Lately, we’ve seen a growing number of posts in the forums asking about study programs, and some of you are curious about dentistry in Spain. It’s indeed one of Spain’s most sought-after professions, offering both high social standing and a respectable income after graduation. However, the first step to becoming a dentist in Spain is choosing the right university. Today, I’m sharing a breakdown of the university rankings for dentistry to help those in need.
When it comes to rankings, one of the most authoritative references in Spain is the “50 Carreras” ranking published annually by the newspaper El Mundo. This ranking is highly respected locally as it considers not just academic reputation but also factors like faculty, curriculum, and facilities, making it a very reliable guide for choosing a university. Let’s use this as a basis to see which schools have the top dentistry programs.
Top University Rankings for Dentistry in Spain (2023 Highlights)
Based on recent comprehensive data, several top universities have consistently shown strong performance in their dentistry programs. Among public universities, the Complutense University of Madrid has long dominated the top spot, while on the private side, several elite universities are in fierce competition. I’ve compiled a simple table for a clear overview:
| Rank | University Name | Type | City |
| 1 | Universidad Complutense de Madrid | Public | Madrid |
| 2 | Universitat Internacional de Catalunya | Private | Barcelona |
| 3 | Universidad de Granada | Public | Granada |
| 4 | Universidad de Santiago de Compostela | Public | Santiago de Compostela |
| 5 | Universidad Europea de Madrid | Private | Madrid |
As you can see, the top-ranked institutions include both public and private universities. So, what’s the difference between them? To put it simply: Public universities have lower tuition fees, but the admission standards are extremely high and competitive, with limited spots for international students. In contrast, private universities are more expensive but offer a more flexible application process, often with more lenient language and grade requirements, and typically better facilities and services. The choice really depends on your academic record and budget.

Finally, a quick note: university rankings are just a reference, not set in stone. When choosing a school, you should also consider personal factors. For example, do you prefer a bustling big city or a quiet historic town? Do you plan to stay in Spain after graduation or return to your home country? These factors will influence your decision. For instance, while the University of Granada ranks high, the cost of living there is much lower than in Madrid or Barcelona. I strongly recommend visiting the official university websites to check their curriculum and connecting with current students to get firsthand information. That’s the best way to make an informed choice!
Are you interested in the dentistry programs at other universities? Or perhaps you want to learn about other rankings, such as the global rankings of Spanish technology universities? Feel free to join the discussion in the comments below!