Details

• Spain
• BBE-18
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 3 months

1. Preparation

All important information regarding the exchange semester and the partner universities is available on WU’s website. In addition, the International Office offers information sessions where students can get answers to all their questions about the application process and the exchange itself. It is also a good idea to spend some time exploring the websites of the host universities. Looking into the available courses, academic requirements, and student life gives you a better feeling for what to expect and helps you decide which destination suits you best.

2. Accommodation

As expected, it was extremely hard to find accommodation in Barcelona. I was looking for a place to stay on several websites (HousingAnywhere, Idealista, Spotahome, Uniplaces), and I got really lucky because I found an apartment after two weeks. I recommend searching intensively 1–2 months before your stay and applying to as many apartments as possible, as well as getting in touch with as many landlords as you can, because very often you do not receive an answer. If possible, try to talk to the landlord via video call and ask them to show you the apartment. Be aware of scams and make sure that the apartment is real and that the contract is signed at the same time you send the deposit. I rented a private apartment with two friends of mine who were also spending their exchange semester in Barcelona. It was located in the city center (a 5-minute walk from the Cathedral and a 10-minute walk from Plaza Catalunya). The neighborhood is said to be not very safe, but fortunately I did not have any inconveniences. The location was great, as everything important was within walking distance (grocery shops, my university, the old town, restaurants, and the beach was also relatively close).

3. Academic life at host university

I enjoyed the academic culture at UPF, the course structures were similar to those at WU, they included both theoretical and practical parts (presentations, group works). The teaching style was also similar to WU, however, a little more informal. Both local students and the professors were very helpful and open towards exchange students.

5. Every day life in the host country

The public transport is well-built, and it is easy to get around, even at night (there are a lot of night buses as well, they are faster than during the day and come on time — which cannot be said about buses during the day). During my stay, I did not experience any unsafe situations; of course, you should be aware of pickpockets and look after your belongings. The social life in Barcelona is amazing, people love to go out and truly use the streets, restaurant terraces, and the beach as their second living room. People play volleyball on the beach every afternoon (I recommend joining a group, they are always really kind and welcoming), and you can see people running from 6 a.m. until midnight.

6. Testimonial

What made my exchange special is the city: I explored all of Barcelona and truly enjoyed my endless days. I especially loved the beach, where I spent a lot of time, and playing volleyball there became one of my favorite activities.