University of Barcelona: Admissions, Courses, Scholarships & Housing Guide
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The University of Barcelona (UB) stands as a symbol of academic excellence, offering a blend of tradition and innovation. Established in 1450, this prestigious institution is not only one of the oldest universities in Europe but also among the most respected globally. Situated in the vibrant city of Barcelona, UB provides students with access to cutting-edge facilities, world-class education, and a thriving multicultural environment. From its impressive University of Barcelona ranking to its affordable tuition and robust scholarship opportunities, UB attracts students from over 100 countries. With popular programs like Medicine, Business Administration, and Data Science, it’s no surprise that UB remains a top choice for international students.
Whether you’re considering wide range of University of Barcelona courses, its moderately competitive University of Barcelona acceptance rate, or its excellent on-campus and off-campus housing options, this institution has something for everyone. Dive in as we explore UB’s courses, fees, scholarships, accommodation, and much more!
University of Barcelona Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1450 |
| Campus Size | Urban campus spread across six locations in Barcelona. |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | Ranked #178 globally, showcasing academic excellence and research contributions. |
| Campus Locations | Multiple campuses located in Barcelona’s city center and nearby areas. |
| Placement Rate | Over 92% for postgraduate students within six months of graduation. |
| Top Recruiters | Deloitte, Google, PwC, Accenture, and top Spanish firms. |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Medicine, Law, Business Administration, Data Science, and Environmental Sciences. |
| English Language Exam Required | IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (80+), or equivalent. |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 70%, moderately competitive. |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | €1,500–€6,000, depending on the program. |
University of Barcelona: Courses, Eligibility, and Fees
The University of Barcelona courses cater to a diverse range of interests, offering programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. Whether you’re passionate about research or seeking practical learning opportunities, UB has something for everyone. Below is a table some of the University of Barcelona popular courses, eligibility criteria, and tuition fees in 2025:
| Course | Annual Tuition Fees (Approx.) | Duration | Eligibility | English Language Exam Required |
| Business Administration | €2,000 – €3,500 | 4 years | High school diploma; proficiency in English or Spanish | IELTS: 6.0; TOEFL: 80 |
| Medicine | €4,000 – €6,000 | 6 years | High school diploma with Biology and Chemistry | IELTS: 6.5; TOEFL: 90 |
| Law | €1,800 – €3,000 | 4 years | High school diploma | IELTS: 6.0; TOEFL: 80 |
| Data Science | €3,000 – €5,000 | 2 years (PG) | Bachelor’s degree in a related field | IELTS: 7.0; TOEFL: 100 |
| Environmental Sciences | €2,500 – €4,000 | 3 years (UG) | High school diploma; prior science background preferred | IELTS: 6.5; TOEFL: 90 |
University of Barcelona Rankings 2025
The University of Barcelona (UB) is consistently recognized for its academic and research excellence, earning top positions in various global and subject-specific rankings. Below is a detailed table highlighting global rankings of University of Barcelona in 2025:
| Ranking Body | Year | Global Rank | Regional Rank | National Rank | Highlights |
| CWUR World University Rankings | 2024 | 134th | 47th in Europe | 1st in Spain | Reflects academic performance and research impact. |
| Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings | 2025 | 149th | – | 1st in Spain | Recognized for teaching, research, and industry connections. |
| QS World University Rankings | 2024 | 164th | – | – | Highlights UB’s global academic reputation. |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) | 2023 | 201st | – | – | Showcases UB’s research output and impact. |
| US News Best Global Universities | 2024 | 609th | – | – | Acknowledged for global research influence and publications. |
Below are the subject wise rankings of university of Barcelona in 2025:
| Subject | Ranking Body | Year | Global Rank | Highlights |
| Law | THE Subject Rankings | 2024 | 126th | Recognized for excellence in legal education. |
| Life Sciences | THE Subject Rankings | 2024 | 126th | Reflects UB’s strength in biological and life sciences. |
| PG Business and Economics | THE Subject Rankings | 2024 | 301st | Highlights UB’s focus on advanced business studies. |
| Psychology | THE Subject Rankings | 2024 | 126th | Ranked among the top institutions for psychology programs. |
University of Barcelona Acceptance Rate 2025
The University of Barcelona acceptance rate reflects a moderately competitive admission process, standing at approximately 69% for the 2025 academic year. This means that nearly seven out of ten applicants secure a spot, making the university accessible to students with strong academic achievements and the ability to meet program-specific and language requirements.
