Intern and study for in the medieval walled city of Toledo, Spain, home for more than 2,000 years to a succession of Roman, Jewish, Visigoth, Moorish and Christian civilizations. This summer program, offered in collaboration with the prestigious Fundación Ortega-Marañón and the University of Minnesota (UMN), is an opportunity for you to complete an internship abroad while improving your Spanish language skills. Wander the winding streets to discover historical attractions and breathtaking vistas. Located just an hour from Madrid, Toledo is an excellent base from which to explore Spain.
Starting in Summer 2026, there will be two tracks offered as part of the UMN Internships & Spanish Language summer program:
1) General Internships & Spanish Language Strengthen your cross-cultural professional skills in a summer internship placement as you build your Spanish language skills in historic Toledo. You'll enroll in a 3-credit internship seminar to complement your part-internship placement, in addition to a 3-credit Spanish language course from UMN course offerings in Toledo to improve your Spanish language communication and comprehension skills.
2) Cross-Cultural Health Internships & Spanish Language Geared toward students in health fields such as global health, pre-nursing, or pre-med who are ready to hone their Spanish language skills. You'll enroll in a 3-credit health internship seminar to complement your part-time health internship placement, in addition to a 3-credit Spanish language course from UMN course offerings in Toledo to improve your Spanish language communication and comprehension skills. The Cross-Cultural Health Internship & Spanish language track is approved as a field experience for the UW-Madison Global Health Certificate.
Deepen cross-cultural understanding through interaction with local community
Gain Spanish and international perspectives on academic disciplines
Increase independence and self-reliance by learning to navigate Spanish society
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.
Sustainability
We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.
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Eligibility
2.5 cumulative GPA
4th semester Spanish required for Internships in Spain track. 2nd semester Spanish preferred for Cross-Cultural Health track.
Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior
3.0 cumulative GPA in all Spanish language courses
Language Prerequisite(s): Variable (see notes) Spanish
Open to UW-Madison degree-seeking students only
Good academic and disciplinary standing
At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution
Students on this program will participate in an 15/hour per week internship, along with enrollment in a 3-credit internship course and one other 3-credit Spanish language course.
Examples of internship sites for the General Internships & Spanish Languageoption include the Regional Parliament, museums, newspapers, Toledo City Hall, Toledo Chamber of Commerce, schools, radio stations, and community service organizations. Internship site descriptions are linked below.
The Cross-Cultural Health Internship & Spanish language track is approved as a field experience for the Global Health Certificate. Possible internships for the Cross-Cultural Health Internships & Spanish Language track include placements in research units at a paraplegic hospital, with nursing and psysiotherapy professionals at a university, and at the Spanish Red Cross.
You will be required to confirm your participation in this program before receiving your specific internship placement. After acceptance, students will complete an internship interest form and meet virtually with FOM staff regarding their interests. The timeline for receiving your final internship placement varies. It is possible that you won't be informed of your placement until after you've arrived in-country. Internship placement to your interests is not guaranteed due to fit and availability. As with all study abroad experiences, flexibility and open-mindedness are key.
The Fundación Ortega-Marañón offers classes in a wide range of topics, including anthropology, archaeology, art history, economics, history, interdisciplinary studies, linguistics, political science, Spanish cultural heritage, Spanish language, Spanish and Latin American literature, women's studies, Spanish theatre, and business. Classes will be taken with students from UW-Madison and other US colleges and universities. Classes are taught in Spanish by Spanish faculty of the Foundation.
Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken
on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes
pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of
courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the
semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course
equivalent process after acceptance.
View Course Equivalents
Declared a World Heritage Site, Toledo, known as La Ciudad Imperial, is a living museum, a preserved part of Spanish history. Perched on a rock ridge above the Tagus River, it’s a city of approximately 80,000 people. In the heart of the city, amongst the labyrinth of narrow streets and lively plazas, stands a Gothic cathedral and Alcazár. The historical civilizations of Toledo are reflected in the mosaic of architecture, mosques, synagogues, churches, and museums.
This program, based at the San Juan de la Penitencia residence, a converted 16th Century convent, offers modern learning facilities surrounded by views of the city, and easy access to the downtown area and public transit. Toledo is located 30 minutes from Madrid via high-speed train.
Cost of living varies widely by location. Be sure to consult a variety of resources when researching cost of living.
