Overview
The Complutense University of Madrid (Universidad Complutense de Madrid, UCM) is one of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious public universities, with a legacy that stretches back to the 13th century. Today, it operates as a major research university headquartered in Madrid, formally established in its modern structure in 1822 and widely recognized for its academic depth, international outlook, and influential research.
UCM offers a broad range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, enrolling students from across Spain and around the world. The university is known for strengthening students’ critical thinking and preparing graduates for research, public service, and industry—supported by extensive libraries, specialist institutes, and collaborations across disciplines.
2. General Information
| Name | Complutense University of Madrid (Universidad Complutense de Madrid) |
| Established | Founded in 1293, reestablished in modern form in 1822 |
| Type | Public Research University |
| Location | Madrid, Spain |
| Main Campus | Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid |
| Student Population | Over 86,000 students |
| Rector | Dr. Joaquín Goyache |
| Website | UCM official website |
3. Fee Structure
| EU Students | Approx. €800 – €2,000 per year |
| Non-EU International Students | Approx. €1,500 – €3,500 per year |
| Doctoral Programs | From €400 per year (varies by field) |
4. Complutense University of Madrid Academic Programs
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Medicine
- Faculty of Philosophy and Letters
- Faculty of Political Science and Sociology
- Faculty of Economics and Business
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Psychology
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Communication
- Faculty of Fine Arts
If you’re comparing universities in Madrid, it can help to review other major public options like the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, alongside UCM’s specialized faculties and research-focused institutes.
5. Facilities
UCM has a large, historic campus with facilities designed for research, teaching, and everyday student life. The university’s learning environment is supported by academic resources, modern teaching spaces, and on-campus services.
- Extensive library system with millions of volumes
- Research institutes and laboratories
- Computer labs and digital classrooms
- Sports centers, gyms, and athletic fields
- Student centers, cafes, and social hubs
For students who want to contrast campus life and academic offerings across Spain, you may also find it useful to compare with programs at the University of Granada, another long-established public university with a strong research culture.
6. Accommodation
- Student residence halls (Colegio Mayor Universitario)
- University-managed apartments and shared housing
- Support for private rentals in Madrid
- International student housing assistance
Accommodation demand can vary by semester and faculty, so it’s wise to start planning early—especially if you’re arranging an international move to Madrid. If you’re exploring other Spanish cities, consider reviewing housing options and campus structure on related guides such as University of Córdoba.
7. Contact Information
- Address: Av. Séneca, 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Phone: +34 914 520 400
- Website: UCM official website
More Universities in Spain
- University of Barcelona
- Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
- Autonomous University of Barcelona
- Pompeu Fabra University
- University of Granada
- Polytechnic University of Catalonia
- University of Valencia
- University of Córdoba
- Universidad CEU San Pablo
- Comillas Pontifical University
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