HOUSING POLICIES – ALBA Study Abroad Portal

ALBA offers a variety of accommodation options for our students. Depending on different needs and budgets, students can choose from Shared Apartments, Family Homestays, Live with Locals, Student Residencies, or Independent Housing.

ALBA-sponsored housing: Shared Apartment, Family Homestay, Live with Local.
Other non-sponsored options: Student residency, Independent Housing.

ALBA does not provide students with housing unless one of the sponsored housing options is requested and paid for through the ALBA Student Portal.

ALBA considers the default housing option to be Independent Housing. If a student does not request housing before the housing deadline ALBA will consider the student’s choice to be Independent Housing and the student will have no other choice than to find their own accommodation.

Housing Payment

ALBA-sponsored housing options must be paid for using the ALBA student portal. In order to secure a housing spot, the student must submit the payment or proof of the payment before the housing deadline, at least 60 days before the start of the term in question, 90 days before in the case of the Fall Term.

Non-sponsored housing options are not to be paid to ALBA, but directly to the people or companies providing the accommodation.

Postponing Housing Payment

In case a student does not have the funds to pay for sponsored housing by the housing deadline (visible in their Student Portals). ALBA may provide the student with the possibility of selecting and securing their housing option while postponing the payment until the funds become available to them. The students may be required to provide proof of insufficient funds and are obliged to sign an agreement to pay immediately once the funds become available to them.

Cost Surcharges

ALBA reserves the right to levy any necessary surcharges on housing costs in the event that our own dollar costs increase by more than ten percent over the course of a term due to currency fluctuations. However, once the student has paid for housing any fluctuations are the responsibility of ALBA and the student will not be charged any additional costs. So it is advantageous to decide your accommodation choice early and get your housing fees paid even if your tuition payment is delayed for some reason.

Housing Confirmation Dates

ALBA reserves the right to confirm the student housing options and provide them with details of their assigned accommodations, 30 days before arriving.

SHARED APARTMENT

ALBA rents a number of apartments all around the city to provide safe, quality housing to the ALBA students who request and pay for this ALBA-sponsored option in advance. Apartments are located in different areas of the city that are considered safe and connected with efficient public transportation.

ALBA Shared Apartments are provided by ALBA as an easy housing solution for students to live in Barcelona. In case a student has very specific requirements or wants to have full control over their housing situation, this option is not for them. In such cases, we strongly advise students to choose Independent Housing. If a student is hoping to live in a specific area of Barcelona, they also should consider arranging their own accommodation.

Shared Apartment Overview

Apartments are located all around the city and students can expect a commute time of 20-30 minutes to the ALBA facilities by walking, metro, bus or a combination of those.

Shared apartments are typically in regular apartment buildings around the city. Meaning that students live integrated within local life by neighboring alongside Barcelona residents.

Students will have their own single bedroom or share a double bedroom based on student request or prior consent and will share the apartment’s common areas with other ALBA students.

All ALBA Shared Apartments come equipped with all the basics a student living in Barcelona requires to carry out a normal student life without excessive luxury or comfort. There are usually between 2-5 bedrooms in each apartment. Apartments come in a variety of styles and locations, each offering its own charm and advantages. It should be noted that apartments vary in layout, size, décor and age, and students will see their accommodation differs in some aspects from that of their peers.

SHARED APARTMENT CONDITIONS

1. Location and assignment

Apartments are located all around the city of Barcelona within a 30-minute commute radius to the ALBA facilities by walking, metro, bus or a combination of those.

Students may submit their housing preferences via the housing selection form and even suggest who they would like to live with. ALBA will keep students’ preferences and suggestions in mind when distributing students in the shared apartments, Nevertheless, we will prioritize the well-being of the entire term and not the interests of one person or group of people.

ALBA holds the right to assign students in the apartments that they deem most convenient. Ultimately, students will have no say on the final location of their apartment.

Apartment placements are made based on availability and the best distribution possible for the term in question. ALBA holds the right to have complete control over the distribution of students within ALBA apartments. Students must expect to share accommodation with the other ALBA students that they may not know.

Students should expect to learn about their apartment placement via email at least three weeks before the start of the term.

Once a student is assigned to a shared apartment they may not change or request for a change in their housing assignments. All changes will be made uniquely at ALBA’s discretion.

Throughout the program, ALBA reserves the right to assign students to another apartment, requiring them to move if necessary.

2. Gender distribution

The apartments are single-sex by default. Co-ed arrangements can be requested, although ALBA reserves the right to approve such petitions based on apartment availability and compatibility with other students’ requests.

3. Meals

There are no meals provided with this housing option.

4. Transportation

The cost of public transportation is not included. Students should plan on budgeting accordingly for daily transportation within the Barcelona Metropolitan area.

5. Equipment

Each apartment has the basic equipment in terms of furniture and home appliances. This equipment can vary from one apartment to another. Students can buy their own non-basic equipment at a local store at their own expense.

6. Linens, Towels and Toiletries

Students are provided with basic bed linens, blankets, towels and pillows. Upon student request, the ALBA staff will provide information on where to purchase extra items if desired. Most beds are twin size (90 cm/36 in) or queen size (135cm/54 in).

7. Laundry

Washing machines are normally provided in all ALBA apartments. Students are responsible for purchasing their own laundry detergent. There are no dryers as they are not common in Spain. Students may dry their clothes on the lines outside their windows or on provided drying racks.

In the case that there is no washing machine in a student’s apartment, ALBA staff will inform them about the closest laundry service and will refund them an agreed amount for that service.

