Spain: University of Oviedo (LCDLL)

The University of Oviedo was founded in 1608. Currently, more than 28,000 students attend the university. La Casa de las Lenguas, the university's language center, is quite small and probably has about 100-200 students per semester. The prestige of the university is well-known, due to its teaching and research in different fields: humanities, social and legal sciences, experimental sciences, medicine, technology and business. The University of Oviedo has long-standing and strong academic ties with UNI and other U.S. universities.

This language program has been housed at the University of Oviedo since 1998. You can earn 12-18 credits toward a Spanish major or minor. You’ll be immersed in Spanish language and culture and will increase your proficiency and cultural competency like never before!

While in Spain students typically enroll in courses designed to meet the needs of UNI Spanish majors and minors. Following a placement exam at University of Oviedo on the first day of the program, all participants are assigned to one of two levels for the duration of the semester: Intermedio or Avanzado. Students have access to courses in Spanish language, literature, culture, history, translation, phonetics, and Non-Western culture and Visual Perceptions. All courses focus on increasing proficiency in Spanish language and awareness of Spanish culture.

UNI students need to seek academic approval from the Department of Languages & Literature prior to departure to ensure that all credits will transfer back to UNI. Work with the Study Abroad Center to get the direct contact.

Fall semester is typically October to December (3 months) and students complete 4-5 courses on average and spring semester is usually January to May (4.5 months) with 5-6 courses completed during the semester.

Credits: 
Oviedo uses ECTS credits.
6 ECTS = 3 semester hours (3 credits in the U.S.)
So 24 credits at Oviedo would be 12 US credits.

Grades:
Oviedo Grade                                = UNI Equivalent
Sobresaliente    SB     9 -- 10        = A
Notable              NT     7 -- 8.99     = B+
Bien                    B       6 -- 6.99    = B
Aprobado           AP     5 -- 5.99     = C
Suspenso          S/I      0 -- 4.99     = F (no transfer)

APTO = Credit (for the cultural immersion credit)

Housing will be with local host families in Oviedo, coordinated by the University of Oviedo. Students will list preferences of allergies, children and pets, food likes/dislikes in the housing application. In most cases there will one student per family, but there may be exceptions. Usually there is wi-fi connection, single rooms, and laundry once per week in an apartment style residence.

Note: The University of Oviedo to not assign families until a few weeks before students depart to Oviedo. UNI will pass along basic information about the host families to the UNI students (names, addresses, or phone numbers). We have been assured by the officials at University of Oviedo that their relationship with the host families is a long-standing and successful policy. We ask that students and parents/guardians acknowledge and accept this policy and understand the UNI position in relation to it. We urge students to communicate with parents upon arrival in Oviedo and to relay information on their Spanish families' addresses and phone numbers as soon as they know them.

During any vacation periods or other times that students leave town, they may leave their possessions with their host family. Under no circumstances will students receive a refund for days that they do not stay with the family nor eat meals. These are room and board "packages," prearranged by University of Oviedo and cannot be altered. After finishing the course, students will have the opportunity to complete a survey in which they can assess their treatment in the family.

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider Early
At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

2. Schedule a Travel Health Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)
A separate travel health consultation is essential and should be held at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. During this appointment, a travel medicine specialist can:

• Review your destination-specific health risks
• Recommend or administer necessary vaccines
• Provide guidance on food and water safety
• Prescribe medications for travel-related illnesses (e.g., malaria, traveler’s diarrhea)
• Offer tips for managing jet lag, altitude, and other travel-related challenges

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility and Study Abroad: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern—whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs—we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Meet your Advisor:

Stephanie is a full time study abroad advisor who will help you throughout the application process to Spain, including documentation, finances, scholarships, and more.  From the application process to financial assistance to preparing for your journey abroad, Stephanie will be with you every step of the way providing guidance and reassurance.

Identities Abroad

The Study Abroad Center (SAC) wants to support you as you prepare for your study abroad experience. In addition to course planning and arranging accommodations, it is also important to engage in personal reflection before your departure. There may be certain aspects of your identity that could potentially impact your international experience in ways that you have not faced or thought about previously. As we are here to help guide you, you may want to consider meeting with the SAC staff to discuss this as you plan your abroad experience. Please visit our Identities Abroad page for more information and help.

Entry and Exit Requirements 

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to Spain.

Immigration Information

Students going to Spain for more than 90 days will need to apply for a student visa. This typically is only Spring semester students.

Your Study Abroad Advisor will help you through this process but it is the student's responsibility to stay on top of the visa application process and to review the latest updates related to their destination country. 

** For students studying abroad during the Spring semester, this visa process requires you to visit the Spanish Consulate (BLS Center) in Chicago. You MUST have an appointment at the BLS Center at least 2 months before your departure date in order be considered for a Spring semester abroad. 

The summer courses at the University of Oviedo have a team of motivated and experienced teachers. Courses consist of 20 hours of class per week and are complemented by an extensive program of cultural activities and excursions to places of historical interest in Asturias, León and Cantabria. Summer classes are held in two language levels: Intermediate (A2-B1.2) and Advanced (B2-C1). The first day of the course students will take a test for distribution to the proper level according to the level of language proficiency.

There is an intensive program in May-June and July, along with programs with professional Spanish (business, health, academic).  See the links below for additional program information:

• May-June Intensive course
• July Intensive course
• July Herencia Hispana

Oviedo Cost Estimate May-June 2025 (PDF)