Every year, thousands of students from across the Atlantic decide to pack their bags and travel to Spain to learn Spanish and experience learning a language in its native country. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), more than 35,000 students from the United States choose Spain as their destination for Spanish language courses in Spain, making it the second most popular country for language learning after the United Kingdom.
More than 300 days of sunshine, activities for all tastes, a culture worth experiencing and learning about… There are many reasons why foreign students decide to make this country their home away from home for a certain period of time. Another incentive is that they have access to specific scholarships and grants that help them cover tuition, accommodation and living expenses, allowing them to enjoy a complete language immersion experience.
Want to know more? Keep reading this article and we’ll tell you everything!
Why study in Spain as an American student?
Spanish courses are available in practically every country. But learning Spanish in Spain is like learning it nowhere else. Why? Here are the reasons our American students have given us.
Spain as a top destination for learning languages and discovering culture
In Spain, you can find everything from large cities where you can enjoy thousands of activities every day to small rural villages where peace and tranquillity reign, helping you to disconnect from your studies. Spain is the perfect combination of tradition and modernity. All of this creates the perfect environment for learning Spanish while experiencing the culture on a daily basis.
Advantages of learning Spanish through language immersion
There is no better way to learn Spanish than in the country where it is most widely spoken. Being surrounded by native speakers opens the door to practising the language outside the classroom. Students who experience total immersion can improve their language skills 40% faster than those who study only in their home country.
Academic, personal, and professional growth
Growth In addition to perfecting your Spanish, studying in Spain provides you with intercultural skills, autonomy and adaptability, competencies that are highly valued by companies and academic institutions in the US and around the world, both personally and professionally.
Can Americans obtain scholarships to study in Spain?
Yes. There are numerous scholarships funded by the US government, universities, and private organisations. These grants are designed to cover tuition, accommodation, travel, and insurance costs, making it easier for students to enjoy this international experience without incurring high personal costs.
The best scholarships for American students who wish to study in Spain
Here is a list of the different scholarships available if you are an American student and want to come to Spain to learn Spanish.
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
This scholarship is intended for students who do not have sufficient financial resources to afford an experience abroad. It is funded by the U.S. Department of State.
Boren Awards
These awards are given to students who want to learn less commonly studied languages and cultures, including Spanish in contexts outside the United States.
Fund for Education Abroad (FEA)
It consists of scholarships that prioritise students from underrepresented groups in international programmes.
Fulbright Programme for American Students
This programme offers full or partial funding for postgraduate studies, research or teaching in Spain.
Scholarships from universities and study abroad offices
Many American universities offer their own scholarship programmes for students who choose Spain as their academic destination. You can check whether your university offers this type of scholarship.
How to apply for a scholarship to study abroad?
Whether you are applying for a student visa for Spain or one of the above scholarships, you should keep these tips in mind before packing your bags:
Plan months in advance
If you are thinking of travelling to Spain to learn Spanish, it is important to start planning a year in advance. This will ensure that you complete all the necessary paperwork and are aware of all the deadlines and requirements.
Choose your programme and destination
You will find that there are several courses and programmes available for learning Spanish. You should choose the one that truly suits your level or your current needs.
Prepare strong application materials
Prepare in advance all the documentation that may be requested in order to apply for scholarships, such as a letter of motivation, teacher recommendations, or academic transcripts.
Demonstrate clear academic and personal goals.
The committees value students with well-defined goals and a clear plan for making the most of the scholarship.
Why is Proyecto Español a great option for scholarship students?
At Proyecto Español, we have been helping our students learn the second most widely spoken language in the world for over 20 years.
Accredited Spanish courses that give you academic credits
Our programmes are recognised by American universities, allowing for easy credit transfer.
Intensive and flexible programmes in several cities
Study in Alicante, Granada, Madrid or Barcelona, adapting the duration and focus of the course to your needs.
Assistance with visa procedures and enrolment confirmations
We assist you every step of the way to ensure you comply with legal and administrative requirements.
Affordable prices and a fully immersive experience
Enjoy high-quality classes, cultural activities, and accommodation with host families or in residences for an authentic immersion in the language.