8. Climate control

All apartments are equipped with summer and winter climate control. Some apartments have central heating while others have electric heaters. Some apartments have AC while others have fans.

9. Phone and Internet

There are no phones in apartments.

Internet access is included in all accommodations. However, students should note that connection reliability is subject to the national network provider. Students should expect Wi-Fi connectivity in their apartment’s main common area (most likely living room and dining room). Although intended, connectivity throughout the entire apartment cannot be ensured.

In case the internet is down at the apartment, or students are experiencing issues with their WIFI connection, ALBA is not required to provide immediate assistance. Assistance will be provided at pace and during ALBA office hours. If students do not have internet access at their apartments, they must consider the alternative of going to the ALBA school facilities to use the internet until the problem is solved.

ALBA does not provide an individualized IT service for PC/MAC configuration etc. However, ALBA will try to assist students in making their own arrangements for any IT service assistance.

10. Maintenance

Students are responsible for ensuring their shared apartments are always in good condition. It is their responsibility to, not only take care of the apartments, but also to properly inform the ALBA Staff of any damage or maintenance issue. They must do this by completing a shared apartment maintenance form in their student portal, or in case of an emergency, by contacting the ALBA Staff directly.

Students will receive assistance in resolving housing maintenance issues; ALBA staff will act on behalf of the students in arranging any repairs, visits from technicians etc. Staff and maintenance technicians’ visits to apartments will be announced in advance whenever possible. In some cases, for example, when a technician is required to solve a serious maintenance issue, or a serious incident has been reported, ALBA reserves the right to perform unexpected visits.

Clogged drains are not considered to be a maintenance problem and students will be responsible for that. If a drain is clogged, it is because there’s an accumulation of food waste and residues in the kitchen or hair and other kinds of dirt in the bathroom. ALBA will send instructions to clean these drains and students can also choose to hire a drain cleaning company at their own expense.

11. Cleaning

ALBA schedules punctual maintenance cleanings of all the apartments, but students are responsible for keeping their apartments in good clean conditions.

Each house unit is responsible for distributing the workload and making sure the common areas (including kitchen and lavatories) are always in good condition.

ALBA also strongly recommends that students have a cleaner come every two weeks during their stay to do a deep clean. This is usually a 40-50 EUR cost to each apartment, which is not a lot when the cost is shared. It will very likely eliminate potential problems related to extra cleaning and maintenance fees after students leave. ALBA staff can help students arrange cleaning service, but students will pay the cleaner directly.

Each student is responsible for cleaning their room at least once a week and keeping it tidy throughout the duration of the program as well as keeping all common areas clean.

If the apartment is deemed unhygienic once it has been vacated, the student occupants will be billed for the intense final cleaning.

12. Bedbugs

There is an increase in cases of bedbug infestations in some European and American cities, especially among frequent travelers. Bedbugs are not a problem in Barcelona but there is a growing concern in cities like Paris and New York.

ALBA apartments are totally free of these insects and we would like to share some tips with students to help prevent bringing them into the apartments:

Check the mattresses (especially the corners), couches, and other furniture for bed bugs upon arrival and notify an employee if you see signs of bugs.
Wash all clothes in hot water and keep objects that cannot be washed in a cool place away from other clothes/furniture.
Suitcases and backpacks should be checked thoroughly and kept away from mattresses, couches, and other places that could be infested both while traveling to new hotels/Airbnbs and while at home. It is also recommended that suitcases be vacuumed to prevent bed bugs from spreading throughout the apartment if they are present. Then empty the contents of the vacuum cleaner, dispose of them in the garbage can, and take the trash out. A small handheld vacuum can be purchased for very cheap at a hardware store.
If you have any suspicions, you can use a special insecticide for bed bugs as prevention.
The hygiene of the apartment is essential, avoiding clutter and excess garbage can prevent infestation and facilitate the detection of the pest if present.

If all these precautions are followed, the probability of pest infestation inside the apartments and the problems that they entail will be reduced.

If a student does detect an infestation of bed bugs or other pests, they should notify ALBA immediately. ALBA will hire a pest control company, the cost of which will be assumed by the student.

13. Visiting Guests

Students are only allowed to have guests stay overnight at their apartments if approved by ALBA. To receive approval they must submit a request via the “Visiting Guest” form available in the ALBA Student Portal. The conditions for having guests approved are the following:

One guest at a time in each shared apartment.
Guests can stay for a maximum of five nights per term.
All students living in the apartment must be informed and consulted while holding the right to reject any guest.
Permission must be requested at least two days before their stay.
Hosts must ensure that their guests have a comfortable place to sleep while making sure to avoid all discomfort and inconvenience to other students in the apartments.

ALBA reserves the right to reject all guest requests that do not comply with the above conditions.

Having visitors without previous ALBA and/or roommates’ authorization is not allowed and can be a reason for disciplinary action.

Hosts are responsible for the conduct of their guests, including any damages caused. Hosts must escort their visitors at all times and respect the specific rules associated with your housing placement concerning visitors. You are also responsible if your visitors violate these or any local rules or regulations.

Should any students living in the apartment express discomfort and ask for the visiting guest to leave, the host must ensure that the guest seeks alternative housing and leaves as soon as possible.

ALBA reserves the right to terminate the guest’s stay at any moment necessary.

14. Keys & Security

Each student will be issued keys to their housing and shown how to double lock the apartment door upon check-in.

