The program is designed primarily for undergraduate students interested in studying Spanish language and Hispanic culture. All applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0. However, students with a lower GPA may be considered in exceptional cases. Non-native English-speaking students must have taken the TOEFL exam within the last two years and earned a composite score of 600+ or have taken the UHM ELI placement exam.

Admission to the program is selective. All applicants for the program will be judged on their academic performance, reasons for wishing to attend the program, flexibility and sensitivity to other cultures, and ability to adjust to a new cultural setting.

Immediately upon acceptance to the program, students are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of $500.00 to ensure a place in the program. The deposit will be applied toward the total cost of the program.

Please note that UHM students accepted to the program are required to attend three mandatory pre-departure class sessions totaling 12 hours. Failure to attend will result in students being withdrawn from the program.