ICEF Spanish Education- ICEF

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Start your ICEF experience with the collective intelligence of the room. In this fast-paced, 25-minute "Mastermind" session, we move beyond the handshake to tackle the real-world challenges of 2026. Participants will be seated at mixed tables of educators and agents to engage in a series of "lightning round questions" focused on student success, and the future of the industry. You will leave this session not just with new contacts, but with a toolkit of proven strategies and fresh perspectives to fuel your meetings for the rest of the event.

To keep the energy high, a moderator will announce a new "Prompt" every 5 minutes. Each table is encouraged to ensure both an agent and an educator share their perspective on each question.

Spoken by over 550 million people around the world, Spanish is one of the world’s most spoken languages. It is the official language in 20 countries and a second language for over a million people and it is increasingly encouraging international students to seek out programmes in Spanish-speaking territories.

In this session, we explore the evolving landscape of international student decision making, we consider the specific factors attracting students to non-English study destinations, and we consider the benefits of studying in a Spanish-speaking country.

This session explores the benefits of vocational programmes as a direct pathway to employment, with a particular focus on Spain’s thriving hospitality and tourism sector.

With students increasingly concerned about the routes from study to employment, the session will look at a number of key topics related to Spain’s vocational sector, including:

The types of programmes available
The application process
Spain’s visa policy environment including:
- In-study work options
- Post-graduate recruitment
- The "Stay Back" option - work permits for graduates who secure employment

The session wraps up with a short Q&A, enabling attendees to learn more about this important aspect of the Spanish education system.

With the number of Spanish speakers continuing to increase, the Spanish Language market is growing at a significant rate. The third most spoken language around the world, the impact of Spanish is being felt across a number of sectors, including the Spanish Language audio industry which, supported by the Spanish government, has seen substantial growth in recent years.

In this presentation, the speaker provides our annual update on this vital market segment. We look at the latest data to provide insights on:

Who is studying Spanish
Why Spain is their top destination
Emerging markets
Student profiles, including pathway programmes and school groups
A summary of the key takeaways that will help inform agents in attracting and converting Spanish learners.

With more and more families considering the best ways to gain a competitive advantage for their children, international secondary education opportunities are growing in popularity. In this session, we take a look at the most important elements that should be considered by those wanting to send their children to Spain.

The session opens with a brief overview of Spain’s compulsory secondary education (ESO). We then look at the post-compulsory Bachillerato - a two-year course that prepares students for university. We also explore the increasingly common International Baccalaureate (IB), which can take the place of Spanish high school certificates when applying to Spanish universities. We then cover the key components of the Spanish, British, and other curricula. Finally, the session outlines the key differences between private and public education.

With so much concern around visa regulations, this is an essential session for agents recruiting to Spain, as well as admissions and compliance officers, as it provides up-to-date information around the latest regulations affecting the Spanish visa application process.

Over the course of this short presentation, we’ll take you through the latest regulations. We will guide you through the application process, highlighting key points including the documentation required to make a successful application, as well as details on how students can gain a residence permit card (TIE) once they have arrived in Spain.

Spain has positioned itself as a welcoming country for international students and it has seen considerable growth, with 10,000 more foreign enrolments in 2024 than in 2023 - a 6% growth. However, while the government is keen to attract foreign talent, it did tighten visa rules in May 2025.

In this in-depth panel discussion, we look at the rules as they stand, how the rules changed in May 2025, and also identify what stayed the same. Alongside this overview of current visa regulations, we also provide practical tips that will enable attendees to maximise the chance of acceptance. The panel will then conclude with a short Q&A.

Already the top Erasmus+ study destination for EU students, Spain is rapidly growing in stature as an alternative study destination for non-EU students, with its favourable policies, range of programmes (in both Spanish and English), and top-quality institutions.

Agents from three different countries reveal what they appreciate most in partnerships: seamless communication, cultural integration, and key study package features like Spanish immersion, homestays, internships, or visa support. These insights will help you create an ideal package and relationship to ensure partnerships thrive and drive recruitment in Spain's dynamic market.

