Program highlights for Bilbao / Getxo, Spain
Language spoken:
Spanish, Basque
Currency:
Euro (EUR, €)
Climate:
Mediterranean
City type:
Large City (Population 200,001-500,000)
Program type:
Specialty
Host university:
University of the Basque Country
Language of instruction
English, Spanish
Terms offered:
Spring, Summer, Fall, Yearlong
Program capacity:
Summer: 50 students
Semester: 65 students
Credit type:
U.S. semester credit
Summer 2026:
Session 1 or 1&2: March 15
Session 2: April 15
Fall/Yearlong 2026-27:
April 1
Spring 2027:
September 15
Eligibility:
Minimum GPA: 2.5
Scholarships and Financial Aid:
Deadlines vary
Live in a dynamic, cosmopolitan city that is celebrated for its excellent sustainability, vibrancy, and livability, one hour from the France border and with connections to major European cities.- Gain firsthand experience through an internship in management consulting firms, publishing companies, NGOs, the Guggenheim Museum, and more.
- Enjoy inexpensive outdoor activities like surfing, horseback riding, hiking, and cycling.
- Explore local museums, art galleries, and music halls, or take a stroll through town and enjoy world-renowned architecture.
- Adjust to life abroad easily with the full-time on-site USAC Resident Director and staff, and by joining the conversation partner program to meet a local student.
Why study in Bilbao / Getxo?
Bilbao is the perfect place learn about international business, practice your Spanish, and appreciate local culture alongside modern, cutting-edge city. Opportunities abound in Bilbao: learn about Basque culture, society, and cuisine firsthand; join a teaching assistantship program to gain work experience at local schools while earning money; visit the old quarter with shops, restaurants, and coffee houses; and check out world class museums, art galleries, and futuristic music halls.
Bilbao is an extremely walkable city with an efficient and safe transportation system, making it easy to explore. When you need a break from city life and tourism, take a 25-minute train to the charming coastal community of Getxo and meet local peers (80% of the population is below the age of 60).
You can study for one or two summer sessions, a semester, or year. Choose courses in intensive Spanish language, business, and cultural studies. The intensive language approach allows you to complete 4-11 credits of university foreign language in one semester, depending on your curricular focus.
In addition, your classroom studies will be combined with cultural immersion activities like field trips, tours and field studies, cultural events, and village festivals, allowing you to fully experience the society and culture of the Basque Country through personal interaction with local students and the community.