Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
Admissions Guide for International Students
Admissions Guide for International Students
Founded in 1968 on a 650-acre suburban campus 15 km north of Madrid, the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) is Spain's third-ranked university nationally and one of the most research-intensive in Southern Europe. Alma mater of King Felipe VI, every president of Spain's Supreme and Constitutional Courts, and a galaxy of Nobel laureates in its science faculties, UAM combines serious academic rigour with the unmatched cultural richness of Madrid. If you are an international student drawn to law, medicine, physics, chemistry, biosciences, or the humanities — and willing to engage in Spanish — UAM offers a world-class education at a fraction of the cost of comparable institutions in the UK or US.
Universidad Autónoma de Madrid — campus in pictures
Real, freely-licensed photographs of the campus (via Wikimedia Commons).
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Malopez 21 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Madrid - Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)-Centro de Estudios de Posgrado
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Madrid - Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)
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Madrid - Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)
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Edificio Plaza Mayor, Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)
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Edificio Plaza Mayor, Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)
UAM is not merely a large public university — it is the institution that has shaped Spain's intellectual and legal elite for more than five decades, while building a research infrastructure that rivals dedicated science universities across Europe.
Ranked #3 nationally and #1 among Madrid universities in the Times Higher Education Rankings, UAM counts King Felipe VI and every president of Spain's Supreme and Constitutional Courts among its Law graduates. This alumni network carries enormous professional weight across Spain and Latin America.
Rare for any European university, UAM hosts multiple CSIC (Spanish National Research Council) institutes directly on its Cantoblanco campus. Students in physics, chemistry, biology and neuroscience can access cutting-edge laboratory infrastructure from their first year.
UAM belongs to the A-4U alliance of Spain's top four research universities and the 11-institution CIVIS European Civic University Alliance, which gives enrolled students access to free short-term programmes, Blended Intensive Programmes, and virtual courses across partner universities in Europe.
The Cantoblanco campus is 20 minutes by commuter rail from central Madrid — the EU's third-largest capital, home to 60+ Fortune 500 European headquarters, world-class museums (Prado, Reina Sofía, Thyssen), and Spain's most vibrant internship and graduate job market.
Exceptional Value for a Top-200 University
With annual tuition around $7,000 USD and total cost of attendance near $21,000 USD, UAM delivers a QS top-220 education for dramatically less than comparable UK, Australian, or North American research universities. Public tuition fees are regulated by the Community of Madrid.
UAM maintains over 1,800 bilateral mobility and collaboration agreements with universities worldwide. International students gain access to one of Spain's largest exchange networks for semester study abroad and international internships.
UAM's overall acceptance rate of around 60% reflects its broad public-university mandate, but headline figures are misleading for international applicants. Selectivity varies dramatically by programme. Law, Medicine, and Physics operate near-full quota utilisation and require strong UNEDasiss admission scores; Education and some Humanities programmes have more capacity. International students compete within a reserved quota for foreign educational-system applicants — the score needed depends on the programme and the competition in that quota each year.
An IB Diploma score at or above the UAM benchmark of 31 is a competitive starting point. Students should aim to strengthen their admission score through UNEDasiss Specific Competency Tests (PCE) in subjects relevant to their chosen programme.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/sistemas-educativos-extranjeros
Admission Components for International Students
UAM does not use Common App, UCAS, or a personal-essay-based system. Admission to undergraduate programmes is score-driven, processed through Spain's UNEDasiss credential evaluation system and then directly through UAM's application portal.
All international students from non-Spanish educational systems must obtain UNEDasiss accreditation through Spain's UNED university. This converts your qualification (IB Diploma, A-Levels, national baccalaureate, etc.) into a Spanish-equivalent access score (nota de acceso) on a scale up to 10. This score is your primary admission credential.
UNEDasiss offers optional Specific Competency Tests in individual subjects. Each passed PCE can add up to 4 points to your nota de acceso (maximum admission score: 14 points). Sitting PCEs in subjects relevant to your chosen programme — e.g. Mathematics for Engineering or Biology for Medicine — significantly increases your competitiveness.
Certified transcripts from all secondary institutions attended, with official Spanish translations if the original language is not Spanish or English (in which case Spanish translation is still required for final submission). IB or A-Level predicted/final certificates are accepted.