For the safety of the students and building community, it is very important that the apartment address is never with the keys, that the keys are not given to anyone else, and that students double lock the door every time they leave the apartment.

Students must inform ALBA as soon as possible of any lost or stolen keys. In the event that keys are lost or stolen during the program, ALBA will change the apartment door lock by the next business day. The student will be responsible for the cost of the new lock and keys. Under no circumstances may students copy their keys.

15. Theft

Students are encouraged to investigate coverage for personal property, such as electronics, through their parent’s homeowner insurance or temporary policies. Students are strongly encouraged to leave expensive jewelry or irreparable items at home.

Any student who is a victim of crime should notify the ALBA staff as soon as possible so that they are informed of the necessary safety protocols.

16. Utilities

ALBA will cover all reasonable utility expenses. Students who incur utility charges above and beyond what is considered normal by local standards will be responsible for paying the excess charges. It may take up to three months for foreign utility bills to be issued; therefore, ALBA reserves the right to hold program deposits until all utility bills have been reviewed. If the program damage deposit does not cover all utility charges, the student will be billed accordingly. ALBA reserves the right to withhold academic transcripts for any outstanding balance on student accounts.

Please note that utility rates are typically much higher than in the U.S. Students are expected to be mindful of this when using electricity, water and gas in their host country, and to be more conservative than they might otherwise be.

Some recommendations for keeping a standard consumption of utilities, but also to have an “eco-friendly” consumption are: switching off lights, heaters and A/C when leaving the apartment; selecting a temperature of 20ºC in winter and 25ºC in summer in the apartment’s thermostats and not taking unnecessary long showers.

Each apartment is given a utilities allowance that corresponds to the size of the apartment, its efficiency and number of occupants. This ranges from 100 EUR/month for small apartments to 175 EUR/month for larger apartments. The allowance is plenty for good lighting and to stay comfortably warm or cool. Each apartment’s electricity meter and gas meter are read and recorded at check-in and check-out.

17. Housing and Environment

In addition to the economic causes explained in the previous section, there are even more important reasons: environmental.

In a historical period of devastating Global Climate Emergency, reducing the consumption of utilities results in a reduction of greenhouse effect gasses into the atmosphere.

Wasting utilities is irresponsible, pollutes the environment, and contributes to the acceleration of climate change.

European citizens have a special sensitivity towards the environment and always keep in mind the importance of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Think twice before buying unnecessary things for your apartment that may be thrown away once you leave, try to make use of what you have, and get creative with ways to reuse items.
The fashion industry is one of the most polluting. Think twice before buying clothes you don’t need.
Familiarize yourself with the recycling norms and place trash, compost, glass, paper and plastic in the appropriate bins.

18. Water Drought

Catalonia is suffering its worst drought on record with reservoirs at their lower capacity.

Spanish authorities and experts point to the impact of climate change in the increasingly hot and dry weather behind the extended drought in Catalonia.

Catalonia officially entered the ‘pre-emergency’ phase for drought, which lowers the daily use per person 210 liters of water per day. That includes personal use as well as what town halls use per inhabitant for services.

This amount of water covers the reasonable use that a person should need but the waste of water can have serious consequences.

When this amount is exceeded the pressure of the water supply in the apartment will decrease, meaning that appliances such as washing machine or dishwasher will not work. Heaters for hot water might not work either.

ALBA will not be responsible for this circumstance and will not provide students with alternative accommodation.

ALBA will share with students a few tips to avoid exceeding the limit of water per person. As a summary, it is:

Turn off faucets when not in use.
Take short showers
Do not use the toilet as a trash can
Use the washing machine and dishwasher on a full load and use saving programs
Let ALBA know if there’s any leak

19. Check-in

Students will be allowed access to their Shared Apartments two days before Orientation. Normally, the Wednesday and Thursday before the first day of class are considered check-in dates. Official check-in dates are announced on the dates and costs page of the ALBA website.

ALBA requires that students notify, through the portal, how and when they will be arriving in Barcelona, including trains or flight numbers. This allows us to organize airport transportation during the specified housing check-in hours.

Throughout the housing check-in period, the ALBA team asks that students communicate any changes in arrival plans, as we will be coordinating getting students from the airport to their housing, while another staff member will meet each student at their residence with their keys, and to show them around.

ALBA housing check-in dates are firm, and students who arrive in Barcelona outside of these dates will have to arrange a time to pick up their keys during the specified housing check-in period.

20. Check-out

ALBA students are allowed to stay in their apartments three more days after the end of the term, unless there are limitations concerning logistical issues (end of contracts, cleaning…).

Check-out instructions will be provided by the ALBA Staff via email and through the ALBA Student Portal, approximately two weeks before the end of the term. Students are required to follow such instructions thoroughly.

21. Deposit

ALBA requires a 100 EUR deposit from each student to cover potential issues such as extra final cleaning, damage to apartment, household items, loss of keys or utility overages. All these extra charges are 100% avoidable. Extra cleaning, damage and utility coverages that exceed the amount of deposit mean that ALBA will not release grades until all accounts and debts are settled.

Students living in shared apartments will have to stop by the ALBA office with a valid credit card (no debit). The ALBA staff will withhold this amount and will release it after the apartment is checked and no charges are applied.

22. Changing Accommodation

In case a student is not content with their shared apartment or any aspect of it, they are welcome to live in another accommodation arranged by them. ALBA will not offer sponsored housing options as an alternative.

In no case will ALBA cover any costs associated with the changing of housing or of the new accommodation chosen by the student.

