Gap year programs in Spain - 5 of the best for 2026

Are you dreaming of taking a gap year in Europe? With over 300 days of sun, vibrant cities, amazing history and friendly locals, Spain is the perfect destination. 

A gap year in Spain opens you up to a whole world of incredible experiences. You’ll meet new people, discover an exciting culture, taste incredible food and learn new skills and abilities, all with the kind of confidence you never knew you were capable of!

In short, a gap year in Spain will change your life! So, let’s take a look at five of the best Spanish gap year programs.

TEFL Iberia: Gap Year in Spain

Teaching English during your gap year is the perfect way to earn money during your gap year. 

At TEFL Iberia, one of Barcelona’s leading English teacher training schools, you can earn while you learn with the Gap Year in Spain program. You’ll graduate with a global TEFL certificate, meaning you’ll be qualified to teach English anywhere in the world. And, as part of your gap year course, you’ll receive expert Spanish tuition while immersing yourself in exciting cultural activities. 

You’ll also get full accommodation during your stay, as well as step-by-step assistance with visa and bureaucracy, meaning you can concentrate on enjoying every moment of your gap year. 

If you’re looking for a formative experience in one of the world’s best cities, opening doors to future opportunities and developing new skills and abilities, this is one of the best Spain gap year programs out there.

Location: Barcelona
Cost: €8,235–€15,090
Duration: 3–9 months, 25 hours per week

Carlos III University of Madrid Gap Year Program

Take a semester in Spain to learn about Spanish culture, develop your personal skills and live an amazing overseas experience. The UC3M/CIS Gap Year program is split into four areas: Spanish culture and language; power skills; good habits; and social impact. 

This program takes place between two establishments – the Carlos III International School of the Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M) and the College for International Studies University (CIS). Choose from a range of options, including sports, travel and culture, and Spanish language immersion.  

With a good blend of academic and experiential activities, it’s an excellent all-round experience. Having said that, with only one semester, it can be a limited experience for those looking for a full Spanish gap year program. 

Location: Madrid
Cost: €8,500
Duration: 4 months 

Universidad Autònoma de Barcelona GAP Year Programme

The Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) is a respected university on the outskirts of the Catalan capital. Their Study Abroad Gap Year Programme offers you the chance to spend a semester in Barcelona, meeting students from all over the world and developing both global knowledge and interpersonal skills. 

With a stronger focus on academic subjects than typical gap year programs, you’ll learn about everything from introductory business and contemporary Spain to artificial intelligence and intercultural intelligence. 

Again, this program is not the best for those looking for a full year – it’s only available for a semester, although there are possibilities to combine semesters to study for a longer period.  

Location: Barcelona
Cost: €2,713€–€4,223€
Duration: 4 months 

Spanish Institute for Global Education

For a slice of southern Spain, look to the Spanish Institute, which offers the chance to sample life in Spain with its Gap Year in Spain program. Enjoy the charm of Andalucian life with courses at the university in Seville, an internship or a combination of both.

Choose from a full academic year, a fall semester and internship semester, and a full internship year. The program includes an intensive Spanish course, cultural visits in Seville and throughout Andalucia. Accommodation is with a Spanish host family, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in the culture and language.

This program is a great option for those looking for a gap year in Spain with a different flavour, away from the big two cities of Barcelona and Madrid.

Location: Seville
Cost: €4,882–€11,522
Duration: 4–12 months 

Spanish Gap Year: Spain By Train

Looking for an alternative Spanish gap year that takes a different track from the traditional kind of program? This 12-week adventure might be just what you’re looking for. Exploring all four corners of the country, the Spanish Gap Year: Spain By Train program

An offshoot of ID Languages – a language school based in Bundoran, Ireland – Spanish Gap Year is based in three locations, with three trip destinations. You’ll make your home in Granada in the south, Salamanca to the west and San Sebastian on the northern coast. Between each home period, you’ll visit Barcelona, Madrid and travel on the Camino de Santiago, each experience lasting just over a week.  

While it’s only a semester long, this unique gap year program packs in a lot. If you can afford the steep program fee, it’s sure to be a very valuable gap year experience.

Location: Various
Cost: €18,400
Duration: 12 weeks

Find out more about why a gap year in Spain could be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.