I am a university student in British Columbia, Canada. I am taking some Spanish classes right now, but I would like to study Spanish in Spain in order to become fluent.
I was looking into doing an exchange through my university. The only Spanish university that is affiliated with mine is the Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
I was told that the only way I could do an exchange to Spain was if I was fluent in Spanish, because all the classes are taught in that language. If I want to learn Spanish I have to go to Mexico.
I am a bit puzzled because I have been reading a lot of posts from people who have gone to Spain to study Spanish. So, I don't get how a big university like UCM does not offer a program for foreigners who want to learn the language.
Can someone tell me if this is true? If so, are there other universities in Spain that would offer classes for someone like me?
Thank you, any responses would be greatly appreciated.

There is a difference between your university having affiliation with a Spanish University and your university having a program at a Spanish university. Those who study Spanish at UCM go through a program sponsored by a university. Those students have the option to take classes with fellow program members or do what your university does, allow you to enroll in classes with other Spaniards, hence the higher level requirement. Do a search on studyabroad.com (I think that's the link) and find programs offered at UCM. Another option is Univ. Antonio de Nebrija http://www.hispanicosnebrija.com/spanishcourses/, a private univ. in Madrid. They have classes you'd be able to take with (although once again, you'll most likely be with other foreigners without an advanced level of Spanish).
Now, here's another question- will your university accept the credits for not going through their set up? That's something you'll have to find out (unless you don't care about receiving credit).

Thanks Nevado,
Actually I would get credit for my work even if I go to a university that is not affiliated with mine, as long as the place I choose is reputable. I would just have to pay much higher fees.

Well...I studied at UCM in the "el curso para extranjeros en la Facultad de Filosofia y Letras"...

The Professors never spoke in English and to tell the truth...at least in my case, I know that they didn't know it. The students were not all from the U.S. I would say that 50% came from the Americas; 40% came from Japan; and the remaining 10% from Europe. You didn't speak English in class with your mates...you didn't necessarily have an American next to you.

Sheryl