Madrid, Spain’s capital and a major center for business, economic, and financial activity in Europe, is the perfect city in which to study Business, Economics, and Social Sciences. This beautiful and bustling city provides ample opportunities for you to contextualize what you're learning through course-related trips, internships, and local university enrollment.
Madrid, Spain
Business, Economics & Social Sciences
At a Glance
Program Dates:
- Fall 2025: September 01 - December 18
- Academic Year 2025: September 01 - May 09
- Spring 2026: January 14 - May 09
- Spring 2027: Mid January - Mid May
- Fall 2026: September 01 - December 19
- Academic Year 2026-2027: Early September - Early May
Credits:
15 to 19 per Semester
Estimated Cost:
$22,995
Visa Required:
Yes
Housing:
Apartment,
Residence Hall
Language of Instruction:
English,
Spanish
Language Prerequisites:
None
Part-Time Internship (Optional):
Included in Program Fee. All candidates must meet legal requirements set by Spanish regulations.
About the Program
Important Visa Note for Spain 2026 Students
Complete your program application early to participate in our Spain ACCeSS program, where we review and submit your visa application on your behalf. The Spain ACCeSS deadlines, mandated by the Consulate, are very early this year. The sooner you apply, the more options you may have. Already applied? A Spain Visa resource is now available in your MyIESAbroad account under the "My Account" section.
Fall 2026
Program Dates:
September 01 - December 19
Please note that partner university exams could run up until December 22nd
Application Deadline:
Program Advisor
Cyane Thomas, Kayti Everette & Liat Wasserman
Once you’ve applied for a program, one of us will be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, we're here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
About the Destination
Why Madrid?
Madrid will be your classroom. Depending on the courses you choose, you may visit international businesses, financial organizations, and even an animation studio in Madrid, as part of your coursework. Other course-related trips include architectural walking tours and visits to the city’s world-famous museums like the Prado and Sorolla that will round out your experience in Madrid.
The Student Experience
Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze: Taking Classes at a Local University Abroad
IES Abroad’s study abroad programs are distinct from other programs for several reasons. First and foremost, unlike the traditional model of a student exchange...
Program Dates
Fall 2025
Program Dates:
September 01 - December 18
DEPARTURE DATE IF ENROLLED AT LOCAL UNIVERSITIES: SATURDAY DECEMBER 20TH 2025
Application Deadline:
Academic Year 2025
Program Dates:
September 01 - May 09
DEPARTURE DATE IF ENROLLED AT LOCAL UNIVERSITIES: SATURDAY DECEMBER 20TH 2025
Application Deadline:
Spring 2026
Program Dates:
January 14 - May 09
Please note that partner university exams may run through 5/.29
Application Deadline:
Spring 2027
Program Dates:
Mid January - Mid May
Fall 2026
Program Dates:
September 01 - December 19
Please note that partner university exams could run up until December 22nd
Application Deadline:
Academic Year 2026-2027
Program Dates:
Early September - Early May
Application Deadline:
If you are planning on taking UC3M courses, we recommend purchasing flexible tickets or easily changeable tickets as partner university exams could take place after the official departure date
Academics
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences.
We offer unique courses that explore Business, Economics, and Social Sciences, as well as other topics, through an in-depth and hands-on approach. World-class professors and course options at the prestigious, AACSB-accredited Universidad Carlos III Madrid (UC3M) enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives in each day in class.
Enrolling in courses at a local university is a great way to meet Spanish students and improve your language skills. You are strongly encouraged to enroll in at least one local course. Course offerings vary each semester.
Partner Institution
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
A relatively new institution, the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) has already established leading programs in the areas of Economics, Business Administration, and Law, while its efforts in Engineering and Research are gaining international recognition. Faculty and students come from around the world to join UC3M in its role as a truly global institution.
Business and Economics courses are offered at the Getafe campus of UC3M, which is located approximately 45-60 minutes outside of the city center of Madrid by train. Please note that UC3M has enacted a two-course minimum for visiting students.
Courses
Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following program components. You must take 15-19 credits per semester. All program-specific courses are taught in English except for the language courses. Academic programming is scheduled five days a week.
- IES Abroad Spanish language course (required, 4 credits)
- IES Abroad English-taught area studies courses (optional, 3 or 4 credits each)
- IES Abroad Spanish-taught area studies courses (optional, 3 credits each)*
- Universidad Carlos III English-taught Business, Economics, and Humanities courses (optional, 12 ECTS minimum)**
- Universidad Antonio de Nebrija courses (optional, two-course minimum)**
- Internship placement and seminar (optional, 3 credits)
To learn more about IES Abroad’s innovative theoretical and pedagogical approaches to teaching language abroad, refer to the IES Abroad MAP for Language & Intercultural Communication.
*With approval, students with an advanced level of Spanish can take IES Abroad area studies courses taught in Spanish (list available on the Madrid - Language & Area Studies Program academics page) and Spanish-taught UC3M courses.
****Per our Academic Policy Guidelines, “At host country institutions where the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is in effect, IES Abroad translates two ECTS credits as one IES Abroad credit
NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.
IES Abroad Courses
Anthropology (1)
| Course name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AN/SO 320 - Sports and Society in Spain | Spring | English | 3 |
Partner Institution Courses
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
Courses are available in the following disciplines and most are taught in English.
