How to get into the University of Navarra?

How to get into the University of Navarra – an overview

The University of Navarra is a private, highly-ranked Roman Catholic university, established in 1952, which currently teaches approximately 14,000 students, of whom 28 per cent are international. Although the main campus is in Pamplona, northern Spain, it also has campuses in Barcelona, Madrid, Sao Paolo, New York and Munich, where its graduate business school – IESE – operates. In addition, the engineering department is located in San Sebastian, while ISEM, the Fashion Business School, is based in Madrid. The University of Navarra runs a teaching hospital which treats over 100,000 patients every year, 17 institutes dedicated to research in the fields of science and humanities, and a number of centres which focus on applied medical research and society and culture.

Pamplona is an attractive city with a population of around 220,000, blessed with Gothic churches, ancient fortifications, parks, the lively Plaza del Castillo and a well-preserved medieval old town. The city is mainly pedestrianised and it is enjoyable to wander through its winding narrow streets, eating Basque tapas and Leche frita, or visit its twelve museums before shopping in Avenida de Carlos III, in preparation for a night on the town.

Animal lovers should make sure they avoid the Running of the Bulls Festival of San Fermin, which takes place between 6/7–14 July, and ends with the slaughter of 48 or more bulls every year.

How to get into the University of Navarra – choosing a course

Before you choose a course at the University of Navarra, make sure that you meet the general language requirements for studying in English (IELTS 6.5–7; TOEFL 85–100).

Interdisciplinary collaboration is the basis of the University of Navarra’s teaching methodology and it is possible to take double degrees. As is always the case, learning or knowing Spanish instantly opens up your options when deciding what to study. Nevertheless, you can take courses which are entirely taught in English – and their number is rising from year to year.

Bachelor’s courses typically run for four years, while master’s courses take 1–2 years to complete.

Bachelor’s taught in English

Among the most popular bachelor’s degrees taught in English at the University of Navarra you will find:

• Industrial and mechanical engineering design
• Anglo-American law
• History and journalism
• Human nutrition and dietetics
• Applied management
• Law and philosophy
• Early childhood education
• Data analytics
• Architecture – Urban Management
• Biology – International Science Program
• Marketing – Fashion

Masters taught in English

The most popular masters’ degrees taught entirely in English at the University of Navarra include:

• Global Executive MBA
• MBA
• Biomedical research
• History
• Sustainability
• Banking and Financial regulation
• Economics and Finance
• AI
• Fashion Business Administration

What is the acceptance rate at the University of Navarra?

The acceptance rate to the University of Navarra fluctuates from year to year but normally falls between 40 and 49 per cent.

How to get into the University of Navarra – the application process

Bachelor’s degrees

The University of Navarra has a holistic approach to candidates and combines academic school grades and scores, with the results of the entrance test all potential students have to sit – using a ratio of 60/40 respectively.

All the tests focus on logical thinking, spatial and verbal reasoning and subject-specific multiple-choice questions.

You will also be tested on your language aptitude and may be invited to interview.

You start the application process by registering on the miUNAV portal and filling in your personal details, then attaching: your grades; a breakdown of the subjects you have covered; a recommendation letter; a photocopy of your passport and a photograph; proof that you have paid the 100 euro processing fee.

Admissions open on 1 October and you should submit your application as early as possible, because you will need to apply for the UNED accreditation of your school qualifications, and confirmation that they meet the academic requirements to access university in your own country. Once you have received the certificate (Credencial de Acceso) from UNED, you send it on to the university through the miUNAV portal. Accreditations must be uploaded before 1 April.

Master’s degrees

Applications for Master’s degree programs open on 1 October and close once the course is full. You need to open an account on the miUNAV portal and attach and upload all the documents you are required to submit, including: a certificate of undergraduate studies; your degree certificate; your CV; a recommendation letter/s; passport-sized photo; photocopy of your passport; a payment of 100 euros which can be done via the portal using a credit or debit card.

Check the course outline on the University of Navarra website to determine whether you will need to sit an entrance test, and the dates when the tests are held. Every applicant for a Master’s will have to do an interview with one of the university’s board of academic directors.

You will receive notification on whether your application has been successful through the miUNAV portal.