Non-Spanish-speaking applicants must demonstrate minimum B2 Spanish proficiency via DELE (INSTITUTO CERVANTES), SIELE examination, a recognised Official Language School certificate, or a public university language centre credential. UAM offers 'Puente a la UAM' intensive bridge programmes and summer Spanish courses to help students reach B2.
Valid passport copy and, for non-EU students, a student visa (Visado de Estudios) obtained before arrival through the Spanish consulate in your home country. UAM's International Welcome Office (SERIM) assists with residence permit applications after arrival.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/sistemas-educativos-extranjeros
UAM undergraduate admission is principally academic and score-based. There is no holistic review of essays, extracurriculars, or teacher recommendations at the undergraduate level. Your nota de admisión — derived from your UNEDasiss accreditation and any PCE scores — determines whether you enter your chosen programme.
The strongest preparation is outstanding performance in secondary school subjects directly relevant to your intended degree. Medicine applicants need top scores in Biology and Chemistry; Law benefits from strong performance in Humanities; Physics and Mathematics require excellent results in those disciplines.
The IB Diploma is formally recognised through UNEDasiss. A total score of 31 or above is the UAM benchmark; scores of 35+ place you in a strong competitive position for most programmes. Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge grades also contribute to the UNEDasiss calculation.
Since the overwhelming majority of UAM's degree programmes are delivered in Spanish, genuine B2 competency — and ideally C1 — is essential not just for admission but for academic success. The more selective your target programme, the more important it is to enter with strong Spanish.
Choosing and preparing well for the right UNEDasiss PCE subjects can raise your admission score by up to 4 additional points, which can be the difference between gaining a place and missing the cut-off in competitive programmes.
Application Timeline for International Students
UAM follows Spain's centrally-organised admissions calendar. International students from foreign educational systems are admitted within a dedicated quota. The dates below are based on the 2026 admissions cycle — verify the current year's calendar on the official admissions page before applying.
Apply via uned.es/uned-asiss; PCE exams typically held May-June
UAM Ordinary Pre-registration (International)
Extended window for students from foreign education systems
Results published online; waitlist requests same day
Enrollment opens immediately after admission results
Only for vacant places; results ~3 September 2026
Deadlines shift slightly each year. Always confirm dates on the UAM Admission Calendar: https://www.uam.es/uam/calendario-admision
https://www.uam.es/uam/calendario-admision
UAM's Cantoblanco campus is a self-contained, green university town spread across 260 hectares north of Madrid, connected to the city centre by the Cercanías commuter rail (line C-4) in around 20 minutes. A second campus near Hospital Universitario de La Paz serves Medicine students with direct clinical experience in one of Spain's largest teaching hospitals.
Campus life revolves around eight faculties, a network of student associations, active sports facilities (including multi-purpose courts and an athletics track), university cafeterias, and a campus bookshop. UAM's International Welcome Office organises an International Welcome Day each semester, a mentoring programme pairing international newcomers with Spanish students, and regular cultural events. With approximately 3,500 students participating in mobility programmes each year, the campus has a genuinely cosmopolitan atmosphere despite its suburban setting.
Madrid itself is one of Europe's most liveable capitals — affordable by Western European standards, with a Mediterranean climate, an extraordinary cultural scene (three world-class art museums within walking distance of each other), and a vibrant nightlife. Neighbourhoods popular with UAM students include Chamberí, Malasaña, and Lavapiés, all well-connected by metro.
UAM's graduates are highly sought in Spanish and Latin American professional markets. The university reports an 86% graduate employment rate within one year of graduation — one of the highest among Spanish public universities — with an average starting salary of approximately $31,000 USD annually.
UAM's law graduates dominate the Spanish legal establishment: the fact that every president of Spain's Supreme and Constitutional Courts studied law here is not an anecdote — it reflects the depth of UAM's legal alumni network. Science graduates from Physics, Chemistry, and Biosciences benefit from direct pipelines into CSIC research institutions and Spain's pharmaceutical and biotech sector. Psychology and Education graduates find strong placement in Madrid's health, social, and education services.
UAM's Law faculty has the most distinguished alumni track record in Spain — judges, prosecutors, senior civil servants, and international law practitioners. The CIVIS alliance also enables law students to study comparative European law abroad.
Proximity to CSIC institutes on campus gives science students a competitive edge in PhD applications. Many UAM science graduates proceed to doctoral programmes at CSIC, ETH Zurich, and leading European research universities.
Madrid hosts the headquarters of BBVA, Santander, Telefónica, Repsol, and Iberdrola, among others. UAM Economics graduates have established pathways into the Spanish financial sector and international consulting firms operating in Madrid.
