University of Barcelona is a public research university located in the city of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
The history of the University of Barcelona (UB) dates back to 1450, when it was founded by King Alfonso V of Aragon. The university was initially located in the town of Lleida, but it was moved to Barcelona in 1497. The UB experienced a period of growth and prosperity in the 16th and 17th centuries. During this time, it was one of the leading universities in Spain and Europe. However, the university was closed by the Bourbon dynasty after the War of the Spanish Succession in 1714.
The UB was reopened in 1837, during the liberal revolution during the reign of Isabella II. The university experienced a period of renewal and expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this time, it became a major center for research and teaching in a variety of fields, including medicine, science, and the humanities. The UB was a center of opposition to the Franco regime during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). After the war, the university was suppressed and many of its faculty members were imprisoned or exiled. However, the UB began to recover in the 1960s and 1970s, and it has since become one of the leading universities in Spain and Europe.
The UB is also a global university, with students from over 150 countries around the world. The university offers a variety of international programs and opportunities, and is committed to promoting cultural diversity and understanding. The UB is located in the heart of Barcelona, one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. The university's campuses are integrated into the urban landscape, and students have easy access to all that the city has to offer, including its rich culture, history, and nightlife.
Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, University of Barcelona is positioned as the #165 top university in the world, which makes it the #2 top university in Spain. The university's global rank decreased by 1 point from last year.
University Profile
Get a quick snapshot of the university's key details.
2025 Ranking
#2
University Name
University of Barcelona
Name in Local Language
Universitat de Barcelona
Acronym
UB
Year Established
1450
Motto
Libertas Perfundet Omnia Luce
Motto in English
Freedom Spreads the Light Over Everyone
Location
The university is located in Barcelona, Cataluña. Find the address and map of the university below.
Address
Gran Via de Les Corts Catalanes, 585, Barcelona, Cataluña, Spain
Contact
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The following chart shows how the ranking of this university in Spain has changed over the last 5 years.
Admission Info
Prospective international students aiming to enroll at UB must meet specific academic qualifications pertinent to their desired program of study. The admission process typically involves submitting an application form, academic transcripts, and, in some cases, proof of language proficiency. Detailed information regarding admission criteria, procedures, and deadlines is available on the university's official website.
Accepts International Students
Yes
Scholarship and Financial Aids
University of Barcelona offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic pursuits. These opportunities are designed to assist both domestic and international students, promoting educational accessibility and excellence. For comprehensive details on available scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, prospective students are encouraged to consult the university's official website.
Related Articles
Stay informed with the following article related to the university or higher education in Spain.
Scholarships, grants, bursaries, loans, trust funds, fraternal organizations, religious organizations, and awards come from a lot of sources including colleges, institutions of learning, and State and Federal governments. Candidates must satisfy certain criteria, which include you ought to be at least 18 years old. Submit two academic/professional references. Show proof of Spanish knowledge, both beginner and advanced. [Read More]