ALBA will not issue a refund and will retain the full cost of the shared apartment, as the student willfully chooses to live elsewhere.

In case a student chooses to change housing, they must inform ALBA by writing, and undergo a proper checkout.

23. Alcohol, Smoking and Drugs

Alcohol abuse or signs of drunkenness are not accepted and can be a reason for disciplinary action.

Smoking is allowed only in outdoor areas (balconies, terraces…).

Drug consumption or possession are not allowed in ALBA housing and it can be a reason for disciplinary action including expulsion from the program. For further information, please check the “Code of Student Responsibility”.

24. Parties, Noise and Risk of Eviction

Noisy gatherings and parties are completely forbidden at ALBA housing. ALBA apartments are located in buildings with a mix of residents, so students must understand that there will be some elderly people, as well as working families with children. Being loud in general is never acceptable, but it is especially not acceptable late in the evenings when children and others are sleeping.

City regulations indicate that noise level from 22h to 7h must be below 30 decibels. Sources of noise at night can be due to loud music or TV, gatherings, use of the laundry machine or dryer, etc.

Neighbors might report unacceptable noise levels to police in which case a 200+ EUR fine may be imposed. Students will be responsible for the payment of this fine and any other legal responsibility with the Spanish authorities.

If the student is asked to vacate the housing assignment (evicted) due to their misconduct (as determined by landlord, housing vendor or ALBA Barcelona; see ALBA Code of Conduct for further details) and is allowed to remain on the program at the discretion of ALBA, the student will forfeit their security deposit and housing fee, be those fees already paid or not yet paid. The student will not be offered a new ALBA housing assignment, and no refunds will be available. In addition, ALBA staff are not responsible for assisting students in finding new independent housing. Please note that misconduct may result in immediate expulsion from ALBA housing and/or the ALBA program. Once the decision of eviction has been made, the student/s will be informed immediately and will be expected to leave their housing within a period of 24 to 72 hours.

25. Misconduct

Misconduct may result in immediate expulsion from ALBA housing and/or the ALBA program. If a student is asked to leave the housing assignment due to a violation of any housing policy or for violation of the ALBA Code of Conduct, they will forfeit their deposit and entire housing fee. Students will not be issued a new ALBA housing assignment and they will not receive a refund. In addition, ALBA will not provide assistance in sourcing and securing independent housing and will not intervene on the student’s behalf in any independent housing issues or disputes.

26. Damages

All students must respect all furniture, property, and other items provided. All damage, even unintentional, will be billed to the student responsible. If responsibility cannot be determined, the cost will be split equally among all residents. If excessive cleaning and/or trash removal is required at the end of the program, students will be responsible for all additional costs incurred. ALBA will, without liability, dispose of any personal items left in ALBA housing at the end of the program term. If the program damage deposit does not cover all charges, the student will be billed accordingly. ALBA reserves the right to withhold academic transcripts for any outstanding balance on student accounts.

27. Curfew

There is no curfew for ALBA students in any housing assignment.

28. Conflicts

1) Solving conflicts with dialogue among roommates

We strongly encourage students to get to know their roommates and each other’s lifestyles at the beginning of the term, and together outline some house norms such as cleaning responsibilities. In the event of conflict, try to talk it through and make some compromises to ensure everyone feels heard and respected.

2) ALBA mediation

Students agree to make ALBA staff aware of any conflicts or significant disagreements regarding issues with roommates. We are here to help mediate and find a resolution.

3) ALBA intervention

Any information students share with a member of the staff can be shared with a third party if ALBA considers it necessary. ALBA staff has the authority to intervene and take appropriate action regarding such disputes which may include, without limitation, a change of housing assignments. Involved students will be responsible for any costs associated with the resolution.

FAMILY HOMESTAY

ALBA has a list of homestays all around the city to provide quality housing to students. Homestays apartments are located in different areas of the city, always ensuring safety and efficient public transportation connections.

If a student is hoping to live in a specific area of Barcelona, they should consider arranging their own accommodation. The housing fee will be deducted from their total program cost. Students will have to inform ALBA of their decision to find their own accommodation at least 45 days prior to the start of the term. See the Academic Calendar for term specific deadlines.

Homestay overview

Homestays offer a unique opportunity to be immersed in the local culture and improve Spanish language skills.

All homestays have been carefully selected to provide each student with an enriching experience in a welcoming environment. Host families can consist of two-parent households, retired or single parents, with or without kids, and may have pets.

Homestays are located all across the city in safe residential neighborhoods. Although Homestay apartments vary in shape, size, décor and age, each one is considered suitable student accommodation.

All rooms are fully furnished including bed liner. In most homestays, the bathroom is shared with other students/members of the family. Students are required to keep their bedrooms tidy and the floor free of items. As a guest in someone’s home, students should always ask before using items in the home and respect private bedrooms and bathrooms.

Students should expect an average commute on public transportation of 30-40 minutes. Students will be placed in single rooms, but more than one student can be placed with the same homestay. When possible, ALBA tries to place homestay students near other ALBA students.

Please note that the cost for public transportation is not included in the housing fee. Students should plan on budgeting accordingly for transportation.

FAMILY HOMESTAY CONDITIONS

1. Location and assignment

Homestays are located all around the city of Barcelona within a 30-minute commute radius to the ALBA facilities by walking, metro, bus or a combination of those.

Students may submit their housing preferences via the housing selection form and even suggest who they would like to live with. ALBA will keep students’ preferences and suggestions in mind when distributing students, Nevertheless, we will prioritize the well-being of the entire term and not the interests of one person or group of people.

