Note: This itinerary will likely change due to availability and local conditions between now and the time of departure.
Thursday, January 16
Depart the United States
Depart from your home airport in the United States. Make sure you arrive at least 3 hours before your departure and don't forget your passport!
Friday, January 17
Arrival in Malaga
Arrive in Malaga, Spain. Your EF Tour Director will be waiting for you at the airport with a friendly face. Meet with your cohort, get settled into your accommodations, and enjoy your first dinner in Spain!
Saturday, January 18
First Day of Orientation
Navigate public transport to the EF Malaga Language Campus for orientation activities, then take time to explore the city, pick up groceries, or anything else you might need to feel settled.
Sunday, January 19
Second Day of Orientation
Participate in your second morning of orientation activities and spend the afternoon getting to know your cohort, exploring the city, or putting your cooking skills to the test in your shared kitchen!
Monday, January 20 – Friday, February 7
Spanish classes at EF International Language Campus, Malaga
Language Classes: Get ready to dive into three weeks of immersive Spanish classes at EF’s International Language Campus in Malaga! Your journey kicks off on Monday with a language assessment. From there, your class schedule will be determined based on your proficiency, but you can expect approximately 3-4 hours of language learning a day, Monday to Friday. Once you’re settled, you’ll join a dynamic group of language learners from all over the globe. Together, you’ll boost your vocabulary, sharpen your communication skills, and soak up the essence of Spanish culture. ¡Vamos!
Free Weekends: Weekends are your time to explore Malaga and the charming towns nearby. Stroll through the sun-soaked streets, dive into local tapas bars, or lounge on the golden beaches. Feeling adventurous? Venture out to hike the Caminito del Ray or go paddleboarding on La Magagueta Beach to make your weekends unforgettable. The choice is yours—get out there and make some memories!
Meals: A continental breakfast is included while you are in Malaga. Lunch and dinner are not included, but you will have a shared kitchen in your accommodation to flex your cooking skills.
Monday, February 10 - Friday, April 11
Classes: On Monday, February 10, your studies will shift from Spanish language to your courses at the Center for Modern Languages (CLM). During the week, you will participate in the following courses. Your weekly class schedule will be determined closer to your arrival in Granada.
Islamic Culture in Spain: Learn about the Arab-Islamic world through its culture and history from its beginning to today, engaging with Islam as a fundamental religious and cultural phenomenon in Arab history as well as to the socio-political development of AI-Andalus.
The Political System of Spain and the EU: Explore the rich tapestry of self-sustainable practices in Mediterranean Spain through this immersive course. Dive into local case studies, examine community traditions, and compare urban and rural approaches to sustainability. Experience firsthand how Granada and its surroundings are shaping their sustainable future.
Sustainability in the Mediterranean: This course offers an in-depth exploration of the European Union’s history, institutions, and policies, alongside key topics like democracy, populism, and Euroscepticism. In the latter half, dive into Spanish politics, examining its government structure, electoral system, and the dynamics of regional identities and nationalism.
A few important notes to keep in mind:
Unlike at the language school, your classes will be exclusively with students in your Mosaic of Spain cohort.
Courses are conducted in English, and there are no formal Spanish language classes after your time at the Malaga ILC. However, we strongly encourage you to continue developing your Spanish skills through engaging with locals and participating in language exchanges at the CLM.
To meet fellow CLM students and continue immersing yourself into the Spanish culture, we encourage you to explore the activities offered at the CLM. Be sure to sign up in advance, as some excursions fill up quickly!
Free Time: When you are not in classes or participating in local and field excursions, the rest of your time is yours to explore! Wander through Granada's charming Albayzin district, marvel at the stunning Alhambra, or lose yourself in the vibrant local food scene. Feeling adventurous? Take a day trip to nearby cities like Seville or Córdoba , or even hop across the border to explore neighboring countries!
Meals: While in Granada, breakfast and dinner are included on weekdays as part of the residence hall meal plan. You will be responsible for lunches, along with all meals on the weekends.
Field Excursions Overview
Get ready to bring your classroom lessons to life with each field excursion! Your first trip to Madrid, which follows your language study at ILC Malaga, is the perfect chance to practice your new Spanish skills while immersing yourself in one of Spain's most lively cities!