The Medicine campus at La Paz Hospital provides hands-on clinical training from early years. UAM Medicine is nationally prestigious; graduates regularly place in competitive MIR (medical residency) examinations.
The vast majority of UAM's undergraduate degree programmes are delivered exclusively in Spanish. A growing number of master's programmes offer full or partial English-language instruction, but if you are applying for an undergraduate degree, you must have genuine B2 Spanish proficiency — and C1 for competitive programmes. Do not expect to complete a Spanish-taught degree without strong Spanish.
Does UAM require SAT, ACT, or A-Level scores?
UAM's test policy is test-blind for SAT/ACT purposes — these scores are not used. What matters is your UNEDasiss credential evaluation, which converts your IB Diploma, national baccalaureate, or A-Level results into a Spanish admission score. You can then optionally sit UNEDasiss Specific Competency Tests (PCE) to boost that score.
Yes. IB Diploma holders apply via UNEDasiss just like other international students. Your IB total score (and individual subject grades) is converted into a nota de acceso. A score of 31 or above is UAM's stated benchmark; top programmes will need higher competition-dependent scores. Strong HL grades in subjects relevant to your programme matter most.
A minimum of B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is required for admission. This can be evidenced via a DELE B2 certificate, a SIELE result, an Official Language School diploma, or a public university language centre certificate. UAM strongly recommends C1 for academically demanding programmes like Law, Medicine, or Physics.
How much does it cost to study at UAM as an international student?
Annual tuition is approximately $7,000 USD. Total cost of attendance (tuition plus living expenses) is approximately $21,000 USD per year, with estimated cost of living of around $13,500 USD — Madrid is significantly more affordable than London or Paris for students. Note: non-EU international students may pay a different fee scale; verify current public pricing with UAM's Secretariat.
Are there scholarships for international students at UAM?
Yes. UAM partners with the Carolina Foundation (Spain-Latin America scholarships), the Fulbright Commission (US-Spain), the Spanish Government's MAEC AECID scholarships, and the UAM-Banco Santander (CEAL) programme. Each has its own eligibility and application process; most must be applied for independently through the funding body's portal, not through UAM directly.
EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU students must apply for a long-term student visa (Visado de Estudios, type D) from the Spanish consulate in their home country before travelling to Spain. Once in Spain, you will need to apply for a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) residence card. UAM's SERIM International Welcome Office (oficina.acogida@uam.es) assists with this process.
Where is the UAM campus and how do I get there?
The main Cantoblanco campus is in the northwest of Madrid's metropolitan area, at C/Einstein 7, 28049 Madrid. It is accessible via Cercanías commuter rail (line C-4, Cantoblanco station) in about 20 minutes from Nuevos Ministerios, or by bus. The campus has on-site cafeterias, a sports complex, and student residences (Colegios Mayores).
UAM is a research-intensive public university where academic standards are set by national regulation and enforced through competitive numerus clausus (place limits) in every degree programme. International students must arrive with strong secondary school results in their home system, a clear plan for credential evaluation through UNEDasiss, and — critically — the Spanish language proficiency to engage with degree content from day one.
Most UAM degree programmes follow the Bologna Process structure (3–4 year Grado + 1–2 year Máster). Teaching is conducted through lectures, seminars, practical laboratory sessions, and assessed via written examinations, coursework, and mandatory practicum placements in professional programmes like Medicine, Psychology, and Education. Academic culture values rigour and independent study; contact hours are lower than in the UK or US, with a significant expected workload from self-directed reading and exam preparation.
UAM's score-based admission means your UNEDasiss accreditation and any PCE supplementary scores determine access. There are no SAT/ACT requirements.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/sistemas-educativos-extranjeros
UAM is test-blind with respect to SAT and ACT. These scores play no role in undergraduate admission. Instead, UAM uses Spain's UNEDasiss credential evaluation system, which creates a nota de acceso from your secondary school qualification. Separately, UAM offers optional UNEDasiss Specific Competency Tests (PCE exams) that can add up to 4 points to your admission score.
No. UAM's undergraduate admissions are test-blind with respect to SAT and ACT. Submit your secondary school results through UNEDasiss instead.
PCE (Pruebas de Competencias Específicas) are optional subject exams administered by UNED that international applicants can take to increase their nota de admisión by up to 4 points. They are typically held in May-June and can be taken in person in Spain or at some Spanish consulates abroad.