Mon • May 1114:00 - 14:25Seminar room

Sharing industry best practices & insights: Peer-to-Peer exchange

Discussion

Presenter

Yusara Quispe Rodriguez

With over a decade of experience in international higher education, I’ve had the privilege of serving as Director of International Admissions for top Spanish universities, guiding students from all over the world through every step of their study abroad journey — from program selection and admissions to visa processing and integration. Today, I’m proud to be part of ICEF, where I’m about to celebrate my first year supporting global education partners, institutions, and agents in building meaningful international connections. This role has strengthened my passion for educational mobility and expanded my reach in helping institutions grow their international presence. My work has taken me across Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia — always with the same goal: to make international education more accessible, transparent, and transformative for students everywhere.

Agency Relations & Business Development Manager, ICEF

To keep the energy high, a moderator will announce a new "Prompt" every 5 minutes. Each table is encouraged to ensure both an agent and an educator share their perspective on each question.

Mon • May 1114:30 - 14:55Seminar room

The evolving international education landscape: Exploring non-Anglophone study destinations for Higher Education

CPD Accredited

Presentation

Presenter

Raphael Giraud

Raphael Giraud is an international education and business development leader with over 20 years of global experience driving commercial strategy, channel expansion, and market growth. As Manager of International Enrollment at Universidad Europea, he leads the university’s worldwide agency ecosystem, building high‑impact partnerships that strengthen the institution’s presence across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

International Business Development Manager, Universidad Europea

Mon • May 1115:00 - 15:25Seminar room

The rise of vocational training in international education: The Spanish model of skills-focused learning

CPD Accredited

Presentation

Presenter

Courtney April Bowen

I am a bilingual professional with over 13 years of sales management experience and a deep passion for international education. Born in the UK and raised in Spain, I’ve witnessed firsthand the value of cultural diversity and the rich opportunities Spain offers. I dedicate my expertise to promoting Spain as a premier destination for international students, highlighting its world-class education system, vibrant lifestyle, and welcoming atmosphere.

International Manager, Hotel Escuela Ecotur/ Study in Valencia

This session explores the benefits of vocational programmes as a direct pathway to employment, with a particular focus on Spain’s thriving hospitality and tourism sector.

With students increasingly concerned about the routes from study to employment, the session will look at a number of key topics related to Spain’s vocational sector, including:

The types of programmes available
The application process
Spain’s visa policy environment including:
- In-study work options
- Post-graduate recruitment
- The "Stay Back" option - work permits for graduates who secure employment

The session wraps up with a short Q&A, enabling attendees to learn more about this important aspect of the Spanish education system.

Mon • May 1115:30 - 15:55Seminar room

Spanish in Spain: Growth and high potential

CPD Accredited

Presentation

Presenter

Mario Calvo

After studying languages in Spain and teaching in schools, I moved to Germany, where I spent several years teaching Spanish across various institutions. In 2000, I returned to Spain to found my own language school in Madrid, Academia Contacto, which has been welcoming international students ever since. I am currently honored to serve as the President of FEDELE Madrid.

President, FEDELE Madrid

In this presentation, the speaker provides our annual update on this vital market segment. We look at the latest data to provide insights on:

Who is studying Spanish
Why Spain is their top destination
Emerging markets
Student profiles, including pathway programmes and school groups
A summary of the key takeaways that will help inform agents in attracting and converting Spanish learners.

16:00 - 16:30

Refreshment break

Mon • May 1116:30 - 16:55Seminar room

Secondary education in Spain: Opportunity & growth

CPD Accredited

Presentation

Presenter

Laura Weatherston

With over 18 years of experience in international education, Laura Weatherston has worked in leading schools across the UK, Spain, Mexico, Kenya, China, Japan, and Hong Kong. Currently leading the admissions team at Sage College – The British School of Jerez in Spain, she brings a deep commitment to helping students find the best possible educational pathways. With a background in Sports Science and a Master’s degree in Leadership and Management, Laura combines her academic expertise with a strong focus on holistic student development. A passionate advocate for boarding and pastoral care, she believes that nurturing students’ personal growth is just as vital as academic success.

