Details

• Spain
• MAWiRe-21
• Graduate
• SoSe 2026
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months

1. Preparation

Contact the students who were there or are there the semester before you to get tips on rooms or apartments. You might be able to take over their room, or they might know of another room in the same apartment that’s becoming available. I traveled there and back by plane. It definitely wouldn't hurt to take a Spanish course beforehand...

2. Accommodation

As mentioned earlier, definitely also ask your fellow students. The university in Madrid also sends out an email with helpful websites, and there’s an online meeting before the start of the semester where they’ll offer more tips on this. A central location is definitely a big plus, since everything is within walking distance. The neighborhoods of Sol, Opera, Malasana, and Chamberí, for example, are highly recommended. I also felt very safe during my semester there.

3. Academic life at host university

In general very similar to WU. Courses also require attendance (80%), and most include midterm and final exams as well as in-class participation. Some also require presentations. The law school campus is very central and beautiful! So all in all a great university! I was very satisfied with all the courses. I can especially recommend Comparative Constitutional Law and Sports Law.

5. Every day life in the host country

Madrid has excellent public transport, with metro, buses and trains making it easy to get around. I would say I felt safe in the city, but you should definitely watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas and the metro. There are many leisure activities, events, restaurants and huge nightlife options. Sports options are also widely available, including gyms, football, running and padel.

6. Testimonial

My exchange semester in Madrid was a very special experience because I got to meet so many great new people from different countries and continents. I especially enjoyed the Spanish lifestyle and the opportunity to improve my language skills (English and Spanish). Overall, it was an unforgettable time that helped me grow, espacially personally.