Madrid, Spain
Carlos III de Madrid was founded in 1989 and is a public university under the jurisdiction of the Spanish government. The overall objective of Carlos III is to offer efficient, high quality public service. The University is divided into three areas: The Faculty of Social Sciences, The Faculty of Humanities, Documentation and Communication, and the Higher Technical School. With over 13,000 students, Carlos III is divided into 2 small campuses that are located just outside of Madrid.
Please note: students are not accepted into the program until they submit their application and deposit to the UF International Center. You can start your online application today!
The City
The towns of Getafe and Leganés are located just south of Madrid, 6.2 miles from the city center. Both towns have a population of over 150,000, and all the necessary medical, shopping and recreational services. Travel to Madrid is easy using the extensive public transportation system. Students can purchase a Metrobús ticket, which is valid for ten rides on either the bus or metro system, or a transport card (abono de transportes) that permits unlimited travel using any combination of public transport. This card covers the route between the center of Madrid and the Carlos III University area. The Guadarrama and Somosierra Mountains enhance the climate of Madrid, virtually guaranteeing pure air and clear skies during most of the year.
Student Life
Madrid is a very lively city and houses many libraries, universities, museums (check out El Prado), art galleries, theatres, cinemas and congress halls for cultural events. Historical monuments and attractions of the old area of Madrid are also of great interest, especially those that were built under Austrian and Bourbon rule. Students may enjoy Madrid’s nightlife including shows, discotheques and cabarets. Outdoor enthusiasts can participate in a number of activities such as skiing and hiking on the nearby mountains.
Carlos III has a Buddy Program to help welcome new incoming students to the university and Spanish culture. There are also a number of international focused student groups, allowing students to meet new friends and plan weekend activities and trips. Explore life on campus.
Term Dates
Spring term or Academic Year encouraged.
Fall Semester: Early September to late January
Spring Semester: Late January to early May
Courses Available
Carlos III offers a wide variety of English-taught courses, including courses in the areas of Business Administration, Economics, Finance and Accounting. Use our course equivalency database to find out which courses at Carlos III can apply to your UF degree.
Language of Instruction
Courses are taught in English or Spanish. UF students are able to take a full load of business courses in English, however Spanish is the primary language university operations at Carlos III. Intermediate knowledge of Spanish is expected.
Grade Conversion
| Carlos III points from | Carlos III points to | UF grade |
|---|---|---|
| 7.5 | 10 | A |
| 7.0 | 7.4 | B+ |
| 6.0 | 6.9 | B |
| 5.5 | 5.9 | C+ |
| 5.0 | 5.4 | C |
| 0 | 4.9 | E |
Credit Conversion
| Carlos III credits | UF credits |
|---|---|
| 3 ECTS credits | 2 UF credit (3 X .6 = 1.8) |
| 4 ECTS credits | 2 UF credits (4 X .6 = 2.4) |
| 5 ECTS credits | 3 UF credits (5 X .6 = 3) |
| 6 ECTS credits | 4 UF credits (6 X .6 = 3.6) |
ECTS X .6 = UF credit (rounded)
Credit conversion is on a course-by-course basis – NOT the sum of credits earned.
Credits may post with foreign credits and ECTS credits. UF credit conversion is based on ECTS credits.
Estimated Expenses
| Rough Expense Comparison | Semester at UF | Semester at Carlos III |
|---|---|---|
| UF Tuition | $3,190 | $3,190 |
| UFIC Admin. Fee | - | $425 |
| Health Insurance | - | $192 |
| Airfare | - | $1,400 |
| Housing / Utilities | $2,995 | $3,500 |
| Computer/Cell Phone | $585 | $350 |
| Food | $2,300 | $2,000 |
| Books | $445 | $400 |
| Transportation | $560 | $500 |
| Visa | - | $165 |
| Total | $10,075 | $12,122 |
- UF Cost of Attendance determined by Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Carlos III Cost of Attendance determined by UF International Center
Accommodation
Students may apply for on-campus accommodation which include furnished, single, double or shared apartment style spaces with building amenities such as a WIFI, TV rooms, study halls, a gymnasium, coffee shop and cafeteria. Many exchange students choose to find their own housing in Madrid, which is also an option. Housing costs range from about $400 to $800 for a bedroom per month.
Travel Opportunities
Once in Madrid, there are several cities students may visit on day trips. They include Alcalá de Henares (the birth place of Miguel Cervantes, author of Don Quixote), Aranjuez (the principal point of interest is the 18th century Royal palace) and the town of Chinchón (which houses the Plaza Mayor, a picturesque square dominated by the local church). Particularly close to Madrid is San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Many of Spain’s past monarchs are buried inside this sumptuously decorated monastery. Also, Segovia is located less than 60 miles north of Madrid, on the other side of the Sierra de Madrid. This city is best known for its magnificent Roman aqueduct.