Head of International Admissions, Sage College - The British School of Jerez

Mon • May 1117:00 - 17:25Seminar room

Demystifying visa regulations: A guide to best practice in applications

CPD Accredited

Presentation

Presenter

Gosia Kozyra

Gosia Kozyra is the Head of Admissions at Campus Spain, with over 10 years of experience advising international students who wish to study in Spain. She has extensive expertise in university admissions processes, student mobility, and the regulatory framework affecting international education. Gosia is also a licensed lawyer specializing in immigration matters, with a particular focus on student visas and residence permits in Spain. Having been an international student in Spain herself, she brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work, helping students successfully navigate the academic and legal aspects of studying abroad.

Head of Admissions, Campus Spain

Mon • May 1117:30 - 18:10Seminar room

Updates and insights into the Spanish visa application process

CPD Accredited

Panel discussion

Moderator

Pablo López

South Europe Director, ICEF

Panelist

Miguel Ángel Martí Escolano

I am an experienced professional in higher education management, international academic development, and strategic marketing. With a background in Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations from ESIC Business & Marketing School and an MBA in Financial Management from UCAM, I have built a career specializing in institutional partnerships, academic expansion, and corporate alliances. Actually I am General Manager of the International University of Miami.

University Managing Director, Educa Edtech

Panelist

Monique García

I am a strategic education leader with over a decade of experience in international school operations, counseling, and family advocacy. Currently, I serve as the Head of Admissions and International Recruitment at Yago School Sevilla,part of the Affinitas Education group,where I have focused on driving enrollment growth and modernizing the end-to-end family journey through digital transformation. What sets my approach apart is my background as a licensed Psychologist. I bring a clinical perspective to the admissions landscape, specializing in "high-touch" family experience, crisis management, and building deep-rooted trust within diverse communities.

Director of Admissions and Recruitment, Yago School Sevilla by Affinitas Education

Panelist

Jannyree Gongora

With over 15 years in international higher education, she has built her career at the intersection of education and culture, guiding students worldwide. Holding degrees in International Relations, International Business, and International Conflict Communications, she combines academic insight with hands-on experience in global student recruitment. As a member of the Executive and Management Committees, she leads a team of 60+ professionals from 35 nationalities, driving growth strategies, scalability, and sustainable business development. Passionate about education and intercultural exchange, she creates initiatives that expand opportunities for students while keeping people and purpose at the heart of her leadership.

Sales and Marketing Director, EU Business School

Mon • May 1118:15 - 18:55Seminar room

Inside agents' minds: What's most valued in Spanish education partnerships

CPD Accredited

Panel discussion

Moderator

Yusara Quispe Rodriguez

Agency Relations & Business Development Manager, ICEF

Panelist

Diogo Gonçalves Pereira Rodrigues

Diogo Rõdrïguēs is CEO of YES Intercâmbio, an agency specialized in higher education consulting abroad. With over 15 years of experience in the field of Education, Rodrigues has a postgraduate degree in Marketing, Business and International Communication at the University of California Berkeley. Between 2007 and 2009, he worked at educational institutions in Silicon Valley like Intrax and other American start-ups. He holds a degree in Advertising from PUC-PR and an MBA in People Management and Leadership from Volvo. Also he is Co- Founder and Member at REAL - Registered Education Agents from LATAM. Also a Licensed TEDx Organizer - TEDx Prado Velho ED and TEDx Speaker.

CEO, YES Intercâmbio

Panelist

Selim Dervish

Selim Dervish is the Director of Academia United, a strategic educational digital portfolio management company overseeing a diverse range of international education brands, including Linguland, TopStudy, and CourseFinders. With nearly two decades of industry experience, Selim specializes in scaling agency operations and driving market expansion through innovative business models. As a Board Member of ALTO, he is a leading advocate for industry standardization and strategic partnerships, bringing a seasoned, agent-side perspective to the growth and development of the global language travel sector.