Friday, February 7
Depart Malaga for Madrid
After you wrap up your language study, you will take an evening train to Madrid to kick off your first of three field excursions!
Saturday, February 8
Guided Exploration in Madrid
Take a day to explore the major sights in the city. With your cohort, walk through Casa de Campo and enjoy some free time in one of the most vibrant cities in Spain.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Sunday, February 9
Free Day in Madrid
Spend the morning exploring Madrid before returning to Granada to begin the next chapter of your program at the Center for Modern Languages!
Meals: Breakfast
Field Excursions Overview
Field excursions bring classroom lessons to life, letting you test your knowledge in real-world settings. A trip to the Netherlands offers an up-close look at EU politics and highlights the power of cross-cultural communication in action. As you navigate this city, keep your learnings from classes, particularly “The Political System of Spain and the EU” top of mind!
Friday, February 28
Travel to the Netherlands
Jet off to Amsterdam after Friday's classes and dive into a fun-filled cooking class with your cohort—an unforgettable way to bond and savor new flavors!
Meals: Dinner
Saturday, March 1
Anne Frank Museum & Skill Development
Travel to the Anne Frank Museum and participate in a skill development workshop with your cohort.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Sunday, March 2
Free Morning in Amsterdam
In the morning, take some time to explore all that Amsterdam has to offer independently. Walk along the canals, try some traditional Dutch Gouda, or visit any number of famous museums. Fly back to Granada in the early afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast
Field Excursion Overview: Field excursions are your chance to bring classroom lessons to life! This long weekend in Morocco will bring color to your Islamic Cultures in Spain course. Dive into the rich traditions of Islamic culture and explore the deep historical ties between Morocco and Spain, creating connections that textbooks can't capture.
Friday, March 21
Local NGO visit in Tangier
Travel by bus and ferry to Tangier, Morocco where you’ll visit with a local NGO.
Meals: Dinner
Saturday, March 22
Hercules Caves
Begin the day with a guided tour of Tangier. Explore Medina, Grand Socco, and visit the Hercules Caves to learn about the ancient and mythical connections between Morocco and Greece.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Sunday, March 23
Chefchaouen
Travel to Chefchouen, known for its blue-washed buildings, leather crafting and weaving.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday, March 24
Return to Granada
Travel home to Granada and prepare to begin your third coursework block.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday, April 12
Wrap up + Farewell Dinner
Participate in wrap up activities in Granada as you reflect as a group on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown over the course of the program. Share a final dinner with your cohort and staff before you head back home.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Sunday, April 13
Depart for home
Say goodbye to your cohort and depart by bus to the Malaga airport to fly home, or onto your next adventure!
Spanish Language Module
Spanish language classes will be taught by EF faculty at EF's language campus in Malaga. On your first day of language classes, you will take a placement test that will determine your course for the duration of the Spanish intensive.
During your Spanish Language module, you will be in classes 3-4 hours per day with students from around the world who are not necessarily participating in the Mosaic of Spain program. We encourage you to connect with these students by engaging in activities hosted by the EF language school and other students!
All courses, even at the beginner level, are fully immersive i.e., teachers, students and staff will only be speaking Spanish on campus.
University of Granada Center for Modern Languages
Classes at the Center for Modern Languages will be taught concurrently by University of Granada or Center for Modern Languages faculty. All courses at the Center for Modern Languages will be taught in English. Classes at the Center for Modern Languages are curated for this program, meaning you will only take classes with other students who are also participating in the Mosaic of Spain program.
Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes regardless of whether they are transferring credit back to their home institution. Students should communicate to EF staff and CLM faculty if illness or other challenges necessitate missing a class. Classes will require some work outside of class hours and will culminate in a summative assessment. Students are expected and required to complete all necessary assignments.
Upon arrival in Granada, students will be registered for Eduroam, a learning management software platform that faculty will use to distribute course materials and allow you Wi-Fi access on campus.
Policies and Procedures
Students participating in study abroad programs managed by EF Gap Year are subject to both EF’s academic policies and the academic policies of the local host university.
