Teach English in Spain with CIEE

Name: Teach English in Spain with CIEE
Brand: CIEE Teach Abroad & TEFL
SKU: 29255
Rating: 8.68 (92 reviews)

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8.68 Rating

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Location

Spain
- Madrid

Length

52+ weeks

Classroom Audience

Early Childhood High School Middle School

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Program Details

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree (in any field), native English speaker, citizenship in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Ireland, or New Zealand

Classroom Audience

Early Childhood High School Middle School

Weekly Classroom Hours

Pricing

Salary / Benefits

Monthly Stipend: 1000 Euros; temporary accommodations during arrival and orientation
Placement as a Language and Culture Assistant in the region of Madrid
Pre-departure assistance – including visa guidance
iNext international insurance with 24-hour emergency assistance
Ongoing support from CIEE staff in Madrid
Airport pickup and transportation to your orientation hotel on arrival day
Four days of orientation in Madrid with topics including housing, banking, residency, health & safety, and more
Cultural activities during orientation, such as a flamenco show and sampling cuisine from different regions of Spain
Optional: 2-4 week homestay with a local Spanish family - breakfast and dinner included
Optional: 2-4 weeks of language immersion courses

Price Details

What's Included

Some Accommodation Some Activities Airport Transfers Some Meals Travel Insurance Wifi

What's Included (Extra)

Pre-departure assistance – including visa application guidance
Temporary accommodation and orientation with topics including housing, banking, residency, health & safety, and more
Option for Spanish language classes
Option for 2-4 week homestay
Cultural activities!

What's Not Included

Airfare SIM cards

Last Updated: May 25, 2021

Last Reviewed: May 05, 2021

About Program

The CIEE Teach in Spain program offers the flexibility for you to teach English for 10 months as a Language and Culture Assistant at a public school in the region of Madrid.

You'll spend 16 hours a week supporting local teachers in the classroom and work only four days a week. This will give you plenty of free time to travel, study Spanish, volunteer, or give private English lessons. Our teaching placements are offered throughout the region of Madrid, giving you the diversity of cities and small towns and offering an immersive and local experience!

CIEE will be there to support you every step of the way. In addition to arranging a job for you in Spain, you will receive a high level of pre-departure support including visa application guidance, an online pre-departure course, and international travel and emergency medical insurance. Our 24/7 support and in-country orientation will ensure that you are prepared and connected throughout your entire program.

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Video and Photos

Teach in Spain with CIEE! Make money while living in a vibrant European Capital.

Meet new friends at your CIEE Orientation

Explore the history and heritage of Madrid

Bring joy and learning to classrooms of children!

Make Madrid your home for a year, or more!

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Program Highlights

Monthly Stipend: 1000 Euros; temporary accommodations during arrival and orientation
Placement as a Language and Culture Assistant in the region of Madrid
Four days of orientation in Madrid with topics including housing, banking, residency, health & safety, and more
Optional: 2-4 week homestay with a local Spanish family - breakfast and dinner included
Optional: 2-4 weeks of language immersion courses

Related Programs

Program Reviews

8.68 Rating

based on 92 reviews

Leave a Review

Rating Spread Teach Gap Year

9-10 rating 68.48%
7-8 rating 22.83%
5-6 rating 6.52%
3-4 rating 0%
1-2 rating 2.17%

Benefits 8.1
Support 8.6
Fun 8.8
Facilities 8.2
Safety 9.1

Housing 10
Support 7
Fun 10
Value 10
Safety 10

Good for Solo Travelers, Building your resume, Adventure travelers

Showing 1 - 8 of 92 reviews

So I paid the fee, I don't wanna repeat how much cause it just reminds me of what I lost. I came late because of Covid restrictions, and they literally didn't give me a single dollar for food, or hotel accommodation as promised. They didn't even recommend me a place to stay.

On top of that, I had to go to the emergency room for tonsilitis and their insurance policy has ignored me for 5 months about my reimbursement. I had an emergency and called the 24/7 emergency hotline (i mean i do pay for it) the representative picked up as if I was a burden. I wasn't even calling at a weird time it was 10am!

