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Accommodations and Accessibility

The IFSA team is ready to help you plan for various accommodations you might need abroad. We’re here to support you and help you prepare for a successful study abroad experience.  

Early planning is key. First, know that options for accommodations vary by country, city, and university. This makes it important to share your requests for academic, mental health, diet, religious practices, housing, physical disabilities, and other accommodations early in the planning process. Connect with your IFSA Enrollment Counselor or with our Health, Safety and Wellness team at hsw@ifsa-butler.org as soon as possible.   

The information you share on your health and wellness and housing forms supports this process. After receiving these forms, our Health and Wellness team will follow up as needed to help you arrange accommodations you may need. Our goal is to plan carefully with your help, working with our UK team as needed.   

Academic accommodation. Most Spanish universities have measures for ensuring students that need of support can actively participate in classes and university life. Just keep in mind that these accommodations could be different than what you’re used to on your home campus. We encourage you to let us know which programs you’re interested in so we can help you navigate the process and be sure proper accommodations can be arranged.  

Mobility. Spain is a world leader here, with laws that require establishments to provide ramps and toilets for handicapped customers. Sidewalks, public transport, public buildings, and attractions typically have accommodations. In Barcelona, hilly and mountainous terrain can make getting around more difficult for people with mobility needs. Sidewalks and streets tend to be flat and well maintained in popular tourist areas, and often have curb cuts. Seville is relatively flat, but there are cobbled streets and narrow sidewalks in places.  

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Mental and Physical Health

Maintaining your mental and physical health while abroad is a priority, and we’re ready to help you plan to support both. We’re here to help you work with CISI insurance to find local health care abroad, as well as to create a plan for your specific needs. Early planning is key, so don’t hesitate to work with our Health and Wellness team early in the application process and ask for guidance from your Enrollment Counselor. Please share your needs on our health and housing forms, so we can follow up. 

Mental health. IFSA will provide resources and opportunities for you to get direct support from our resident staff while you’re abroad. In addition, each university has mental health, wellness, and general health resources you can access.  

Sports and fitness. Spaniards love soccer (football), the most popular sport in the world. Almost all Spanish towns have a football pitch (field) or stadium. Basketball, volleyball, swimming, yoga, cycling, tennis, climbing, sailing, and dance are also popular. Many enjoy running to Montjuic Hill or local beaches.  

You’ll find fewer university sport clubs here than in the U.S., but many are open to visiting students. Check with the IFSA team about CISI insurance coverage for injuries sustained during sports. Coverage is generally broad but there are exceptions for high-level competition. 

Eating healthy. Food is one of Barcelona’s great attractions. Spanish cuisine is generally Mediterranean style, with the main meal of the day typically served around 2 or 3 p.m. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasing. Whatever you eat, take time to slow down and enjoy your meal. Talk with your friends or host family. Mealtimes are generally not on-the-go in Spain, so relax and enjoy. 

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Faith Communities

Studying abroad will likely introduce you to new religions and faith communities around the world. If you plan to practice your religion abroad, consider researching the customs, laws, and places of worship at your destination. 

The Spanish Constitution guarantees the right to freely practice religion. The government and society respect this freedom. Most Spanish citizens identify as Roman Catholics, but the role of the Roman Catholic Church in Spanish life and policy has greatly decreased. About 68% of the population is Catholic with about 15% practicing regularly, 28% is atheist/agnostic, 4% is Islamic with pockets of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism.  

If you have any questions or concerns about religious accommodations and/or dietary restrictions, please let your Enrollment Counselor know. While you’re in Spain, ask our local team for guidance. 

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Considerations for Women

Spain’s government is increasingly prioritizing gender equality, gender empowerment, and gender-based interventions through legislation and policy at domestic and international levels.  In 2023, Spain ranked fourth in the EU on the Gender Equality Index, with a score of 76.4 out of 100. There are disparities in the workforce, such as pay equity and representation of women legislators and executives. Traditionally, the women manage households, and men work outside the home, though family roles are modernizing in Spain, and more and more women have jobs outside the home.  

Safety. Spain is considered generally safe for visitors. The most common crime is petty theft, and tourists can be targets. Be cautious in the city, especially in the metro, at outdoor cafes, and in any crowded spaces. Avoid walking home alone at night, considering blending in with the local community in terms of dress and behavior, and follow tips for avoiding pickpockets (we’ll share all of this during orientation).  

Dress and other norms. Unlike in the U.S., staring is normal here. Dress varies in the diverse and cosmopolitan city of Barcelona. University students dress somewhat similarly to U.S. students, though college sweatshirts and other “loud” symbols will mark you as American.  

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Race and Ethnicity

According to World Atlas, 90% of Spain’s population has a Spanish ethnic background. Many ethnic minorities have come to Spain during recent periods of migration; others span generations. Some of largest minority ethnic groups here are Romanians, Moroccans, Ecuadorians, and Brits.  

Expect conversation about migration and colonialism, including debate about maintaining statues that preserve Spanish history. Racism exists, though it often takes different forms than it might in the U.S. As an American, you might also experience othering related to your status as an American, despite your race or ethnicity. While Madrid, Barcelona, and other major urban areas are more ethnically, culturally, and financially diverse than smaller towns, students report that Spaniards are welcoming and tolerant of difference. 

IFSA strives to host activities that help you go beyond the traditional tourist destinations. These free events foster intercultural agility, understanding of privilege and oppression, and exploration of diverse subcultures. The IFSA team is always available to support you. Just reach out anytime. 

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Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

In 2005, Spain legalized same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex couples. There are still pockets of intolerance and resistance from some officials within the Spanish Roman Catholic Church, but Spain is generally on par with the U.S. when it comes to LGTBQ+ acceptance.  

Many cities have widely celebrated Pride festivals. Barcelona is highly regarded as a gay-friendly city. Andalucia, the region that is home to Seville, has banned LGBTQIA+ discrimination. Most host universities have LGBTQIA+ groups on campus, organized through the Student Union. 

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More Support

From help managing money to supporting first-generation college students, our professional advising staff and onsite teams are here for you.  

On a budget? Ask your IFSA team in your host city for a list of free and more affordable activities.  


Student Perspectives

Read about living and learning in Spain: Student Stories.