- Spain
- Madrid
- Seville
- Morocco
- Marrakech
- Tangier
About Program
Travel back in time and explore the cultural fusion in these two beautiful countries. Observe how these historical influences are still present in the bustling city centers of Morocco and the remnants of Moorish heritage in Spain. Indulge in the iconic flavors of paella, tagine, and an array of tapas in Madrid. Visit beautiful cultural sites with centuries of history, including temples, mosques, and cathedrals. In Seville, improve your Spanish language skills in language courses and experience the rich culture through flamenco, Spanish cooking classes, and Andalusian traditions. Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco, a unique world awaits just a short ferry ride away. Wander through the "Blue City" of Chefchouen and barter with merchants in the markets of Marrakech. Spend a few nights in a rural community in the High Atlas Mountains while working alongside community members on infrastructure repairs, exchanging cultural ideas and making unique memories to last a lifetime!
Video and Photos
Diversity & Inclusion
BIPOC Support
ARCC is committed to increasing accessibility for our programs and supporting socioeconomic diversity within our community. ARCC’s Voyagers Scholarship provides up to five scholarship opportunities per semester to students who identify within the BIPOC community. These scholarships can range anywhere from $5,000-$8,000, and also includes gear lending and mentorship support throughout the gap year experience. The Voyagers Scholarship can also be combined with ARCC Financial Aid. If you are interested in applying, please reach out to gap@arccprograms.com.
LGBTQIA+ Support
Neurodivergent Support
During our interview process, we have open communication with students and families about the support ARCC instructors are able to provide students while on program. For students needing some additional support, we ask them to complete a “Plan of Action” with their at home support system. These plans may include additional information about communication/support preferences, coping strategies, and/or specific requirements to encourage the student to engage with the program effectively. Once on the program, our instructors will periodically check in individually with each student, help the student stay accountable to their Plan of Action, and provide general support to all participants.
Accessibility Support
Whenever possible (determined by specific location and program - ie. infrastructure, access to specific health care facilities, dietary options available, etc), we have successfully assisted students with anaphylactic allergies, chronic medical conditions, and other accommodations on programs. We recommend that you reach out with specific concerns to your Gap Director to find the right fit for you.
Impact
Sustainability
Ethical Impact
Program Highlights
- Sample Explosions of Local Flavor from Mint Tea to Paella to Tapas, All Enhanced with the Richest Spices
- Stay in a Traditional Local Community in the High Atlas Mountains, Where Locals are Building Sustainable Agriculture Projects
- Visit the Ancient Cities of Madrid, Seville, Tangier, Chefchaouen, and Marrakkech
- Shop Through the Ancient Medina of the Enchanting Blue City of Chefchaouen, Which Lies at the Feet of the Rif Mountains
- 15 Hours of Language Classes & 10 Hours of Community Service
Scholarships
ARCC Gap Financial Support
A gap year is something that we hope to make accessible for all students and ARCC works to level the playing field so that all applicants may have a successful opportunity for education, travel, growth, and self-discovery post-high school. We strive to uphold these pillars of our organization through a variety of means. Each year ARCC Gap awards financial aid to support students who would otherwise be unable to cover the full cost of tuition. Additionally, ARCC is committed to increasing accessibility for our programs and supporting socioeconomic diversity within our community. ARCC’s Voyagers Scholarship provides up to five scholarship opportunities per semester to students who identify within the BIPOC community. These scholarships can range anywhere from $5,000-$8,000, and also includes gear lending and mentorship support throughout the gap year experience. The Voyagers Scholarship can also be combined with ARCC Financial Aid