As a globally recognized institution ranked among the top 200 universities, UB ensures academic excellence while promoting diversity. With students from over 100 countries, the university fosters inclusivity and provides a vibrant learning environment. International applicants benefit from a clear application process and access to multilingual programs taught in Catalan, Spanish, or English. The table below provides a detailed overview of the acceptance rate for the University of Barcelona in 2025:
| Criteria | Details |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 69%, moderately selective. |
| Language Proficiency | Minimum B1 level in Catalan, Spanish, or English. IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (80+), or equivalent for English-taught courses. |
| Admission Competitiveness | Moderate; emphasizes strong GPAs, SAT/ACT scores, and personal achievements. |
| Student Demographics | Over 60,000 students, with more than 10,000 international students. |
| Program-Specific Requirements | Entrance exams required for courses like Medicine and Law. |
| Application Process | Online via the UB portal, with country-specific criteria for international students. |
University of Barcelona UG Admissions Criteria 2025
The University of Barcelona courses at the undergraduate level are designed to cater to diverse academic interests while maintaining high standards. The university evaluates applicants holistically, focusing not just on grades but also on extracurricular activities, personal statements, and program-specific requirements. The table below provides a detailed overview of the undergraduate admission criteria for the University of Barcelona in 2025:
| Criteria | Details |
| Academic Qualifications | High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0. |
| Entrance Exams | Required for some programs, including the Spanish PAU test. |
| Language Proficiency | IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (80+), or Spanish proficiency for specific courses. |
| Specific Prerequisites | Science-related programs may require Biology, Chemistry, or Math. |
| Application Deadlines | Typically in June 2025 for most UG programs. |
University of Barcelona PG Admissions Criteria 2025
For those looking to specialize or advance their academic careers, the postgraduate programs at the University of Barcelona provide a perfect blend of research opportunities and practical learning. Popular postgraduate programs at University of Barcelona include Data Science, Law, and Business Economics, which are highly ranked globally. UB’s strong ties with top recruiters like Deloitte and Amazon ensure excellent career opportunities for graduates. Below is a comprehensive table detailing the postgraduate admissions criteria for University of Barcelona in 2025:
| Criteria | Details |
| Academic Qualifications | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. |
| Professional Experience | Required for MBA and specialized master’s programs. |
| Language Proficiency | IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (90+), or equivalent. |
| Research Proposals | Mandatory for doctoral programs. |
| Program-Specific Requirements | Some programs require interviews, portfolios, or entrance tests. |
University of Barcelona Admission Dates 2025
Planning your application to the University of Barcelona starts with knowing the critical dates. With a moderately competitive University of Barcelona acceptance rate of around 69%, timely applications can make all the difference. Here’s an overview of the admission dates for undergraduate and postgraduate programs at University of Barcelona in 2025:
| Event | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
| Applications Open | January 15, 2025 | January 22, 2025 |
| Early Application Deadline | March 30, 2025 | April 15, 2025 |
| Regular Application Deadline | June 30, 2025 | July 10, 2025 |
| Notification of Admission | Mid-August 2025 | Late August 2025 |
| Semester Start Date | September 14, 2025 | September 21, 2025 |
To ensure a seamless application process, students must prepare their academic transcripts, language proficiency scores, and program-specific documents well in advance. Applications are submitted via the official UB portal.
University of Barcelona Scholarships 2025
For many international students, financing their education is a top concern. UB addresses this through a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options, designed to reward academic excellence and support deserving candidates. Applying for these scholarships requires submitting a separate application alongside the general university application. Supporting documents such as recommendation letters, personal statements, and financial disclosures may be required. Following are the University of Barcelona top scholarships:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits | Deadline |
| UB Excellence Scholarship | High GPA (3.5+), demonstrated leadership | Up to €4,000 per year | May 15, 2025 |
| Erasmus+ Mobility Grant | For students in Erasmus exchange programs | Monthly stipend for travel | Varies by program |
| Santander International Grant | Outstanding academic achievements | Up to €3,500 | June 10, 2025 |
| Government of Spain Scholarships | Based on financial need | Covers tuition and living costs | April 30, 2025 |
University of Barcelona Accommodation
A major part of studying abroad is finding the right place to live. The University of Barcelona accommodation options cater to diverse student needs, offering both on-campus and off-campus housing.
