Ready to take your rugby to Europe? Applications are now open for SAIIE’s 2027–28 Elite Rugby Gap Year in Seville, Spain. Designed for high-school graduates and students who have completed Year 13, the program offers an opportunity to continue developing as a rugby player while studying, experiencing Spanish culture, and preparing for the next stage of life.
For student-athletes who aren’t quite ready to move directly into college, a gap year can be an opportunity to keep competing, gain independence, and experience a different country without putting their personal and academic development on hold.
At SAIIE, rugby is an important part of a broader international experience.
Continue Playing Competitive Rugby in Spain
Spain offers a different sporting environment from the traditional school and college rugby systems in the United States and other countries. Rather than spending a year away from the game, participants have the opportunity to train within a Spanish club environment and experience rugby alongside local players.
Through SAIIE’s Elite Rugby Gap Year, eligible athletes may be placed within a high-performance U18 or U23 academy team, depending on their age, playing level, and available placement opportunities.
The rugby program includes:
- Three team training sessions per week.
- Technical and tactical development with experienced coaches.
- Training alongside Spanish rugby players.
- Opportunities to compete in Spanish rugby, subject to team selection and competition arrangements.
- Integration into a local club’s training environment.
Athletic participation is subject to individual evaluation, club availability, and acceptance.
More Than Rugby: An International Academic Experience
A gap year should offer opportunities to grow beyond the field. SAIIE combines athletic development with academic options and the opportunity to experience daily life in Spain.
Participants can choose an academic pathway that fits their interests and goals.
Intensive Spanish Language Study
Students can take 16 hours of Spanish instruction per week at SAIIE. Classes accommodate beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, making this an option for students who want to develop their language skills through formal instruction and everyday interaction in Spain.
University of Seville
Eligible students can explore university-level coursework at the University of Seville, with courses available in English and Spanish. Students generally enroll in three to five courses per semester, subject to program requirements and course availability.
Optional U.S. Academic Credit
Students participating in eligible academic coursework may also have the option to earn U.S. academic credit through the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse (UWL), SAIIE’s School of Record. Academic credit is subject to applicable requirements.
The aim is to help students build an international perspective while continuing to pursue their educational goals.
Experience Everyday Life in Seville
Living abroad is about more than training and classes. It is also about learning to navigate a new environment, building friendships, discovering another culture, and becoming more independent.
Participants live with carefully selected Spanish host families, creating opportunities to experience Spanish language and culture beyond the classroom.
The SAIIE experience includes:
- Spanish host-family accommodation, with most meals included.
- Airport reception and arrival orientation.
- Academic and athletic program coordination.
- Cultural activities and excursions.
- Bilingual on-site staff support throughout the program.
Seville offers a distinctive setting for a gap year, combining a rich cultural heritage, an active social environment, and opportunities to experience everyday life in southern Spain.
Who Should Apply?
The Elite Rugby Gap Year is intended for students who have completed high school or Year 13 and have current varsity or club rugby experience.
Applicants should be ready to commit to their athletic development while embracing the academic, cultural, and personal opportunities of living abroad.
As part of the application process, prospective participants should be prepared to provide recent rugby playing or training videos for evaluation.
Because team placement depends on individual circumstances and club availability, interested athletes are encouraged to contact SAIIE early to discuss their background and suitability for the program.
2027–28 Applications Are Now Open
If you are considering a gap year before college, the 2027–28 academic year could be an opportunity to continue playing rugby while gaining international experience.
SAIIE’s Elite Rugby Gap Year brings together competitive club rugby, academic options, Spanish language and cultural immersion, host-family accommodation, and on-site support in Seville.
Your next chapter doesn’t have to mean stepping away from rugby. It could mean discovering a new way to play, learn, and grow.
Interested in the Elite Rugby Gap Year?
Explore the program details, academic options, eligibility requirements, and fees on the SAIIE Elite Rugby Gap Year program page.
For questions about eligibility or the application process, contact Sean Chipres, Director of Program Development & Student Experience, at seanrc@saiie.com.