Housing
You can choose to live either in San Juan de la Penitencia Residence or with a local Spanish host. Housing requests are honored on a first-come, first-served basis. You are encouraged to compare local host and residence housing options when considering this program.
San Juan de la Penitencia Residence: Single, double, and triple rooms with shared bathrooms are available, and residence occupants are almost entirely program participants. The residence includes dining, classroom, library, recreational and housing facilities. This is a convenient and flexible living arrangement, where you can come and go as you please. The Residencia is within walking distance to virtually everything Toledo has to offer. This makes it easy to get out into the community and meet Toledanos. All meals are included in the program fee and are provided at the residence. Dining staff will work with students to accommodate any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Local Host: For many people, living with a homestay is their best experience while in Spain. Many students make life-long ties to their local hosts and, through them, can meet other Spaniards. If you choose a homestay, you will have a first-hand look at Spanish culture and society and will be immersed in the Spanish language. Typically, you and your local host will live in an apartment, as single family houses are not as common in Spain as in the U.S. You will have your own room and private study space.
Many homestays are located outside of old Toledo, approximately seven kilometers from the program facilities. Toledo has a good bus system and homestay students will be provided with a bus pass. You will be provided with three meals a day with your local host. If you are unable to go home for lunch, you can sign up to eat with the other participants at the Residence.
Program Considerations
In a physical sense, the on-site experience may be very different from life on the UW campus. You may walk or take public transportation more than you are used to in Madison. The physical activity level will vary by program, but in general you should be prepared for extended periods of time walking, potentially on uneven terrain.
For many students, discovering and experiencing new foods is a part of the experience. It is important to consider any dietary restrictions, whether they are due to health conditions, religious beliefs, or individual needs, and look into whether you can get the foods you need locally.
How you identify yourself in Madison may differ from how people will view you on-site. Consider exploring our Identity Resources to reflect on how your identities may impact your experience. Students with disabilities should keep in mind that attitudes and laws related to disabilities vary by country, and these differences may impact the level of accommodation available in a particular location. More details are available on our page on Study Abroad for Students with Disabilities.
We encourage you to contact your Study Abroad Advisor and share your accommodation needs with us as early as possible. This will allow us to help you explore your options in advance.
Excursions and Activities
Three one-day excursions are included in the cost of the summer program to provide you with cultural and historic perspectives of Spain. Visits are made to such sites as Madrid, Aranjuez, Cuenca, the grand El Escorial, Segovia, and the Route of Don Quixote.
On-Site Support
Fundación Ortega-Marañón's on-site staff.
Orientation
IAP expects you to be an active participant in preparing yourself for your study abroad experience. As a participant on an IAP program, you will receive a pre-departure orientation. The type and format of this orientation will vary by program and will be provided to you upon acceptance to the program. There is an on-site orientation given upon arrival in Spain.
Visa
A visa is not required for U.S. citizens for this program. U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport valid for at least six months beyond the end of the program. Non U.S. passport holders may have different visa requirements. Ask your Study Abroad Advisor if you have any questions.
Students who are studying abroad in the Schengen Area in the term prior to their internship (ex. spring semester before a summer internship) must cross outside of the Schengen area on or before the end date printed on their student visa (or on their foreign identity card for full-year students). The student may then reenter the Schengen area to activate tourist status and (re)commence their 90-day countdown.
If you are planning on personal travel to the UK before or after your program, we encourage you to get your ETA before leaving the U.S. It can take up to 30 days to process your application. The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whatever comes first. If you are not a U.S. citizen check the ETA travel authorization web page to determine if ETA or another visa is required.
Getting to Your Program
The University of Minnesota arranges an optional group flight and provides information after acceptance, otherwise you are responsible for making your own travel arrangements using the provided arrival guidelines from the University of Minnesota.
Insurance
You will be enrolled in the UW System required health insurance through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) and the cost of the insurance coverage is included in program fees.
If you are a citizen of a country other than the United States and will remain/study in, or travel to your country of record (the location of your permanent residence), the insurance provided for you is the same as the “study away” insurance provided to U.S. citizens studying on domestic U.S. programs. You may want to explore alternative or additional international health and medical insurance that will cover your needs both while in and during any period of transit to/from your country of record. This may include participation in a national healthcare plan or coverage provided under a personal healthcare plan in your country of record. If you have questions about the coverage of the “study away” plan, please speak with your Study Abroad Advisor.
All other students participating on an international program will automatically be enrolled in Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI), the university's international health, medical and repatriation insurance policy.