Students should notify EF of any learning accommodations they require as early as possible in order to allow time to review specific requests and gather appropriate supporting documentation from their student accessibility services office (if applicable). Disability-related requests for accommodations and services are evaluated individually by EF and the host university, based on documentation and completion of the registration process. Please be aware that the level of accessibility, services, and accommodation to which you have access at your home campus may not be available at the program site and host universities.
Course Syllabi:
Module 1: Spanish Language
Module 2: Islamic Culture in Spain
Module 3: The Political System of Spain and the EU
Module 4: Sustainability in the Mediterranean
Please note that each University of Granada course counts for 3 US college credits (45 contact hours). The 4.5 you see on the syllabus is representative of the Spanish system.
All students who successfully complete all academic requirements on this program will receive a transcript from Colorado State University upon their return to the United States whether you plan to enroll in a US-university after the program or not. You will receive your transcript 6-8 weeks after your program ends.
Your transcript will include a total of 12 college credits from the four Coursework modules combined (3 per course). Please note that it is your (the student’s) responsibility to complete any steps necessary to ensure the transfer of that credit to their home university. Please consult your home university as soon as you enroll to understand the credit transfer process. In addition, please save a copy of all syllabi provided by your professors in the event that they are required for transferring credits.
Malaga
You will stay in student accommodations in Malaga's city center, approximately 25 minutes by bus from the Language Campus. Most rooms will be twins or triples.
Granada
You will stay in apartment-style student accommodations that will be no more than 45 minutes commute (by walk or bus) than your classroom building depending on which building you have class in on a particular day.
In both Malaga and Granada, all students will receive a public transit card that they can use to take the bus to and from class each day, and anywhere else they may need to go.
A Spanish student visa is not required for this program. However, you must have a US passport valid for at least 6 months after the end date of the program to ensure entry into a Spain.
Important note: If you plan on traveling independently within the Schengen region before or after your program, you are responsible for researching Visa regulations and securing the necessary visa to support your travel.
Packing
Pack two weeks’ worth of what you will need. You’ll have the opportunity to do laundry and you’ll want to leave room for souvenirs. Neutral colors and accessories make mixing and matching easy.
Out of respect for the local culture, we ask that you also please dress conservatively during any visits that may require it; this means packing items that will cover your knees and shoulders, and no tight or revealing clothing. Longer clothing also helps to prevent sun exposure and bug bites - critical for Morocco!
Budgeting
Whatever your personal spending habits are, it’s important to anticipate your expenses and budget accordingly so that you can travel care-free with more time to enjoy participating in your program. While many meals and activities are included during your EF program, we want to help you build a realistic budget for additional expenses so that you can fully enjoy trying the local cuisine, participating in activities in your free time, and, of course, shopping for souvenirs to bring back home.
T-shirts (4)
Nicer shirts/blouses (3)
Shorts/pants/jeans/skirts/dresses (4–5)
Socks and underwear (pack for 2 weeks)
Warmer layers for chilly nights and hiking in the mountains near Granada (2)
Pajamas
Bathing suits (1–2)
Comfortable walking shoes/sneakers
Flip-flops/sandals
Warm jacket
Raincoat/windbreaker
Quick-dry/lightweight short sleeve
and long sleeve shirts and pants for active excursion components (2-3 each)
Sturdy shoes or hiking boots
Reusable water bottle
Sunglasses
2 hats: 1 for sun coverage and for warmth (like a beanie)
Packing cubes (optional)
Cross-body bag or travel/money belt
Travel umbrella
Laptop/tablet
Universal plug adapter - we also recommend buying a local charging cube for your phone when you arrive
Headphones
Camera, memory card, charging cables
Portable charger
Travel lock for luggage and belongings
Laundry bag
-Toothbrush and toothpaste
-Deodorant
-Body wash/soap
-Shampoo and conditioner
-Hairbrush
-Sunscreen (reef-safe is encouraged!)
-Bug spray and anti-itch cream
-Stomach soothing medication
-Motion sickness medication
-Wet wipes
-Stain Remover stick and detergent packs
-Contact lenses, solution, eyeglasses
-Menstrual products (you may want to bring enough to last you for the duration of your program, as options may be different from what is available in the US)
– Passport
Pro tip: bring a photo copy as well
– Copy of your flight itinerary
Found in your EF Gap Year portal
– Copy of your itinerary and accommodations
Found in your EF Gap Year portal
– Copy of any prescriptions
– Primary Health Insurance card from the U.S.
