Universitat Pompeu Fabra

About the university

Pompeu Fabra University (Universitat Pompeu Fabra, UPF) is a public university founded in 1990 in Barcelona, Spain. Named after the Catalan linguist Pompeu Fabra, the university is known for its excellence in social sciences, humanities, communication, law, economics, and health sciences. UPF has a strong international orientation and is recognized for its high-quality research output. The university emphasizes innovation, interdisciplinary studies, and maintains close connections with the business community. UPF has multiple campuses in Barcelona and offers numerous programs in English, attracting a significant number of international students. The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in Spain and Europe.

Key information

Location: Barcelona, ES
Ranking #9
QS #181
THE #196
National ranking #5
Institution type: public

Popular faculties

Economics
Business Administration
Law
Communication
Political Science
Humanities
Health Sciences
Translation and Interpreting

Programs (39)

Law
Political Science
Journalism and Communication
Translation and Interpreting
Biology
International Relations
Nursing
Computer Science
Electrical Engineering
Telecommunications
Business Administration
Medicine
Pharmacy
Psychology
Mechanical Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Architecture
Dentistry
Veterinary Science
Civil Engineering
Economics
Engineering
Finance and Accounting
Marketing
Tourism and Hospitality
Political Science
International Relations
Philosophy
History
Linguistics
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics
Environmental Science
Sociology
Anthropology
Education
Fine Arts
Music

Student body

Total students: 13,000
Undergraduate: 8,000
Graduate: 5,000
International students: 30%

Campus life

Pompeu Fabra University offers a vibrant campus life with modern facilities including libraries, laboratories, sports centers, and student common areas. The university organizes numerous cultural events, conferences, and workshops throughout the academic year. Students can participate in various clubs and organizations, engage in community service projects, and enjoy cultural activities in Barcelona. The campuses are well-connected to the city, providing easy access to cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Barcelona's rich cultural heritage, Mediterranean location, and vibrant atmosphere offer unique opportunities for students to explore Spanish and Catalan culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience a dynamic urban environment.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €400 - €700 / per month

Housing options

University residence halls
Private apartments
Shared apartments
Homestay

Student clubs and organizations

Academic clubs
Cultural clubs
Sports clubs
Volunteer organizations
International student associations
Debate clubs
Language exchange clubs

Sports

Football
Basketball
Volleyball
Athletics
Swimming
Tennis
Rowing

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Internships: Pompeu Fabra University has strong connections with the business community and offers extensive internship opportunities for students. The university's career services office assists students in finding internships with local and international companies. Many programs include mandatory or optional internships as part of the curriculum. The university collaborates with numerous companies in Barcelona and throughout Spain, providing students with practical work experience in their fields of study. Internships often lead to employment opportunities after graduation. The university also participates in Erasmus+ and other international exchange programs that include internship components. Barcelona's status as a major business and innovation hub provides excellent opportunities for students to gain professional experience.

Admission requirements

Required documents

Application form
High school diploma or equivalent
Academic transcripts
Language proficiency certificate (Spanish/English/Catalan)
Personal statement
Letters of recommendation
Passport copy
Proof of financial resources

Tuition costs

€1,500 - €3,500 / per year
Acceptance rate: 25.00%
Scholarships available: Pompeu Fabra University offers various scholarship programs for students, including merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and specific scholarships for international students. The university provides support through its financial aid office and collaborates with external organizations to offer additional funding opportunities. Scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees, and some programs also include living expenses support. The university participates in national and regional scholarship programs, as well as Erasmus+ and other European Union funding initiatives.
Additional costs: Books €150-250/year, Digital resources €30, Health insurance €100-200/year for non-EU

Quick facts

Founded: 1990
Teaching languages: Spanish, Catalan, English, spanish, english, catalan
Study formats: offline, hybrid

Contact

Website: https://www.upf.edu
[email protected]
+34 935 422 000