Study in Madrid: a guide for international students

As an international student, you won’t find a more exciting European city to call home than Madrid. From its picturesque buildings, bustling tapas bars and manicured green parks to its world-renowned museums, streetside coffee spots and footballing folklore, there’s a lot to love about the stunning Spanish capital. And we haven’t even mentioned the weather yet.

Take into account the mild winters and sizzling summers, and it’s easy to see why this city is home to more than 300,000 students from across the globe. But what about the practical stuff? Well, affordable living costs, world-class universities and excellent 24-hour public transport make student living a breeze, while the city’s lively nightlife and friendly locals are sure to help you feel right at home.

Here's everything you need to know about living and studying in Madrid, courtesy of our expert on Iberia, Ignacio, marketing and communications coordinator at The Social Hub Madrid.

Additionally to this blog, we have created a practical student guide of things worth knowing before moving to the land of paella and siesta, which will help you navigate any practical matters or challenges in your initial days, because who said moving has to be difficult?

Download the practical guide

Reasons to study in Madrid

The Spanish capital is an undeniably inspiring place to study and grow as a student. Beyond the city’s many cultural events, festivals and attractions, Madrid offers a diverse range of courses at leading universities, generally with reasonable tuition fees and the opportunity to learn Spanish.

Madrid has some of the best weather in Europe

If you’re a sun worshipper or fair-weather lover, we’ve got good news. Madrid is Europe’s sunniest capital – alongside Athens, Greece – and gets around 350 sunny days per year. Yep, that’s pretty much every day. Summer tends to be hot and dry, with temperatures reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F) in July and August, while winters are milder with average highs of 10-15°C (50-59°F) in December and January.

Tuition fees

Luckily, Spain offers some of the most affordable university courses in Europe. For bachelor’s degrees, tuition fees typically range from around €800 to €1,200 per year for EU students at public universities. For non-EU students, fees are slightly higher – between €1000 and €3,500 per year – depending on subject and university.

World-class universities

With 17 institutions to its name, Madrid boasts the most universities in Spain. It’s also home to the third-oldest university in the country, Complutense University of Madrid. Founded in the late 13^th century, the institution ranks in the top 2% of universities worldwide, as does the city’s highest-ranked university, Autonomous University of Madrid.

Top 5 universities in Madrid

Already in love with Madrid? We don’t blame you. Now it’s time to choose where to study. Of course, your decision greatly depends on your choice of course, grades and other entry criteria – but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From humanities to medicine, check out the five best universities in Madrid below.

Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM)

Founded in 1968 and ranking among the best law and medical schools in Spain, UAM consists of two campuses and offers a variety of courses ranging from marketing and philosophy to business and economics.

Complutense University of Madrid (UCM)

As one of the oldest universities in the country, UCM is also one of the most prestigious. With more than 80 undergraduate courses on offer, the university is known for its outstanding programs in humanities and social sciences.

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M)

With nearly 20% of its student body made up of international students, UC3M is Spain’s top university when it comes to participation in the Erasmus program. The institution is known for outstanding academic programs in business, law, political science and more.

Universidad Politencnica de Madrid (UPM)

Generally considered one of the best technical universities in Spain, UPM was founded in 1971 when several prestigious architecture and engineering schools were merged. It’s part of the Top International Managers in Engineering (T.I.M.E.) network.

ESADE Business School (Madrid campus)

ESADE ranks as the fourth best business school worldwide for Executive Education, and third for its open programs. As one of Madrid’s leading private universities, courses range from business and transformational leadership to law.

Finding student accommodation

Like all big European cities, finding a great place to live in Madrid can be tricky. You typically have three options when it comes to student accommodation: on-campus residences, a homestay with a Spanish family or off-campus renting. Of course, it all depends on your university, chosen study program and the duration of your course.

We recommend doing your research. If you don’t want to live on campus or with a family, find your favourite neighbourhood. Central areas tend to fill up fast, while popular student spots like Malasaña, Chueca and La Latina are also in high demand. Depending on your budget, most off-campus student apartments are multi-tenant flat shares.

At The Social Hub Madrid, we offer all-inclusive student rooms in a central location, just in front of Palacio Real and close to Plaza de España. You’ll get your own fully furnished room with a private bathroom, gym use, free bike sharing, laundry and 24-hour security in one great package – all within a 20- to 30-minute walk of other popular student areas. Just saying!

Things to do in Madrid as a student

Our to-do list for Madrid is never ending. From fantastic food to marvellous museums, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in this incredible capital, with plenty of free attractions and student discounts to be enjoyed.

Visit iconic city spots

Tick off some must-see (and free) sights by exploring the city’s most popular public attractions. Start at Madrid’s largest park, Parque del Retiro, and wander through lush, sculpted gardens before visiting the famous Palacio de Cristal (Glass Palace). Grab coffee and churros at the cobbled town square of Plaza Mayor, get awe-struck at the Royal Palace of Madrid and stand amidst the hustle and bustle of Gran Vía. Football lovers, grab your student card and head to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to see the sacred pitch and learn all about the history of Real Madrid.

