16 best universities in Madrid 2024

The best universities in Madrid are popular for offering high quality programs at affordable prices. Madrid, the capital and one of the largest cities in Spain, is an educational center that offers ample opportunities for students. The city has an advantage in terms of entry requirements - which are relatively lenient compared to other European countries - and students can enter after school with pre-university programs. Students note the city's recreational infrastructure, vibrant nightlife, excellent weather conditions and the level of international atmosphere.

The Spanish higher education system consists of three cycles: undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate. Free university education is only available to residents who have excelled in passing the Unified Selectividad exam. Foreign citizens receive the program only on a commercial basis.

Grado

The undergraduate program (Grado) includes four years of eduaction in the following areas.

• Humanities and Arts;
• Medicine;
• Natural Sciences;
• Law and sociology;
• Architecture;
• Engineering.

For most specialties, the duration of education is 4 years, veterinary medicine - 5 years, medicine - 6 years, architecture - 5 years + project.

Mastering

Master (Master) - the next stage of education, aimed at improving skills or changing careers. In some fields of activity (pedagogy, communication, engineering), a master's degree is a prerequisite for entering the workplace.

The duration of study is 1 to 2 years, during which students attend lectures and seminars, compulsory and additional courses, internships, write design work, and defend their master's thesis.

Doctoral studies

Postgraduate studies (Doctorado) imply in-depth research work and the defense of a thesis on a scientific research topic. The preparation takes 3 to 6 years. After graduation, graduates receive a doctorate and the right to teach at a university.

Business School

The MBA program is designed for future leaders. The learning process can take place in person and remotely. Some schools offer distance learning.

Graduates of such programs gain knowledge and practical skills in effective business process management, marketing and improving customer loyalty.

Madrid, known for its prestigious universities, offers a range of benefits and opportunities for students looking to pursue higher education in a European context.

Advantages of Studying at Madrid's Universities

• Valued European Diploma: Graduating from a university in Madrid means obtaining a European diploma, which is highly regarded in the job market.

• High-Quality Education: Madrid’s universities are renowned for their blend of theoretical and practical learning, emphasizing personal talent development.

• Language Proficiency: Studying in Madrid significantly enhances language skills, particularly in Spanish and English.

• Beneficial Work-Study Balance: Students have the opportunity to work while studying, beneficial for those needing extra income.

• Permanent Visa and Citizenship Prospects: As a student, you'll be eligible for a permanent visa and can eventually apply for Spanish citizenship.

• Affordable Education Costs: Some courses are available for as low as 750€/year.

Admission Process for Madrid Universities

Both local and international students can apply for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs in Madrid. The process might be simpler for those who completed secondary education in Spain due to familiarity with the language and documentation requirements. However, international students without this background can still apply.

Required Documentation

The documentation needed varies based on the level of study:

• For a Bachelor’s Degree: School completion certificates, passport, valid visa, and a letter of motivation.

• For Master’s or Doctoral programs: Higher education diploma, official certificate from the previous institution, and all government-issued documents translated into Spanish.

All foreign educational documents must be recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education, requiring a fee of 40 to 100 euros.

Language Proficiency for Madrid Universities

Proficiency in Spanish is essential. The DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) or SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española) certificates are recommended. These exams are challenging but provide lifelong proof of language proficiency.

Check our Germany universities list.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Despite its high standard of living, Madrid is not among the most expensive cities globally:

• Living costs are lower than in New York.

• Housing rentals are more affordable than in New York.

• University fees are competitive, especially compared to the UK and Switzerland.

• State universities: From 850 euros per year for undergraduate programs.

• Private universities: From 10,000€ to 20,000€ per year.

Estimated Annual Student Expenses in Madrid

• Meals: Approximately 2,000 euros.

• Accommodation: Around 3,000 euros.

• Mobile communication: About 500€.

• Transportation: Nearly 300€.

In summary, Madrid offers a rich academic environment, blending high-quality education with cultural immersion. Its universities are well-positioned in university rankings, making them attractive for students worldwide. The cost of preparing for and attending university in Madrid is competitive, providing a valuable investment in one’s educational and professional future.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

Can I work while studying?

A student visa allows you to work, but not more than 20 hours a week, while the semester lasts: this can be volunteer work or an unpaid internship. Each university has a Career Development Service: it will help you find a part-time job and plan a future full-fledged career.

Top 15 best universities in Switzerland 2024

Top 10 best universities in Netherlands 2024

Top 35 best universities and colleges in Canada 2024