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Freshmen students | IE University

Freshmen students

At IE University we are well aware that choosing what to study at university is one of the most important decisions you have to make in life.

Your choice will have a huge bearing on your personal journey, your professional future, and your achievements in life.

We know you are experiencing something special: a unique moment in time, in which you are the protagonist.

The aim of the IE University Admissions Department is to guide you in your choice, show you what IE University has to offer and, if you like what you see, help you through the admission process.

We provide you with individual attention: you will be assigned a contact person in the Admissions Department, who will liaise with you in all your dealings with IE University.

Below you may find some helpful information about the university entry qualifications depending on your educational system and the legal requirements to access higher education in Spain. Do not hesitate to contact our Admissions Department (Undergrad.admissions@ie.edu) with any questions .

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UNIVERSITY ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

75 percent of our students are international, coming from more than 60 different educational systems.

IE University welcomes applications from all around the world. Over 75 per cent of our students are international and they represent more than 110 different countries, which enriches the student experience and fosters reflection, debate and the exchange of ideas. Our students speak on average 3 languages each and they come from more than 60 different educational systems.

Diversity is highly valued in our Admission Process. The Admissions Committee will evaluate our applicant’s academic performance as well as their awards and accomplishment in the extracurricular activities in which they have been involved in. At IE University, we take a holistic approach when evaluating applications in order to bring in the most talented and interesting candidates through our competitive admissions process.

We therefore assess all of our applicants individually. Our review process identifies and recognizes creativity and a wide range of competencies, which are not always reflected in a traditional assessment based solely on academic achievement.

IE University | Entry requirements

EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS

The information below is provided as guidance for the most popular educational systems represented on campus. These guidelines are purely advisory and do not guarantee admission.

Kindly be aware that we exclusively consider initial exam results for admission (retake scores for partial exams may be considered). However, we do not take into account retakes of final exams or grades from extraordinary intakes during the admission process.

Please also remember that IE University is recognized by the Spanish Government. To be officially enrolled, all students must comply with the requirements established by the Ministry of Education. As general rule, a student is required to meet the University Entry Requirements from their country of residence to be able to study officially in Spain.

Foundational years and pre-university courses will not be considered as part of the admission process, and they may not be eligible to be legalized by the Ministry of Education.

A-LEVELS

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The Spanish Government requires a minimum of 3 A-Levels. IE University accepts A-Levels that range from A B B to A*A*A*.

Additionally, IE University strongly recommends taking subjects relevant to their chosen program. If you are not able to provide relevant subjects you may be asked for some additional academic requirements.

Although the Spanish government also requires a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade C or higher, IE University applicants should preferably have obtained As and Bs, especially in the subjects relevant to their chosen program.

Remember that The Ministry of Education requires the official GCEs or IGCEs results to homologate your A-Level studies.


INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA (IB)

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IE University welcomes IB Diploma students. The rich, diverse, and globalized learning environment we offer enhances learning for each individual and our unique learning environment becomes a seamless transition from the IB Diploma to IE University.

Typical admissions are based on scores between 32 and 45. The average final IB score of our students is 36.

IB students must present the full IB Diploma, as the IB Certificate is not legally accepted in Spain. Furthermore, it's essential to understand that the last two years of the IB program cannot be separated.

Please also note that we only accept the first IB results, retake exam scores will not be considered.

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

Final IB results should preferably be submitted to IE University electronically via the IBO.

FRENCH BACCALAURÉAT (BAC)

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We are looking for final BAC results of 14 or over (Mention Bien and Mention Très Bien). The average final BAC grade of our students is 15/20. Please note that we will take a holistic approach when assessing your application.

Letters of recommendations and transcripts can be accepted in French.

The Baccalauréat professionnel  is not accepted.

Candidates applying with the Baccalauréat technologique will only be assessed if their academic trajectory and overall profile are outstanding.

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

ALLGEMEINE HOCHSCHULREIFE (ABITUR)

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You should be aiming for a final average of 2.3 to 1 with Sehr Gut or Gut  in subjects most closely related to the bachelor you want to study.

We do not accept “Fachhochschulreife”, “Mittlere / Realschulabschluss” or “Hauptschulabschluss”.

US HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA

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We are looking for a GPA score of 3.2 or higher (unweighted).

Although not required, AP and Honors Courses are highly recommended.

