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City square with fountain, Puerta del Sol, Madrid Spain

Program at a Glance

Complutense University of Madrid

Country or area Spain
City Madrid
Class Level So, Jr, Sr, Gr
Experience Type Immersion
Minimum GPA 2.75
Term Fall sem, Year
Taught In English, Spanish
Language Prereq no
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About The Program

Explore Spain—from the Pyrenees Mountains to Andalusia—with beautiful Madrid as your base. At Complutense University, you can advance in your major and experience a deep dive into Spanish culture.Elegant boulevards stretch past green open spaces and diverse neighborhoods. What characterizes Madrid the most is its people and their contagious passion for life. Madrileños breathe art and culture. There is a constant churn of concerts, dance events, and exhibits at some 70+ museums. Late into the night, you may find yourself at a flamenco club, a pulsing disco, or at a tavern sampling Spanish tapas.

Where you'll study

Life at Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) is exciting, urban, and international. As the largest university in Spain, it holds influence throughout Europe that drives scientific research and entrepreneurship. The university’s professors—leaders in their respective fields—are passionate about serving their students. There’s a strong focus on providing effective professional training and supporting a multicultural learning environment with a number of Spanish/English bilingual degrees. With two urban campuses integrated into the landscape of Madrid, classes are just a metro stop or two away from all the attractions of this remarkable city. Most majors will take classes at the Ciudad Universitaria campus, an extensive complex on the west end of the city that also houses the study center. A smaller campus called Somosaguas hosts courses in fields related to political science, sociology, and business/economics. If you’re a musician, stop by the Complutense Art Center to audition with one of the university’s bands.


TRIPS AND ACTIVITIES

Optional field trips and activities to introduce the local culture are available through your host university. Most events are free or discounted, but some come with an additional cost not included in UCEAP fees.

Join Erasmus activities and trips 

Attend a soccer match with the Real Madrid football club

Buddy programs and language exchanges

Thanksgiving and Farewell dinners



My study abroad experience in Madrid definitely changed my perspective. It allowed me to see the world in less self-centered way and learn from the differences between cultures. I had great conversations with Spaniards. We debunked stereotypes and I learned the importance of intercultural contact to eliminate biases and judgment. I loved learning from people who see the world in a totally different light. It was incredible.


Rachel Sheftel UC Berkeley Cognitive Science Spain


Living in a new country has challenged me in so many ways, and each challenge made me stronger. I'm so grateful for this semester abroad.


Melenie Becerra UC Irvine Spain