Details

• Spain
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months

1. Preparation

For the preparation of my exchange semester, the first thing I did was to look at the courses offered by the university. This helped me decide which courses I would like to take and which ones I could have credited (“anerkennen lassen”) at WU. I would definitely recommend starting this process early, as finding suitable courses and getting them approved can take some time. In addition, I booked my accommodation. I did this relatively late, which made the process more stressful and limited my options. Therefore, I strongly advise future exchange students not to underestimate this step and to start looking for housing as early as possible. Finally, I also arranged my travel and booked a flight to Madrid well in advance. Planning these organizational aspects early on helped me feel more prepared and reduced last-minute stress before the start of my exchange semester.

2. Accommodation

Finding accommodation in Madrid can be both easy and challenging at the same time. There is a wide variety of options available, such as shared apartments (often with 8–15 rooms), student residences, or private apartments. Each option has its pros and cons depending on your budget and preferences. Personally, I mainly used Idealista to search for accommodation, which is one of the most popular housing platforms in Spain. In the end, I also found my apartment there. However, the process took quite a long time, so I would strongly recommend starting your search early. Especially if you are looking for something specific, it can take weeks or even months to find a suitable place. Another important factor is the price. Rent in Madrid is relatively high, particularly if you want to live in the city center. Despite the higher cost, I would highly recommend choosing a central location. Living in the city allows you to walk to many places, enjoy the social life, and fully experience Madrid. The Universidad Autónoma de Madrid is located outside the city center, where there are also student residences available. However, I would not recommend living there, as there is not much going on apart from the university itself. Most exchange students choose to live in the city, which makes it much easier to meet people, socialize, and enjoy your time abroad. Tips I wish I had known beforehand: Start looking for accommodation as early as possible Be prepared for high rental prices, especially in central areas Use trusted platforms and be careful of scams Consider living in the city rather than near the university for a better social experience

3. Academic life at host university

Academic life at the host university is quite different from what I was used to at WU Vienna. In many ways, it feels a bit more like school: students usually start their classes at similar times, and during breaks, everyone gathers outside the buildings. I personally found this atmosphere very nice, as it makes it easier to connect with others and creates a stronger sense of community. One important difference is the strong focus on attendance. In many courses, participation is mandatory, so it is essential to choose your courses carefully and make sure they fit your schedule and expectations. Overall, the quality of the courses is very good. I can especially recommend Professor JP Charon. I took International Marketing and Omnichannel Retailing with him, and he really makes the most out of his classes. His teaching style is engaging, interactive, and highly practical. Another course I would recommend is International Taxation. Although the title might not sound very exciting at first, it is actually a very interesting and relatively manageable course. On the other hand, I would advise being cautious with courses like International Economics and International Macroeconomics. These courses tend to be quite demanding and require a significant amount of work compared to others.

5. Every day life in the host country

Daily life in Madrid is very comfortable and enjoyable. Public transport is well organized, reliable, and easy to use. The Madrid Metro is especially convenient, as it connects almost all parts of the city and runs frequently. In addition to the metro, there are also many buses and suburban trains, which makes it easy to get around without needing a car. In terms of safety, Madrid is generally considered a safe city, especially compared to many other large European capitals. However, like in any big city, you should be careful with your belongings, particularly in crowded areas or on public transport, as pickpocketing can occur. Madrid offers a wide range of social and leisure activities. There is always something going on, from cultural events and festivals to nightlife and international meetups. Popular areas like Malasaña and Chueca are great for going out, meeting people, and experiencing the city’s vibrant atmosphere. For sports and outdoor activities, Madrid also has a lot to offer. Parks such as El Retiro Park are perfect for running, relaxing, or spending time with friends. Many universities also offer sports programs, and there are plenty of gyms and football fields across the city. Overall, Madrid provides an excellent balance between academic life and free time, making it a great place for an exchange semester.

6. Testimonial

It was honestly the best time of my life, and I would go back anytime. What made it so special was the combination of meeting amazing people from all over the world, living in a vibrant city like Madrid, and experiencing a completely new lifestyle. It was an unforgettable experience that helped me grow both personally and academically.