Students should expect to learn about their homestay placement via email at least three weeks before the start of the term.

Once a student is assigned to a homestay placement they may not change or request for a change in their assignments unless there’s a force majeure reason. All changes will be made uniquely at ALBA’s discretion.

2. Meals

Breakfast and dinner are included five days a week, unless otherwise agreed. Breakfast in Spain usually consists of cereal, toast, milk, coffee and juice. Dinner is usually served between 9 – 10 PM and consists of soup, vegetables, meat, fish, pasta or rice. Fruit or yogurt is normal for dessert. Students must notify their host family if they will miss a meal. Snacks or food in between meals is the student’s responsibility.

3. Transportation

The cost of public transportation is not included. Students should plan on budgeting accordingly for daily transportation within the Barcelona Metropolitan area.

4. Linens, Towels and Toiletries

Students are provided with basic bed linens, blankets, towels and pillows. Sheets and towels will be changed once a week.

Toilet paper and hand soap are provided. All other personal hygiene items are the student’s responsibility.

5. Laundry

The homestay family will do two loads of laundry per week. At the beginning of the stay the student and family will agree on the day of the week. If the student would like to iron their clothes, please consult the homestay parent. Different conditions can easily be agreed upon with the host family.

6. Climate control

All apartments are equipped with summer and winter climate control. Some apartments have central heating while others have electric heaters. Some apartments have AC while others have fans.

7. Phone and Internet

There are no landline phones in the homestays for the student’s use. Most students have a cell phone while in Spain and either contract a service prior to arrival, bring their own phone or purchase one in Barcelona. The ALBA staff can provide more information upon request.

Wireless Internet is provided. However, students should note that connection reliability is subject to the national network provider. Please note that Internet connectivity is not as reliable in Spain as it is in the USA and ALBA is not responsible for the quality of the connection.

ALBA does not provide an individualized IT service for PC/MAC configuration etc. However, ALBA will try to assist students in making their own arrangements for any IT service assistance.

8. Maintenance

In case of a maintenance issue, students should report it in the first instance to the homestay family. Students are asked to report any ongoing maintenance issues to the ALBA staff who will act on behalf of the students in such cases as well as whenever a student requests assistance.

9. Cleaning

The student’s room will be cleaned once a week and they will be informed of the schedule during the first week after arrival. At the beginning of the stay, the student and family will agree on the day of the week.

Each student is responsible for keeping their room tidy throughout the duration of the program, as well as keeping all common areas clean.

10. Bed Bugs

ALBA homestays are totally free of these insects and would like to share some tips with students to help prevent bringing them into the apartments:

Check the mattresses (especially the corners), couches, and other furniture for bed bugs upon arrival and notify an employee if there are signs of bugs.
Wash all clothes in hot water and keep objects that cannot be washed in a cool place away from other clothes/furniture.
Suitcases and backpacks should be checked thoroughly and kept away from mattresses, couches, and other places that could be infested both while traveling to new hotels/Airbnbs and while at home. It is also recommended that suitcases be vacuumed to prevent bed bugs from spreading throughout the apartment if they are present. Then empty the contents of the vacuum cleaner, dispose of them in the garbage can, and take the trash out. A small handheld vacuum can be purchased for very cheap at a hardware store.
If a student has any suspicions, they can use a special insecticide for bed bugs as prevention.
The hygiene of the apartment is essential, avoiding clutter and excess garbage can prevent infestation and facilitate the detection of the pest if present.

If all these precautions are followed, the probability of pest infestation inside the apartments and the problems that they entail will be reduced.

If a student does detect an infestation of bed bugs or other pests, they should notify ALBA immediately. ALBA will hire a pest control company, the cost of which will be assumed by the student.

11. Visitors

Guests (friends, significant others or family members) are not allowed without prior permission from the host family. Guests are not allowed before 10 AM or after 9 PM. Overnight guests are not permitted.

12. Keys & Security

Each student will be given a set of keys to the apartment and shown how to double lock the door upon arrival.

For the safety of the student and host family, it is very important that the apartment address is never attached to the keys, the keys are not given to anyone else, and that students double lock the apartment door every time they leave. In the event that keys are lost or stolen during the program, students will be responsible for the cost of replacement as well as for the cost of a new lock should this need to be changed. Copies of keys can only be made by the host family.

ALBA is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items (laptops, jewelry, cell phones, cameras, bags, etc.). ALBA strongly advises students to ensure their personal belongings for the time that they will be abroad. Any student who is a victim of crime should notify the onsite staff as soon as possible so that they are informed of the necessary safety protocols.

13. Theft

ALBA is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items (laptops, jewelry, cell phones, cameras, bags, documents, etc.) in any circumstance or place. Students are fully responsible for their personal belongings and will not receive compensation from ALBA for any theft or damage of those belongings by a third party or other ALBA program students. Students are encouraged to investigate coverage for personal property, such as electronics, through their parent’s homeowner insurance or temporary policies. Students are strongly encouraged to leave expensive jewelry or irreplaceable items at home.

Any student who is a victim of crime should notify the ALBA staff as soon as possible so that they are informed of the necessary safety protocols.

14. Utilities

Please note that utility rates are typically much higher than in the U.S. Students are expected to be mindful of this when using electricity, water and gas in Barcelona, and to be more conservative than they might otherwise be.

Some recommendations for keeping a standard consumption of utilities, but also to have an “eco-friendly” consumption are switching off lights when leaving a room, selecting a temperature of 20ºC in winter and 25ºC in summer in the apartment’s thermostats and not taking long showers.