Are graduate/master's programmes different?
Yes. Master's programme admissions at UAM are handled directly by each faculty and may include a CV review, motivation letter, and academic record assessment. Some English-taught master's programmes also require TOEFL or IELTS — verify directly with the specific master's programme.
How UNEDasiss Works for IB & International Students
UNEDasiss (the credential evaluation arm of Spain's UNED) is the gateway through which all international applicants convert their foreign qualifications into a Spanish university admission score.
Create an account on the UNEDasiss portal and submit your secondary school qualification documentation. For IB students: submit your predicted scores early and official scores once received. Pay the processing fee.
Receive Your Nota de Acceso (Access Score)
UNEDasiss converts your qualification into a nota de acceso out of 10. For IB Diploma holders, your total score and subject grades determine this. An IB total of 31 typically maps to approximately 6 out of 10 on the Spanish scale — competitive enough for many programmes but not for Medicine or Law.
To improve your admission score, sit PCE exams in subjects relevant to your target programme. UAM and the broader Spanish admissions system reward strong PCE performance in science/maths subjects for STEM applications, and humanities/social science subjects for Law and Economics.
Your final admission score = nota de acceso + the weighted improvement from PCEs. The maximum possible score is 14 out of 14. Most competitive UAM programmes — Medicine, Law, Psychology — have cut-off scores that change each year based on competition.
Using your UNEDasiss accreditation, apply for admission to UAM through the university's online pre-registration portal. Rank your preferred programmes in order. Admission is allocated in order of nota de admisión within each programme's quota.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/sistemas-educativos-extranjeros
IB Diploma holders are explicitly recognised by UNEDasiss as eligible for direct credential conversion, without needing to homologate their qualification separately.
For IB students: UNEDasiss evaluates your IB Diploma total score, your Higher Level (HL) subject grades, and your Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay results. A total IB score of 31 is UAM's benchmark starting point; scores of 35 and above place you in a strong competitive position for most programmes. An IB score of 38+ is typically required for Medicine, where competition for places is intense.
A-Level students from UK or international schools with A-Level qualifications also apply via UNEDasiss with the same general process. Strong A/A* grades translate favourably. Advanced Placement (AP) exams can contribute to your UNEDasiss score if they form part of a recognised high school qualification — verify applicability with UNEDasiss directly.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/sistemas-educativos-extranjeros
Spain's most prestigious law faculty. Prioritise strong performance in History, Geography, and Spanish Literature in your secondary years. Excellent analytical writing in Spanish is essential. Consider sitting History and Spanish Literature PCEs to boost your admission score.
Admission to Medicine is the most competitive in the Spanish university system. A high IB score (aim for 38+) with strong HL Biology and Chemistry is essential. PCEs in Biology and Chemistry are strongly recommended. Language: Spanish C1 is effectively the minimum for clinical placements.
UAM's sciences are research-intensive with CSIC laboratories on campus. IB HL Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretation at the highest tier), HL Physics and HL Chemistry are the ideal preparation. PCEs in Mathematics and your primary science subject strengthen your application significantly.
Biology and biotechnology are among UAM's strongest programmes internationally. IB HL Biology and Chemistry, with strong lab report skills, are the ideal preparation. UAM's bioscience students have direct access to CSIC research groups from early undergraduate years.
UAM's Economics faculty benefits from proximity to Madrid's financial hub. IB HL Economics and Mathematics (AA or AI) are the recommended preparation. The degree is taught entirely in Spanish; professional Spanish is essential to enter the Madrid finance and consulting market.
Psychology at UAM is among Spain's most selective undergraduate programmes. Strong IB Biology and Maths preparation helps. The programme is scientifically rigorous with mandatory practicum hours in clinical settings. Spanish must be at C1 level for clinical placement requirements.
UAM's primary language requirement for international students is Spanish — not English. Most undergraduate degree programmes are delivered entirely in Spanish, and admission to degree-track study requires demonstrated B2 CEFR Spanish proficiency.
Official Spanish certificates accepted by UAM for undergraduate admission include: DELE (Instituto Cervantes), SIELE, an Official Language School (Escuela Oficial de Idiomas) Diploma of B2 or above, or a public university language centre certificate. If your first language is Spanish, no certificate is required.
