This recognition represents a significant endorsement of the quality of its academic and management activities, reinforcing its position as a leading institution in teaching Spanish as a foreign language. The Instituto Cervantes accreditation is one of the most relevant international quality recognitions in this field.
Its attainment certifies that the center meets the standards to guarantee quality teaching and comprehensive student support. Currently, only eleven Spanish university centers hold this international quality distinction. CSIUA now becomes part of this select group.
The favorable opinion issued by the evaluating entity SACIC confirms compliance with requirements related to administrative organization, professional teams, academic activity, complementary services, infrastructure, and equipment, as well as the information and dissemination of its activities. The process also includes verification of legal requirements.
The Instituto Cervantes Accreditation System for Centers globally analyzes the center's operation and its capacity to offer a quality educational experience. To achieve this, institutions undergo a process of self-assessment, documentation analysis, external evaluation, and visits by specialists.
As highlighted by its manager, Raquel Olmo Extremera, this recognition comes at a time of consolidation for the center's international activity and the growing appeal of the University of Alicante for international students. During the 2024-2025 academic year, CSIUA had 1,618 students from over a dozen countries, with a significant presence from the European Union (685) and the United States (440).
The accreditation offers added value for students, providing the assurance of a center that has undergone a specialized external evaluation. "This recognition brings greater confidence to students, their families, and their home universities," states Olmo Extremera.
