Study Abroad in Alicante

College Study Abroad

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study abroad in alicante spain aerial view of city

Explore Alicante, Spain

When you study abroad in Alicante, you’ll be in one of Spain’s booming port cities known for its beaches, award-winning museums, and cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. With a large student population, Alicante is a great study abroad destination in Spain for students looking to explore a new culture and study Spanish abroad.  

Nestled on the dazzling Mediterranean Sea, Alicante is rich in Spanish flavor, with a Gothic castle, colorful old quarter, and its palm-lined promenade, Explanada de Espana, which is paved with 6.6 million tricolored tiles and is the designated gathering place for locals.

alicante spain on a map
view of alicante port from a castle
study abroad students in alicante on a castle excursion

Every CIEE semester program has frequent cultural excursions and a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Alicante, past study tours and excursions have included: 

  • Visits to the Algar Waterfalls, Canelobre Caves, and Guadalest Castle 
  • Trips to the Valencian Autonomous Community, Granada, Madrid, or Valencia 
  • Camino de Santiago pilgrimage 
  • Guided tours of Santa Bárbara Castle and the Archaeological Museum of Alicante 

If you’re a student looking for an authentic study abroad experience in Alicante, our cultural excursions and tours allow you to do just that! Whether you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, practice your Spanish, or visit famous sites, studying abroad in Alicante offers something for everyone. 

study abroad students in alicante at famous building

Where Students Study

CIEE Alicante
Conveniently located on the main campus of the University of Alicante (Universidad de Alicante in San Vincente), CIEE Alicante is situated in the northwestern region of the city, roughly 20 minutes from top sites like the Santa Barbara Castle and Parc de l’Ereta.

Universidad de Alicante (Coming in 2024)
Established in 1979, the main campus is located in San Vicente del Raspeig/Sant Vicent del Raspeig, bordering the city of Alicante to the north. The University of Alicante welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, experiences and cultures in a campus considered one of the best in Europe.

Alicante Study Abroad Programs

New Programs Coming for 2024

view of a residential part of alicante spain by the coast

Summer 2024

  • Summer Language & Culture
  • Summer Intensive Spanish Language

Pocket Guide to Alicante

  • Currency
    Euro

    Spoken Languages
    Spanish

    Available Transportation
    Bus, tram, taxi, and car

    Famous Local
    Carlos Arniches – respected playwright whose work dominated Spanish comic theatre in the early 20th century

  • Climate
    Hot, muggy, clear summers with an average temperature of 82°F; cool, windy, and partly cloudy winters with an average temperature of 50°F

    Local Attraction
    Santa Bárbara Castle – a 9th-century hilltop Muslim castle with a historic museum

    Airport
    Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)

  • Social Norms
    Always say hello and goodbye when entering any shop or establishment

    What to Pack
    Breathable footwear, bug repellent, and sunscreen

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alicante safe?

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Alicante is a very safe city to live, with one of the lowest crime rates in all of Spain. As with any study abroad destination, we recommend that students keep their belongings secure, stay aware of their surroundings, and travel in groups when possible.

What is Alicante known for?

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Known for its rich history, interesting museums, perfect beaches, excellent food, and vibrant culture, Alicante is a popular destination among tourists and students alike. This seaside gem is widely considered one of Spain’s most beautiful cities with no shortage of things to do, see, and study. Discover why Alicante is so popular for yourself!

Alicante vs. Barcelona Study Abroad

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Alicante and Barcelona are both coastal cities brimming with rich history, vibrant culture, world-class landmarks, interesting museums, delicious food, and authentic charm, so choosing between the two can be quite challenging. If you’re struggling to figure out which city to study abroad in, consider these two factors: population size and financial investment.  
 
In terms of greater city limits, Alicante is (perhaps surprisingly) twice the size of Barcelona but boasts a lowly population of 300,000 (compared to Barcelona’s 1.4 million!). Given that Barcelona is Spain’s second-most populous city, its streets are often crowded and dense. For those who don’t mind the crowds, Barcelona is a great choice! For those who do, Alicante is likely a better fit. 
 
As for financial investment, it should be noted Barcelona is more expensive than Alicante. This is true when it comes to food, shopping, and more. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Alicante is a better choice. However, Barcelona is still reasonably affordable for most international students.  

Study Abroad Scholarships and Grants

student smiling in alicante while studying abroad with ciee

Apply in 1,2,3!

CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Alicante to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps: 

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program 
  2. Review all available funding opportunities 
  3. Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application

students in alicante on a bike tour

Study Abroad Scholarships

NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS 

Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible. 

MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS 

Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible. 

OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS 

Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status. 

VIEW OUR SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS

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Alicante Study Abroad Reviews

  • "The staff and people there are amazing"

    Alexis B., Meredith College
  • "CIEE has the complete study abroad experience - between the host family, the level of classes, and the activities planned outside of class.

    Rob M., CIEE Language + Culture in Alicante, Spain