Founded in 1968 by a group of resident directors of North American programs in Spain, the Asociación de Programas Universitarios Norteamericanos en España (APUNE), is a cultural, non-profit organization which services American study abroad programs. It was established as a support system to deal with issues concerning study abroad.

APUNE provides a forum where members can discuss common problems and interests, share new ideas for program development and establish support systems for program directors and students. APUNE’s main goals are promoting activities for member programs, joining forces in legal and other matters, and representing common interests before Spanish institutions.