Studying abroad is a unique and highly rewarding experience. If you have not decided on your destination yet, these are my 10 reasons why you should study in Madrid.
10 reasons to study in Madrid (Spain)
There are plenty of reasons why studying abroad has become so popular.
Some students highlight the incredible personal experience it is. You will learn how to be more independent, responsible, and open-minded.
Others seek to improve their professional development, as international experience is usually a bonus for employers. When many students with similar backgrounds and skills apply for a job, this international experience can make you stand out.
But there are many countries and universities in the world, why should you choose to study in Madrid?
1. Benefit from a top-quality education
In my opinion, quality education should always be the first reason for every student who wants to study abroad. Globalization should be in this case a clear advantage, why should you select a university from your city or nation?
Madrid is home to some of the top-rated educational institutions in the world, committed to offering some of the best learning in innovation, technology, and research.
Madrid´s Autonoma and Complutense Universities are ranked among the most renowned institutions in the world.
And there are plenty of other prestigious public and private universities offering countless bachelor´s and master´s degrees, no matter what your interests are.
2. Learn a leading international language
One huge benefit of studying in Madrid is the opportunity to learn a language used by 600 million people around the world. Over 60 million people speak Spanish in the US.
As you can imagine, speaking Spanish, the third most-spoken language in the world (behind Mandarin and English) is a clear advantage.
It will help you when traveling to Spanish-speaking countries such as Spain and Mexico, and it is a clear strength for your resumé, especially among employers of big multinationals with subsidiaries all over the world.
That is why studying in Madrid will help you improve your language skills. I have had the chance to meet many international students in Madrid and they have had no problem at all to be pretty fluent in speaking and listening after only a few months.
Anyway, keep in mind that if you prefer to study in English, there is a wide range of programs in English to choose from.
3. Madrid embraces visitors
Studying abroad is an incredible experience but it is challenging at the same time especially at the beginning when you can feel lonely.
And hospitality is one of Madrid´s strengths, due to its exceptional ability to welcome visitors.
Locals are kind, tolerant, and open-minded so you will feel integrated from the first minute, regardless of your origin, gender, culture, or religion.
We cannot forget that Spain is famous for tourism, and it is one of the most important sources of income for the country. It is in the interest of everyone that visitors feel welcome, integrated, and safe in Madrid.
As people from all over the world decide to study in Madrid, you will have a unique opportunity to meet people of diverse origins and cultures. You can easily do valuable networking and have friends all over the world.
4. A great (and unique) lifestyle
Spain is different. The pleasant climate and the relaxed culture make Madrid one of the most appealing cities to live in.
The high number of sunshine hours and the dry climate will allow you to spend plenty of time outside, enjoying your favorite outdoor activities.
Take a drink and some tapas with your friends on a terrace or relax in one of the city’s most popular parks, there are plenty of different ways to have fun in Madrid.
Besides, Madrid offers some of the best nightlife in Europe, also during the weekdays. That is why you could need to take a nap (the famous Spanish siesta) after lunch.
Have you already decided to study in Madrid? Spain is fun!
5. One of the safest cities in the world
According to the 2021 Safe Cities Index by The Economist Madrid ranks 10 in personal security. It is much better positioned than other top-rated tourist destinations such as London (14), Tokyo (16), Rome (23), New York (27), Los Angeles (29), Rio de Janeiro (36), and Mexico City (42).
Moreover, Spain is considered one of the safest countries in the world to walk alone at night. Violent conducts in Madrid nightlife are very rare and you will see plenty of police looking after your personal safety.
However, just like in any other city in the world, crime rates rise after midnight so you need to be especially careful. For any emergency, Madrid has a highly competent healthcare system.
To summarize, Madrid is one of the safest cities in the world. I am sure that if you decide to study in Madrid, you will never forget this unique experience.
6. Unlimited sunshine hours
Madrid´s charm is undoubtedly enhanced by its sunny climate, offering a vibrant outdoor lifestyle.
Madrid enjoys a mix of Mediterranean and Continental climates. Temperatures are not that extreme so it is possible to visit the city all year round. It is true that maximum temperatures in July and August can be a little bit higher.
Rainy days in Madrid are an exception. As a general rule, no matter the season, rain boots and an umbrella should not be a priority in your luggage.
No matter the time you decide to visit Madrid, sunny days are guaranteed.
This way, you will find the days are incredibly long and you will find plenty of time for sightseeing, enjoying terraces, and other outdoor activities.
In summer you can enjoy even 15 hours a day of sunlight. With the sunset at 22:00, you could be even back home before it is dark outside.
7. The affordable cost of living
One of the most important reasons to study in Madrid is the cheap cost of living. Unless you have an unlimited budget, the cost of studying and living abroad is usually a major concern for most students.
Life in Madrid can be considered incredibly affordable compared with other European capitals while maintaining one of the highest standards of living.
Transport, food, and accommodation are less expensive than in London, Berlin, or Paris.
You can enjoy a high quality of life with a relatively affordable cost of living. Besides, the Madrid council offers plenty of discounts and benefits for students.
8. An extraordinary cultural heritage
Madrid is a fantastic city with a deep historical heritage as it was a focal point of a huge empire that once spanned across continents and lasted for centuries.
The capital of Spain offers numerous tourist attractions and sights recognized worldwide. The historical buildings and monuments in Madrid are unique around the world.
The Royal Palace, the Puerta de Alcalá, the Prado Museum, and El Retiro Park are just a few of the most popular attractions of the capital of Spain.
9. The delicious gastronomy
Studying in Madrid will allow you to try the best Spanish culinary specialties.
You will probably know that Spanish gastronomy is one of the best and healthiest in the world due to the quality and variety of the products used.
Spanish cuisine is internationally recognized due to its perfect blend of classic and avant-garde cuisine. I am sure you have heard about the famous Iberian ham, the Spanish omelet, and the Valencian paella but there many other delicious foods to discover.
And it is not just the restaurants, supermarkets offer top quality products at an affordable price so you can prepare your meals at home and cut down on your expenses.
10. Best location for day trips
Madrid’s location in the center of Spain allows visitors to easily explore wonderful nearby places on day trips, and make the most of their stay in Spain.
Alcala de Henares, El Escorial, Aranjuez, Toledo, Segovia, and Avila are some good examples that you must include on your bucket list.
Most international students also take advantage of the holidays to spend a few days visiting other parts of Spain such as Andalucia, Valencia, Cataluña, and the northern part of the country.
Have you already decided to study in Madrid? Leave your comments below!