Program cost information includes program fees, as well as out-of-pocket expenses with notes to help explain costs. Program fees are estimated and can be adjusted at any time. Once accepted, you will receive a cost sheet that includes confirmed program fees and additional out-of-pocket expenses. "The IAP Program Fee" and all processes and policies stated on this cost sheet apply to all participants on programs managed by International Academic Programs (IAP) and in partnership with the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the College of Engineering, and Wisconsin School of Business. All students participating on approved programs are all eligible to apply for scholarships administered through IAP when they meet the scholarship eligibility and selection criteria.
UW–Madison students can typically use their financial aid on UW–Madison study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programs. You need to complete a FAFSA if you want to be eligible to receive federal and state financial aid.
Beginning in 2026-27, the Office of Student Financial Aid will require all incoming undergraduate students to submit a CSS profile.
Video Description and Transcript: During her Instagram takeover, Chloe takes us along her day in a life in Toledo, Spain! She shares pictures and videos about her classes, host family, and travel spots! Read the full transcript of the takeover.
How to Apply
First, make sure you have reviewed the information for Prospective Students on the IAP website.
There is also specific Academic Planning information that you should review.
Students Requiring Accommodations: Consult and register with the McBurney Disability Resource Center McBurney Services if you will need academic, housing, and/or other disability-related accommodations or services abroad.
Military-Connected Students with Veteran’s Benefits: Talk with University Veteran Services about how your benefits can be used for study abroad.
This program is offered by International Academic Programs. We have a team that works with each program. Each member of this program team is able to help students with different kinds of questions. Visit the advising webpage to learn how to schedule an appointment.
Enrollment Manager
For questions on application advising, program eligibility, course equivalency request process, grade processing.
Students must have their primary academic program in CALS are eligible to apply for scholarships specifically for CALS majors. Students must apply for the Study Abroad Scholars scholarship through IAP to be considered for these awards. Students must have also completed/submitted their study abroad application in order to be considered for a CALS study abroad scholarship.
Students who are completing the Global Health Certificate, but whose majors are outside of CALS (such as L&S) are not eligible.
Award Amount
Varies ($1000-$2500)
Eligibility Criteria
Students must have their primary academic program in CALS to be eligible to apply. Students who are completing the Global Health Certificate, but whose majors are outside of CALS (such as L&S) are not eligible. Students must have also completed/submitted their study abroad application in order to be considered for a CALS scholarship.
These internship scholarships are made possible through the generous donations from UW-Madison family and friends. Preference is given to undergraduate students completing unpaid internships, or those who would not be able to participate in the internship without financial support. Students who are underrepresented in their school, major, and/or industry are also prioritized.
Award Amount
Varies, up to $5,000
Eligibility Criteria
L&S undergraduate with at least one semester after the internship. Check website for additional eligibility. How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the scholarship website.
History Department Global Perspectives Scholarship
Description
History majors at UW-Madison are eager to study and intern abroad and bring what they learn in the classroom to life. The Department of History’s Global Perspectives Scholarship hopes to make this possible for History Majors and those pursuing a Certificate in History. This scholarship provides students with financial awards starting with $1500 towards short term study abroad and intern abroad programs, $3000 towards semester programs, and $4000 towards year-long programs. The scholarship can be used toward the eligible study or intern abroad program of your choice. Award Amount
$1500-$4000
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Department of History Global Perspective Scholarship, an applicant must be: 1. a full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate student at UW-Madison in good academic and disciplinary standing 2. a History Major or pursuing a Certificate in History 3. Be in the process of applying, or have already applied, to a UW-Madison Study or Intern Abroad program for Summer, Fall, Winter Intersession Spring, or Academic Year. International Internship participants must be enrolled in the Worldwide Internship Program (WIP) online course. Additional consideration will be given to:
-Members of traditionally underrepresented groups in higher education: African American, Hispanic/Latinx, American Indian, and Southeast Asian (i.e., Cambodian, Hmong, Laotian, Vietnamese) -Students with financial need (EFC of $12,000 or lower preferred) -Students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds (educational or social disadvantage, such as coming from a low-income family, an underserved rural or farming community, attending a school with a limited college preparatory curriculum, or other family circumstances that have affected your educational opportunities) -First generation college students -Students traveling abroad for the first time -Additional funding may be available for students completing internships in Africa while enrolled in the Worldwide Internship Program (WIP).
