Oviedo Session

FAQ

What are the arrival and departure dates?

The session dates can be found here. Plan to arrive the on Saturday before the course starts and depart Saturday after the course ends. Both the first Monday and last Friday are full work days. If you need to arrive earlier or depart later, please contact the course coordinator in Oviedo to find out costs and procedure.

Do I need a COVID-19 test?

No. All restrictions related to COVID-19 to travel to Spain have been removed.

Will I have time to travel around Spain during the course?

The course runs every day from Monday through Friday and attendance is compulsory. Depending on how well you manage your time, it might be possible to do an overnight trips during a weekend.  Most participants spend their weekends in Oviedo or do short day trips to nearby cities such as Gijón or go hiking on one of the many trails available nearby. Participants are advised to schedule any long excursion before or after the course.  

I am an international student on an F1/J1 visa, can I enroll on an overseas session? 

Yes. However, there are some additional steps the you should take to avoid any problems with your status in the US and to obtain a visa to enter Spain, if necessary. Please read the FAQ for international students for more information. 

How is the weather in Oviedo? 

You might have the perception that Spain's weather in the summer is very hot. While that is true for the central and southern regions, Oviedo's weather is much cooler. The average high temperature in June is around 68ºF (20ºC), and it rains frequently. Bring an umbrella and a few layers of clothing for cooler days or nights. 

Should I bring a computer?

Yes, unless it presents a huge burden for you. There is a computer room in the building with desktop computers loaded with common software, but these may be slow.  Most students choose to bring their own portable computers for convenience and familiarity.  Reports will be submitted online.  There will be a networked printer available, when needed. 

Would I need to bring any textbooks?

No. There is a small library at the Department with some of the most commonly used books. Others can be found in the larger College library. Publications such as Perry's Manual or CRC are available online through the UW library site which is accessible from Oviedo. The lab manual and other supplies are provided. 

Will I have WiFi access on my computer or phone?

The University of Oviedo is a participant of the eduroam Consortium. You can access the eduroam network within the university's facilities using your UW Madison Credentials. Information on how to set up your computer or phone can be found here. Access at the student residence is through their local WiFi network. 

Will my cell phone work in Spain?

It depends. Most US providers have plans that give call and/or data service overseas. Some are more expensive than others. Check with your own provider. If the plans offered don't work for you, you may place calls through WiFi using one of many apps available. If you have an unlocked phone, you may be able to buy a SIM card with a local number that works in Spain and possibly in other European countries

May I have my own room at the residence?

The Residencia Aller offers individual rooms. This will be used again in 2024.  Other providers may require double occupancy. Regardless of the main accommodations, you should expect double or triple occupancy for field trips that involve an overnight stay.  In this case, only if there is an odd number of students of a given gender one or two students may have a single room. The course director will have the final decision on this. 

May I choose my lab partner (and roommate)?

Once the final list of participants is established, you will have the opportunity to express your preference; your preference will be noted and generally honored, unless there are additional considerations. The final decision is made by the course director