What are the application deadlines at the University of Navarra?

These depend on the program. In general, undergraduate priority applications must be submitted by 1 February, and the final deadline is 1 April. Postgraduate courses have a priority deadline of 1 March, and a final deadline of 1 June. You are, however, encouraged to apply as soon as possible, and will be provisionally accepted if you are still waiting for your secondary school diploma or degree certificate.

How to get into the University of Navarra – what is the university looking for?

The founder of the University of Navarra, San Josemaria Escrivá de Balaguer, set out the aims of university at its inception, stating that he hoped to create an environment which supports quiet reflection, produces learned men and women with a Christian understanding of life, to develop science based on solid principles, and expand research across every aspect of endeavour in order to benefit humanity. The concepts of service, community and academic knowledge underpin study, and are complemented by charitable deeds and commitment to truth.

When applying, you should note down your engagement with others, any volunteering you have undertaken, whether on the local or national level, and international experiences.

The University of Navarra wants its students to be interested in other cultures, to value excelling in their work, to embrace freedom and responsibility, and to contribute to the material and moral improvement of society. Your letter of motivation should align with these themes and mention any practical experiences which demonstrate that you are an ideal candidate for studying at the University of Navarra.

How to get into the University of Navarra – costs

The University of Navarra’s tuition fees range from 10,000 to 20,000 euros a year for a bachelor’s degree, depending on the cost of the credits on your course. These differ significantly, with history credits coming in at 196 euros, while business administration is 310 euros, journalism is 214, and architecture credits are 278 euros.

At master’s level, you will pay 12,000 to 20,000 euros a year – unless you are doing an MBA (53,000 euros+) or an Executive MBA (65,000 euros+).

The University of Navarra offers a number of generous scholarships, as well as Eiffel Excellence scholarships and Erasmus+ funding.

A number of the scholarships are renewable every year.

How to get into the University of Navarra – accommodation

The University of Navarra offers both on- and off-campus accommodation, comprised of single, double and shared rooms and flats. Prices depend on a number of factors, including location, size and whether you have a communal kitchen or bathroom. As a rule of thumb, be prepared to pay between 400–700 euros a month for on-campus residences, and 700–1200 if you choose a studio flat.

Off-campus, a room in a subsidised shared house costs approximately 300–600 euros per month, and this rises to 500–900 euros a month in non-subsidised accommodation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the University of Navarra offer public education?

No, the University of Navarra is a private university, run by the Catholic organization Opus Dei. However, it offers an open and international academic environment for students from around the world.

Does the University of Navarra offer programs in English?

Yes, the University of Navarra offers a wide range of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs taught entirely in English, in fields such as law, business, science, and fashion.

Does the University of Navarra accept students from Poland?

Yes, the University of Navarra welcomes students from Poland and other European countries. The university has experience with recognizing Polish high school diplomas and university degrees.

Does the University of Navarra have high admission requirements?

Yes, the University of Navarra is selective in its admissions process. It looks for strong academic performance, language proficiency (in English or Spanish), community involvement, and motivation to study.

Does the University of Navarra provide accommodation for international students?

Yes, the University of Navarra offers both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Students can choose between single, double, or shared rooms and apartments.

Does the University of Navarra offer scholarships for international students?

Yes, the University of Navarra offers various types of financial aid – including merit-based and need-based scholarships, as well as support through Erasmus+ and Eiffel Excellence programs.

How to get into the University of Navarra – summary

The University of Navarra is Spain’s most international university and has extremely high student satisfaction ratings, with alumni reporting excellent individualised academic support, outstanding lecturers and a host of activities and sports to enjoy on campus.

The university is 23rd in the QS world rankings for business and management, and its philosophy, communication and media studies are in the top 100. It has an outstanding reputation with employers and received the Green Flag for its sustainability. IESE’s GEMBA and MBA programs are among the top ten master’s degrees in the subject, according to the Financial Times, while its private hospital is ranked top among Spain’s hospitals in 22 different medical specialties.

In short, you will receive an outstanding education at the University of Navarra and develop personally, as well as academically, in its nurturing, research-focused international environment.

Want to study in Spain at the University of Navarra? Contact us and let us help with the application process!