stay with them, even at the hospital, until everything is under control.
Our priority is to ensure that every student receives the care they need quickly, safely, and with full support throughout the entire process.
Are students supervised during the program?
Yes, students are supervised throughout the entire program, both by our team and by their host families.
All scheduled activities, excursions, and group events are organized and supervised by the Seville Abroad team, ensuring a safe and structured environment at all times.
Outside of activities, students are under the care of their host families, who provide daily support and guidance.
At the same time, we believe it is important for teenagers to have a certain level of independence and personal space, always within a clear structure of supervision and communication.
This balance allows students to enjoy their experience while giving families the peace of mind that their children are safe, supported, and well cared for.
Who can students and parents contact if they need support?
Students and families can contact us at any time if they need help or support.
We are easily accessible and in regular contact with our students, both in person and through phone or messaging. Many students come to our office frequently, which makes communication natural, immediate, and constant.
Parents also know that they can reach out to us whenever needed. We are essentially available 24/7, and because we are a team of four people dedicated exclusively to around 30 students, access to us is always easy and direct.
We make sure that both students and families know who to contact and feel comfortable reaching out whenever they need anything, whether it is something important or just a small concern.
Program Fees & Payment Structure
How much does the program cost?
The cost of the Summer Program in Spain is €5,690, including round-trip flights from New York to Seville.
This price reflects the full program experience, with all core elements included.
In some cases, the final cost may vary depending on specific circumstances, such as:
- students traveling from countries other than the United States
- students joining for a shorter period of time
- students who choose not to use the group flights from New York
Any adjustments are made based on actual travel costs and program arrangements at the time of booking.
What is included in the program fee?
The program fee includes a complete and fully organized experience, so students and families don’t have to worry about logistics during the program.
It covers all the main elements, including:
- round-trip flights from New York to Spain
- airport transfers and local transportation
- accommodation with a carefully selected host family (full board)
- Spanish classes and all learning materials
- daily activities, excursions, and cultural trips
- health and travel insurance
- 24/7 local support from the Seville Abroad team
This structure ensures a safe, immersive, and well-supported experience from arrival to departure.
Are there any additional costs apart from the program fee?
The program fee covers most of the experience. However, there are some additional personal expenses that are not included.
These may include:
- domestic flights within the United States, if the student is traveling from a city other than New York
- personal expenses, such as snacks, drinks, shopping, or souvenirs
- public transportation in Seville (bus, metro, or tram), although it is generally affordable
- meals outside the host family plan, if students choose to eat out with friends
- some meals during trips, such as lunches or dinners in cities like Madrid or Granada
Overall, the program is designed to be all-inclusive, with only a limited number of optional personal expenses during the stay.
How does the payment process work?
The payment process is simple and structured to secure each student’s place in the program.
To confirm enrollment, families are required to pay an initial deposit of €2,500.
The remaining balance must be paid before April 1st.
If a student enrolls after April 1st, the full program fee is due at the time of enrollment.
This structure allows us to properly organize placements, flights, and logistics in advance, ensuring a smooth experience for all participants.
Is the deposit refundable?
The registration deposit is partially refundable, according to our cancellation policy.
Out of the total €2,500 deposit, €500 is non-refundable.
For the remaining amount, the following conditions apply:
- 50% refund of the total program fee if cancellation occurs at least 60 days before the start of the program
- 25% refund of the total program fee if cancellation occurs at least 30 days before the start of the program
- No refunds once the program has started
In cases of force majeure (such as global events, natural disasters, or situations affecting student safety), specific conditions may apply, including partial or full refunds depending on the circumstances.
Full details are provided in our Terms and Conditions, which we recommend reviewing before confirming enrollment.
Are program fees shown in euros or US dollars?
All program fees are listed in euros (€), as the program takes place in Spain.
For families paying from the United States, the final amount in US dollars may vary slightly depending on the exchange rate at the time of payment.
However, we always provide guidance and approximate conversions so families can clearly understand the cost in their own currency.
Application & Enrollment Process
How does the application process work?
The application process is simple and designed to get to know each student personally.
It starts with a short pre-application form. Once we review it and confirm that the student is a good fit, we invite the family to schedule a video call with the student and at least one parent.
After the call, families complete a more detailed full application, which helps us understand the student’s personality, preferences, and needs in order to provide the best possible host family match.
Students will also have a brief conversation with one of our Spanish teachers to assess their level and assign them to the appropriate class.
Once accepted, the student’s place is secured by completing the application and submitting the initial deposit.
Is acceptance guaranteed?
No, acceptance is not guaranteed.
Our program is selective, as we aim to ensure that each student is a good fit for the experience and that we can provide the right level of support for them.
We carefully review each application, taking into account the student’s academic profile, personality, motivation, and readiness to live abroad.
Our goal is not simply to place students, but to ensure that the experience will be successful, positive, and enriching for everyone involved.
How long does the application process take?
The application process is typically quick and efficient, and can often be completed within a few days.
Once the pre-application is submitted, we usually review it and schedule the introductory video call shortly after.
After completing the full application and evaluation, students can receive confirmation within a short timeframe, depending on availability.
We recommend applying as early as possible, as places are limited and tend to fill quickly.
How can I apply for the program?
You can apply for the program by completing our online application form.
Once we receive your information, we will contact you to schedule an introductory video call and guide you through the next steps.
We recommend applying as early as possible, as places are limited and the process becomes more competitive over time.
When should I apply for the program?
We recommend applying as early as possible, as places in the Summer Program are limited and tend to fill quickly.
Applying early allows us to offer the best possible host family match, secure flights, and ensure a smooth planning process for both students and families.
While we do accept later applications if availability allows, earlier applicants generally have more flexibility and better options.