Erasmus in Madrid - Basics for your academics

If you’re coming to Erasmus in Madrid, Spain then congratulations! You’re coming to one of the most amazing cities in Europe and certainly you will have a good time here.

So let’s keep it short and sweet:

1. Language Level:

Your Spanish level has to be good, at least a B2 in Spanish. Not a lot of people here in Madrid speak good English, going to the supermarket to buy food can be difficult if you don’t have at least a basic knowledge of Spanish.

Most universities don’t offer English classes at all or they are very limited, most paperwork at universities will be in Spanish (Apart from the Erasmus center where they speak English). So if you’re coming without having a good base of Spanish I recommend to take prior to your arrival an intensive Spanish Course. 

2. How does Spanish Universities work

Most universities in Madrid work in the same way. First a Bachelor here is 4 years, so if you’re doing your first year of master and your bachelor was two years you can take classes from the 4 year of the equivalent to your bachelor in your home country.

Classes are usually obligatory and the evaluation usually divides in 40% work during the year (Homework, essays, midterms) and 60% for your final exam.

Grades go from 1 to 10 being 5 the minimum to pass a class. The year is divided in two semesters usually starting from September to December and finals in January, and second semester from January to May exams at the end of June. In July you have the option to retake those exams you failed/didn’t went either in January/June. (This dates are usually the same but they can differ).

In my experience (being an Erasmus student and student in Madrid) is that here in Spain is especially hard to pass if you don’t attend your classes so I would recommend you to do so.

3. Be aware of deadlines

Pay attention to due dates and deadlines for paperwork at your matriculation to classes. You have to enroll at the beginning of the year to class which automatically enrolls you in the exam. If you miss the enroll dates you would not be able to attend to the exams even if you go to class.

4. Get to know your teachers

Classes are usually around 50 students or less, since we have a lot of teacher for the same class. So get to know your teachers, tell them you are an Erasmus student, most of them will be less hard on you and will help you is you need a hand. Teachers do take into account assistance and class participation, you going to class can make a difference in your final grade.

5. Enroll in Spanish courses

Most universities offer very cheap Spanish courses inside campus, if you want to improve your Spanish skills you should definitely enroll in the courses offered at university. They are usually on the afternoon and offer all levels.

Disclaimer: Pictures are not mine, owner linked.

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