Top 10 universities in Spain | Everything you need to know about!

Introduction

Spain, a land renowned for its diverse culture and stunning landscapes, also boasts an impressive array of top-notch universities. From the lively streets of Madrid to the coastal charm of Barcelona, these institutions offer world-class education and immerse students in a society that values knowledge, research, and innovation.
We will focus on the academic prowess of these universities, shedding light on what makes them stand out in higher education, whether you’re an aspiring student seeking to study in Spain or simply interested in these prestigious institutions. According to the QS University Rankings, some of the world’s best universities include 27 Spanish institutions. 

In this blog, we’ll uncover the top 10 universities in Spain, where academic excellence thrives in a setting rich with culture.

Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona

The Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, founded in 1968, now ranks 193rd in the world, making it Spain’s third international representation. It is one of the world’s leading universities under 50 years old as per the QS top 50 and under 50 list. This university perceives as one of the few in Spain with a centralized campus and about 40,000 students study here. Furthermore, the campus opened to foster a strong university community by bringing all academic, research, cultural, and social activities together in one location. 

Universidad Autonoma de Madrid

The Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Autonomous University of Madrid) was founded in 1968. It is one of the ‘QS Top 50 Under 50’ universities in the world. The University Autonoma de Madrid is famous for its expert Faculty of Law. It has over 36,000 students enrolled in its eight colleges.

This university in Spain has three campuses. The most important one is the  Cantoblanco Campus which is 15 kilometers (9 miles) north of Madrid. The Universidad Autónoma de Madrid is proud to be the alma mater of His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain. This university, which is part of the UAM-CSIC Campus de Excelencia, has several partnerships with other organizations.

University of Navarra

The Institution of Navarra is a private university founded in 1952 by Saint Josemaria Escrivá de Balaguer. The university’s undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs enroll about 11,400 students, including many overseas master’s students. Its major campuses are in Pamplona and San Sebastián, with offices in Barcelona, Madrid, New York, Munich, and So Paulo for its famed IESE Business School. The institution opened a new museum of modern art in January 2015, built by renowned architect Rafael Moneo. The University of Navarra ranks 242nd in the QS World University Rankings 2019.

Pablo de Olavide University (Universidad Pablo de Olavide)

Pablo de Olavide University is located just outside Seville’s city center and spread across several acres. The university opened in 1997 and has numerous modern amenities such as university-wide internet, on-campus housing, athletic grounds, and an extensive library. 

The strength of the university is merely 10,000 students, which offers a conventional university experience and allows you to build a strong link with your peers.

University of Valencia (La Universitat de Valencia)

The University of Valencia was founded in 1499. In 1501, Pope Alexander VI approved the bill of permission and Ferdinand II. Following the Catholic issued the Royal Mandatory Concession a year later. In addition to Erasmus Mundus-accredited, there are 116 Master’s degree programs at the institution

CEU Universities

With campuses in Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia, CEU is one of the greatest colleges in Spain providing master’s degrees. CEU is a non-profit organization that educates children as early as three years old. The organization holds the Christian humanism ideals at its core.

The primary subject areas of CEU Universities include communication sciences, engineering and architecture, law and political science, economics and business studies, and gastronomy. The programs are open to undergraduates, postgraduates, and doctorate candidates. CEU Universities are part of a worldwide network that permits students to study at some of the world’s most prestigious universities, such as Boston University, UCLA, and Fordham University.

Universitat Rovira i Virgili

Universitat Rovira i Virgili was founded in 1991, although its history dates back to the 16th century when it was formed to teach grammar, arts, and theological studies. The university degree programs include Engineering, health, as well as humanities and other subjects. 

This university in Spain is ‌one of the best, and it places a strong emphasis on its academic staff’s research endeavors, with the primary goal of improving the quality of all research materials. It offers degrees in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Energy, International Markets, Fermented Beverages, International Master in Wine Tourism Innovation, Energy Conversion Systems &d Technologies, Nanoscience, and Materials.

University of Granada (Universidad de Granada)

The Institution of Granada, Spain’s fourth-biggest university, attracts a huge number of students from around the world, making it one of the top universities in Spain for international students. It is widely regarded as not just one of Spain’s top institutions, but also one of the best for international students. With 5 sites and a large number of disciplines to study, you will feel catered to and meet students worldwide. 

Nebrija University (Universidad Antonio de Nebrija)

Despite its tiny size, which includes about 4,000 students spread over three campuses, Nebrija University continues to attract foreign students. Along with the Spanish citizens, the university also offers admission to students globally, making it one of the top universities in Spain for international students. While experiencing the hustle and bustle of Madrid, you can also make use of all the amenities, courses, and program possibilities of a larger university.

University of Deusto (Universidad Deusto)

The University of Deusto is Spain’s oldest and the originator of the country’s first business school. This academically and historically significant institution attracts a large number of local Spanish students as well as international students. Students learn a blend of Spanish, French, and Basque culture and language in the Basque area of northern Spain. While religiously connected schools are not for everyone, both Catholics and non-Catholics flourish in the internationally recognized curricula.

Key takeaways

• Many international students find Spain to be an appealing destination. The universities may be a good match for their career aspirations. Each student’s preferences may vary, and so do the programs and offerings of each university. Hence it allows students the liberty to choose from a spectrum of options.
• Academic peer reviews, professor-student ratios, employer reputation, and diversity of the student community and academic staff are some of the factors that you should consider while opting for a university in Spain.
• Spain’s universities have a strong reputation in education and continue to attract foreign students for master’s programs. The country is endowed with both century-old and modern institutions that provide students with a high-quality education.
• Students benefit from high quality of life as well as the opportunity to learn a new language. This is why individuals realize the benefits of having an international viewpoint when it comes to working opportunities. 

We hope this blog gave you an insight on the top universities in Spain. If you have any doubts or questions feel free to use the comments section below and for more information on studying abroad, reach out to us by clicking here.

Liked this blog? Read next: Everything you need to know about getting a Spanish student visa

FAQ’s

Q1. Is there an entrance exam to gain higher education in Spain?

Answer – You can be part of the Spanish higher education by giving f entrance exams such as PAU/PCE (Prueba de Acceso a la Universidad or University Entrance Exam)

Q2. What level of Spanish language do you need to study to get admission to a Spanish university?

Answer – A B2 score is required for you to study at a Spanish university.

Q3. What is the best Spanish language proficiency test?

Answer – You can opt for the DELE exam, or Diplomas de Espanol como Lengua Extranjera, offered by the Cervantes institute.