Universities and admissions in Madrid

Universities in Madrid for Russian speakers — in brief

Public: Complutense (UCM), Autónoma (UAM), Politécnica (UPM), Carlos III (UC3M), Rey Juan Carlos. Private: IE University, Comillas (ICADE), CUNEF.

Cost (for non-EU):

• public universities: ~€1,500–3,500/year for undergraduate (credit-based fees), master’s €2,000–4,500
• private: €8,000–18,000/year

What is needed:

• diploma recognition (homologación) + PCE exams (UNEDasiss) for undergraduate admission
• Spanish DELE B2 (or English-taught programmes — IELTS)
• apply through UNEDasiss and the university

Residence permit: student visa at the consulate → TIE after arrival. Proof of funds ~€600/month.

Data as of 2026. Source: UNEDasiss, UCM/UAM.

Madrid: budget programmes and admission

The most affordable option is public universities (UCM, UAM, UC3M): undergraduate ~€1,500–3,500/year for international students (paid per credit).

How to apply for an undergraduate programme:

1. Homologación of school leaving certificate (Spanish Ministry of Education)

2. PCE exams via UNEDasiss (subject-specific papers)

3. Application by score via UNEDasiss

Language: Spanish DELE B2. English-language programs at UC3M, UAM, and private universities (IE).

Scholarships: Becas MEC (for residents), university grants, Erasmus+ after enrollment.

Data as of 2026. Source: UNEDasiss, Comunidad de Madrid.

Madrid: documents, degree recognition, student residence permit

Documents:

• school certificate + apostille + sworn translation
• homologación / credencial UNEDasiss
• DELE B2 or IELTS
• international passport, photos, criminal record certificate, health insurance

Master’s: bachelor’s diploma + apostille; recognition is at the university’s discretion.

Visa → residence permit:

• student visa (estancia por estudios) at the consulate
• funds of ~€600/month (100% IPREM)
• upon arrival — TIE; study ›6 months allows part-time work up to 30 hrs/week

Private: IE, Comillas, CUNEF — €8,000–18,000/year.

Data as of 2026. Source: Spanish consulate, UCM.