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Global Scholars Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is available to UW-Madison students participating in the following affiliated programs: Center for Educational Opportunity, Chancellor's & Powers Knapp Scholarship Program, First Wave, PEOPLE, or the Posse Program. The scholarship was designed to support Scholars who are engaging in study abroad or study away opportunities during the Winter Intersession and/or Summer; must be participating on an International Academic Programs (IAP) study abroad program, in partnership with CALS, Engineering, Business, & the International Internship Program (IIP).
Description Each year, the L&S Honors Program supports Honors students intending to study abroad at a UW-Madison-approved academic study abroad program through the L&S Honors Study Abroad grants. Award Amount
$1250
Eligibility Criteria
L&S Honors student studying on an approved UW-Madison Study Abroad Program How to Apply Students can apply for this award at Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH).
SOMOS Undergraduate Development Award (Chican@ & Latin@ Studies)
Description
The Chican@ & Latin@ Studies Program offers the Somos Undergraduate Development Award annually to students enrolled in its academic programs who belong to minority groups historically underserved by higher education in the United States. The award is supported by the generosity of Dr. Andrea-Teresa Arenas with proceeds from the sale of her book Somos Latinas, and by her husband, former Chancellor John Wiley. Each Spring, the Program will award up to $1500.00 for at least one student professional, academic, or artistic initiative, preferably one to be carried out during the following summer or the following academic year. Examples of eligible student initiatives include travel to professional meetings, internships, research projects, travel to collections, and creative projects. Applications will be screened by a committee of CLSP faculty and staff who will determine the award winner or winners. Applications are typically due mid-April, please see website for updated annual deadline. Award Amount
Up to $1,500.00
Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate students enrolled in Chican@ & Latin@ Studies (CLS) academic programs who belong to minority groups historically underserved by higher education in the United States. How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the scholarship website.
SoHE Summer Internship Scholarship
Description
Human Ecology is proud to offer internship scholarships ranging in amount from $500 to $3500 to students engaging in unpaid and/or out-of-state internships for credit. Internships abroad are eligible if done for credit via UW Undergradute Internship Credit Program.
SoHE's Summer Internship Scholarship is guaranteed for participating SOHE interns enrolled through the UW Undergradute Internship Credit Program. Other scholarships and grants received will be considered when determining the exact scholarship amount.
Scholarship Eligibility Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Student(s) must be enrolled in one of the six School of Human Ecology majors
Student(s) must have an offer for an unpaid and/or out-of-state summer internship prior to applying for the scholarship
Student(s) must have at least junior standing (54+ credits completed) at the time the internship begins
Student(s) must enroll in and complete the internship course within their major while engaged in the internship once they are given approval to do so
The internship must occur primarily in the months of June through August and provide a minimum of 150 on-site hours
The internship must reflect and enhance academic knowledge related to student’s major and discipline and meet the minimum criteria to be considered for credit
Student must not have already completed an internship-for-credit or otherwise satisfied the internship requirement within the School.
Once open, School of Human Ecology students can access the application on Wisconsin Scholarship Hub site. The scholarship application for Summer opens in March. If you have questions on the scholarship application, please contact the School’s Scholarship Coordinator at scholarships@sohe.wisc.edu. Award Amount
Varies ($1,000 - $3,500)
How to Apply
School of Human Ecology students can access the application on Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) site. The scholarship application for summer opens in March, fall opens in August, and spring opens in December. There are two rounds per cycle to allow for students to apply based on when an internship is secured for the following term. Each cycle will offer an early deadline roughly 1 month prior to the start of the term, and another when internship verification forms are due, which is one week prior to the start of the term.
CALS Internship Scholarship
Description
Any CALS student with an unpaid or underpaid internship is eligible to apply for a scholarship up to $5,000! Applicants completing both domestic and interntional internships will be considered. As a note, students must have a secured internship by the end of April to apply and receive funding. A hyperlink to the application can be found here: https://wisc.academicworks.com/admin/opportunities/70128
Questions? Contact Paige LaPoint plapoint@wisc.eduAward Amount
Varies, up to $5000
How to Apply
Apply in the WiSH Portal by completing the General Application and indicating you are a CALS student.
Study Abroad Scholars
Description
This competitive scholarship provides students with financial awards starting at $1,500 towards the eligible study abroad program of your choice, and the chance to share your experience with the UW-Madison community upon return. Students attending any program, except the funded Global Gateway programs, in IAP, CALS, ENGR, or WSB are encouraged to apply to become a Study Abroad Scholar. Please read full scholarship details, including eligibility requirements, and considerations on the Study Abroad Scholars page.