I got ripped off. They made me read my documents myself, do everything myself, and when
I emailed them for help, they just said "read the document".

This isn't my first studyabroad program. I've gone abroad with API, Barcelona SAE, and they were absolutely accomodating. They were helpful. Picked up the phone when I had emergencies even at 2am without complaint. One girl from Barcelona SAE helped me by just being my mentor and talking to me when I felt homesick.

I'm giving them a 5 because the people in the program are pretty nice. I'd apply through the ministry, Fullbright, or any other study abroad program.

I'll say one nice thing, but if you have never traveled abroad and want someone to hold your hand, I guess CIEE would be your last choice. There are other great third parties that will actually use your money to help you.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?

I would apply through another company if I wanted assistance or support abroad.

The process of moving to Spain is confusing. Moving during a pandemic is even more complicated, with constantly changing legal restrictions. CIEE made an overwhelming process manageable by providing step-by-step guides for everything: applying for a VISA, registering as a Spanish resident, getting a residency card, etc. Additionally, they sent out periodic email updates to participants letting us know about travel restrictions and curfew changes throughout the year. CIEE does carry a hefty price tag, which is why some auxiliars opt to apply directly through the Spanish government. However, when I talked to participants who applied through the govt, I was often shocked by how little information they were provided with. They had to figure out on their own how to get a TIE card, how to renew for the next year, etc. For me, CIEE was worth it.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?

Arroz negro, a variation of paella that's dyed black with squid ink! Super yummy if you like seafood.

I just wanted to write this because I’m truly impressed with the return on investment from the Teach in Spain program. Spanish bureaucracy in general is a nightmare from what I’ve gathered, but the whole Covid situation makes it so much more ridiculous. But CIEE has been on point every step of the way.

From guiding us through the complex process of getting our visas back home, to welcoming us into Spain and laying out every single step from that point forward. They really do make the insanity that is Spanish bureaucracy as simplified and painless as possible. Their customer service is always amazing, and they're always happy to help resolve whatever issue you’re having. Definitely worth signing up for.

Response from CIEE Teach Abroad & TEFL

Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experience Danny! We're so glad to hear that you've felt very supported throughout the process and that we could help you navigate the bureaucracy.

Thanks again!

By CIEE Teach Abroad on December 15, 2020

Different programs offer different levels of support during your time abroad. One of CIEE's biggest selling points is that they offer you continued support during your time abroad in case anything comes up. For a little while during the Coronavirus outbreak CIEE was offering us support and updated information, but then they decided that they were going to shut down their operation suddenly in many countries. Almost all of the 'continued support' that they had to offer us came from email updates. The rest of Spain is working from home, so I do not understand why they couldn't do the same in order to keep us informed. I was already a bit dissapointed with what I got out of the program given the price, and now I want to warn other people of what might happen to them. This is the nightmare scenario of moving abroad, and one of the main reasons to use a program, and CIEE abandoned us. STAY AWAY FROM THEM.

What would you improve about this program?

That they would uphold their contract and not abandon us in a time of chaos.

My transition to Madrid was nothing but easy and carefree due to the helpful and constant support I felt from the CIEE staff. Their pre-departure guides were available for step by step instruction which made the process stress free. Once arriving to Madrid, the orientation taught me what I needed to know about living in this new city, my job, and allowed me to meet new friends! I always felt I could ask for help if needed! Overall, teaching English to students has been such a fun and rewarding experience that I would recommend for anyone wanting to grow and discover new places!

As a professional educator I was apprehensive about teaching abroad because I assumed everyone participating in the program would be fresh out of college. Although many are, there are still plenty of other link-minded adults moving abroad. This was a perfect way to refresh my passion for teaching and gain new skills and experiences to bring back to my classroom. CIEE made the transition so easy providing all the necessary information to make the move as simple as possible! Working only 16 hours a week and having three day weekends to travel has made it the most enjoyable year of my working adult life so far.

What would you improve about this program?

Ensuring participants understand how much money they should save up before making the move is my only recommendation. Although you don’t need much to transition into Madrid living, if you want to travel or have debt back home, it is essential to be aware of how much money is needed.