15. Housing and Environment

In a historical period of devastating Global Climate Emergency, reducing the consumption of utilities results in a reduction of greenhouse effect gasses into the atmosphere.

In addition to the economic causes explained in the previous section, there are even more important reasons: environmental.

Wasting utilities is irresponsible, pollutes the environment, and contributes to the acceleration of climate change.

European citizens have a special sensitivity towards the environment and always keep in mind the importance of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Think twice before buying unnecessary things for your apartment that may be thrown away once you leave, try to make use of what you have, and get creative with ways to reuse items.
The fashion industry is one of the most polluting. Think twice before buying clothes you don’t need.
Familiarize yourself with the recycling norms and place trash, compost, glass, paper and plastic in the appropriate bins.

16. Water Drought

Catalonia is suffering its worst drought on record with reservoirs at their lower capacity.

Spanish authorities and experts point to the impact of climate change in the increasingly hot and dry weather behind the extended drought in Catalonia.

This amount of water covers the reasonable use that a person should need but the waste of water can have serious consequences.

ALBA will not be responsible for this circumstance and will not provide students with alternative accommodation.

ALBA will share with students a few tips to avoid exceeding the limit of water per person. As a summary, it is:

Turn off faucets when not in use.
Take short showers
Do not use the toilet as a trash can
Use the washing machine and dishwasher on a full load and use saving programs
Let ALBA know if there’s any leak

17. Check-in

Students will be allowed access to their housing assignments two days before Orientation. Normally, the Wednesday and Thursday before the first day of class are considered check-in dates. Official check-in dates are announced on the dates and costs page of the ALBA website.

Throughout the housing check-in period, the ALBA team asks that students communicate any changes in arrival plans, as we will be coordinating getting students from the airport to their housing, while his local host will meet each student at their residence with their keys, and to show them around.

ALBA housing check-in dates are firm, and students who arrive in Barcelona outside of these dates will have to arrange a time to pick up their keys during the specified housing check-in period.

18. Check-out

ALBA students are allowed to stay in their homestays three more days after the end of the term unless there’s any limitation with regard to logistical issues (end of contracts, cleaning, etc). Please double check this possibility with the ALBA staff.

On departure day, students must coordinate with the host family.

19. Changing Accommodation

ALBA provides safe and suitable student housing based on local standards. Once housing is assigned by ALBA, students may not change their housing assignments. ALBA does not have surplus apartments or homestays. Any changes will be made at ALBA’s discretion and will require a payment of at least $300 (Change of Housing Fee) and all additional costs incurred as a result of the change.

20. Alcohol, Smoking and Drugs

A glass of wine at dinner is common practice in many Mediterranean families. However, alcohol abuse and/or signs of drunkenness are not accepted and can be a reason for disciplinary action.

Smoking and drug consumption or possession is not allowed in homestay apartments and it can be a reason for disciplinary action including expulsion from the program.

21. Parties, Noise and Risk of Eviction

Noisy behavior is completely forbidden. ALBA homestays are located in buildings with a mix of residents, so students must understand that there will be some elderly people, as well as working families with children. Being loud in general is never acceptable, but it is especially not acceptable late in the evenings when children and others are sleeping.

City regulations indicate that noise level from 22h to 7h must be below 30 decibels. Sources of excessive noise at night can include loud music or TV, noisy gatherings, use of laundry machines or dryers, etc.

If the student is asked to vacate the homestay (evicted) due to their misconduct (as determined by homestay, landlord, housing vendor or ALBA Barcelona; see ALBA Code of Conduct for further details) and is allowed to remain on the program at the discretion of ALBA, the student will forfeit their security deposit and housing fee, be those fees already paid or not yet paid. The student will not be offered a new ALBA housing assignment, and no refunds will be available. In addition, ALBA staff are not responsible for assisting students in finding new independent housing. Please note that misconduct may result in immediate expulsion from ALBA housing and/or the ALBA program. Once the decision of eviction has been made, the student/s will be informed immediately and will be expected to leave their housing within a period of 24 to 72 hours.

22. Misconduct

Misconduct may result in immediate expulsion from ALBA housing and/or the ALBA program. If a student is asked to leave the housing assignment due to a violation of any housing policy or for violation of the ALBA Code of Conduct, they will forfeit their deposit and entire housing fee. The student will not be issued a new ALBA housing assignment, and they will not receive a refund. In addition, ALBA will not provide assistance in sourcing and securing independent housing and will not intervene on the student’s behalf in any independent housing issues or disputes.

23. Damages

All students must respect all furniture, property, and other items provided. All damage, even unintentional, will be billed to the student responsible. If responsibility cannot be determined, the cost will be split equally among all residents. ALBA will, without liability, dispose of any personal items left in ALBA housing at the end of the program term. If excessive cleaning and/or trash removal is required at the end of the program, students will be responsible for all additional costs incurred, even if it exceeds the housing deposit. ALBA reserves the right to withhold academic transcripts for any outstanding balance on student accounts.

24. Curfew

There is no curfew for students. However, if the student will not be home for dinner or plans to spend the night elsewhere, they must inform the host family. Students must always be respectful of the neighbors and host family when coming home late.

25. Conflicts

Students agree to make ALBA staff aware of any conflicts or significant disagreements regarding issues with the homestay. Any information students share with a member of the staff can be shared with a third party if ALBA considers it necessary. ALBA staff has the authority to intervene and take appropriate action regarding such disputes which may include, without limitation, a change of housing assignments. Involved students will be responsible for any costs associated with the resolution.