– Backpack
This is your carry-on! It can also double as your daily bag while abroad.
– Wallet
Bring your debit or ATM card so you can withdraw cash, as well as your credit card, ID, and student ID if you have one (discounts!)
– Medications
For prescriptions, make sure it is in original container and bring enough of a supply to last your program.
– COVID-19 CDC vaccination card
Or, a negative COVID test result if applicable.
– Entertainment!
Books, downloaded Netflix streams and Spotify playlists, magazines, travel journal, deck of cards, etc.
– Passport
– Airline ticket
– Reusable water bottle
– Neck pillow / eye mask / ear plugs
– Toothbrush / toothpaste
– Contact lenses / solution / eyeglasses
We don’t recommend traveling with large sums of cash. You may want to convert a small amount money to Euros before your trip but you will be able to access local currency by using your debit card to withdraw cash from an ATM.
In both Malaga and Granada, you will be able to pay with your credit card, debit card, or even Apple Pay almost everywhere. However, in smaller towns, you should make sure to keep cash on hand.
Important Note: Be sure to check with your bank ahead of time and, if necessary, provide a travel notice so they don’t block the card for suspected fraud. Also ask them about any foreign transaction fees that might apply, as these can add up quickly. Apple Pay is another great option that past students have used during their time on-program.
The official currency in Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands is the Euro.
The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham.
Spanish Language Module
A continental breakfast is included while in Malaga, but lunch and dinner are not included. You should plan to budget between €15 – €25 per day for meals and snacks.
University of Granada Course Modules
While studying at the University of Granada, you will have access to a meal plan with 20 breakfasts, and 20 lunches or dinners per month. These meals are provided at the residence, but other budget-friendly options are available at the University of Granada's student cafes and at Menu of the Day restaurants. Please also keep in mind that at most Spanish restaurants in Granada, with a coke, or other soft drink you get a free plate of food (seriously!).
Field Excursions
Breakfast is included on all field excursion modules but only some dinners are included. Your field director will have the most up-to-date information on meals during your overnight excursions.
We recommend budgeting up to $50 a week for extra costs. This could mean putting money aside for things like:
– Checked bag airline fee (usually around $30-50 per bag for every flight if you need more than one)
– Additional items of clothing
– Emergencies
– Extra toiletries
– Souvenirs
– Laundry: There are paid laundry facilities in both student accommodations. To save money, we suggest bringing a small bottle of condensed soap, such as Dr. Bronner’s, or laundry detergent sheets that you can use to wash your clothes.
Throughout your trip, your Field Director or SLC may find opportunities for additional excursions and activities; typically, these experiences can cost anywhere from $10-$50.
In bigger cities that you’re in, you will have a public transit card that you can use to access the public transportation system. There are also taxis or other ride services in the larger cities that you will be traveling to. Your SLC and Field Director will let you know what to expect in terms of choosing safe and budget-friendly transportation options during your free time in each location.
To make the most of your time during your program, this section gives some helpful context on the places you’re visiting. You’ll learn a litle bit about the history, culture, weather, key norms, and reflection questions.
Well-known for Flamenco dance, bullfights, nightlife, tapas, and beaches, Spain has been one of the cultural centers of Europe for years–in fact, Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world.
Spanish people live life to the fullest while maintaining a slow pace of life. Particularly outside the major cities, expect long, drawn out dinners full of good conversation and food. When wandering through Spain, you’ll notice friends gathering at cafes in mid-morning, families spending time outside, and a long siesta in the afternoon.
Malaga is far smaller than Barcelona and Madrid, but still welcomes millions of tourists every year. Part of the Costa del Sol, Malaga and the nearby towns have warm, sunny weather and beautiful beaches. The people of Malaga enjoy a relaxed and balanced lifestyle.
Granada is an incredibly historic and naturally gorgeous city nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. There is influence from Arab, Jewish, Christian and Romani cultures and is considered a melting pot of Andalucia. Its main attraction, The Alhambra, draws more than 4 million visitors from around the world, but the city doesn't feel touristy at all. In fact, college-aged students make up a significant portion of the population and there are tons of activities and events for young people practically every day!