CIEE has provided me with the best possible teaching experience that I could possibly ask for! My school is wonderful and I know that if I need anything CIEE will be there to help me in a second! Throughout the whole process of applying to landing in Madrid I have been completely at ease and this is only because of CIEE. Moving to another country is a difficult choice and there is no one else I would trust to help me with this adventure than the incredible crew at CIEE! Thank you for changing my life!

What would you improve about this program?

The only thing I would change is to be able to stay longer than 3 years!

Retiro Park, my favorite place to walk! Always something new around every corner!

I came I to this program knowing some college friends would be around therefore I was furthermore excited for this opportunity. This program provides so many experiences inside and outside the classroom. I worked with Infantil and it's so rewarding. At first the kids would just stare at me in confusion, but after a couple weeks I am proud to say that they are learning the songs and repeating them. Songs such as the itsy bitsy spider, the wheels on the bus, head shoulders knees and toes etc. I would work with the age group again!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?

Have fun. If you're creating lesson plans, put yourself in their shoes and think "what would I like to do at their age?". The kids are so energetic and each day is different.

Questions & Answers

Is it possible to live off 1000 euros a month? How much is average rent?

It’s definitely possible to live off 1000€/month! It’s actually way easier than I thought it would be. I live outside the city center and only pay 360€ a month including utilities and WiFi, but even if you’re in the city center, I think you can find a place for a reasonable price. Groceries and restaurants are way cheaper here than in the states, so cost of living in general is lower, I’d say...

By Derinn Wallace on March 24, 2020

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What are the differences between TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA?

CELTA—administered by Cambridge Univ and respected worldwide. Must face students in classrooms and be evaluated by peers. The others? Can obtain online without ever meeting a student. Who would you hire?

By Brian Morris on March 18, 2020

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Where are most opportunities available?

Hi, Clark! We have programs in many countries, take a look at our website to compare programs: https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/work/teach-english-abroad/pr…. You can reach out to our country coordinators using the 'contact us' tab at the top. Please feel free to reach out to us at teach@ciee.org. Looking forward to working with you! Teach Team

By CIEE Teach Abroad on February 5, 2020

How long is the process from applying to getting the TEFL certification to going to Spain?

For our Fall 2020 departure the deadline is March 1st. It usually takes us about 2-3 weeks to review applications so once you are accepted and pay your deposit you can begin your TEFL course. The TEFL course takes approximately 4 months to complete. You will depart between early August and September, depending on the program you select. So from the time that you apply to the time that you depart...

By Katy MacColl Ciee on October 8, 2019

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Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I choose CIEE to get involved with teaching English abroad because they seemed super professional and the costs were reasonable. I spent many days/hours browsing the internet for the best way to teach abroad and my final decision was that CIEE seemed like the best option to get my foot in the door. Their representatives were unbelievably helpful throughout the entire process. I would recommend them to anyone!

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

My program provider assisted me with sooo many things (especially with the preparation phase of the experience)! Some of the biggest and most helpful were:

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Steps to obtain a visa.
Steps to get in contact with my school.
Steps on how to find housing/open bank account/set up life in general.
Insurance.

Some of the things I had to organize on my own were:

Actually finding my apartment once I got to my city.
Determining my work schedule with my school.
Scheduling my commutes.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Money related advice! Like:

Find out your income and create a monthly budget (you can search the internet for the average costs of living in your city).
Based, on that budget make sure you have enough money saved up to float you for 2-3 months (you'll need to put down a deposit, buy groceries, buy bus tickets, etc. before you get your first payment).
Consider your personal/fun travel in your money-saving plans.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

In Andalucia, we teach 12 hours a week, spread over 4 days a week (Monday-Thursday with Friday free).