For English-language master's programmes (primarily at postgraduate level), each individual programme sets its own IELTS or TOEFL requirement. UAM's facts file does not list university-wide IELTS or TOEFL minimums because no such universal requirement exists at undergraduate level — the language gate is Spanish. Verify specific English requirements with your target master's programme faculty.
Required for non-Spanish-speaking undergraduate applicants
Required only for English-taught master's programmes; no university-wide minimum
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/sistemas-educativos-extranjeros
If you plan to study at a Spanish university, begin serious Spanish language study now. Enrol in a DELE preparation course if your school does not offer Spanish. Spanish at B2 takes most English-native speakers 600–800 hours of structured study — start early.
Grade 10 — Choose the Right IB/A-Level Subjects
Select Higher Level (HL) subjects aligned with your intended UAM programme. Medicine: Biology, Chemistry, Maths. Law: History, Spanish Language and Literature. Physics/Maths: Maths AA HL, Physics HL. Choose subjects where you can genuinely excel — your HL grades drive your UNEDasiss score.
Investigate which UNEDasiss PCE subjects are weighted for your target UAM programme. Most science and health programmes value Biology, Chemistry, and Maths PCEs. Law values Spanish Language, History, and Latin. Plan which PCEs you will sit in Year 12.
Grade 12 — Achieve DELE B2 and Register with UNEDasiss
Sit your DELE B2 (or SIELE) exam by October-November of your final year to meet the UAM language requirement. Register with UNEDasiss in January-February and plan PCE exam registration for May-June. Submit your UAM application in June with your UNEDasiss accreditation number.
Common Mistakes International Students Make
Underestimating Spanish language requirements — B2 is the admission floor, not the level needed to succeed academically.
Leaving UNEDasiss accreditation too late — the process takes weeks and must be completed before the June application window opens.
Not sitting PCE exams — missing the opportunity to add up to 4 points to your admission score is a significant strategic error for competitive programmes.
Applying for Medicine with a weak IB score — Medicine is Spain's most competitive programme; without a score of 38+ and strong PCE performance, the cut-off is extremely difficult to reach.
Assuming all programmes have the same language requirement — even if UAM admits you to a degree, expect to complete all coursework, examinations, and a final thesis in Spanish.
Not verifying the current year's cut-off scores — UAM's nota de corte (cut-off score) for each programme is published annually and changes based on competition; last year's cut-off is a guide, not a guarantee.
Confusing undergraduate and master's admissions — undergraduate places use UNEDasiss scores; master's programmes are assessed by individual faculties and may have additional requirements including motivation letters, interviews, or portfolio submissions.
As a Spanish public university, UAM offers one of the most favourable cost profiles among QS top-220 institutions globally. Annual tuition of approximately $7,000 USD and total cost of attendance near $21,000 USD compares extremely favourably with research universities in the UK, Australia, or North America. However, cost structures differ significantly for EU and non-EU international students, and financial aid for international undergraduates is limited compared to US private universities.
Tuition at Spanish public universities is set by the Community of Madrid (the regional government) and differs by degree type, credit load, and student origin. EU students generally pay the lowest fees, similar to Spanish nationals. Non-EU international students pay a higher rate. The figures in this guide reflect the facts file estimate; verify the current year's official public pricing (tasas académicas) with UAM's academic secretariat before applying.
The following figures are annual estimates. All figures in USD (approximate conversions from EUR; exchange rates fluctuate).
Estimate; varies by programme and EU/non-EU status
Accommodation, food, transport, personal expenses in Madrid
UAM application fee estimate; UNEDasiss has separate processing fees
EU students: EHIC card. Non-EU students must take out private health insurance for visa.
Living costs in Madrid are significantly lower than London, Paris, or Zurich. Students in shared university-area accommodation (Barrio de Cantoblanco, Fuencarral, or Tetuan) typically spend €600–800/month on rent + utilities.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/futuros-estudiantes
UAM is a public university; institutional need-based aid for international students is limited and differs substantially from the US model. Aid is primarily distributed through external scholarship bodies rather than through UAM's own funds.
The average financial aid percentage at UAM is approximately 15% of costs — primarily reflecting need-based grants from Spain's Ministry of Education (Ministerio de Educación) for qualifying students, and government-backed price reduction programmes for academic excellence (beca de excelencia). Non-EU international students are generally not eligible for Spanish national ministry grants in the same way as resident students.
