FAQS

What’s the difference between exchange and visiting students?

Exchange students are nominated through their universities (UPF partners) while visiting students apply themselves. In both cases, students will stay at the university temporary, one, two or three terms (depending on the agreement or on the Faculty’s decision, for visiting students)  

I’m a visiting student. When do I have to pay for the modules, procedures, etc?

You will be required to pay right after the online enrolment (in July, for students starting on September; in November for students coming from January on) ). Once at UPF, you will have to pay for the new credits or modules, in case you have added any.

What are the term dates for this/next academic year?

You can check our academic calendar here.

Do I need a language certificate?

Only those students with internships at the Faculty of Medicine will be required to submit at least a B1 certificate of spanish. Students attending the rest of the Faculties won’t have to submit a language certificate, but we strongly recommend to have at least a B2 level of English or Spanish.

What kind of support do you offer for students with a disability?

The UPF Inclusion Office ([email protected]) is the department responsible for the care and support of students with disabilities and special educational needs. 

Does UPF offer accommodation to international students?

While UPF itself does not directly provide accommodation for students, the university collaborates with various student halls to ensure that suitable housing options are available. These halls are often managed independently but work closely with the university to accommodate the needs of our students. You can find some recommendations here.

I have an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) will it suffice as a medical insurance?

No, it won’t suffice. You must provide an additional insurance explicitly covering accidents and repatriation. This document must be issued either in English or Spanish.

Will I receive an acceptance letter, once I submit my online application?

After validating applications, students will receive an electronic letter of acceptance.

How many credits can I enrol?

The maximum study load is 20 credits per term. Even that, you will be able to enrol less credits if you need.

Can I register to courses taught in other Faculties?

No, you can only enroll in subjects from the Faculty or Faculties that you have been accepted. In case of being admitted to a Master programm, you will only be able to enroll in subjects of the master that you have been accepted.

When a course is informed to be taught in one language (in English, for example), can it finally be taught in another language (for example, in Spanish)?

No. Due to the Plan of action for Multilingualism at UPF the language of teaching for each subject is announced in advance. In this way, we can guarantee courses in Catalan, Spanish or English.

Will I be able to make changes in my enrollment?

Yes, you will be able to add or drop courses and to change groups as well (if spots are available) during the Add&Drop days. This takes place at the beginning of each term.

I have exams at my university and will arrive when classes have already started. Is that a problem?

Although it is compulsory to attend the welcome session held at the beginning of each term, you can join us within the two first weeks of class. If you'll be arriving late, please let us know.

How do I get to the university?

All our campuses are located in well-connected areas in the heart of ​​Barcelona. You can get there by public transport using the metro, bus or tram. See the map for more details about how to get to each campus.

Will I have Wi-Fi access?

Yes, you will be provided with Wi-Fi access around campus through Eduroam.

Will I have full access to the library and its facilities?

Exchange students have full access to the library and its facilities. Photocopying and computing facilities are also available for you to use.

Are there eating and drinking facilities on campus?

There are cafeterias on each campus. Additionally, vending machines are often scattered throughout the facilities for quick snacks and drinks. Beyond the campus, there are restaurants and cafes in the surrounding areas.

Is class attendance mandatory?

Yes, normally attendance is compulsory. The professor will confirm this in the syllabus of the subject and during the first class as well.

Does the university have any sports facilities?

UPF does not have its sports facilities but offer several activities that take place at the university itself. Moreover, UPF has agreements with several sport centers with advantages and discounts for students. Check it here!

Do I need to submit any documents before my departure?

You don’t need to hand us any document before you leave, but we will send you a Certificate of Attendance at the end of your stay. 

How do I inform my university about my grades?

Once you finish your stay and after the exams period, we will be sending an original transcript of records by email to you and your university.