Director, Linguland Languages GmbH

Panelist

Elena Lemme

Elena is a Partnerships Manager at Vaga-Mundo, leading strategic alliances across the international education sector, and helping students from Latin America to access valuable opportunities abroad. A Brazilian based in Madrid, with over six years of experience in partnerships, project management, and social-impact initiatives, her career bridges education, international mobility, and cross-cultural collaboration. She holds a master’s degree in social project creation and innovation, reinforcing her commitment to education as a driver of transformation.

Partnerships Manager, Vaga-Mundo

14:00 - 14:25Seminar room

Sharing industry best practices & insights: Peer-to-Peer exchange

Seminar room

Yusara Quispe RodriguezPresenterAgency Relations & Business Development Manager, ICEF

To keep the energy high, a moderator will announce a new "Prompt" every 5 minutes. Each table is encouraged to ensure both an agent and an educator share their perspective on each question.

14:30 - 14:55Seminar room

The evolving international education landscape: Exploring non-Anglophone study destinations for Higher Education

Seminar room

CPD Accredited

Raphael GiraudPresenterInternational Business Development Manager, Universidad Europea

15:00 - 15:25Seminar room

The rise of vocational training in international education: The Spanish model of skills-focused learning

Seminar room

CPD Accredited

Courtney April BowenPresenterInternational Manager, Hotel Escuela Ecotur/ Study in Valencia

This session explores the benefits of vocational programmes as a direct pathway to employment, with a particular focus on Spain’s thriving hospitality and tourism sector.

With students increasingly concerned about the routes from study to employment, the session will look at a number of key topics related to Spain’s vocational sector, including:

The types of programmes available
The application process
Spain’s visa policy environment including:
- In-study work options
- Post-graduate recruitment
- The "Stay Back" option - work permits for graduates who secure employment

The session wraps up with a short Q&A, enabling attendees to learn more about this important aspect of the Spanish education system.

15:30 - 15:55Seminar room

Spanish in Spain: Growth and high potential

Seminar room

CPD Accredited

Mario CalvoPresenterPresident, FEDELE Madrid

In this presentation, the speaker provides our annual update on this vital market segment. We look at the latest data to provide insights on:

Who is studying Spanish
Why Spain is their top destination
Emerging markets
Student profiles, including pathway programmes and school groups
A summary of the key takeaways that will help inform agents in attracting and converting Spanish learners.

16:30 - 16:55Seminar room

Secondary education in Spain: Opportunity & growth

Seminar room

CPD Accredited

Laura WeatherstonPresenterHead of International Admissions, Sage College - The British School of Jerez

17:00 - 17:25Seminar room

Demystifying visa regulations: A guide to best practice in applications

Seminar room

CPD Accredited

Gosia KozyraPresenterHead of Admissions, Campus Spain

17:30 - 18:10Seminar room

Updates and insights into the Spanish visa application process

Seminar room

CPD Accredited

Pablo LópezModeratorSouth Europe Director, ICEF

Miguel Ángel Martí EscolanoPanelistUniversity Managing Director, Educa Edtech

Monique GarcíaPanelistDirector of Admissions and Recruitment, Yago School Sevilla by Affinitas Education

Jannyree GongoraPanelistSales and Marketing Director, EU Business School

18:15 - 18:55Seminar room

Inside agents' minds: What's most valued in Spanish education partnerships

Seminar room

CPD Accredited

Yusara Quispe RodriguezModeratorAgency Relations & Business Development Manager, ICEF

Diogo Gonçalves Pereira RodriguesPanelistCEO, YES Intercâmbio

Selim DervishPanelistDirector, Linguland Languages GmbH

Elena LemmePanelistPartnerships Manager, Vaga-Mundo

Seminar Programme ICEF Spanish Education