LIVE WITH A LOCAL HOST

ALBA works with a list of local hosts all around the city to provide quality housing to students. Their apartments are located in different neighborhoods, always ensuring safety and efficient public transportation connections.

“Live with local” overview

The “live with a local” option offers a unique opportunity to be immersed in the local culture and improve Spanish language skills.

All local hosts have been carefully selected to provide each student with an enriching experience in a welcoming environment. A local is normally a young Spanish-speaking professional that wants to share their apartment with an American student. More than one person can live together in the host’s apartment.

Local host apartments are located all across the city in safe residential neighborhoods. Although apartments vary in shape, size, décor and age, each one is considered suitable student accommodation.

All rooms are fully furnished including bed liner. In most local host apartments, the bathroom is shared with other students or flatmates. Students are required to keep their bedrooms tidy and the floor free of items. As a guest in someone’s home, students should always ask before using items in the home and respect private bedrooms and bathrooms.

Students should expect an average commute on public transportation of 30-40 minutes. Students could be placed with flatmates or be the only student in the home. When possible, ALBA tries to place students near other ALBA students. Please note that the cost for public transportation is not included in the housing fee. Students should plan on budgeting accordingly for transportation.

“LIVE WITH LOCAL” CONDITIONS

1. Location and assignment

“Live with a local” homes are located all around the city of Barcelona within a 30-minute commute radius to the ALBA facilities by walking, metro, bus or a combination of those.

Students may submit their housing preferences via the housing selection form and even suggest who they would like to live with. ALBA will keep students’ preferences and suggestions in mind when distributing students, Nevertheless, we will prioritize the well-being of the entire term and not the interests of one person or group of people.

Students should expect to learn about their housing placement via email at least three weeks before the start of the term.

Once a student is assigned to a housing placement they may not change or request for a change in their assignments unless there’s a force majeure reason. All changes will be made uniquely at ALBA’s discretion.

2. Meals

Meals are not included in this housing option. Students have access to a shared kitchen and cooking utensils.

3. Transportation

The cost of public transportation is not included. Students should plan on budgeting accordingly for daily transportation within the Barcelona Metropolitan area.

4. Linens, Towels and Toiletries

Students are provided with basic bed linens, blankets, towels and pillows.

Toilet paper and hand soap are provided. All other personal hygiene items are the student’s responsibility.

5. Laundry

All local host apartments include a washing machine. Students are allowed to do one load a week. At the beginning of the stay the student and local host will agree on the use of laundry. It is uncommon to have an in-home dryer in Barcelona. Apartments will instead have clothing lines to air-dry clothes. Students can wash and dry clothes at a laundromat if they prefer, and this cost will be their responsibility.

6. Climate control

All apartments are equipped with summer and winter climate control. Some apartments have central heating while others have electric heaters. Some apartments have AC while others have fans.

7. Phone and Internet

There are no landline phones in this housing option for the student’s use. Most students have a cell phone while in Spain and either contract a service prior to arrival, bring their own phone or purchase one in Barcelona. The ALBA staff can provide more information upon request .

ALBA does not provide an individualized IT service for PC/MAC configuration etc. However, ALBA will try to assist students in making their own arrangements for any IT service assistance.

8. Maintenance

In case of a maintenance issue, students should report it in the first instance to the local host. Students are asked to report any ongoing maintenance issues to the ALBA staff who will act on behalf of the students in such cases as well as whenever a student requests assistance.

9. Cleaning

Each student is responsible for cleaning their own room and keeping it tidy throughout the duration of the program as well as keeping all common areas clean.

10. Bed Bugs

ALBA local host apartments are totally free of these insects and would like to share some tips with students to help prevent bringing them into the apartments:

Check the mattresses (especially the corners), couches, and other furniture for bed bugs upon arrival and notify an employee if there are signs of bugs.
Wash all clothes in hot water and keep objects that cannot be washed in a cool place away from other clothes/furniture.
Suitcases and backpacks should be checked thoroughly and kept away from mattresses, couches, and other places that could be infested both while traveling to new hotels/Airbnbs and while at home. It is also recommended that suitcases be vacuumed to prevent bed bugs from spreading throughout the apartment if they are present. Then empty the contents of the vacuum cleaner, dispose of them in the garbage can, and take the trash out. A small handheld vacuum can be purchased for very cheap at a hardware store.
If a student has any suspicions, they can use a special insecticide for bed bugs as prevention.
The hygiene of the apartment is essential, avoiding clutter and excess garbage can prevent infestation and facilitate the detection of the pest if present.

If all these precautions are followed, the probability of pest infestation inside the apartments and the problems that they entail will be reduced.

If a student does detect an infestation of bed bugs or other pests, they should notify ALBA immediately. ALBA will hire a pest control company, the cost of which will be assumed by the student.

11. Visitors

Guests (friends, significant others or family members) are not allowed without prior permission from the local host. Guests are not allowed before 10 AM or after 9 PM. Overnight guests are not permitted.

12. Keys & Security

Each student will be given a set of keys to the apartment and shown how to double lock the door upon check-in.

For the safety of the student and local host, it is very important that the apartment address is never attached to the keys, the keys are not given to anyone else, and that students double lock the apartment door every time they leave. In the event that keys are lost or stolen during the program, students will be responsible for the cost of replacement as well as for the cost of a new lock should this need to be changed. The local host is the only one permitted to make copies of the keys.

