Study Abroad in Alicante
College Study Abroad
Explore Alicante with CIEE
When you study abroad in Alicante, Spain, you'll experience a charming coastal city that effortlessly blends Mediterranean vibes and student-friendly amenities. Boasting a vibrant lifestyle, studying in Alicante on a CIEE program promises a laid-back atmosphere where you will enjoy the city's stunning beaches, vibrant culture, rich history, and esteemed university experience. With its affordable living, beautiful landscapes, and well-preserved traditions, there's no doubt that Alicante creates an idyllic setting for personal growth, language learning, and unforgettable experiences during your study abroad journey in Spain. Beyond academics, Alicante’s stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and historical landmarks - like Santa Bárbara Castle - complement program offerings focused on language immersion, cultural studies, and sustainability.
While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in Alicante, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, arts, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience. Studying abroad in Alicante introduces participants to a student-friendly atmosphere, enriched by welcoming locals and the presence of the University of Alicante, a modern and prestigious university with diverse programs tailored to international students, emphasizing innovation, research, and global collaboration. The campus, set amidst Mediterranean scenery, boasts state-of-the-art facilities, lush green spaces, and a dynamic student community, fostering both academic and personal growth.
Top Activities in Alicante with CIEE
Every CIEE Alicante study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Alicante, past excursions have included:
- Discover natural wonders and hidden gems through visits to the Algar Waterfalls, Canelobre Caves, and Guadalest Castle
- Experience the best of Spain with unforgettable trips to beautiful Spanish cities such as Granada, Madrid, or Valencia
- Step back in time with guided tours of Santa Bárbara Castle and the Archaeological Museum of Alicante, where centuries of history come to life
Where You’ll Study in Alicante
CIEE Alicante
Conveniently located on the main campus of the University of Alicante (Universidad de Alicante in San Vicente), 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
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
- Alicante, Spain
- Full-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks interning abroad FT (30-40 hours/week) and earning academic credit while immersing yourself in Spanish culture in sunny Alicante.
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks interning abroad PT (20 hours/week) and earning academic credit while immersing yourself in Spanish culture in sunny Alicante.
- Alicante, Spain
- Full-Time Internship
Spend 8 weeks of your summer interning abroad (approximately 30-40 hours/week) and earning academic credit while exploring all Alicante has to offer!
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend 6 weeks of your summer interning abroad PT (15-20 hours/week) and earning academic credit while also exploring the stunning beaches, historic castles, and vibrant Mediterranean culture of Alicante, Spain.
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
Live and learn in Alicante, where you can study in English or Spanish for four weeks in the summer while visiting the parks, restaurants, and landmarks.
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
Improve your Spanish language skills in the classroom when you spend a summer in Alicante, where you'll get to immerse yourself in the culture of Spain.
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
Spend three weeks of your winter break studying abroad in Alicante, where you'll earn academic credit while gaining an authentic taste of Spanish life.
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
Live the beach life for a semester in Alicante, where you can study in cafes, learn the language, and boost your resume with an internship in Spain.
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Strengthen your Spanish during 16 weeks in Alicante, where you can take part in a Spanish-only program, linguistic activities, and a hands-on experience.
- Alicante, Spain
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend your semester abroad in Alicante, where you'll take courses with a local flavor, enroll in an optional internship, and complete volunteer work.
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
Known for its sprawling beaches, booming restaurant scene, lively nightlife, and 7,000-year history, Alicante study abroad should be on every student’s list! This historic Mediterranean port city offers students the chance to build upon their Spanish language skills while living abroad in one of Spain’s less touristy cities.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Alicante
Alicante is a very safe city to live in, 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.
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 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 population of merely 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.
The cost of studying abroad in Alicante varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Alicante study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Alicante with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!
Search our internship opportunities to get started!
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Alicante. 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:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
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.
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