Learn common words and phrases:
Buenos dias: Good morning
Buenas tardes: Good afternoon
Buenas noches: Good night
¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does this cost?
Remember that language can vary regionally, so be sure to learn the basics based on where you’re headed.
Embrace the siesta lifestyle! Be aware that, in most cities, it can be difficult to find open restaurants during siesta, usually between the hours of 12-3pm.
Each region in Spain has its own specialty and we encourage you to explore each. Primarily consisting of a Mediterranean diet, Spanish foods include lots of olive oil, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. Some of the most famous dishes include tapas (like albondigas and tortilla de patatas); paella, and gazpacho. To find the best regional food, ask the locals about their favorite dish! For example, in Malaga, seafood and fried food are very popular.
Don’t go to a restaurant if you don’t have plenty of time. Unlike the US, there is less of a focus on fast and immediate service. Eating out is an experience, so be prepared to be patient.
Be aware of pickpockets in high traffic tourist spots, especially in Barcelona and Madrid. Always keep your belongings on you person and tucked away safely in a secure bag.
Meal times in Spain are different than what you may be used to in the US. Lunch is later in the day, usually between 12-2 PM and dinner is much later, between 9-11 PM. Due to this, everything stays open later.
While the family gender roles are modernizing, traditionally the mother manages the household and oversees the cooking and cleaning.
Going to see a flamenco show is a must! It’s such a fun way to experience Spanish culture and history. The Kelipe Centro de Arte Flamenco in the Center of Malaga is a great place to look for shows.
Architect Antoni Gaudi has covered the city of Barcelona in his masterpieces. La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batllo, and Casa Mila are must-see projects of his!
Explore the smaller cities and towns throughout Spain if you have the time. Places like Granada and Marbella are spectacular.
The below questions are ones you can consider as you prepare for your program. You can think about them, journal about them, or talk about them with friends!
If you haven’t already, set a concrete goal for yourself to achieve over the course of your program. Take a moment to write it down in a journal or on a piece of paper that you will keep with you. Re-visit this goal during your program, and think about ways you can incorporate working towards this goal each day!
Sustaining your mental and physical health is vital while on-program. Make a list of the ways that you proactively plan to maintain both.
Travel provides incredible opportunities to learn about yourself, the world, and yourself in the world. But travel is also a deeply emotional experience that can bring different challenges to every individual based on the identities they hold and experiences they’ve had.
This resource is intended to help you think about how your intersecting identities can, and will, shape your experience as an EF student. Take some time to review our Social Identity Resources to hear different perspectives, learn about identity-specific resources, and prepare with helpful tips before you go abroad.
EF Gap Year and Study Abroad are a key part of EF’s expansive global network. With a presence in over 120 countries, 52,000 staff, 600 schools and offices, and over 400 community partners our team has your back and is always available to help you succeed on your journey.
Evan Kiser is thrilled to be your Advisor! His role is to support you from a distance, check-in with you throughout the program, and encourage you to achieve your goals. Evan liaises with your Student Life Coordinator, and local EF staff, collectively working to ensure the success of your experience. He is also available for parents and guardians as well. Evan, along with the entire advising team, works from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM EST Monday through Friday.
Your Student Life Coordinator supports the group dynamic as well as provides individual socio-emotional support on the ground. They will be present for the duration of the program and are available to encourage you to develop new relationships and support you in overcoming challenges, like homesickness.
Your Academic Director is your primary support resource on the ground in Granada. They can help you navigate the local university, access resources, and are the point person for all emergency responses.
Your Field Directors are the logistical and safety coordinators of the group on Field Excursions. They are local guides who will serve as your best resource for logistical support, like ensuring you arrive on time for flights or helping you find the nearest ATM. They are also there for safety purposes and can help with medical concerns or emergencies as well. In certain cases, Field Directors may be referred to as Tour Directors.
The Safety & Incident Response Team is available to all of our students 24/7 and is trained to support students in times of crisis.
The EF Emergency Line is: 617-619-2520
You can count on these experts, who work with a network of healthcare professionals and government personnel, to oversee proactive operational welfare measures and provide aid to our students on program all over the world—so regardless of the time zone or program, whatever the circumstance, whatever the hour, EF will be there to answer your call.