Language Assistant Program
for Recent Graduates
Gain international experience and take a step forward in your future. Teach English in Spain and make a difference in your professional and personal life.
Application period for 2027-28 now open!
January 2027 Start: Limited Spots Available
Develop Your Skills, Build Your Future
It’s time to take a leap in your career. You’ve left your undergraduate years behind and it’s time to gain experience. Improve your resume, prepare yourself for the professional world, get out of your comfort zone, move to another country and live the international experience that will change everything. It’s time to take the step, join our program and become a Language Assistant with Meddeas.
Because this is not only about living in Spain, here you will find a purpose. An opportunity to broaden your world vision, meet people and surround yourself with Spanish culture. A chance to further your education not only with classroom practice, but also with a ESL Graduate Course funded by the program. An opportunity to be a model of language and culture in a Spanish school.
This is a unique opportunity to start building your future.
Language Assistant Program
International experience and skills are as important as studies for your resume. This program allows you to continue to grow, develop key skills for your future and, at the same time, live and enjoy the Spanish culture.
6, 8 or 9 month-long program.
Internship in a private or charter school in Spain.
20 to 24 weekly teaching hours as a Language Assistant.
Placement destination and number of students determined by the candidate's profile and the school's needs.
ESL Graduate Course funded by the program and provided by a Spanish university.
No fees.
Monthly stipend.
Two accommodation options: Host Family or independent housing.
Paid school holidays during the academic year.
Health coverage through the Spanish Social Security system with optional private insurance.
Pre-departure guidance and support with the visa application process.
Support during the stay from both the school tutor and Meddeas.
Tasks
Role
Accommodation
ESL Graduate Course
FAQs
Language Assistant Activities
Activities
Being a Language Assistant is much more than teaching English: it is an chance to grow, learn, and develop key skills for your future.
Your main goal will be to help students gain confidence and fluency in the language. To achieve this, you will lead activities and help make the classes more dynamic and participative.
Here, your attitude makes a difference: creativity, involvement, and the desire to make an impact are highly valued.
The way you live during your stay in Spain can make a significant difference in your experience. Choose the option that best suits you.
Independent Housing
If you prefer to have your own space and organize things your way, this is the best option.
You will live independently, either alone or sharing an apartment. Meddeas will provide you with some useful tips for finding accommodation in Spain, but you will be responsible for finding it yourself.
This option is ideal for those who value independence, enjoy sharing an apartment with different people, and prefer to organize themselves while being away from home.
Host family
This experience will guarantee you a complete immersion in Spanish culture. A family from the school will open the doors of their home… and their life to you!
You will share meals, weekend plans, conversations, and everyday moments. You will have an «adoptive» family with whom you can learn and share the customs, gastronomy, and culture of your country.
If you are looking to live like a local, get to know the life and culture of Spain firsthand, and feel welcomed by a family, this is your option.
As part of the program, you will take a graduate course that will provide you with the necessary tools to teach English as a foreign language.
The course extends over 360 hours (or 225 hours if you start in January) and is mandatory for all participants.
You won’t have to pay anything for it: the cost is covered by the program.
However, it is a demanding course, meaning it is recommended to dedicate time to it each week. It is a key part of your experience as a Language Assistant and will help you prepare and grow professionally.
Frequent questions
FAQs
Our Language Assistants' Experiences
FORMER LANGUAGE ASSISTANTS
Build Your Future
After saying “hasta luego” to Spain, where I spent two amazing years teaching English with Meddeas, I decided to further my education and enroll in graduate school back home in the United States. I knew I wanted to continue teaching English on a smaller scale while also pursuing a career in the federal sector. Now, I am finished with a Master of Science in International Relations and halfway through a Master of Arts in Writing. I recently accepted a position with the U.S. Department of Interior in Public Affairs. Plus, thanks to my Writing degree, I get to teach remedial English courses as an adjunct instructor at a university. Living in Spain and working with Meddeas taught me how to juggle different responsibilities and gave me the confidence to chase new career paths. My free time at home looks pretty similar as I traveled almost every weekend in Spain and still love exploring new places here in the U.S. Good luck to all of you beginning your new adventure in Spain!
Aanna Shay
Pamplona, Barcelona, 21-23
How to Participate in the Language Assistant Program?
If you are a recent graduate and want to gain international professional experience, this is your opportunity. Review the information in detail and submit your application.
Check the requirements:
- Be a native English, French, or German speaker.
- Native-level German and French speakers must have at least a B2 English level (according to the MCER).
- Have obtained a university degree in the last four years.
- Have no criminal record.
- Stand out in our competitive selection process.
Apply in three steps:
Read the documentation to learn more about program details.
Consult our FAQs to solve any doubts.
Fill out the online application form.
January 2027 Start: Limited Spots Available. Apply here.
How To Become a Language Assistant
Apply through our website
Submit a video, if requested
First online interview
Second online interview
Offer made to selected candidates
Agreement and deposit
Pre-travel preparation
Visa application, if necessary
On-site Induction Meeting
Start at your school
Find the Answers to Your Questions About the Language Assistant Program
If you have already read all the information about the program, check our frequently asked questions and clear up any doubts: you will find everything you need to know about the Language Assistant Program.
