Madrid, Spain

Madrid Summer - Internship

Full-Time Internship
Length:
Summer

At a Glance

Program Dates:

  • 2027 Summer: Early June - Early August

Credits:

3 or 6 per Summer

Estimated Cost:

$7,500

Visa Required:

Maybe

Housing:

Apartment, Homestay, Residence Hall

Primary Spoken Language(s):

English, Spanish

Language Prerequisites:

None; Spanish knowledge preferred for select placements
Request Information

About the Internship

Intern in one of Europe’s most influential cultural, economic, and scientific hubs while discovering Spain's far-reaching impact on Western civilization, including its contributions to art, literature, engineering, architecture, and political/financial systems.

Our program guarantees an internship placement to help you develop professional skills that will jump-start your career and make you more attractive to employers in today’s competitive job market. Before you depart, we work with you to fine-tune your résumé, perfect your cover letter, and hone your networking and interviewing skills, as well as prepare you for working in a new cultural environment. You’ll be an intern at a local business or organization, where you’ll work for at least 25 hours per week.

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Personalized Placements

We'll work with you to find a placement in the field of your choice.

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Academic Seminar

Enroll in a required 3-credit internship seminar with other IES interns.

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Spanish-Language Instruction

You have the option to enroll in a 3-credit Spanish language course.

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Field Trips

Travel and experience all that Spanish culture has to offer.

Internship Program Advisor

A headshot photo of Garrett

Garrett Sander

Once you’ve applied for an internship, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From field placements to housing and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare for your internship. Once you’re accepted to your internship, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ internships@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

Why Madrid?

Madrid, Spain's capital and largest economic center, is home to the headquarters of major national and international companies across industries including finance, technology, consulting, telecommunications, and media. As one of Southern Europe’s leading business hubs, Madrid offers access to a dynamic professional environment, extensive networking opportunities, and a growing startup ecosystem. Beyond the workplace, the city combines world-class cultural institutions such as the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums with an efficient public transportation system and a vibrant urban lifestyle.

Learn More About Madrid

Get to Know Your New City

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Visit the Matadero

Cultural center with plays, movies, and exhibitions.

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Take a Walk in the Park

Spend a lazy Sunday afternoon walking through Retiro park.

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Enjoy El Rastro

Shop at this iconic flea market that takes place every Sunday.

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Explore Must-See Museums

You don’t want to miss some of the top art museums in the world!

The Student Experience

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Program Dates

2027 Summer

Program Dates:

Early June - Early August

Academics

While your priority may be gaining professional experience, we also know how important it is to build community where you can reflect and learn about the work world with other students. That's why—during your summer semester—we offer placements in a wide range of disciplines, and a supplemental required 3- or 6-credit seminar.  

Before you go, we work with you to fine-tune your résumé, perfect your cover letter, and hone your communication and interview skills as we prepare you for working in a new cultural environment. You’ll be guaranteed a placement at a local business or organization that fits your professional interests.

To supplement the real-life work experience you'll receive during your internship, you will also participate in a required 3- or 6-credit internship seminar. You should work with your current college or university to learn about how this credit will transfer back to your school.

Courses

While working in Madrid, you’ll also enroll in a required 3- or 6-credit academic internship seminar with other IES interns, where you’ll gain context for your internship placement by examining cultural issues in the workplace. You can enroll in an optional 3-credit Spanish language course, as well. 

Topics covered include understanding workplace culture, improving communication, strengthening work attitude and aptitude, and navigating issues, challenges, and opportunities so you can succeed on the job in Madrid and when you return home.

NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your Student Portal. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.

Requirements

  • 18 years of age
  • In good standing at your home school
  • 2.5 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • At least sophomore standing prior to application; rising junior status at time of program departure. (Students who have completed one year of undergraduate study may apply and will be considered on a case-by-base basis.)
  • Students must be enrolled in a full-time degree program, or a graduate intending to begin their internship no more than 12 months after their graduation date (solid academic credentials related to studies or experience in desired field of placement required); graduate students enrolled in a full-time degree program may apply and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
  • Non-U.S. citizens must refer to their local consulate to learn about visa requirements and determine eligibility; IES Internships cannot advise on visa regulations for non-U.S. citizens.
  • Non-U.S. citizens attending school outside the U.S.: Native English fluency or IELTS score of 6.0 or above, taken within the last two years.
    • Visit the IELTS website to find a test location near you. IES Abroad reserves the right, in its sole discretion, not to accept students who it believes do not have the necessary English language competency to succeed in an Internship Program, irrespective of the applicant's score on a language proficiency exam.
  • Previous study of the Spanish language is not required. Basic comprehension and conversational ability may be preferred for competitive placements.

About the IES Abroad Center

Our new Center places students in the heart of Madrid, just steps from some of the city's most iconic neighborhoods—Chueca, Barrio de Salamanca, and Chamberí. Located at Paseo de Recoletos 15, our new location offers full immersion into Spain's vibrant capital, with Gran Via, Parque del Retiro, and the Prado within walking distance. It's also conveniently located closer to IES Abroad housing, making it a great launch pad for students in Madrid.  

Housing

Apartment

We offer single room student apartments which resemble upscale student residence halls with private bathrooms that are located near the city center of Madrid. Student apartments are furnished, including a fully equipped shared kitchen. Utilities and Wi-Fi access are included. Gym facilities may be available. Meals are not included in this option and are ideal for students who wish to prepare their own meals. This option is ideal for students who are looking for a more independent experience.

Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Madrid, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

Segovia Cathedral

Segovia

1 Day Summer

Famous for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, Segovia has one of the longest and best preserved Roman aqueducts in all of Europe.

a student looking out over Salamanca from the Old Cathedral

Valencia

2 Days Summer

Explore Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, known for its delicious cuisine, great weather, and cultural gems like the City of Arts & Sciences. Enjoy a stop in Alarcon for breakfast at the stunning 8th-century Moorish Castle.

Students hiking in Pico de Penalara

Sierra de Madrid

1 Day Summer

Trade the hustle and bustle of the city for a breath of fresh air in the surrounding mountains, valleys and quaint villages surrounding Madrid.

Internship Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

2027 Summer

Tuition
$
4,908
Housing
$
2,392
Insurance
$
200
Total
$
7,500

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7.9 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

Learn More About Scholarships and Aid
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Start at Home
Prepare for arrival in Spain with our virtual orientation program where you will meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and get to know the city.
Arrive in Madrid
Orientation continues upon arrival. Participate in mandatory orientation sessions with additional academic and student life information to enhance your success abroad.
Professional and Cultural Adjustment Activities
Orientation continues with activities focusing on professional and cultural expectations, goal achievement, and preparing for the return home.
Explore Madrid
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore and discover Madrid before classes start to help you feel at home in your new environment.
Settle In
Orientation continues throughout the semester with field trips allowing you to both further sample elements of Spanish culture and get to know the other students.

Health & Safety

With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Why You Should Apply ASAP
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Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

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The Student Experience

How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

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