Universidad Antonio de Nebrija
Courses are available in the following disciplines and mostly are taught in English
- Engineering
- Business
- Liberal Arts
Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- 18 years of age
- In good standing at your home school
- Firm 3.0 GPA or above on a 4.0 scale
- No Spanish language is required
- Prerequisites required for certain university courses
- Have completed at least 3 full academic terms (semester, trimester, quarter, or block) of Business, Economics, or Social Sciences (anthropology, geography, history, sociology, psychology, political science) coursework at your home school by the IES Abroad program start date
About the IES Abroad Center
IES Abroad Madrid
The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.
Located in the historic Palacio López-Dóriga, a named historic palace with a rich architectural legacy, the Center places you in the heart of Madrid, just steps from some of the city's most iconic neighborhoods—Chueca, Barrio de Salamanca, and Chamberí. Conveniently located close to IES Abroad housing, it's the perfect launch pad for your academic and cultural experiences in Madrid.
IES Abroad Madrid Staff
Yolanda Real
Head of Administration
Alan Viale
Engineering Academic Coordinator & UC3M Academic Advisor
Marta Camacho
LAS Academic Coordinator & UCM Academic Advisor
Oscar Garciñuño Callejo
Internship Advisor
Angel López Escamez
Head of Student Affairs Department
Yolanda Charlán
Student Affairs Coordinator
Dr. German Dugarte
Dean of Faculty and Assistant Director
Cristina Salinas
Head of Academics Processes and Registrar
Blanca Santiago
BESS Academic Advisor & Spanish Teacher
Carmen Llinás
Customized Programs Coordinator
Marina Antón
Academic Advisor and Spanish Teacher
Ana Sidro
Spanish Language Coordinator
Rosario Roses
Student Affairs Coordinator
Sergio Eguizabal
Student Affairs Assistant
Oriana Gómez
Spanish Instructor & Academic Advisor
Amalia Sordo
Student Success Coordinator
Alan Viale
Engineering Academic Coordinator & UC3M Academic Advisor
Housing
Apartment
We offer single room student apartments which resemble upscale student residence halls with private bathrooms that are located near the city center of Madrid. Student apartments are furnished, including a fully equipped shared kitchen. Utilities and Wi-Fi access are included. Gym facilities may be available. Meals are not included in this option and are ideal for students who wish to prepare their own meals. This option is ideal for students who are looking for a more independent experience.
The student apartment has two options: one option carries no additional fee while the other option carries an additional fee for a placement in a larger room.
Field Trips
Even though your adventure starts in Madrid, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
2 Days
Fall
Alarcón-Valencia
Visit Spain's third-largest city, Valencia, rich with delicious cuisine, excellent weather, and countless cultural outlets, including the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències (the City of Arts & Sciences), one of Europe's most unique cultural and scientific complexes. Includes a stop in the beautiful town of Alarcon for a delicious breakfast at its 8th-century Moorish Castle.
Alcalá de Henares
1 Day
Fall
The birthplace of the illustrious Don Quixote author Miguel de Cervantes, Alcalá de Henares is home to one of the most prestigious universities in Spain.
Aranjuez
1 Day
Spring
This city, close to Madrid, was the Spanish kings' chosen location for their spring palace, due to the good weather and vast, stunning gardens. Aranjuez was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001.
Ávila
1 Day
Spring
Ávila has the most emblematic and spectacular city walls in Spain. Built during the Medieval ages, they surround the old town that is full of monasteries, palaces and churches.
El Escorial
1 Day
Fall
Visit this royal site that was once the residence of the King of Spain, as well as a monastery for the Roman Catholic Church. The palace is also the burial site for nearly every king and queen since the 16th century.
Segovia
1 Day
Fall & Spring
Segovia is known for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and for having one of the longest and best preserved Roman aqueducts in all of Europe.
Córdoba-Almagro
2 Days
Spring
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Córdoba is a living legacy of different cultures that settled here throughout its history. The most important symbol of the city is the Mosque-Cathedral: one of the most beautiful examples of Muslim art in Spain.
Part-Time Internships
Sarah F. • Gettysburg College
Did you know that, while in Madrid, you can intern as part of your study abroad experience? With a part-time internship, you’ll gain global work experience that will increase your job readiness and give you an advantage after graduation. With an internship, you will:
All of our internships are supervised and earn IES Abroad credit. You participate in a 3-credit seminar to complement the practical experience you gain during the internship for a greater understanding of work life in your host country.
Placement Examples
Administrative Department (Companies and NGOs)
Students may assist businesses or NGOs with accounting, auditing, or other administrative works.
Communications Departments (Companies and NGOs)
Internship includes social media management, video & photo editing, or fundraising campaigns for NGOs.
Research
Students can participate in research groups for universities or public organizations.
Volunteering and Social Assistance
Students may help provide care for disadvantaged groups, children, or persons with special needs.
Education
Museums
Volunteer Opportunities
When you volunteer in Madrid, you have the chance to make a difference in the local community while meeting new people and gaining a new perspective on the world. If you are passionate about volunteering abroad, just let the on-site staff know at the beginning of your term.
Past volunteer opportunities in Madrid include:
Food Collection
Collect food for the underprivileged
Hospital Support
Help chronically sick children
Elderly Care
Work with the elderly
Program Cost
Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.
Fall 2025
Academic Year 2025
Spring 2026
Fall 2026
Academic Year 2026-2027
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid
We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.
Orientation
Health & Safety
With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
PRO-TIP
Apply for your passport today!
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identity Resources
Contact a Previous Student
Student Ambassadors
No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.
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