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

Important note: The Spanish Ministry of Education requires that all students graduating with a US Diploma present the transcripts of the last 3 years of High School (Year 10, 11 and 12), and do not allow students to skip any academic years. For those students enrolled only in year 12 and graduating with the US Diploma, they are expected to present transcripts of equivalent to Years 10 and 11 in their corresponding academic systems, otherwise, they won’t be able to obtain the homologation to the Spanish educational system.


ITALIAN LICEO / ESAME DI MATURITÀ

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The minimum requirements for the Italian National system are 7/10, with a 75/100 minimum for your final Maturità score. Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

Letters of recommendations and transcripts can be accepted in Italian. Istituto Tecnico and Istituto Professionale are not accepted.

SPANISH BACHILLERATO + UNIVERSITY ACCESS TEST

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We only accept the first EBAU/EvAU results from June, retake exam scores will not be considered.

We are looking for an average score in your Bachillerato of at least 7.5, and an overall score in the mandatory section of your CAU higher than 7.5/10.

IE University does not require that students take any specific subject for the Fase Voluntaria of the EvAU/EBAU but it is highly recommended and valued during the admissions process if any subjects related to the program of study are taken.

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

SWISS MATURA (MATURITÀ)

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We are looking for an average of 4.5 out of 6.

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

PORTUGUESE ENSINO SECUNDÁRIO

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We expect a minimum of 14 – 15 out of 20 on average in the Ensino Secundário.

Please note that it will be required that you submit the Direcçao Geral do Ensino Superior certificate (DGES) and the  Exames Nacionais do Ensino Secundário card (ENES)

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

NORWEGIAN VITNEMAL-VIDEREGAENDE OPPLAERING

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Certificate of the Vitnemal fra den Videregaende Skole with an average of 4.25 out of 6

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

EUROPEAN BACCALAUREATE

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EB Diploma awarded. We typically require a minimum of 75-80% in the European Baccalaureate.

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

Belgian CESS or Diploma van Secundair Onderwijs 

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Award of the Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Superieur (CESS) or Diploma van Secundair Onderwijs with an overall grade of, at least, 75%.

Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

Dutch Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO) 

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You should be aiming for a final average of at least 7,2Specific subjects may be required depending on the bachelor.

Recommended Math Competency

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Prospective students should possess a solid understanding of mathematics. Specific subjects may be required, depending on which bachelor's program the student is applying for.

The information below is provided as general guidance for the equivalent levels recommended. These guidelines are purely advisory and do not guarantee admission.

Admission decisions are made by evaluating each application within the context of the courses available to the student. If a required subject is unavailable at your school, your application will still be considered. We also offer pre-programs or support for students in such cases.

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)

IE School of Science and Technology:

  • Bachelor in Applied Mathematics: Mathematics AA HL.
  • Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence: Math AA HL/SL, Math AI HL. If taking computer science, Math AI SL can also be considered.
  • Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics: Math AA HL/SL, Math AI HL. If taking computer science and/or physics, Math AI SL can also be considered.
  • Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability: Math AA HL/SL plus at least one of these subjects: Environmental Systems and Society HL/SL, Biology HL/SL, Chemistry HL/SL, Physics HL/SL.

IE Business School and IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs:

  • Bachelor in Business Administration / Bachelor in Economics / Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics: Ideally Mathematics A&A HL/SL. Mathematics AI can also be considered.

IE School of Architecture and Design:

  • Bachelor in Architectural Studies: Mathematics AA/AI HL/SL.

A-LEVELS

IE School of Science and Technology:

  • Bachelor in Applied Mathematics: Mathematics and Further Mathematics (if no A-Level Further Mathematics, AS-Level can be considered).
  • Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, Digital Technology, Information Technology, Physics, Software Systems Development.
  • Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, Digital Technology, Information Technology, Physics, Software Systems Development, Statistics. May also consider Accounting, Business, Economics, Psychology or Sociology, but a pre-math course will be required.
  • Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability: Mathematics. We positively value applicants with an additional A-Level in Physics, Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, Global Perspectives and Research, or Marine Science. AS-Level Environmental Management may also be considered.

IE Business School and IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs:

  • Bachelor in Business Administration / Bachelor in Economics / Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics: We positively value applicants taking a quantitative subject (Accounting, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Statistics, etc.) along with a GCSE in Mathematics.

IE School of Architecture and Design:

  • Bachelor in Architectural Studies: We positively value applicants taking a quantitative subject (Mathematics, Physics, etc.) along with a GCSE in Mathematics and Physics.

US HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA

IE School of Science and Technology:

  • Bachelor in Applied Mathematics: At least 2 of these subjects: AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Physics 1/2/C.
  • Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence: AP Calculus AB and BC, or AP Calculus and AP Computer Science A/Principles.
  • Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics: At least 1 of these subjects: AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Computer Science.
  • Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability: AP Calculus AB/BC. We positively value applicants taking AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science and AP Physics 1/ 2.

IE Business School and IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs:

  • Bachelor in Business Administration / Bachelor in Economics / Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics: AP Calculus is desirable.

IE School of Architecture and Design:

  • Bachelor in Architectural Studies: AP exams in Calculus and Geometry.

FRENCH BACCALAURÉAT (BAC)

IE School of Science and Technology:

  • Bachelor in Applied Mathematics: Math Expert. Math SPE may also be considered.
  • Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence: Math Expert. Math SPE may also be considered.
  • Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics: Math Expert and Math SPE. Math Complémentaire may also be considered.
  • Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability: Math Expert and Math SPE. Math Complémentaire may also be considered. Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Geology are recommended.

IE Business School and IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs:

  • Bachelor in Business Administration / Bachelor in Economics / Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics: Ideally Math SPE. Math Complémentaire may also be considered.

IE School of Architecture and Design:

  • Bachelor in Architectural Studies: Ideally Maths Expert or Math SPE. Math Complémentaire may also be considered.

ITALIAN LICEO / ESAME DI MATURITÀ

IE School of Science and Technology:

  • Bachelor in Applied Mathematics / Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence: Liceo Scientifico Mathematics.
  • Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics: Liceo Scientifico Mathematics. You may be considered if you are studying Mathematics in a different Liceo.
  • Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability: Liceo Scientifico Mathematics. Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Earth Science are also recommended.

IE Business School and IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs:

  • Bachelor in Business Administration / Bachelor in Economics / Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics: Ideally Liceo Scientifico Mathematics.

IE School of Architecture and Design:

  • Bachelor in Architectural Studies: Liceo Scientifico Mathematics.

SPANISH BACHILLERATO

IE School of Science and Technology:

  • Bachelor in Applied Mathematics, Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence: Matemáticas II (Sciences Bachillerato).
  • Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics: Matemáticas II (Sciences Bachillerato). Mathemáticas para CCSS may also be considered.
  • Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability: Matemáticas II. We also recommend having 2 of the following: Biology, Physics, Geology or Chemistry.

IE Business School and IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs:

  • Bachelor in Business Administration / Bachelor in Economics / Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics: Matemáticas para CCSS or Matemáticas II.

IE School of Architecture and Design:

  • Bachelor in Architectural Studies: Matemáticas II.

If you have any doubts regarding your specific educational system, please contact the Admissions Department at undergrad.admissions@ie.edu

OTHER OPTIONS FOR IE SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

For candidates without the specified academic backgrounds mentioned above, an alternative pathway may be considered. This consists of the completion of a 4-year mathematics program, covering algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, elementary functions (pre-calculus) and preferably calculus.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

IEU Admissions test

As part of our Admissions Process, we require candidates to take our Admissions Test which allows us to measure their competencies, skills and personality characteristics. It also evaluates their English level.

Alternatively, we accept the following globally recognized tests:

  • New SAT: Minimum 1200. 25th / 75th Percentile: 1270 / 1460 IE University’s identification code “6293”
  • ACT: Minimum 24 IE University’s identification code “5360”
  • LNAT: Minimum 22
Admissions test | IE University

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS

All our programs are taught fully in English therefore all candidates will have their English communication skills assessed during the admissions process.

The possession of a language certificate will be necessary for non-native English speakers unless they have been living in an English-speaking country for more than 2 years, studied in an Anglophone educational system (such as American High School, IB in English or A-levels) all their education or at least the last 2 years of High School.

Should the Admissions Committee determine that the candidate does not have the required level of English they may request that the candidate submit a language certificate.

The accepted language certificates are:

  • TOEFL – minimum 100 points, 105 recommended
  • Cambridge – Cambridge Advanced C1 (CAE) or Proficiency C2 (CPE)
  • IELTS-minimum 7 points, 7,5 recommended
  • Duolingo English Test: minimum 130 points

The validity of all previously mentioned English language certificates for IE’s admissions process is two years, from the date you took the exam.

English proficiency requirements | IE University

ENTRY LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

IE University is recognized by the Spanish Government. To be officially enrolled, all students must comply with the requirements established by the Ministry of Education.

The Admissions Department will be available to help you with this process. You must hand in or submit by post the corresponding documents to IE University Admissions – Madrid Campus or Segovia Campus before the 15th of October.

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