Benefits of studying in Spain for your Transition Year abroad
Are you looking for an exciting way to spend your Transition Year next year? Study abroad programs are popular with Irish students when they attend their 10th grade, called Transition Year. We wrote a full article about this topic, just have a look at it!
If you have already started to study Spanish in 3rd or 4th year, Spain could be the perfect destination for you! Imagine living with a welcoming Spanish host family, attending a local Spanish high school, improving your Spanish every day, and soaking up the sun while experiencing a new culture! Ready?
I advise you to read our dedicated article about the benefits of spending your Transition year abroad. Spending your Transition Year in Spain with Nacel will allow you to:
- Boost your Spanish skills to perform well at your Leaving Certificate
Living with a Spanish host family and attending classes taught in Spanish will help you rapidly improve your language skills—perfect for those studying Spanish for the Leaving Certificate! You will listen to native Spanish speakers and express yourself in Spanish every day. You will learn much faster than sitting when you is in a Spanish class. - Live like a local Spanish teen
This isn’t a tourist trip—it's total immersion. You’ll live with a Spanish family, attend a local high school teaching in Spanish, and truly become part of the community, making a lot of Spanish friends. You will authentically live the life of a Spanish student of your age.
- Spanish cultural discovery
Spain is famous for its rich culture, delicious food, historical cities, and lively traditions like fiestas and festivals. It is obviously a very different culture from Irish culture. Each region has its own unique charm—whether we place you in sunny Seville, near the beaches of Cádiz, or close to the green landscapes of Asturias! We place our exchange students in Andalucia and Asturias. - Make new Spanish friends
You’ll meet local students and other international participants at school, and thanks to theactivities organized by our local coordinators. Many students build lifelong friendships during their stay. Choose extracurricular activities to make even more local friends! - Personal growth
By stepping out of your comfort zone, you’ll gain independence, confidence, and a broader worldview—important life skills that will serve you well in the future.
Program options for TY students in Spain
Interested in going to Spain for a few weeks, a semester, or even your complete Transition Year? We surely have a suitable option for you. Here are the programs on offer:
Short-term Spanish High School and Host family immersion (2 to 10 weeks)
Key features:
- Combine a short-term high school immersion in Spain with daily life in a Spanish host family.
- Choose a stay from a few weeks up to a few months, depending on your preference and budget.
- Enjoy more flexibility, ideal for Transition Year students seeking a cultural boost without committing to a long stay.
- A great choice for those who want both academic and cultural immersion at their own pace.
- Learn more about the short-term High School exchange in Spain.
Long-term High School exchange in Spain (Trimester, Semester or School year in Spain)
Key features:
- Live with a carefully selected Spanish host family and attend a local public or semi-private high school.
- Study core subjects like Mathematics, Spanish Literature, History, Sciences, and more.
- Ideal for students ready to dive deep into Spanish culture and daily school life.
- Available from September to June (full year, semester, or trimester).
- Locations across Spain, including Seville, Asturias, and Cádiz.
Explore our High School exchange programs in Spain.
Ready to go to Spain for TY?
Here's why now is the perfect time!
Spanish schools and host families are eagerly looking forward to welcoming students like you anytime during the school year. Whether you want to begin your stay in September or later during the school year, there’s still time to apply.
This is your chance to:
- Dive into Spanish daily life.
- Sharpen your language skills.
- Take part in exciting activities, from football to music and Flamenco (usually outside school through local clubs).
- Enjoy a safe, supportive experience with the help of Nacel’s local coordinators and experienced team.
But don’t wait too long—places fill up quickly, and applications for September are already open!
Your Transition Year in Spain: step by step
Here’s how you can turn your dream of studying in Spain during TY into reality:
Step 1: Plan with your Irish school
- Speak with your TY coordinator to ensure they support you with this project.
- Check if your school needs you to meet subject requirements while abroad.
- Share Nacel’s handbook on the Spanish school system with your school to clarify grading and expectations.
Step 2: Apply early
Book your Transition year in Spain now!
Submit your application to Nacel as early as possible.
Required documents:
- Passport copy
- Academic transcripts (last 4 years)
- Photos and a personal introduction for your host family.
Step 3: Prepare for your departure
- Take some time to improve your Spanish before you leave—watch Spanish shows, listen to music, or chat with Spanish speakers.
- Understand that Spanish schools may feel different: they are more formal, academic expectations are high, and most extracurriculars happen outside school.
- Get ready for a structured school day—classes typically run from 8:00 AM to 2:00 or 3:00 PM, with homework in the afternoons.
Step 4: Arrival and Orientation
- Nacel will organize your arrival and host family placement.
- You’ll receive an orientation session to help you settle in.
- Your local coordinator will be available throughout your stay to provide support and guidance.
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Your Transition Year in Spain could be the most rewarding and exciting year of your life.
Take the leap, explore Spain, and create memories that will last forever.
Apply now and make your Transition Year truly unforgettable!