The most reliable routes to financial support as a non-EU international student are the external scholarships listed below. Apply early — many have deadlines 12–18 months before your study start date.
https://www.uam.es/uam/internacionalizacion
Scholarships for International Students at UAM
UAM partners with several prestigious scholarship programmes. Each must be applied for independently through the relevant body — not through UAM's admissions office.
The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) funds scholarships for students from developing countries to study master's and doctoral programmes in Spain. Covers tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. Highly competitive; apply via the AECID portal well in advance of the academic year.
The Fundación Carolina supports postgraduate and doctoral students from Latin America studying at prestigious Spanish universities including UAM. Multiple modalities including research stays and full master's scholarships. Applications typically open September–October for the following academic year.
The US–Spain Fulbright Commission administers grants for US students and researchers to study or conduct research in Spain. UAM is a recognised Fulbright host institution. Applications are submitted through the Fulbright US Student Program portal.
Through the CEAL (Campus of Excellence in Latin America) programme, UAM and Banco Santander offer mobility grants supporting exchange periods between UAM and partner universities in Latin America and beyond. Contact SERIM for current call details.
https://www.uam.es/uam/internacionalizacion
Excellence Scholarships (Beca Excelencia Madrid)
The Community of Madrid offers academic excellence grants to high-achieving students enrolled at Madrid's public universities. Eligibility criteria vary by year; international students resident in Spain may qualify. Verify current terms with UAM's Student Aid office.
https://www.comunidad.madrid/servicios/educacion/becas-ayudas-estudio
Net Cost Reality for International Students
For most non-EU international students without a scholarship, UAM's annual cost of around $21,000 USD is entirely self-funded. This is still substantially less than a comparable UK research university (which would cost $30,000–50,000+ USD including living) or a US private research university ($70,000–80,000+ USD). Spain's lower cost of living is a genuine material advantage.
EU and EEA students benefit from regulated tuition fees equivalent to Spanish nationals — typically €800–1,400 per academic year for undergraduate programmes (subject to credits and programme type). This makes UAM one of Europe's best-value research universities for EU passport holders. Non-EU students pay higher fees (typically €2,000–3,500+ for undergraduates in some programme categories), but even at the upper end, UAM remains extremely affordable by international standards.
Students can significantly reduce costs by sharing accommodation in Cantoblanco or nearby northern Madrid neighbourhoods (Hortaleza, Fuencarral), using the university canteen (UAM's menú del día is typically €4–6), and taking advantage of the student cultural and sports facilities included in fees.
Research Scholarship Eligibility (18+ months before enrolment)
Identify which external scholarships you are eligible for based on your nationality, degree level (undergraduate vs. postgraduate), and field of study. MAEC-AECID and Carolina Foundation awards are primarily for postgraduate students. Start gathering documents early.
Apply to MAEC-AECID / Carolina Foundation (12 months before)
These competitive scholarships have early deadlines. Submit applications through the official portals — aecid.es for government scholarships, fundacioncarolina.es for Carolina. Prepare a strong motivation letter and academic record.
Apply to the Fulbright Programme (if US national)
US students should apply through the Institute of International Education (IIE) Fulbright US Student Program. Campus Fulbright advisors at US universities can guide the application process.
Contact SERIM at UAM for Current Mobility Grant Calls
UAM's SERIM office publishes calls for mobility grants (CEAL, CIVIS, Erasmus+ for incoming students) through the academic year. Monitor their website and contact them at oficina.acogida@uam.es for current funding opportunities.
Explore the Community of Madrid Excellence Grants
Once enrolled, high-achieving students can apply for Community of Madrid academic excellence scholarships. These are applied for after arrival and are based on first-year academic results.
Is UAM need-blind for international students?
No. UAM is a Spanish public university and does not practise US-style need-blind admissions. Admission is based solely on your nota de admisión score, not financial need. However, once admitted, some students may access financial aid through external scholarship programmes or Spanish government grants.
Do EU and non-EU students pay the same tuition?
No. EU/EEA students generally pay the same regulated public fee rate as Spanish nationals (very low). Non-EU international students pay a higher rate, determined by the Community of Madrid each academic year. Verify current fees with UAM's academic secretariat.
Yes. UAM has Colegios Mayores (university residences) on the Cantoblanco campus. Demand typically exceeds supply, so apply as early as possible. The International Welcome Office (SERIM) can provide guidance on campus and off-campus accommodation options.
Can I work while studying in Spain on a student visa?
Non-EU students on a student visa are generally permitted to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week during term time, full-time during official vacation periods) in Spain, subject to the conditions of their visa. EU students face no work restrictions.