University of Barcelona On-Campus Accommodation
UB provides several residence halls that are located close to academic buildings and offer a range of amenities. Living on campus is ideal for students seeking convenience and a sense of community. Below are the various types of University of Barcelona on-campus accommodation:
| Residence Name | Room Types | Facilities | Annual Cost (EUR) |
| Aleu Residence Hall | Single/Shared Rooms | Wi-Fi, fitness center, library | €4,000 – €6,000 |
| Penyafort-Montserrat Hall | Private Rooms | Study lounges, cafeteria, laundry | €3,500 – €5,500 |
University of Barcelona Off-Campus Accommodation
Barcelona offers a vibrant housing market for students who prefer independence. From shared apartments to private rentals, there’s something for everyone. Below are the various types of University of Barcelona off-campus accommodation:
| Accommodation Type | Location | Amenities | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Shared Apartments | Near UB Campuses | Furnished, kitchen, utilities | €300 – €500 |
| Studio Apartments | Barcelona City Center | Private bathroom, kitchen, Wi-Fi | €600 – €900 |
| Student Complexes | Around UB | Pool, gym, study areas | €500 – €800 |
Top Student Accommodations Near University of Barcelona
Following are the top student accommodations near University of Barcelona:
Conclusion
Choosing the University of Barcelona for your higher education is more than just selecting a university; it’s about becoming part of a legacy that has shaped global academia for centuries. From diverse University of Barcelona courses to its affordable fees and competitive scholarships, UB ensures a well-rounded academic experience. The University of Barcelona acceptance rate, coupled with its global rankings and emphasis on inclusivity, reflects its dedication to nurturing talent from all over the world.
Furthermore, excellent University of Barcelona accommodation options—be it on-campus or off-campus—ensure students have a comfortable environment to complement their academic journey. Whether you aspire to dive deep into research or gain hands-on practical experience, the University of Barcelona offers the perfect platform to achieve your goals. Start your journey at UB and unlock endless opportunities in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tuition fee for the University of Barcelona?
The tuition fee for international students at the University of Barcelona is approximately €4,900 per year, which is equivalent to around ₹4,46,289 INR. Tuition fees may vary depending on the program and level of study, making UB an affordable option for students seeking a globally recognized education.
Is it hard to get into the University of Barcelona?
The University of Barcelona acceptance rate is around 69%, indicating a moderately competitive admission process. With over 34,500 students admitted each year, applicants with strong academic records and language proficiency have a good chance of securing admission. However, meeting program-specific requirements is essential for a successful application.
How can I get admission to the University of Barcelona?
International students, especially those outside the European Union, must have their upper-secondary qualifications officially recognized by Spanish authorities. This can be done through the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country or through the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Once recognized, students can apply through the UB admissions portal for their desired program.
Is it safe to study abroad in Barcelona?
Barcelona is considered a very safe city for international students. The city’s streets are bustling with tourists, students, and locals, creating a lively yet secure environment. While general precautions are advised, such as safeguarding belongings, Barcelona offers a safe and welcoming atmosphere for students.
What language is required for the University of Barcelona?
Classes at the University of Barcelona are primarily taught in Catalan, Spanish, and English. As a general rule, students are recommended to have a minimum B1.2 language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Some faculties may require a specific language certification, so it’s essential to check the requirements for your chosen program.
How can I get a scholarship in Barcelona?
To apply for scholarships at the University of Barcelona, students must:
1. Complete their UB application and pay the application fee before the scholarship deadline.
2. Submit a separate scholarship application through the scholarship portal.
3. Ensure that all required documents, such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and financial information, are submitted before the specified deadlines.
Scholarship opportunities like the Barcelona SAE Scholarship provide financial aid to deserving students, making UB accessible to a broader range of applicants.
