Buenos Aires, Argentina

IFSA Argentine Universities Program

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Program Overview

DESIGN YOUR DREAM SEMESTER IN BUENOS AIRES

Tackle research. Accelerate Spanish language progress. Take classes alongside Latin American peers. Whatever your goals, this program has the flexibility to make it happen. Craft your semester with classes in Spanish, taught by IFSA faculty or at one of three Buenos Aires universities. Choose a homestay or apartment, and take advantage of a bounty of cultural experiences with affordable theatre, music, cinema, art, and football. 

Details at a Glance

Application deadline

Fall: April 1
Spring: Nov. 1

Minimum GPA

2.50

Credit load

15–16

Housing

Apartment/Flat, Single Room Option, Homestay

Instruction language

Spanish

Language prerequisites

4 semesters of university-level Spanish or equivalent. Learn More.

Visa required?

Yes. Learn More.

Apply Now

Academics

CHART Your Course
Find the classes you need fast with CHART. Our easy-to-use tool shows you classes recently taken by IFSA students.

With the IFSA Argentine Universities Program, build your own academic program with a combination of IFSA designed and Argentine university classes taken in Spanish alongside local degree-seeking students. You will select at least one IFSA class and combine it with your choice of additional IFSA classes and direct-enroll classes to meet your academic needs and goals.

Students typically take the majority of their classes (approx. 12 U.S. semester credit hours) at local institutions, where they study alongside Argentine and other international students and strengthen their Spanish language skills in the process. These classes can be complemented and enhanced by a selection of IFSA electives that connect students with their community through field visits and other experiential learning opportunities.

IFSA ELECTIVE CLASSES
Choose from a variety of classes designed exclusively for IFSA participants. All IFSA classes are taught in Spanish. Classes may vary by term based on enrollment and faculty availability.

Advanced Spanish I or Advanced Spanish II
Language of Instruction: Spanish
While in Buenos Aires, you can opt to continue your Spanish language study. A mandatory pre-arrival language assessment will determine your appropriate language level. Based on your score, IFSA may require you to take a Spanish language class to support your academic success in Spanish-taught direct-enroll classes. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Argentina and Human Rights
Language of Instruction: Spanish
The class comprises theoretical and practical contents of human rights and modernity. The main objective is to cover the historization of human rights, through an analysis of modernity and capitalism. It focuses on the history of human rights in Argentina from the independence revolutionary era to the return of the democratic government in the 1980s. Finally, the class reviews the experience of human rights in Argentina through two specific ways: The 1976 military coup, the detention camps, and the transition to democracy; Through the visit to communal memory spaces related to the systemic and institutional violation of human rights during the 1976-1983 military governments. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Contemporary Film and Media in Latin America
Language of Instruction: Spanish
This hands-on seminar immerses students in concrete audiovisual practices as it investigates how Argentina’s and Latin America’s film production, both fictional and documentary, have evolved to shape political perspectives and events. Analysis of full-length films, short films, photography, audiovisual campaigns, and advertising will be approached from an aesthetic perspective. Students will develop a cinematic vocabulary to critique award-winning and internationally recognized films from the region and how they address the underlying issues and historic context they present to audiences. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Directed Research
Language of Instruction: Spanish
This class offers a unique opportunity for students to delve deeply into host context research projects. Students will be guided through projects that are both feasible in the study abroad context and relevant to their broader intellectual interests. The class is structured through regular individual meetings with a faculty mentor to discuss the formation and execution of a research plan and, depending on the specific project, the possibility to conduct field- or internet-based research. At the end of the semester, students present a formal research paper. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Globalization and Economic Challenges in Latin America
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Starting from economic changes in Latin America in the 1960s through future economic scenarios for Argentina in the 21st century, this class examines globalization’s historic impact as economies and financial systems become more interconnected. Supporting topics ranging from climate change, commercial conflicts, and strategic trade alliances with China, the U.S., and other regions, a series of field visits allow students to gain firsthand experience with the economic challenges and opportunities globalization presents in and around Buenos Aires. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