Get a taste of Spain

With a staggering number of streetside eateries, restaurants and food markets, Madrid is a foodie paradise. From steaming cocido madrileño (hearty chickpea stew) to crunchy bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich) and classic paella, sample cheap local delicacies at Mercado de San Miguel or San Anton Market, before heading to one of the city’s many affordable food spots. If you’re still feeling hungry, grab some friends and take on a popular ‘Ruta de tapas’ (tapas route), where you’ll hop from bar-to-bar sampling different dishes.

Explore the nightlife scene

Each barrio (neighbourhood) in Madrid is packed with personality and offers a unique after-dark experience. Malasaña is known for its alternative music scene, where you can grab a drink at a bohemian bar and listen to some live music. Chueca is the centre of the LGBTQ+ community, with plenty of late-night drinking spots, while Huertas is known for its traditional Spanish taverns and literary history. For a sundowner with a view, head to a rooftop bar or terrace, like Circulo de Bellas Artes or Azotea del Círculo, or go all-out at famous clubs Kapital or Fabrik.

Immerse yourself in culture

With a history dating back to the 9^th century, the Spanish capital is well known for keeping tradition alive. The best place to begin your cultural journey is Matadero Madrid, a cultural centre that hosts contemporary exhibitions, events, workshops and performances year-round. Want to live like a real madrileño? Watch a flamenco show at one of the city’s venues, shop for handmade crafts at Buen Retiro Market or dive into local events like the San Isidro Festival. For something truly unique, make your way to Parque del Oeste and visit Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple.

Learn Spanish

Although many people in Madrid speak English, particularly in academic and tourist areas, living in the city is the perfect opportunity to learn Spanish. Ranging from basic lessons to advanced classes, the Instituto Cervantes runs popular courses for foreigners, while many universities offer their own language programs. In fact, Madrid is one of the most popular cities in Europe for language exchange programs, facilitated by leading schools like Tandem Escuela Internacional Madrid. The city welcomes thousands of international students every year to practice their Español with natives.

Where to study in Madrid

Thanks to its fantastic weather, Madrid has a buzzing outdoor culture. You’ll find many students packing their books and heading to the manicured lawns of Parque del Retiro or Casa de Campo for some quiet study time, followed by a hard-earned aperitivo (or two). If you’re in El Retiro and seeking some silence, try the Biblioteca Pública Municipal Eugenio Trías, a public library with beautiful park views.

Beyond the great outdoors, there are plenty of casual cafés and vibrant hangout spots to keep you inspired. Barrios like Malasaña, Lavapiés and Huertas are packed with quaint coffeehouses, quirky bookshops and cosy corners where students regularly study, socialise and relax.

Where to stay in Madrid

We may be a little biased, but you won’t find a better place to stay as a student than The Social Hub Madrid. Centrally located, just around the corner from Plaza de España and Gran Vía, our hub occupies a former printing press and sits close to both Complutense University and the Polytechnic University of Madrid.

Beyond stylish, fully furnished rooms with private bathrooms, you’ll get access to everything you need to study and make a real impact. That includes a bustling international community of likeminded students, travellers and co-workers. We also offer a packed events calendar with weekly workshops, events and activities. Not to mention our state-of-the-art gym, quiet study spaces and rooftop pool and bar.

Accommodation options at The Social Hub

All our rooms are all-inclusive and designed to meet your every need as a student. There are a few different types to choose from, but they all include a private bathroom, climate control, bed linen and towels, cleaning and maintenance, desk, TV, Wi-Fi and access to a community kitchen (fully equipped with cutlery, plates and utensils) – the perfect spot to hang out, cook together and make lifelong friends.

Our Economy Single room is around 8m2, comes with a single bed and covers all the basics including its own bathroom, desk and closet space. For something roomier, the Standard Queen (14m2) is available with a queen-size bed, wider study desk and plenty of light. It also includes a private bathroom and closet space. Also measuring 14m2, our Standard Queen Interior View has a queen-size bed, private bathroom and closet space, but comes with a smaller interior window.

Everything included

The price of your room includes all utilities, access to an on-site gym and rooftop pool, and a monthly linen and cleaning service. You’ll even get one free night’s stay for your parents when they visit. Beyond that, enjoy access to our stylish communal spaces and lobby coworking areas, as well as free bike sharing, on-site laundry and 24-hour security.

A built-in community

Perhaps the greatest perk of The Social Hub is our community. Perfect for international students looking to meet as many likeminded people as possible, our events and wellbeing activities give you the opportunity to get to know other students and join an inspiring group of madrileño community members.

From social drinks to structured debates, our events and activities are designed to help you grow and discover what drives you. We even offer free membership to online therapy program OpenUp so you can feel supported and heard. When you’re here, you’re part of our tribe. You’ll be fully supported by our on-site Community Hosts and will get the chance to enjoy many extracurricular opportunities.

Come study abroad in Madrid

Like what you’ve read? Learn more about our student stays on our The Social Hub Madrid page and discover your ideal dates and rates. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter below to stay up to date on all things student life!