13. Theft

ALBA is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items (laptops, jewelry, cell phones, cameras, bags, etc.). Students are fully responsible for their personal belongings and will not receive compensation from ALBA for any theft or damage of those belongings by a third party or other ALBA program students. ALBA strongly advises students to insure their personal belongings for the time that they will be abroad. Any student who is a victim of crime should notify the onsite staff as soon as possible through their Student Portal so that they are informed of the necessary safety protocols.

14. Utilities

Please note that utility rates are typically much higher than in the U.S.. Students are expected to be mindful of this when using electricity, water and gas in Barcelona, and to be more conservative than they might otherwise be.

Some recommendations for keeping a standard consumption of utilities, but also to have an “eco-friendly” consumption are: switching off lights, heaters and A/C when leaving the apartment; and following the local hosts’ instructions for efficient use of heating/AC and not taking long showers.

15. Housing and Environment

In addition to the economic causes explained in the previous section, there are even more important reasons: environmental.

In a historical period of devastating Global Climate Emergency, reducing the consumption of utilities results in a reduction of greenhouse effect gasses into the atmosphere.

Wasting utilities is irresponsible, pollutes the environment, and contributes to the acceleration of climate change.

European citizens have a special sensitivity towards the environment and always keep in mind the importance of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Think twice before buying unnecessary things for your apartment that may be thrown away once you leave, try to make use of what you have, and get creative with ways to reuse items.
The fashion industry is one of the most polluting. Think twice before buying clothes you don’t need.

Familiarize yourself with the recycling norms and place trash, compost, glass, paper and plastic in the appropriate bins.

16. Water Drought

Catalonia is suffering its worst drought on record with reservoirs at their lower capacity.

Spanish authorities and experts point to the impact of climate change in the increasingly hot and dry weather behind the extended drought in Catalonia.

This amount of water covers the reasonable use that a person should need but the waste of water can have serious consequences.

ALBA will not be responsible for this circumstance and will not provide students with alternative accommodation.

ALBA will share with students a few tips to avoid exceeding the limit of water per person. As a summary, it is:

Turn off faucets when not in use.
Take short showers
Do not use the toilet as a trash can
Use the washing machine and dishwasher on a full load and use saving programs
Let ALBA know if there’s any leak

17. Check-in

Throughout the housing check-in period, the ALBA team asks that students communicate any changes in arrival plans, as we will be coordinating getting students from the airport to their housing, while his local host will meet each student at their residence with their keys, and to show them around.

ALBA housing check-in dates are firm, and students who arrive in Barcelona outside of these dates will have to arrange a time to pick up their keys during the specified housing check-in period.

18. Check-out

ALBA students are allowed to stay in their local host apartment three more days after the end of the term unless there’s any limitation with regard to logistical issues (end of contracts, cleaning, etc). Please double check this possibility with the ALBA staff.

On departure day, students must coordinate their departure with the local host.

19. Changing Accommodation

ALBA provides safe and suitable student housing based on local standards. Once housing is assigned by ALBA, students may not change their housing assignments. ALBA does not have surplus apartments or local host contacts. Any changes will be made at ALBA’s discretion and will require a payment of at least $300 (Change of Housing Fee) and all additional costs incurred as a result of the change.

20. Alcohol, Smoking and Drugs

A glass of wine at dinner is common practice for many Spanish people. However, alcohol abuse and/or signs of drunkenness are not accepted and can be a reason for disciplinary action. Smoking and drug consumption or possession is not allowed in local host apartments and it can be a reason for disciplinary action including expulsion from the program.

21. Parties, Noise and Risk of Eviction

Noisy behavior is completely forbidden. ALBA local host apartments are located in buildings with a mix of residents, so students must understand that there will be some elderly people, as well as working families with children. Being loud in general is never acceptable, but it is especially not acceptable late in the evenings when children and others are sleeping.

If the student is asked to vacate the housing assignment (evicted) due to their misconduct (as determined by local, landlord, housing vendor or ALBA Barcelona; see ALBA Code of Conduct for further details) and is allowed to remain on the program at the discretion of ALBA, the student will forfeit their security deposit and housing fee, be those fees already paid or not yet paid. The student will not be offered a new ALBA housing assignment, and no refunds will be available. In addition, ALBA staff are not responsible for assisting students in finding new independent housing. Please note that misconduct may result in immediate expulsion from ALBA housing and/or the ALBA program. Once the decision of eviction has been made, the student/s will be informed immediately and will be expected to leave their housing within a period of 24 to 72 hours.

22. Misconduct

Misconduct may result in immediate expulsion from ALBA housing and/or the ALBA program. If a student is asked to leave the housing assignment due to a violation of any housing policy or for violation of the ALBA Code of Conduct, they will forfeit your deposit and entire housing fee. The student will not be issued a new ALBA housing assignment and they will not receive a refund. In addition, ALBA will not provide assistance in sourcing and securing independent housing and will not intervene on the student’s behalf in any independent housing issues or disputes.

23. Damages

24. Curfew

There is no curfew for students. However, if the student plans to spend the night elsewhere, they must inform the local host. Students must always be respectful of the neighbors and local host when coming home late.

25. Conflicts

Students agree to make ALBA staff aware of any conflicts or significant disagreements regarding issues with the local host. Any information a student shares with a member of the staff can be shared with a third party if ALBA considers it necessary. ALBA staff has the authority to intervene and take appropriate action regarding such disputes which may include, without limitation, a change of housing assignments. Involved students will be responsible for any costs associated with the resolution.