If you’ve been dreaming about moving to Spain, improving your Spanish, traveling Europe on the weekends, and getting paid to work in schools as a language assistant, then the NALCAP program may be exactly what you’re looking for. Every year, thousands of people apply to become auxiliares de conversación through the North American Language and Culture Assistants Program, commonly known as NALCAP.
One of the first things you need to know is that the application process is done entirely online through the Spanish government platform called Profex 2. And yes, before you ask, the website does look confusing at first. Don’t let it intimidate you. Once you understand the process, it becomes much more manageable. Here is a helpful blog about registering on Profex 2 -> How to Register on Profex 2: for NALCAP
To apply for the program, you’ll first need to create a profile on Profex 2. This profile will include your personal information, educational background, CV/résumé information, language skills, certifications, and any relevant teaching, tutoring, leadership, or cultural experience you may have. Even if you do not have formal teaching experience, don’t panic. Many first-year applicants are accepted without a teaching background as long as they meet the basic program requirements.
The application window usually opens around late January to early February each year, although exact dates can vary slightly. Because of this, I highly recommend creating your Profex profile and gathering your required documents months in advance. Trust me, you do not want to be fighting the website while also trying to track down recommendation letters, scan PDFs, and remember where you saved your passport at 2 a.m.
To apply, you’ll start by going to the official NALCAP website. Once you’re there, look for the section or link that says something like “Apply for Auxiliares de Conversación” for the relevant application year you’re applying for. Keep in mind, you won’t see that link all year round; it’s only for the designated application window. When you click that, it will redirect you to the Profex 2 platform, where you’ll log into your existing account or create one if it’s your first time applying. From there, you’ll be able to access the application form and continue step-by-step through the process.
Inside Profex 2, you’ll fill in your personal details, upload the required documents, choose your top 3 regions, and complete all sections of the application carefully. These typically include:
- A scanned copy of your passport
- College transcripts or diploma
- A statement of purpose
- A letter of recommendation
- Additional required forms, depending on the application year
Make sure everything is fully submitted before the deadline, and don’t forget to save or download your application confirmation once you’re done. It can feel a little overwhelming the first time, but once you’re in the system, it’s really just following each section one by one until everything is complete.
One important thing to understand about NALCAP is that placements are often given on a rolling basis. This means the earlier you submit a complete application, the better your chances may be for receiving one of your preferred regions before placements begin filling up. Spain runs on many things, but urgency is occasionally one of them.
After submitting your application, you’ll receive an application number known as your inscrita number. From there, the waiting game begins. Throughout the spring and summer, applicants may receive placement emails, school assignments known as cartas, and eventually begin the visa process for moving to Spain. This blog will give you a general idea of the NALCAP waiting game and timeline. If you’re a renewal, here’s a blog to help with the renewal process -> NALCAP Renewal Guide: How to Renew as an Auxiliar in Spain
While the process can feel overwhelming at first, thousands of auxiliares successfully complete it every year. The biggest advice I can give is to stay organized, start early, and be patient with both yourself and the Spanish bureaucracy. At some point, every future aux ends up refreshing their email like it’s their full-time job. It’s basically part of the experience at this point.
For the most accurate and updated information, always refer to the official NALCAP website and carefully review all yearly handbook updates and regional requirements before applying. I’ve attached some blogs for you to read, to get a better idea if NALCAP is for you.
-> Working for Free: The Real Price of Moving Abroad with NALCAP
-> The “Pros” of Packing Up: All About NALCAP
-> Before You Pack Your Bags: NALCAP Cons, Unfiltered
-> Dear Future Auxiliar: This Could Be One of the Best Things You Ever Do
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