What is the Meddeas Language Assistant Program?
The Meddeas Language Assistant Program has two complementary components: a theoretical component and a practicum. The theoretical component consists of an online postgraduate course in English as a Second Language (ESL), provided by a Spanish university and fully funded by Meddeas. The practicum involves a placement at a private or charter school in Spain, where you will gain hands-on experience in an educational setting while supporting the language department.
What is a Meddeas Language Assistant?
A Meddeas Language Assistant is a recent university graduate seeking to gain valuable professional skills through international teaching experience. They have the opportunity to join one of the 300+ schools we collaborate with in Spain and support the English, French, or German department.
Unlike Teaching Assistants, Language Assistants are expected to use their own initiative to prepare and deliver engaging and creative activities and fun games, following guidelines given by the main teacher, in order to motivate students, improve their speaking skills, and make them fall in love with the language. This rewarding, full-time internship requires energy, initiative, and a strong commitment, and provides a monthly stipend to help cover living expenses while gaining hands-on experience.
Language Assistants carry out a variety of tasks, such as organizing small group conversation lessons, leading whole-class activities alongside the main teacher, conducting conversation practice sessions with other teachers, and helping prepare students for standardized language tests, among other things. Depending on the placement, group conversation lessons may include a maximum of 3, 8, or 15 students at a time. Candidates with a degree in Education, English Language, or Linguistics, as well as those who have completed a TEFL course of at least 120 hours, are eligible for placements with groups of up to 15 students.
Am I eligible to apply?
You need to be a native-level English, French, or German speaker. Native French and German speakers should have at least a B2 level (CEFR) in English, as the university course is taught in this language. If your situation is unique, we invite you to contact us so we can evaluate your case individually.
You need a university degree obtained within the last four years before the program begins. This could be a graduate degree of at least three years in any field, or a postgraduate degree in Education or Linguistics.
You must have a clean criminal record and hold a valid passport. Although a passport is not needed to apply, it is necessary to start the visa application process if applicable.
What can I do if I do not meet the requirements?
If you graduated more than four years ago, we recommend checking out our spin-off programs, Gloading or ConversaSpain.
If you have not graduated yet, we recommend you explore our One-Term Volunteer Program.
Program conditions
Do I have to pay anything to be accepted?
There are no fees to participate as a Language Assistant.
If successful in our selection process, you will have to transfer a refundable deposit of €850 after accepting your placement as proof of your commitment to the program. This deposit is fully refundable and will be returned to you at the end of the program, once you successfully complete your school placement and university course.
Can I be placed with my friend or with my partner?
Since we run a profile-based allocation process, we only consider individual applications. If one of your friends or your partner has also applied, please bear in mind that it is unlikely that we will place both of you in the same town or even region.
What does the online university course include?
You will be enrolled in an online ESL graduate course, tailored for school environments, and delivered by a Spanish university. The course begins with an Induction Meeting in Madrid or Barcelona, after which you’ll head to your placement destination to start your internship and complete the course throughout the academic year.
The university will recognize part of your school activity as academic training, and you’ll dedicate approximately 360 hours, 225 hours if you start in January, to the course, with support from forums and your university tutor. Course completion is based on the assessment of individual modules.
Tuition is covered by the program, and completion of the course is compulsory for all Language Assistants.
How long does the program last?
The program has three start dates: September, October, and January, and runs until late May or early June when the school year ends.
If you successfully complete the program, you may apply for a second year as a Meddeas Language Assistant, with the option to stay at the same school or transfer to a different one.
If you’re looking for a shorter teaching experience, please check out our One-Term Volunteer Placement instead.
How many hours can I expect to be at school?
Your weekly schedule as a Language Assistant will be set by your placement school based on its specific needs, meaning it will vary from one placement to another. Once assigned, schedules and conditions are fixed and cannot be modified by the Language Assistant.
You’ll spend 20 to 24 in-class hours each week, with up to 2 additional hours dedicated to coordinating activities with other teachers. Because your schedule depends on that of the teaching staff, you can expect some breaks between classes.
In general, school hours in Spain typically run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You might have classes throughout the day, with gaps in between and a one- to two-hour lunch break. These breaks are a great opportunity to plan your activities or work on your online university course.
If you’re living with a host family and your placement includes fewer than 23 in-class hours per week, your school schedule will likely be organized over four full days, mornings and afternoons, or five mornings each week.
How much money will I receive each month?
You will receive a monthly stipend that will vary depending on the number of weekly in-class hours, your lodging option, and the maximum number of students in your group conversation lessons, all of which are previously determined by the school.
The monthly stipend will allow you to live in Spain as a young professional and should be enough to cover rent, if you live independently, and other daily expenses. Keep in mind that living costs in larger cities like Madrid, Barcelona, or Bilbao tend to be higher than in smaller towns.
We recommend bringing some savings to help you get settled.
Will I have holidays?
You will be entitled to the same holidays as the rest of your school’s faculty, such as Christmas and Easter break, local or regional holidays, and some long weekends. Your school will provide a set calendar, and you won’t be able to take additional days off outside of the pre-established holidays. Trips and travel arrangements should be made around your class schedule and school calendar.