International Internship Seminar
Language of Instruction: English and Spanish
Students are placed in individual internships but collectively take part in the seminar to understand expectations, set personal objectives, identify and strengthen specific skills, critically reflect on their progress, share experiences, and learn from each other throughout their term. Students develop a deeper understanding of themselves, a particular industry, and Argentine work culture. In this seminar, students gain real-world work experience while developing intercultural agility—skills and experiences that are critically important to personal, academic, and professional success. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Introduction to Spanish Translation
Language of Instruction: Spanish
The class aims to improve students’ command of Spanish through translation tasks between Spanish and English, paying attention to grammar as well as discourse (vocabulary, register, dialect, etc.), and cultural differences between both the source and the target language. We will study the fundamental aspects of translation theory and see how practice necessarily needs theoretical support. The class will also introduce students to the different professional domains where a translator can work in the 21st century, such as subtitling, post-editing, and interpreting. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Unheard Voices: Contemporary Latin American Literature
Language of Instruction: Spanish
This class explores the fundamental texts and authors of Chilean and Argentine literature of the 20th century. We will not only cover the canon of Latin American literature, but also rethink the canon to develop a counter-literature. To this end, we will trace the cultural tensions the texts express in the context of political currents. We will also consider certain themes from the 19th century to understand the way in which Argentine and Chilean authors take up, readapt, and reformulate these themes, according to new questions in the 20th century. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

DIRECT-ENROLL CLASSES
As our student, you may enroll in undergraduate classes for which you are qualified and for which space is available at any of our Argentine partner universities. See information below for a list of departments available to you. While class descriptions may be found online, class syllabi may not be available until the beginning of your semester. If a class you are looking for is not listed, or if you are having trouble navigating a university’s website, contact your IFSA Enrollment Counselor for assistance.

Also, keep in mind:

  • Yearlong classes (anual) are open only to students who plan on taking both semesters of the class.
  • semestre (S1) or cuatrimestre is equivalent to U.S. spring semester.
  • semestre (S2) or cuatrimestre is equivalent to U.S. fall semester.

While searching for classes fitting your interests and academic needs, you may find some host institution classes delivered in English as well as in Spanish. Classes taught in English are open to you as an IFSA student provided you meet the stated prerequisites. However, prior to arrival you should discuss with your home institution’s study abroad advisor any academic requirements related to study abroad in a non-English speaking location.

Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA) – Facultad de Ciencias Sociales

  1. Click here to access UBA-CS’s online class catalog.
  2. Departments are listed in the header at the top of the page. Double click on the department where you would like to take classes (i.e. Ciencias Politicas).
  3. Select “Académicas.”
  4. Click on “Programas” to view a list of classes.
  5. If available, you can obtain syllabus by clicking on the document icon corresponding to the correct academic year.

You can also view the curricular ladder for each major by returning to the Facultad de Ciencias Sociales home page, click on one of the majors listed at the top of the page, and then click on “Plan de estudios.” When the page loads, you can click “Ver Plan de estudios” to view the curricular ladder.

The following UBA-CS departments are available to you: Sociología, Ciencia política, Ciencias de la Comunicación, Relaciones del Trabajo, and Trabajo Social.

Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA) – Facultad de Filosofía y Letras

  1. Click here to access UBA-FL’s online class catalog.
  2. Choose an area of study (‘Carrera de Grado’) and click on it (‘Ver más’).
  3. To see class offerings, click on “Plan de estudios.”
  4. To see syllabi (when available), click on “Programas y horarios,” “Programación,” or “Asignaturas,” depending on the options given for that major.

The following UBA-FL departments are available to you: Letras, Geografía, Artes, Filosofía, Antropología, Ciencias de la Educación, and Historia.