Each participant's schedule is different, depending on their school. My school is located very near to where I live, so I have a short, easy commute that I usually do with a coworker. I have friends with much longer, more complicated commutes. I teach 12 hours in the classroom and spend about 2-3 hours a week planning and prepping for my classes.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

I know this sounds a little over-confident, but the truth is that I did not really have any fears before my abroad experience. I have moved many times to many different places in my life, so at this point I feel pretty secure whenever I make these types of moves. Thankfully, I had enough money saved up and support from friends/family that put me in a great position before the move, but in reality, I was not scared. I suppose this answer does not help too much but just being honest :)

Also, I did not speak a lot of Spanish (almost none) before the move, but I tried to study and prep as best as I could. That helped big time!

What is working with a new group of teachers, who you have never met before and do not speak your language like?

It was awesome! I will admit that it's entirely possible that I got super lucky with my school placement, but from day one I felt very welcomed and comfortable, despite my almost zero level of Spanish and a very limited level of English on my coworkers' part. Despite the language barrier, we still made it work. I showed interest in them and their lives and they did the same in return.

Over the semester, I started to create real bonds and connections with my coworkers, all in their own unique ways. Everyone was eager to help me and I tried to do the same back - teamwork baby!

Tracy Kuhle

2019 Alum

Valerie Sokolova

2018 Alum

David Mack

2016 Alum

Sarah Anderegg

2016 Alum

Mark Reese

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

What is your favorite travel memory?

After the unexpected death of a loved one in 2013, I traveled on a whim to a rural island in the South Pacific called Taveuni to do some soul searching. Taveuni is one of the 70 islands that make up the nation of Fiji.

While I was there, I lived with a family in a small village. The way of life there made a lasting impression on me. My favorite memory is when a group of kids took me on ocean kayaks to go snorkeling. It was unforgettable! I watched them spearfish for lunch, make a fire on the beach, scale tall trees to pick coconuts and machete the coconuts open for us to enjoy.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I will never underestimate the value of good customer service, meeting people where they are at, and assuming positive intent.

I started out with the CIEE Support team, the team that is responsible for handling any and all problems that may come upon a participant's exchange year. It was an incredible learning experience that taught me not to take things personally, adults aren't always "right", and that kids can teach us incredible lessons if we only allow them and are open to the experience.

I started out working primarily with minors on our High School USA program, their host families, and local CIEE representatives. With so many cooks in the kitchen, it is important to know how to stay neutral and objective; something that has and will continue to serve me in my personal and professional life.

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What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

I spoke to an older participant who went to Spain on the Volunteer program last year and he is already trying to go back for another few months. He was so enthusiastic and spoke to me in Spanish, obviously overjoyed about having the opportunity to practice his Spanish. He is in his 60's and reminded me that it is never too late to try something new like going and living with a host family! When I worked with high school students on the Support team, I enjoyed being able to help them and hear their reflections and maturity after having returned home.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

That is a difficult question to answer. If I had to choose and had all the time and resources to do so, I would do CIEE Teach Abroad in Chile.

I have never been that far South within the Americas and have always wanted to go. While many people are drawn to Spain (been there, done that!), I think it would be more helpful to learn South/Central American Spanish and culture given the number of Spanish speakers in the USA. I really had to try hard to neutralize my "Castillian accent" when working with South/Central American people in the various jobs I have had since university.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

CIEE provides the absolute best support to its participants.

This summer, I was exceptionally proud when we were able to assist a mother from Ecuador travel to the USA to be with her daughter who was hospitalized while on the Summer Work & Travel program. Being able to be with someone in a vulnerable moment like that was a very proud moment for our team with several staff members assisting over the course of the summer months.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

I believe that everyone must be treated equally and support to be the best version of themselves at work as well as in their personal lives. The health and well-being of all is of the utmost importance and all organizations should make that a priority for their employees in any position. This means providing career mentoring, health insurance, paid time off, etc. I think CIEE does a great job with this.

Laura Canadillas

Teach in Spain Senior Program Coordinator

About CIEE Teach Abroad & TEFL

CIEE Teach Abroad offers paid English teaching positions at reputable partner schools around the world. Head out on your adventure with the peace-of-mind of knowing that CIEE provides 24/7 emergency assistance, iNext international insurance, and in-country support on all programs. CIEE TEFL is committed to making sure you’re well prepared when you...

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