A cosmopolitan city of 3.5 million people, Madrid offers numerous cultural activities. It is home to the famous Prado Museum, as well as the Thyssen and the Reina Sofia museums. Other attractions include concerts at the Auditorio Nacional de Musica, the Thieves Market, and concerts by folksingers. Although thoroughly modern, Madrid is a city with expansive green parks and ancient fountains scattered throughout. In addition, students may explore nearby Spanish cities such as Toledo and Cuenca.
Orientation takes place during the first two weeks after arrival in Madrid.
Students meet for lectures on Spanish culture, politics, and academic life, and take 40 hours of intensive Spanish. In addition, trips to museums, historic Segovia, and El Escorial are offered. In Madrid, students generally live in private homes with local families. Meals are partially provided for students by their hosts, but they must use their own resources for the some of their meals. While living with a host family, students must be flexible and willing to adjust to a different cultural home environment.