Cornerstone Madrid: SIS Scholars is a first semester fall program offered exclusively to Cornerstone students planning to major in the School of International Service.  This program allows students to get a jump start on their international education. Students will experience international culture firsthand while the onsite AU Madrid Center staff and faculty guide and support them. 

If you are a prospective student who is interested in learning more about the AU Cornerstone program, please fill out the form below and we will reach out with additional information!

Cornerstone Interest Form

Benefits of Cornerstone Madrid

• Nearly 70% of AU students study abroad during their four years. You’ll study abroad, under the mentorship of experienced AU and international partner faculty and administrators.

• Experience cities and cultural sites throughout Spain, with an itinerary specifically designed to immerse students in Spanish culture.  

• Earn credit toward your AU degree, satisfy AU Core required courses, and make progress on your SIS degree by taking required first-year courses for your major. 

• No previous study of Spanish language is required. All levels from beginning to advanced Spanish are offered. 

Program Components 

• Immerse yourself in Spanish culture.

• Experiential learning through guided excursions.

• Study at the AU Madrid Center and take courses that count towards your degree.

• Mentorship from experienced AU staff and faculty including a dedicated Assistant Director and Program Assistant.

• During the spring semester on American University's campus, Cornerstone staff will work with you to get to integrated into AU and get to know the incredible opportunities we have on campus. To learn more about the steps taken during the spring semester, check out our Spring Cornerstone Madrid graphic.