Support for our students
For many new students, joining a course at the IAB will be their first experience of living away from home, and for most it will be the first time they have gone to live in a foreign country.
It’s a big step that will be filled with excitement, but it’s a step that should also be taken with security and confidence.
Emma Groves-Raines
Head of Student Services
How Can We Help
PERSONAL & SOCIAL
Problems with friends, family, or relationships – all shared in confidence with our team.
VISA SUPPORT
Guidance for international students on obtaining the right visa before you arrive.
COUNSELLING
Full-time in-house counselling for stress, psychological wellbeing, or personal difficulties.
MEDICAL CARE
We direct you quickly to appropriate medical support, especially for dance-related injuries.
FINANCIAL CONCERNS
Confidential support if you’re experiencing money problems or unexpected costs.
ACADEMIC DIFFICULTIES
Help if you’re struggling with coursework, deadlines, or navigating the programme.
ACCOMMODATION
We recommend a range of accommodation options suited to student life in Sitges. Check our dedicated Accommodation page for details on shared flats, homestays, and student housing.
INJURY SUPPORT FOR DANCERS
Dance students are more prone to physical injury. Our team will connect you with the right medical professionals quickly, so a setback doesn’t become a long-term problem.
IN-HOUSE COUNSELLING CENTRE
The IAB offers a full-time, in-house counselling service for students, and will also quickly direct you to appropriate medical care and support if you are going through a difficult time.
Most of all we are here to help make the time spent at the Institute happy and fulfilling. We are a small institution and caring community, which means we are able to provide holistic care to all our student
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply to IAB performing arts programmes?
Yes. We welcome students from around the world and have an international community representing many different countries and backgrounds. Check our admission requirements and discover our dance, acting and musical theatre programmes.
Where is the Institute of the Arts Barcelona located?
Our campus is located in Sitges, a vibrant Mediterranean town just 30 minutes from Barcelona. Students on our dance, acting and musical theatre programmes enjoy an international learning environment while training close to one of Europe’s most creative cultural cities.
How many students are enrolled at the IAB?
Currently the IAB has around 450 students across our BA (Hons) and Foundation programmes in dance, acting and musical theatre.
What does a typical weekly timetable look like at IAB?
Students typically follow a full timetable that combines practical training, rehearsals, performances and academic modules. The exact balance varies depending on the programme and year of study, so check the timetable information on each programme page: dance, acting or musical theatre.
How many contact hours do IAB students receive each week?
Contact hours vary depending on the programme and year of study. If you would like detailed information, we recommend attending one of our online Programme Talks, where the team can answer your questions. You can always connect with one of our current students using our online chat.
When does the academic year start at IAB?
The academic year begins in September. Exact dates are published each year in the academic calendar. There is only one intake per year for our BA (Hons) and Foundation programmes.
Can I work while studying performing arts in Spain?
Given the intensity of our programmes, while some students choose to work part-time during the academic year, many prefer to work during holiday periods so they can focus fully on their training during term time.
Are classes taught in English at IAB?
Yes. Teaching and assessment at the IAB are conducted in English. Check our English language requirements.
Am I able to work during the academic year while studying at IAB?
Whilst the training is intense (Monday to Friday), some students work in the evenings and at weekends, typically in hospitality, teaching in the community and babysitting.
How do IAB students get around Sitges?
Most students buy a bike or a skateboard to get around town. Most also live within walking distance of campus; see our accommodation page.