American Universities in Spain

Among the large variety of opportunities Spain offers its students, there is also the option of pursuing an American degree, entirely in English, while living in sunny Spain. An American degree enjoys worldwide recognition and prestige, which can be one of its most significant benefits. The American higher education system is well structured and well funded. The fact that it is present in Spain means many local and international students can enjoy the prestige of attending an American university full-time while residing in Spain. Although there are plenty of international universities in Spain, only three are accredited American universities, which provide excellent teaching and learning conditions. 

Here is the list of American universities in Spain: 

1. Schiller International University Madrid Campus

Schiller International University was founded in 1964 by Dr Walter Leibrecht. The initial idea was to allow American students to pursue their studies within the American educational model, anywhere in Europe. Now, this university aims to give students from all over the world, regardless of their nationality, the option of receiving their qualifications in an American study program, in an international setting. Named after the German philosopher, poet and dramatist, Johann Christoph Friedrich von Schiller, this university provides all the necessary resources for a successful career. 

Courses are offered in English, regardless of the campus location, and the focus is on teaching and learning from an international context. At Schiller, you will study one course at a time, typically one per month, and focus on getting the necessary knowledge from that specific course. However, if someone wants to graduate earlier, it is possible to study more than one class per month. The dual education system combines both theory and practice, to ensure students get the best of both worlds, to become successful and skilled professionals.

2. Saint Louis University Madrid Campus

Saint Louis University in Madrid was founded in 1968, and it is the European campus of the university by the same name in the United States, founded in 1818. Recognised for world-class education, exceptional research, and a strong commitment to faith and service, this university is ranked among the top Jesuit universities in the United States. Since 1968, those who want to get qualifications from an American university in Europe can opt for the Madrid campus in Spain, which is highly renowned for its American educational programs. Living in a vibrant city like Madrid is undoubtedly an experience on its own, and being part of SLU is a great plus. 

The Madrid campus of Saint Louis University gathers more than 900 students from the United States, Spain, and 50+ other countries. It offers a diverse environment where students have the opportunity to thrive and broaden their horizons. The options are endless at SLU-Madrid. For example, you have the chance to earn your degree in Spain, entirely, without having to travel between campuses. Or, if you are an international student, you can choose SLU-Madrid as a study destination for a summer, semester, or academic year. Moreover, you may also begin your studies in Spain, transfer to the St. Louis campus in the US, and complete one of more than 50 undergraduate majors. 

3. The American College in Spain

Last but not least of American universities in Spain, ACS is the first North American University in Andalusia. It is located in Marbella, and it is primarily recognised for its curriculum, which is based on the US university system. At the American College in Spain, they have a programme that allows students to spend their first two years of general education (required by all US universities) in Spain. They are, then, transferred to a North American university, either in the US or anywhere else in Europe where the North American university system is available, to complete their degree. 

The American College in Spain makes it possible for students in Spain to have easier access to the American education system, especially considering that the prestige of having studied at an American university provides many advantages in the labour market. This university places great emphasis on critical thinking, ensuring all students are provided with the necessary sources to obtain knowledge, enhance their critical thinking skills, and later, succeed in their chosen careers. The ACS faculty and founders are committed to creating the perfect conditions for students to experience the American educational journey, which is perfectly complemented by Spain’s cultural and sporting values. 

Other Universities and Statistics

Spain is a country that receives its fair share of international students. Due to its educational system, which is highly efficient and comprehensive, its great outdoors and culture, and its diversity, Spain has a total of no less than 208,366 international students (including students on mobility programmes) in its educational premises, according to 2021 statistics. These students, who mostly come from countries like Italy, France, Columbia, Ecuador, or China, pursue a wide variety of degree programmes, in different higher education institutions. 

Many students are also interested in the American universities in Spain, which offer an excellent education based on the American higher education system, which, when matched with the culture, sports, and academic and social opportunities that Spain provides, create an ideal environment to pursue their qualifications. Spain has hundreds of great universities, ready to be at the forefront of their students’ needs. Whether they are public, private, national, or international, they all have one thing in common: to provide students with an environment where they can grow. 

Some of the top public universities in Spain include: 

  • University of Barcelona
  • Autonomous University of Barcelona
  • Autonomous University of Madrid
  • Complutense University of Madrid
  • Pompeu Fabra University
  • University Carlos III of Madrid
  • Polytechnic University of Catalonia
  • Polytechnic University of Valencia
  • University of Zaragoza
  • The Polytechnic University of Madrid, etc.

Why Study at an American University in Spain? 

Attending one of the three American universities in Spain is a perfect opportunity for students who would like to continue living somewhere in Europe, while also being part of the American higher education system. Living in Spain while studying at an American university has many advantages. Find some of them listed below: 

  • Learn Spanish. If you study and live in Spain, you will find yourself more exposed to Spanish. This way, you will have a variety of opportunities to practice Spanish on your day-to-day life, and, soon enough, even speak it fluently.
  • Enjoy the Spanish culture. Spain has a beautiful culture. People in Spain love to live life to the very fullest and appreciate the beauty all around them. The outstanding cuisine, the fantastic architecture, the interesting customs and traditions – Spain is simply beautiful.
  • Save money. The cost of living in Spain is mostly more affordable than in the US. By pursuing your degree at an American university in Spain, you will get to receive your American qualifications, while also saving money on day-to-day expenses.
  • Plenty of Sunshine. On average, Spain receives somewhere around 300 days of sunshine each year, which means lovers of the sun can find themselves quite happy in Spain. Whether you want to go to the beach, play some golf, or simply stroll around the city, sunshine will likely be there to accompany you.