If there are unforeseen circumstances or special events, such as your graduation, that require you to take a day off, you will have to submit a request in advance to the school principal. Unauthorized absences can result in the loss of your stipend or even your placement.
Is medical insurance included?
You will have access to the Spanish National Health System for the duration of the program. The Spanish Public Administration will deduct a small amount from your monthly stipend, approximately between 11.5€ and 13.50€, in order to pay compulsory Social Security contributions in exchange for nearly universal medical coverage.
Although you will be covered by the Spanish healthcare system, you will need to purchase an additional private health insurance plan if you are a non-EU passport holder to meet visa requirements. Successful candidates can choose to arrange their own coverage or contact Meddeas, as we’ve partnered with a provider to offer an affordable plan that meets visa requirements.
What happens if I do not show commitment to the program?
Meddeas and the school expect Language Assistants to demonstrate commitment and professionalism throughout the program. Both parties reserve the right to end a placement if the participant fails to meet these expectations.
In such cases, the Language Assistant will lose their €850 deposit and all associated benefits, including the placement, National Health System coverage, university course, and stipend. If applicable, the program is also required by law to cancel their visa.
What happens if I leave the program before it ends?
If a Language Assistant decides to drop out of the program, they will lose their €850 deposit and all associated benefits, including the placement, National Health System coverage, university course, and stipend. If applicable, the program is also required by law to cancel their visa.
ACCOMMODATION
How do I find independent housing?
f you choose to live independently, we strongly recommend finding accommodation close to your school. Our Admissions Team will share tips and resources to help you navigate the apartment search in Spain. You’ll also be invited to join Meddeas’ social media groups, where you can connect with other Language Assistants who may be looking for housing in the same area. Keep in mind that arranging your rental contract and security deposit will ultimately be your own responsibility.
How do I find a host family?
Host Families are assigned as part of your placement, and these families have children who attend the school where you’ll be placed. These families voluntarily welcome Language Assistants into their homes as part of a cultural exchange, which means that it is important to be respectful, polite, and open to the experience.
That said, this accommodation option comes with specific conditions we encourage you to review ahead of time. You can find them in the Host Family Conditions document.
Placement
What does the school expect from me?
Regardless of how much teaching experience you might have, schools expect you to show commitment to your role as a Language Assistant. You will be expected to be involved with your students, demonstrate motivation, maintain professional conduct, and use good interpersonal skills. Proactivity, flexibility, and initiative are essential to planning and preparing your own activities.
One of the school’s teachers will be appointed as your tutor. You can ask them for advice when needed, but you will be expected to independently plan lessons and come up with your own activities and games.
What will my school be like?
Meddeas collaborates with private and charter schools. Many of these are Catholic, and although Language Assistants are not required to share their ethos, they are expected to be respectful of the school’s beliefs and customs and to avoid controversial topics. If you have any questions on this matter, you will be able to address them during the interview.
When will I receive details about my placement?
Successful candidates will receive all the relevant details, such as location, students’ age group, and school characteristics and expectations, before accepting a placement offer. Once accepted, details cannot be changed at the Language Assistant’s request; the school defines the age group of students and may make adjustments if needed.
Do I get to choose my placement location?
No. Our program’s allocation process is profile-based. That means that our Human Resources Team will match your profile with a specific school placement, with its own requirements, so that you can benefit from this internship experience. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that you will be placed in a specific location.
THE SELECTION PROCESS
How is the selection process?
If you are interested in becoming a Meddeas Language Assistant, you can apply through our website by filling out the online Application Form.
We will evaluate your eligibility and, if you meet the requirements to enroll in the program, we will arrange a first online interview with you. Take into account that, if requested, you may have to submit a video, mentioning your motivations to join the program.
If you make it to the second stage of the recruitment process, you will be invited to a second online interview. If you successfully complete the second stage, you will be considered for one of the available placements for which your profile matches.
Finally, you will be asked to sign an agreement. You will receive the name of your school before transferring the refundable deposit to ensure your placement. You will then be accepted into the program and will be able to start your visa application process, if applicable, with the guidance of our Admissions Team.
FUNDING THE PROGRAM
What will it cost to participate?
The program does not include any fees. However, you will have to pay for some things with a set and known cost:
All participants
- Application for a National Certificate of Absence of Police Records
- Medical Certificate
- Travel expenses from and to your country
- Accommodation in Madrid or Barcelona for the Induction Meeting
- Travel expenses from Madrid or Barcelona to your destination
Non-European passport holder
- Visa application fees
- Translation of official documents
- Apostille Legalization, if needed
- Private health insurance, if needed
Prices vary from country to country. Please check the fees that apply to your particular case.
Can I defer my student loan?
As Meddeas is a training program, you might be eligible to defer your student loans during the program. Eligibility for deferment will depend on the requirements established by the institution granting your loan.
Am I elegible for Erasmus+?
Participants who have studied at a university associated with the Erasmus program may also be eligible for Erasmus+ funds. For specific requirements and how to apply, please consult your university.