Universidad del Salvador (USAL)

  1. Click here to access USAL’s online class catalog.
  2. Click on a “facultad” that interests you (i.e. Facultad de Ciencias Sociales).
  3. Choose a subject and click on it to see the class listings.
  4. For most subjects, only a list of classes will appear. For others, short descriptions or syllabi may be available if you click on the class title.

The following USAL departments are available to you:

  • Facultad de Historia, Filosofía y Letras: Letras, Lengua Inglesa, Interpretación de Conferencias en Inglés, Traductorado Público de Inglés, Traductorado Científico Literario de Inglés, Historia, Ciencias Ambientales, Gestión de Historia de las Artes and Filosofía
  • Facultad de Ciencias Sociales: Ciencia Política, Sociología, Relaciones Internacionales and Servicio Social
  • Facultad de Ciencias de la Administración: Administración, Comercialización, Administración de Recursos Humanos, Sistemas de Información
  • Facultad de Artes de Teatro: Escenografía and Arte Dramático
  • Facultad de Psicología: Psicología and Psicopedagogía
  • Escuela de Diseño: Diseño Gráfico
  • Escuela de Estudios Orientales: Estudios Orientales

Universidad Torcuato Di Tella (UTDT)

  1. Click here to access UTDT’s online class catalog.
  2. Scroll down and select the major you are interested in. This will download a PDF of the classes offered. You should pay close attention to which semester the classes are offered. Please disregard the instructions for international students that appear on this page; all communication should be with IFSA, not UTDT.

The following departments are available to you: Departamento de Economía, Escuela de Negocios, Departamento de Ciencia Política, Departamento de Estudios Internacionales, Escuela de Historia, Departamento de Derecho.

Can I take my classes in Spanish?
To enroll in our Spanish-taught classes at this program, you must have a specific language level. Please visit our Language Requirements page for more details. If you have questions about whether you qualify, contact your IFSA Enrollment Counselor.

Direct-Enroll Classes
When UBA, USAL, or UTDT offers a class significantly similar in content to an offered IFSA class, students will be need to enroll in the IFSA class.

USAL Literature
You must have taken at least five semesters of university-level Spanish classes or equivalent to enroll in literature classes at USAL’s Facultad de Historia, Filosofía y Letras.

DIRECTED RESEARCH
Engage in individualized field research with faculty experts on a contemporary issue of interest. Regular meetings with faculty will assist in the formation and execution of research plans, and they will guide you on how to thoughtfully and critically integrate academic research with experiential learning. You will sharpen your written and oral communication skills through the development of articulate and comprehensive research that is respectful to the sensitivities of the local culture.

If you chose to research live human subjects, live animals or another topic that is deemed by IFSA to be required to be reviewed by the Institutional Research Board (IRB) at your home institution, then you will have to file your project with your home institution’s IRB board and submit your result to IFSA. Your IFSA Enrollment Counselor will review your application materials to help determine if you must file with IRB.

There are limited research opportunities available in English. For more detailed information and examples of previous student placements, contact your IFSA Enrollment Counselor.

VOLUNTEERING
The IFSA Buenos Aires Global Flagship organizes non-credit bearing volunteer opportunities throughout the semester, usually as one-time activities or events. On occasion, more sustained involvement may be possible. Opportunities vary, but may include agricultural work on an organic farm, assisting students through tutoring or playing games designed to build social skills, or providing services for the homeless population or LGBTQ+ community in Buenos Aires.

INTERNSHIPS
IFSA internships include real-world work experience, along with developing intercultural skills and experiences that are key to personal, academic, and professional success. Expect to devote a total of 120 hours working with your host organization, with supervision from your seminar instructor, coordinated by on-site IFSA team members. In addition, interns complete the International Internship Seminar for 3 U.S. semester credit hours. Internships are not remunerated.

Students have interned at NGOs, local corporations, and government organizations in Buenos Aires.