CALS majors must apply for Study Abroad Scholars to be considered for CALS donor scholarships. Award Amount
$1,500-$8,000
Eligibility Criteria
In order to be considered for the Study Abroad Scholars scholarship for this application round, an applicant must:
Be in the process of applying, or have already applied, to an IAP study abroad program (UW Global Gateway Programs are not eligible)
Be a full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate UW-Madison student
Academic merit and financial need will be considered
Submit completed application materials online by the posted deadline
Description
IAP will provide a guaranteed $1000 scholarship to students applying to the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for the first time and meet the Gilman's scholarship eligibility requirements and application deadlines.
Students can only receive the IAP Gilman Incentive one time in their academic career. No additional application to IAP is needed and our staff will notify recipients after the Gilman scholarship deadline. Award Amount
$1000
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship website. No additional application is needed for the IAP Gilman Incentive award. Students can only receive the IAP Gilman Incentive one time.
LACIS Internship Scholarship
Description Generously sponsored by the Latin American, Caribbean and Iberian Studies Center, the LACIS International Internship Scholarship aims to provide financial support to students participating in summer internship programs through International Academic Programs (IAP) across Latin America, the Caribbean and Iberia (Spain and Portugal). Preference will be given to current LACIS majors, or students who have enrolled in LACIS courses. See additional information and apply through the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH)Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
Open to enrolled undergraduate students who have applied for international internship programs through International Academic Programs (IAP) in Latin America, the Caribbean, or Iberia (Spain & Portugal). Preference given to current LACIS majors or students who have enrolled in LACIS courses. How to Apply
Apply through the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) by the application deadline
IAP WISc Scholarship
Description
This scholarship was established by International Academic Programs (IAP) to assist undergraduate student participants in the Wisconsin International Scholars (WISc) Program with building their global competence and citizenship skills, which is the core goal of the WISc Program. Each WISc Scholar is eligible to receive scholarships as follows:
1) 1 scholarship of $2500 toward participation on a short-term study abroad program duration (winter intersession, spring break, or summer), and
2) 1 scholarship of $4000 toward participation on a semester program OR 1 $6000 towards a year long program.
These scholarships can be used for students attending any approved UW-Madison study abroad program.
Award Amount
$2500-$6000
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible for student participants of the Wisconsin International Scholars (WISc) Program at UW-Madison.
The FEA is committed to increasing the opportunities for dedicated American students to participate in high-quality, rigorous education abroad programs by reducing financial restrictions through the provision of grants and scholarships. This scholarship is great for students who are early in the planning process of their study abroad experience as the deadline is early.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
1. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. 2. Must plan to study abroad for a minimum of 4 weeks in country 3. Is committed to supporting education abroad in his/her campus community through work with the FEA and his/her campus education abroad staff upon return
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the FEA website.
Benjamin A. Gilman Int'l Scholarship Prgm
Description
The U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman Internatonal Scholarship is a grant program that enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad, thereby gaining skills critical to our national security and economic competitiveness. The Gilman Scholarship Program is open to U.S. citizen undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding at a two-year or four-year college or university to participate in study and intern abroad programs worldwide.
Award Amount
Varies (up to $5,000)
Eligibility Criteria
Scholarships available for undergraduate students who receive federal Pell Grant funding. Scholarships up to $5,000 for a semester/year in addition to a possible $3,000 Critical Need Language Supplement.
The Gilman Scholarship Program aims to support a diverse range of students who have been traditionally under-represented in study abroad, including but not limited to: 1. Students with high financial need 2. Students studying in non-traditional countries, especially those outside of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand (Note: Students may not study in a country currently on the Department of State's travel warning list) 3. Students with diverse ethnic backgrounds 4. All recipients are required to carry out a Follow-on Service Project that promotes international education and the Gilman Scholarship Program at the students' home institution or in their home community.
All applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Study Abroad Advisor for assistance with the application essays.
Fundación Ortega-Marañón Scholarship
Description
For the UMN Internships & Spanish Language Program, UW-Madison students are eligible to apply for additional scholarship opportunities through a Fundación Ortega-Marañón and UofM partnership. This scholarship offers aid ranging from $500–$2,000, depending on the program duration. Financial need (defined as qualifying for subsidized loans) is a consideration, but not a requirement. Applications can be found in your University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Center application portal.
