For students who wish to experience Spanish society and language to the fullest, one of the most rewarding and culturally integrating experiences you can have is to be part of a Spanish household. With the host family (señora) option, you will have the opportunity to learn and experience day-to-day life in urban Madrid.
Host families help you to get settled in and learn your way around Madrid, and with years of experience working with American and international students, they are keenly aware of what you need to watch out for. They will be your best resource and some will even monitor and help you with your Spanish-language skills!
Most Host Family assignments entail living with other students.
Host Families are located within a 20- to 40-minute subway commute from the University; others are within a 15- to 20-minute walk. No matter where you live, you will find that Madrid is a relatively compact city and that riding the subway is safe, fast, inexpensive and efficient.
Wireless DSL internet access, as well as bed linens and laundry services are included in all Host Family placements. Since European washing machines are small, and dryers are not widely used, laundry is done on a reduced basis as compared to the U.S.; for example, the señora will do two loads of laundry per student per week. We recommend you take all delicate washables to the dry cleaner.
Apply early! The sooner you do so, you will have more families to choose from the Host family database.
Host Family Housing arranged through the University is closed for Christmas and Holy Week Break. (Please see the Academic Calendar for exact dates.)
Host Family Options
Within the Host Family system, you can choose among host family assignments listed under each plan from the Host family database.
Half Room and Board (media pensión)
This option includes breakfast and dinner in the home. You are responsible for the purchase of your own lunch. This is the most popular Host Family meal option because it provides flexibility to the student during the school day and on weekends. Half room and board does not include use of kitchen facilities.
Being in a Spanish home, you will taste Spanish food experiencing full cultural immersion in both language and culture including Spanish cuisine. In Spain, families eat lunch and dinner much later than in many other countries. Lunch is served around 2:00 p.m.; dinner is lighter fare and is normally served around 9:00 p.m. A breakfast of just coffee/juice and toast is usually eaten in the morning.
Kitchen Privileges (derecho a cocina)
This housing option offers you the possibility of purchasing your own food, cooking all your meals and cleaning up after yourself. It is particularly attractive for those students who want to prepare their own meals and/or have special dietary requirements. While you may not spend as much time with your host señora as those who choose the half room and board option, you will still have the convenience of having a native Spaniard close by who can help you settle in and learn the ropes. Host Families with kitchen privileges are limited. If this is your first option, we encourage you to submit your housing application early.
Housing Prices
University Cafeteria
Whatever your housing option, you might want to consider taking advantage of the Madrid Campus cafeteria where individual food items may be purchased a la carte.
