Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

IES Madrid Review September 15, 2026

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/07/2026 to 05/09/2026 with

IES Abroad: Madrid - IES Abroad in Madrid

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My experience abroad was extremely worthwhile because it pushed me outside of my comfort zone and allowed me to become more independent, adaptable, and confident. Living in a different country exposed me to new cultures, perspectives, and ways of life while also giving me the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds. I learned how to navigate unfamiliar situations, communicate across cultural differences, and make the most of new experiences. Overall, studying abroad helped me grow both personally and professionally and gave me experiences and relationships that I will carry with me for a long time.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Professors
  • Country
  • Excursions
* What could be improved?
  • Attendance policy too strict
  • Classes could be more rigorous
  • More hands on assignments
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Make new friends