Are there any zero-tuition options at UAM?
Spain does not have a zero-tuition model for international (non-EU) undergraduates in the way that some Nordic countries do. However, tuition fees are among the lowest of any top-200 university globally, and scholarships such as MAEC-AECID can cover full costs for eligible postgraduate applicants.
UAM is a Spanish public university that does not use a US-style essay-driven admissions system. There is no personal statement, Common App essay, or supplemental writing prompts required for undergraduate admission. Admission is determined by your nota de admisión score from UNEDasiss, not by written essays. This guide explains what written communication IS required in the Spanish system, where a motivation letter matters (postgraduate programmes), and how to present yourself strategically within that framework.
If you are applying for a MASTER'S PROGRAMME at UAM, a motivation letter is typically required by the faculty. Scroll to the relevant section below for postgraduate application guidance.
Spain uses a score-based university admission system regulated by national and regional (Community of Madrid) law. Undergraduate admission requires NO personal statement, NO supplemental essays, and NO extracurricular portfolio. The decisive document is your UNEDasiss accreditation number with your nota de admisión.
Admission is determined solely by your nota de admisión (a score out of 14 derived from your secondary school results via UNEDasiss and any PCE exams). No personal statement, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, or motivational essays are required or accepted. Focus entirely on maximising your score.
Postgraduate programmes at UAM are assessed by each faculty's admissions committee and typically require a curriculum vitae (CV), academic transcripts, and a motivation letter (carta de motivación). Some competitive master's programmes may also require a research proposal or a telephone/video interview. Requirements vary — check the specific programme page.
PhD applications at UAM require a research proposal, CV, two letters of recommendation, and a confirmed supervisor (director de tesis). The ability to articulate a clear, original research question in both Spanish and (for STEM fields) English is critical.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/futuros-estudiantes
For master's and doctoral programmes, the motivation letter (carta de motivación) is the primary written statement UAM faculties evaluate. There is no standardised prompt — you write an open letter to the admissions committee of your target programme. The letter is typically 400–800 words and should be written in Spanish (or English for English-taught master's).
Carta de Motivación — Postgraduate Application
No standardised prompt exists. The motivation letter is an open statement addressed to the admissions committee of your target UAM master's or doctoral programme. Verify the current specific requirements and any word limit directly with your target faculty's academic secretariat.
Structure your motivation letter around four elements: (1) Why this specific UAM programme — be concrete about the curriculum, research groups, or faculty you want to work with; vague praise of 'UAM's prestige' reads as generic. (2) Your academic background and how it directly prepares you for this programme — highlight relevant subjects, thesis work, or research experience. (3) Your professional or research goals and why this master's is the right next step — Spanish employers and doctoral supervisors want to see a coherent narrative. (4) Any distinctive experience — fieldwork, publications, language skills, or international background — that would enrich the cohort. Write in clean, professional Spanish if the programme is Spanish-taught. If applying to an English-medium programme, write in formal English.
https://www.uam.es/uam/estudios/futuros-estudiantes
Undergraduate Application: No Personal Statement Needed
International students applying to UAM undergraduate programmes should redirect the time they might spend on essays toward maximising their admission score through UNEDasiss and PCE preparation.
The most impactful things you can do for your UAM undergraduate application are: (1) earn the highest possible grades in your IB, A-Level, or national baccalaureate qualification; (2) complete UNEDasiss accreditation early and accurately; (3) identify and prepare for the right PCE subjects to boost your nota de admisión; and (4) achieve a B2 (or higher) Spanish certificate before the application deadline. None of these require written essays.
Some external scholarship applications (MAEC-AECID, Carolina Foundation) for UAM study DO require motivation letters and personal statements — but these are scholarship applications, not UAM admissions documents. If you are applying for a scholarship, the quality of your written statement can be decisive: write specifically, concretely, and compellingly about why this programme at UAM serves your research or professional ambitions.
Your official secondary school transcripts must be certified (apostilled) and accompanied by a Spanish-language sworn translation if they are not in Spanish or English. Start this process early — apostille and translation takes time and may require dealing with your home country's education ministry.
This is your primary admission credential. Once UNEDasiss issues your accreditation, you receive a reference number that you enter in UAM's application portal. Keep a digital and physical copy of all UNEDasiss correspondence.
