By Tara Nair, Site Specialist
So, you want to study in Madrid– but which university will you choose? Read on to learn more about ISA’s partner universities in the modern metropolis that is Spain’s capital!
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (also known as “Carlos Tercero” or UC3M) is a public university recognized for its reputation in the fields of business and economics. The school was founded in 1989 and has been ranked one of the top 50 universities under 50 years old by QS World University Rankings. Additionally, UC3M’s Business Administration & Finance and Accounting departments are AACSB accredited. As a world-renowned institution, it is sometimes referred to as “the Harvard of Spain.” This reputation attracts students from all over the globe; in fact, almost 20% of the student population at UC3M is made up of international students.

ISA’s programs at UC3M are held at the Getafe and Leganés campuses, both of which are located just south of Madrid. Classes from the Business, International Studies, and Communications departments are held at the Getafe campus, while STEM courses take place at the Leganés campus. Both Getafe and Leganés have spectacular US-style facilities, including multi-sport recreation centers, libraries, cafeterias, and swimming pools.

Worried about the commute? Rest assured, it’s made easy with Madrid’s well-connected public transportation systems. You can use your abono de transporte (transportation card) for unlimited rides on the metro, bus, and Cercanías (short-distance trains) in Madrid for only 20€ per month!
Universidad Antonio de Nebrija
Universidad Antonio de Nebrija (commonly referred to as “Nebrija”) is a private university named after the 15th-century humanist famous for being the first to document the rules of Spanish grammar. The university received a five-star ranking from QS World University Rankings in 2018 for internationalization, or the presence of international students on campus. ISA has a variety of programs for students at Nebrija with options in English and Spanish across a wide range of language levels.
Nebrija’s main Madrid-Princesa campus, where ISA students take classes, is located in a lively central neighborhood called Argüelles. Nebrija occupies historic buildings that were formerly the Spanish Military’s National Archives and Institute of History and Culture. On campus, students have access to computer labs, libraries, and a central patio with a café.
There’s no shortage of coffee shops and clothing stores near Nebrija’s campus. You’ll also find an array of high-quality restaurants featuring local Spanish cuisine and international fare close by. Looking to get a workout in? There are plenty of gyms (with student discounts) and yoga studios in the area as well.
Whether you prefer the modern facilities and green spaces of UC3M or the downtown vibe of Nebrija, come find your ideal study space in Madrid!
Learn more about ISA’s study abroad programs in Madrid.