BU’s Madrid programs offer the chance to study and live in one of the world’s most dynamic metropolises. All students have the unique opportunity to experience life in a Spanish homestay. The Madrid Engineering Program, offered spring term and designed for sophomores, gives students the opportunity to take technical and engineering courses through the Universidad Pontificia Comillas-ICAI. Classes are taught in English by Spanish faculty, and no prior language study is required.
Key Facts
Area of Study
Location
Home University
Program Structure
Internship Availability
Term
Coursework Level
BU Hub Offered
Housing
Language of Instruction
Requirements & Considerations
- All students must enroll according to, and remain in compliance with, the Boston University Study Abroad Course Load Policy.
- Must have completed five terms of college-level Spanish or the equivalent
- Must be a BU student
- Preference will be given to Engineering majors
- Admissions Requirements for all programs
Curriculum
The program consists of two courses taken at ICAI and a Spanish Language course and a Spanish Culture course taken at BU Madrid. Students enroll directly in ICAI and have access to its facilities and services.
Housing & Student Services
Local Homestay
- Our homestays provide the same basic services: each student will have their own room with a bed, desk, and storage space, and each family will provide bedding, towels, laundry service, and internet.
- Living spaces will be shared with the host family, and the bathroom may be shared
- All meals are provided (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the option of a packed lunch).
- Please note that use of the kitchen is not permitted.
- Homestays are located in safe, central neighborhoods throughout Madrid, all well connected by public transit to the Instituto, your university, and the rest of the city.
- Students can study at the Instituto or your university. Many students study at home, as university libraries have more restricted hours than the US.
Program Dates
Spring Term
Program Dates
Mid January to Early May
Spring Term
Applications Open
June 1*
Spring Term
Application Deadline
September 1
Some programs have limited space and may fill up before the deadline.
This program is rolling admissions; applications are reviewed once all application materials are received, prior to all deadlines. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all required materials are received by the BU Study Abroad office. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible as some programs and internship tracks have limited space and may fill up before the deadline. Submitting a complete application prior to the application deadline, does not guarantee acceptance. Students will be emailed an admissions decision within three weeks of a completed application.
Information for BU Students Awaiting an Admissions Decision and exceptions to the standard admission calendar for all students can be found here.
Please note: Non-U.S. citizens must contact BU Study Abroad prior to submitting an application.
Cost & Financial Considerations
- 2025/2026 Tuition and Fees: $42,284
Cost includes tuition, housing, partial board, program related activities, administrative fee, overseas medical insurance, and emergency evacuation coverage. - Estimated program budget, including cost of living expenses
- Grants and Scholarships available