DELE B2 or equivalent must be submitted as part of your admission file for non-native Spanish speakers. Sit your DELE exam in November of your final secondary year to have results by the June application window. The SIELE exam is also accepted and can be taken online.
Prepare a clear, certified copy of your passport. Non-EU students will also need to prepare documents for the Spanish student visa application (Visado de Estudios) at the Spanish consulate in their country — including proof of enrolment, financial means, accommodation, and health insurance.
CV (for Master's & Scholarship Applications)
For postgraduate and scholarship applications, prepare a comprehensive academic CV in the Europass format (widely used in Spain and the EU). Include academic results, relevant work or research experience, publications (if any), language competencies (list CEFR levels), and any awards or distinctions.
Writing Strong Statements for UAM Scholarships
While undergraduate admission requires no essays, applying for the MAEC-AECID, Carolina Foundation, or Fulbright scholarships that support study at UAM does require carefully crafted written statements. These are among the most competitive scholarship applications in the Spanish-speaking world.
The strongest scholarship statements for UAM-linked awards share specific characteristics: they name the exact UAM programme and explain why it is the only place in the world where the applicant's specific research or professional goal can be achieved. They connect past experience to future ambition in a concrete chain — not 'I have always loved science' but 'my undergraduate thesis on X revealed a gap in Y, which UAM's Z research group is uniquely positioned to help me address'. They demonstrate genuine engagement with Spain or Latin America where applicable.
Avoid generic statements about 'prestigious universities' or 'Spain's academic environment'. Scholarship committees read hundreds of such statements; specificity about UAM's curriculum, research groups, and your concrete goals is what distinguishes successful applicants.
Preparing a personal statement for UAM undergraduate admission — none is required; time is better invested in PCE preparation and improving your UNEDasiss score.
Submitting UNEDasiss documents without official apostille and certified Spanish translation — uncertified documents are rejected.
Applying without verified B2 Spanish — if you cannot demonstrate language proficiency by the deadline, your application is invalid regardless of your academic score.
Writing a motivation letter for a master's that praises 'UAM's prestige' without naming specific professors, research groups, or programme modules — this signals you have not researched the programme.
Waiting until after IB results to start UNEDasiss registration — the process accepts predicted scores and should be started in January-February, not after results are published in July.
Assuming the cut-off score from last year will apply — UAM's nota de corte for each programme changes annually based on the number and strength of applicants in the quota. Use it as a guide only.
Ignoring the extraordinary convocation in September — if you missed the June window or fell just below the cut-off, the September extraordinary session offers a second chance for remaining vacant places.
Does UAM require a personal statement for undergraduate admission?
No. UAM undergraduate admission is entirely score-based through UNEDasiss. No personal statement, cover letter, recommendation letter, or essay is required or considered at the undergraduate level.
Do I need letters of recommendation for UAM undergraduate admission?
No letters of recommendation are required for undergraduate admission. For master's and doctoral programmes, some faculties may request academic references — check the specific programme requirements.
What is the most important document in my UAM undergraduate application?
Your UNEDasiss accreditation with your nota de admisión is the decisive document. Everything else — passport, language certificate, transcripts — is administrative. Maximise your admission score, and the rest of the paperwork follows.
Can I write my master's motivation letter in English?
For Spanish-taught master's programmes, write in professional Spanish. For English-taught master's programmes, write in English. For bilingual programmes, check with the specific faculty. Using the wrong language signals poor research of the programme.
How important is the motivation letter for UAM master's programmes?
It varies by programme. For highly competitive master's programmes in Law, Psychology, or Medicine, the motivation letter is read carefully alongside your academic record. For less oversubscribed programmes, academic grades alone may be sufficient. When in doubt, write the strongest possible motivation letter.
Where can I get official information about the current year's application documents?
Always verify the current requirements directly on the UAM admissions pages (uam.es) and the UNEDasiss portal (uned.es/uned-asiss). Requirements are updated annually. You can also contact UAM's admissions team at informacion.admision.grado@uam.es.
Is there an interview for UAM undergraduate admission?
No interviews are conducted for standard UAM undergraduate admission — admission is entirely score-based. Some highly specialised programmes or dual-degree tracks may have additional selection criteria, but this is the exception rather than the rule.
What should I do if I miss the June application deadline?
Apply in the extraordinary convocation (convocatoria extraordinaria), which opens in late July for remaining vacant places. Results are published in early September. This is a genuine second chance, but places are limited to whatever is unfilled after the ordinary process.