The Madrid Science program provides undergraduate students the opportunity to complete science coursework at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and Spanish and cultural studies at the Instituto Internacional during the fall term only. The program design allows students to take courses that fit neatly into their curricula and requirements. In addition to coursework, students participate in program field trips both within Madrid and to other destinations in Spain. There is no prior language requirement. Spanish language courses are available in all levels. During their time in Spain, all students will have the unique opportunity of experiencing life in a Spanish homestay.
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.
- No prior language study is required
- Students must have completed the prerequisite requirements for CAS CH 203 and CAS BI 203
- Admissions requirements for all programs
Curriculum
All students enroll in four courses for a total of 16 units during their time in Madrid.
Students must enroll in a required Spanish language or content course, depending on students’ proficiency. Students may then take three science courses at the UAM, all taught in English, or they make take two science courses and one elective course at the Instituto. Electives are taught in both Spanish and English.
Housing & Student Services
Local Homestay
- Individual bedrooms in local family home. Each room has a bed, a desk, and some storage space. Linens are provided and washed regularly. Kitchen access is not guaranteed. Students will have the ability to reheat food.
- Board included: All meals (3 meals per day/ 7 days per week) will be provided by the host family. A packed lunch will be provided by the host family if the student is unable to commute home for lunch.
- Students may eat at the dining hall.
- Host families provide laundry, internet.
- Gyms at the university and in town, but may be expensive.
- Students can study at the Instituto or the Autónoma. Many students study at home, as university libraries have more restricted hours than in the US.
Program Dates
This program follows rolling admissions and may fill before the official deadline.
Fall Term
Program Dates
Early September to Mid December
Fall Term
Applications Open
December 15
Fall Term
Application Deadline
March 15
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.
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