First Year Abroad
Valencia, Spain | Fall & Spring
Spend your first year as an FSU student in the vibrant city of Valencia, Spain. The First Year Abroad (FYA) program at FSU Valencia offers the opportunity to pursue general requirements and elective courses in a variety of curriculums while living in Spain during the fall and spring semesters of your first year in college. Experiential learning through academic and social excursions will immerse you in Valencia's blend of historic and modern culture. Free time for personal travel allows you the chance to explore on your own, fostering new friendships along the way. Experience the #1 long-term study abroad program among public universities in the US when you choose the FSU FYA program.
Earn In-State Tuition
Non-Florida residents who complete 15 credit hours each semester and complete the program with a cumulative FYA GPA of 3.0 or higher will receive an FYA out-of-state tuition waiver for the remainder of their first undergraduate degree at FSU. The FYA program can save you money over the course of your degree. Check out the Out-of-State Comparison to see how.
Florida residents who complete 15 credit hours each semester and maintain an FYA GPA of 3.0 or better receive a $1,000 scholarship toward the cost of the FYA spring semester.
Eligibility
This program is open to all incoming first-year students admitted to FSU for the summer or fall terms, including those offered admission through Seminole Pathways.
Other Considerations & Requirements
You can indicate your interest in the First Year Abroad program when you apply to FSU. Learn more about the FSU application process and Seminole Pathways on the FSU Admissions website.
All participants must attend a special session of New Nole Orientation in Tallahassee, typically held in early to mid-June. Summer & Seminole Pathway admits must also successfully complete an online course (grade of "C" or better) offered by International Programs during the Summer B semester prior to going abroad (late June – early August).
Note: Do not purchase airline tickets until advised to do so in the IP portal.
FSU Valencia Study Center
Positioned behind the iconic Serrano Towers as pictured here, the FSU Valencia study center is located in the heart of the city’s historic district. The building brings history to life with exposed 10th century Moorish walls and glass floors that showcase 14th century leather tanning tanks. Modern comforts including classrooms, a computer lab, study spaces, and administrative offices blend in seamlessly with the historic features, creating a remarkable learning environment.
Housing
Program housing is in shared apartments in the historic district of the city. Apartments are located either on the top floors of the study center or in nearby buildings. Each apartment includes a fully-equipped kitchen, shared bathroom, and a furnished living area. Wi-Fi and a regular cleaning service with a change of bed linens and towels is included. You'll also have access to laundry facilities.
Note: Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing.
View Housing Photos
Academics
On this program, you can choose from a wide array of courses which may count toward your major or minor. You’ll have the opportunity to use the city as your classroom through immersive academic experiences led by expert faculty.
As a First Year Abroad student, you will take at least 15 credit hours per semester while abroad.
Excursions & Activities
You'll receive a program calendar before you leave; here are some examples taken from past programs of potential excursions & activities you may do:
Overnight trips (two trips per semester): Madrid & Segovia, Pyrenees, Andalusia region, and/or Northern Castile region
Day trips: Immersive art and/or culinary experiences, nature activities, sports sites, wineries, Albufera Natural Park, Xativa Castle, and/or other historic sites
Academic & other local experiences: City tours, paella cooking show, City of Arts & Sciences, and/or visits to operas, museums, markets
Extracurricular activities: Fallas traditional festival (spring semester), food tastings, Spanish club, and sports activities including fitness club, running club, soccer, and basketball
Included in the Fee
Academic Credit
15-17 credit hours per semester
Housing Abroad
Shared apartment style
Excursions & Activities
Meal Vouchers
€725 per semester
International Health Insurance
On-Site Pastoral Support
Admin & Academic Support
And More!
Including: entry visa application fee; scheduled group airport pick-up