Your goals are carefully considered, tailoring the placement process to ensure the best possible fit. Keep in mind that final placements depend on your skills (including your Spanish language abilities), prior experience, and availability. Although every effort is made to match your placement with your preferred field or area of business, it can’t be guaranteed. Internships are available in English and Spanish. Please talk to your IFSA Enrollment Counselor about opportunities to conduct your placement in Spanish.

Application. After you submit your application, resume, and IFSA Internship Intent Form, an IFSA Enrollment Counselor and an on-site IFSA Team member will work with you to identify your professional strengths, review your goals, and refine your internship interests to establish a match. From there, you’ll have an interview in Buenos Aires with your potential internship host. You will be provided with tips and resources to prepare for your interview.

Sample Placements. The following are examples of internships IFSA students have recently completed. Placement options vary from term to term.

  • Plan and implement initiatives to improve the living conditions of vulnerable groups
  • Prepare proposals for media campaigns and meetings to elevate awareness on violence against women and the LGBTQ+ community
  • Examine and source historical archives on humanitarian crimes to raise awareness and support human rights
  • Assist and support differently abled children through educational and recreational activities
  • Participate in projects focused on eliminating the gender gap in social, political and economic arenas
  • Coordinate interactive activities to strengthen the relationship between the immigrant and local community, and society at large

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Eligibility

  • You must be at least 18 years of age. Students under 18 may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
  • You must be currently attending or recently graduated from a U.S. or Canadian community college, technical college, two-year college, four-year college, or four-year university.
  • You must have completed at least one (1) full-time semester of study at your home institution before the beginning of the term.

Recommendation Letter
Not required.

Language Requirement
Four (4) semesters of college-level Spanish or an Intermediate II level proficiency is required.

 

TRANSCRIPT
Upon completion of your program, IFSA will send an official Butler University transcript to your home university with your coursework converted to the U.S. semester credit hour system. You will also have access to an unofficial transcript in your IFSA Student Portal. The transcript reflects classes taken, credits attempted, and grades earned during your term abroad. This service is included in your study abroad program at no additional cost. See our Transcripts page for more information.

Excursions

Activities and excursions are designed to pull you into the communities you visit and encourage cultural connections of every kind. There’s no extra fee to participate in these optional outings—everything is included in your program fee.

Below are examples from previous terms; outings may be different for your program. We’ll make every effort to run them all, but sometimes things we can’t control, such as local regulations and health protocols, get in the way. As result, we cannot guarantee activities and excursions.

Activities

  • City-as-Text: This guided walking tour will introduce you to Porteño society and culture through the varied artistic expressions that can be found throughout Buenos Aires including street art, dance, theater, and music.
  • La Boca Neighborhood Tour: The oldest site of Italian migration to Buenos Aires, the famous and colorful La Boca neighborhood is home to one of the city’s most popular soccer teams, Club Atlético Boca Juniors. The tour will include a visit to La Bombonera stadium to appreciate the importance of soccer as popular expression in Argentina.
  • Colón Theatre Performance: Attend a performance at Colón Theatre, one of the most important opera houses in the world, to learn about the influence and experience the importance of art in Argentina.
  • Pandemic and Politics: This event will engage you in a discussion about how the pandemic was handled and the effects it has had on Argentina. A guest lecturer will address specific issues around how the population lived through this worldwide event.

Excursions

  • Tigre Delta del Parana Trip: This overnight excursion to the Tigre Delta includes a boat ride and offers a glimpse into the contrasts between wetlands and island living and the big-city life in Bueno Aires.
  • Eco-Village Trip: This day-long trip to an eco-village explores the traditional agricultural mode of production and delves into issues such as organic and self-sustainable farming, local consumption, and the dynamics of multinational farming and feedlot production.

