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  8. Universidad Pontificia Comillas ICADE

Universidad Pontificia Comillas ICADE

Cam stands in front of impressive view
Picturesque Scenery
Buildings and a lake
Madrid at dusk

The university is situated in the heart of Madrid. Winters are cold due to its altitude and there can be snowfall and frequent frosts during winter months.  However summers are hot with frequent heat waves. Madrid is the driest capital city in Europe so no need to pack your umbrella!  The university is ranked in the top 75 in the European teaching rankings. The university does not have its own accommodation but can direct students to providers.

It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.

Who can study here?

The following subject areas have an exchange partnership with this university:

  • Business
  • Law
  • Spanish

Spaces are not guaranteed, can be limited and all students on a semester/year abroad programme are subject to a competitive selection process.

Important information

ACADEMIC YEAR: Runs from September to June. 

COSTS:  The cost of living in Madrid will vary depending on your selected accommodation and your lifestyle.

VISA:  If you will be studying in Spain for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a study visa and you be required to provide financial evidence as part of the application. Your host university will provide you with more information about the process. You must allow enough time to complete the application and for your visa to be sent to you. There can be significant delays so please do not leave this until the last minute as you cannot travel to Spain without it. 

ACCOMMODATION: On-campus accommodation is not available. Comillas collaborate with several third-party accommodation providers to offer services to students. More information on accommodation providers will be available as part of your application to Comillas. 

HEALTH INSURANCE: You will be required to purchase mandatory health insurance for your time at Comillas. More information can be found here. 

USEFUL LINKS:

Mateo on a boat

Mateo's Experience

Mateo spent a year at Universidad Pontificia Comillas as part of his Spanish Translation degree at Swansea:

"I was able to learn about art history and Spanish cinema despite being a business student. It will also probably be the most social year of your life, not only are students abroad very welcoming to international students, but there will be thousands of other international students in your city who are keen to make new friends and experience the nightlife and all your chosen country has to offer. Some highlights from my time abroad were going to a festival in the mountains in Valencia, running the Madrid half marathon, going to a beautiful outdoor pool every day after class, and watching the Champions League final in a bar in Madrid."

Lucy eating in a restaurant.

Lucy's Experience

Lucy spent a year studying abroad in Madrid as part of her International Relations and Spanish degree at Swansea:

"I truly fell in love with Madrid. It now has a special place in my heart, and I am incredibly grateful that Swansea university has given me this opportunity. My year abroad gave me the chance to meet incredible people and gain insights I couldn’t have found elsewhere. Studying abroad offers invaluable life experiences, helps you develop new skills, and leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime. Take every opportunity possible to explore, try something new, and step outside your comfort zone. These moments often turn into the most unexpected and cherished highlights of your time away.”