PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

• Minimum 2.75 G.P.A.
• This program is for studio art majors or minors
• It is required that students have completed at least two semesters of college level Spanish, or the equivalent, for admission
• Completed API application
• One letter of recommendation
• One official transcript
• Advisor signature form
• Classes taught in Spanish
• Guggenheim card: Free museum admission and discounts
• Housing: local host families and residencias
• Entry Requirements: Valid passport with student visa

TOTAL SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS

• 180 - 270 contact hours
• 12-18 U.S. semester credits

EXCURSIONS

SPRING STUDENTS

• El Escorial
• Madrid
• San Sebastián 
• Santander
• Toledo
• INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION: Rome, Italy

FALL STUDENTS

• Burgos
• El Escorial
• Madrid
• San Sebastián 
• Toledo
• INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION: Paris, France

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

This program is designed for art majors/minors. Students are also required to have taken two semesters of college level Spanish. Some courses of study may require a higher working knowledge of Spanish. Students attend classes at the Facultad de Bellas Artes (Department of Fine Arts) at the Universidad del País Vasco, Campus de Leioa (the University of the Basque Country, Leioa Campus). This program offers a dynamic opportunity to practice and participate in studio arts classes with students from Spain, as well as students from across Europe and the world. Most courses are equivalent to 3-6 semester credits each, though the amount of credit depends on the course.

Due to the hands-on nature of the studio courses, there is minimal time spent in a lecture setting. Most classes are taught in Spanish (Castilian). Some courses are taught in Basque and students are discouraged from taking those classes. API strongly encourages students to take classes with professors who speak some English, and we will provide guidelines post-acceptance.

The fall semester of the University of the Basque Country’s academic calendar finishes at the end of January. Students may petition to take their exams early, but it is not recommended, nor can it be guaranteed that professors will approve the scheduling change. As such, students are encouraged to enroll for the entire academic year or for the spring semester.

INTENSIVE SPANISH OPTION

Students who want to refresh their Spanish skills before starting their classes in Bilbao can add an intensive two weeks or month of Spanish language study in Salamanca for 3-6 semester credits. Contact the API office for more information about this option.

TRANSCRIPTS

API students will receive a transcript from the University of the Basque Country upon completion of their program.