Housing and Meals

Housing

Apartment/Flat, Single Room Option, Homestay

Meals

Most Included

Details

Buenos Aires students can opt for a homestay with a local family or—for an additional fee—live in city apartments. Homestays provide opportunity for additional support and connection as you get to know your hosts. If you are adventurous or independent, living in a shared apartment allows you to soak up local culture, practice Spanish language skills, and connect with porteños (city residents). Both options allow you to experience the lifestyle of this amazing city.

HOMESTAYS: WHO’S AT HOME?

We place students with carefully screened families in safe neighborhoods, with up to two IFSA students per family. Many families have been hosting IFSA students for years. Often, they have adult children who have left home, and enjoy having young people around.

You might live with a retired couple or a retired woman, perhaps with visits from young grandchildren. Your hosts might have high school-age children and a grandparent living with them. Or you might join a single mom who shares her home with her young daughter, with another adult child living nearby.

  • Location: Typically in the Recoleta, Palermo, Belgrano, Villa Crespo, Almagro, and Caballito neighborhoods for easy access to public transportation, the IFSA Program Center, universities, shops, and cafes.
  • Commute: Whether on foot or via bus or metro, your travel time to the IFSA Program Center will be no more than 40 minutes. Travel times to universities by bus:
    • Universidad de Buenos Aires, Filosofia y Letras: No more than 60 minutes
    • Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciencias Sociales: No more than 50 minutes
    • Universidad del Salvador: No more than 35 minutes
    • Universidad Torcuato Di Tella: No more than 60 minutes
  • Living space. Only a few hosts have houses; many live in apartments. Expect to have your own bedroom, though it will likely be smaller than a typical U.S. space. Students share a bathroom with other family members. Your host will provide a desk or other suitable place to study.
  • Host family: Few families are fluent in English, but most can communicate. We do our best to place students without Spanish skills with English-speaking families.
  • Meals: Two meals a day included. Students occasionally eat out with friends and buy snacks independently. Hosts appreciate advance notice if you will not be present for breakfast or dinner.
  • Other details. Your host will give you access to laundry facilities once a week. Keep in mind that washing machines tend to have smaller capacity here than in the U.S.

APARTMENTS

Students who choose this option live in modern, furnished apartments selected by IFSA in the Palermo Chico neighborhood. Palermo Chico is part of the larger Palermo area in the northeast part of the city. It’s a safe neighborhood, known for diversity, green spaces, and upscale restaurants and shops.

There are two options. You can share a two-bedroom apartment with one other IFSA student or choose a single studio space with kitchen and bathroom. Please keep in mind that both apartment options include an additional fee to cover the higher cost.

Sample apartment housing

Take a look at Cabello 3620 to see what your Buenos Aires housing might be like:

  • Location: Palermo Chico neighborhood.
  • Living space: Two students share an apartment with two bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen, and living space. Bedding, linens, towels, and basic kitchenware provided.
  • Meals: No meals provided. Students prepare or purchase their own food.
  • Other details: WiFi included. 24/7 staff and security. Laundry facilities on-site.
  • Commute: Catch the bus out front or around the block, or walk three blocks to the metro station. Travel time to our IFSA Program Center is 25 to 30 minutes by bus. Travel times to universities by bus:
    • Universidad de Buenos Aires, Filosofia y Letras: 35 to 45 minutes
    • Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciencias Sociales: 30 to 40 minutes
    • Universidad del Salvador: 15 to 20 minutes
    • Universidad Torcuato Di Tella: 35 to 40 minutes
  • Nearby: Beautiful greenspaces, including Bosques de Palermo (also called Parque Tres de Febrero; bigger than New York City’s Central Park). Open-air markets. Public transportation. Museum of Latin American Art. Evita Museum. Embassies and historic residences.

Dates and Fees

Term
Term begins
Term ends
Program costs
Application deadline
Fall 2024
July 29, 2024
November 30, 2024
$16,975
April 1, 2024
Spring 2025
Late Feb. 2025
Late June 2025
$16,975 (estimated)
Nov. 1, 2024

Get Started

Selena Rincon

Selena Rincon

Enrollment Counselor