Lately, I’ve seen a lot of people on the forums asking about choosing a university for studying in Spain, especially in the Barcelona area. As an alumnus of the Autonomous University of Barcelona who studied at UAB, I’m starting this thread to share what it’s really like, hoping to offer some insights for prospective students. Hope this helps!
Unlike city-center universities like the University of Barcelona or Pompeu Fabra University, UAB is a typical campus-style university. The entire campus is located in Cerdanyola del Vallès, to the north of Barcelona. The environment is fantastic, with lots of green space, like a natural oasis. The university even has its own train station. Although it’s a bit far from the city center, it’s a convenient 30-40 minute FGC train ride to Plaça de Catalunya. For students who prefer a quiet study environment, this place is a paradise.
Academic Standing and Strong Suits of UAB
Academically, UAB ranks very highly, both in Spain and globally—it’s definitely not some obscure university! Its overall strength is impressive, and in certain fields, it’s considered top-tier in Spain. For example, its Faculty of Translation and Interpreting is one of the oldest in Europe and is highly renowned. Additionally, programs like Media Studies, Veterinary Medicine, Economics, and Environmental Science are also flagship programs. The university is highly international, so you’ll meet classmates from all over the world, creating a rich cross-cultural atmosphere.
Personal Take on Applying and Studying
To give you a clearer picture, I’ve made a simple table summarizing what I see as the pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Beautiful campus environment with modern, comprehensive facilities | Relatively remote location with a high time cost for commuting |
| High academic rankings and a strong international atmosphere | Fewer accommodation options compared to the city; on-campus housing is limited |
| Strong sense of community with abundant student activities | Nearby entertainment and dining options are not as convenient as in the city center |
| Offers a complete, self-contained university town experience | Might feel a bit dull for those who love the hustle and bustle of city life |
Choosing between UAB and other city-center universities really comes down to personal preference. If you like a quiet, independent, and scholarly campus environment and are passionate about your major, making UAB a top contender among the universities in Barcelona, it’s a fantastic choice. However, if you’re more drawn to the convenience and excitement of the city center, enjoying the ability to go shopping or visit exhibitions anytime, then you should carefully weigh the commuting time. Finally, feel free to ask any questions below! Whether it’s about applications, housing, or daily life, I’ll answer everything I know!
