Go on high school exchange in Spain

Why study abroad 
in Spain?

A high school exchange year in Spain means becoming part of a culture that’s lively, welcoming, and full of everyday moments. You’ll attend a local high school, live with a welcoming host family, and experience what daily life is like as a teenager in Spain. With nearly 500 million people around the world speaking Spanish, gaining confidence in the language will open up new opportunities – both now and in the future.

 

✅ Improve your Spanish naturally

✅ Make friends for life

✅ Live and learn the Spanish way

✅ Explore Spain beyond the tourist spots

Are you eligible for the
exchange?

To join one of our exchange programs in Spain, you need to be between 14 and 18 years old when the program starts and still enrolled in school in your home country. You don’t need top grades – but a basic knowledge of Spanish will help you get the most out of both school and everyday life. We offer a Spanish course before departure to help you get off to a great start.

 

No matter the length of your exchange stay, we’ll help you plan a setup that fits your goals, interests, and timeline. If you’re excited to explore a new culture, language, and way of life – this could be your perfect next step!

Quick facts

  • Ages: 14–18 years

  • Visa: No (non-EU citizens can stay 3 months)

  • Welcome Camp: Included

  • Duration: 3 to 10 months or multiple years

  • Support: 24/7 availability

  • Price for 10 months: From €13,250

  • Accommodation: Local host family

High School 
in Spain

The Spanish school system is structured but social – with lots of interaction, shared routines, and a strong classroom community. High school is divided into two stages: ESO (Educación Secundaria Obligatoria), which goes up to year 10, and Bachillerato, the final two years. Most exchange students are placed in ESO or the first year of Bachillerato, depending on age, grades, and Spanish skills.

 

You’ll study alongside local students in a traditional classroom setting, often staying with the same group all day while teachers rotate by subject.

Your school week, schedule & subjects

In Spain, school days usually start around 9:00 AM and end between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, depending on your school. Some schools have a long lunch break in the middle of the day, while others run straight through without one. Expect around 30 hours of class per week.

 

You’ll follow a set timetable with core subjects like Spanish, literature, English, maths, and PE (physical education). Depending on your school and placement, you might also study subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, art, music, or technology.

Trusted since 1958 – why STS is a great choice

Since 1958 over 1.2 million students from across the world have studied abroad with us. With STS you get:

 

  • 24/7 support — we’re always here for you
  • Carefully selected host families
  • Resilience training
  • Free Welcome Camp in Barcelona
  • Local staff or host family will greet you at the airport
STS eyes looking down

Explore life outside the classroom

School is just one part of your exchange – life in Spain truly comes alive after class. Thanks to the great weather and social vibe, you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors, whether you’re playing sports, joining a club, or just hanging out with friends in the local plaza.

 

Want to try something new? Your host family or local coordinator can help you find a sports team, dance class, or other activities. Depending on where you live, you might go swimming, surfing, golfing, or even skiing – yes, Spain has it all. And if you’re up for something truly local, how about joining a flamenco class?

 

In Spain, social life happens everywhere – cafés, parks, and street corners – and it’s the perfect setting to practice your Spanish naturally while making real connections.

Living with a Spanish host family

Living with a Spanish host family is your chance to experience everyday life from the inside – full of warmth, rhythm, and real connection. Spanish families are known for being talkative, passionate, and welcoming, and they’ll do their best to make you feel like one of their own.

 

Meals are a big deal here – often starting late and stretching into long, lively conversations. At first it might feel intense, but give it a week or two and you’ll find yourself joining in (maybe even in Spanish). No two families are alike, and regional traditions vary, but all our host families are carefully selected and excited to share their home and culture with you.

Your exchange in Spain starts here

It’s easier than you might think! Begin your journey by talking to us – we’ll guide you every step of the way. What are you waiting for? Say yes to the adventure and create memories that will stay with you forever.

Welcome Camp in Barcelona

No matter which program you choose, your high school adventure in Spain begins with our Welcome Camp in Barcelona. Over a few unforgettable days, you’ll explore this vibrant city, get to know fellow exchange students, and prepare for life in Spain. Welcome camp is only included for all students going in the fall.

The cost of a high school exchange in Spain?

The cost of your exchange year in Spain depends on the program you choose, how long you’re away, and any extras you’d like to add. Below, you’ll find starting prices for our Classic program.

In addition to the program fee that you pay STS, there are certain costs that you and your family need to cover, including costs for insurance, personal items, local trips, leisure activities, and pocket money.

 

Length
10 months

Period
Fall

Year
2026

Price
From €13,250

Talk to a high school expert

Got questions? We’re here to help you figure it out.

Explore more of Spain with optional trips

There’s so much more to see, and during your exchange you’ll get the chance to travel beyond your host town on fun weekend trips with other STS students. These trips are the perfect way to take a break from school, bond with friends, and make even more memories.

 

Trips vary from year to year and are offered at an extra cost, but your local contact person in Spain will keep you updated with all the details about destinations, prices, and travel dates.

 

Get ready to see more, do more – and fall in love with even more sides of Spain.

Our destinations

Take our short quiz and discover which high school exchange destination fits your vibe.

USA
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Home » High school » Destinations » Europe » Spain Go on high school exchange inthe USAFree brochure Why study abroad in the USA? Discover life as a high school student in the USA. A whole new way of living – from yellow school buses and pep rallies to school pride, homecoming dances, and weekend…

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Canada
Canada

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France

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Germany

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Great Britain
Great Britain

Home » High school » Destinations » Europe » Spain Go on high school exchange in the United KingdomFree brochure Why study abroad in the UK? Studying in the UK is more than afternoon tea and iconic landmarks – it’s a chance to experience life as a British teen and discover a world of new…

Ireland
Ireland

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New-Zealand
New-Zealand

Home » High school » Destinations » Europe » Spain Go on high school exchange in New ZealandFree brochure Why study abroad in New Zealand? Studying in New Zealand is more than just scenic landscapes and friendly locals – it’s about discovering a whole new way of learning and living. You’ll experience everyday life as…

Spain
Spain

Home » High school » Destinations » Europe » Spain Go on high school exchange in SpainFree brochure Why study abroad 
in Spain? A high school exchange year in Spain means becoming part of a culture that’s lively, welcoming, and full of everyday moments. You’ll attend a local high school, live with a welcoming host…

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FAQ – Exchange in Spain

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