History
In response to the projects proposed by Antonio López y López and his son Claudio López Brú, the first and second Marquis of Comillas, Pope Leo XIII founded a Seminary in the town of Comillas (Cantabria). Established under the papal brief "Sempiternam Dominici Gregis", dated December 16, 1890, this Seminary offered training for candidates to the priesthood.
Education
The effect of these profound changes on COMILLAS can be seen in the University's move from Comillas to Madrid, in the broad expansion of its educational offer (Humanities and Technical Sciences as well as Ecclesiastic Sciences) and in its ongoing commitment to evolution and modernization based on solid and permanent foundations. Our university mission is firmly rooted within the framework of this evolutionary process, of the growing plurality of Spanish universities and new social and ecclesiastic needs and challenges.
Research
Institutes
- Institute for Research in Technology (I.I.T.)
- University Institute of Spirituality
- Institute of Education Sciences (ICE)
- University Institute of Studies on Migration
- Institute of Modern Languages
- University Institute of Family Studies
Career
The Office of Internships and Employment (OPE) is the service of the university dedicated to helping its students and alumni in the incorporation to the labor market through the realization of internships and employment, as well as in their professional development.
Student services
The Information and Student Reception Office (OIA) will give you information about the student life at Comillas Pontifical University.
Housing services
The Universidad Pontificia Comillas does not have its own accommodation but you can obtain information about the Major Colleges and University Residences of Madrid on the official website of the university.
Library services
The Library Service is an operational which acquires, organizes, processes, and cares for all of the University's bibliographic and documentary collection and makes it available to users, regardless of their format, where they are stored, and which budget item they were charged to when acquired, except for documents belonging to the University's General Archive.
Campus life
The Main Campus Alberto Aguilera has access ramp to the building, suitable bathrooms on the first floor and access by means of a special lift to the cafeteria, gym, physiotherapiest.
Sports facilities
Sports Unit of the University, depends on the Vice President for University Services and Student Community. Our goal is to promote the sport, conviviality, camaraderie and the spirit of solidarity among the university community. Values closely linked to the educational project of the university.
Student clubs
- LINUXEC (Association of student interested in free circulation of Software and Hardware, discussing technological concerns)
- AUDEMAC (Association of Students from the Senior Citizens University)
- Comillas Athletics Association
- ELSA Madrid ICADE
- Comillas Entrepreneurs Association
- ICADE International Students Association
Comillas Pontifical University Overview
Comillas Pontifical University Rankings
Study Portals Meta Ranking
Top 14.3% Spain
Top 15% Worldwide
Studyportals ranking look at the scores of the most used ranking systems and present you with one number of how well this University performs.
QS World University Rankings
581
By TopUniversities
Dropped 37 places compared to 2025
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend QS World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 582 | 544 | 581 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
World University Rankings
No 2026 Ranking
By Times Higher Education
This university doesn’t have a ranking for 2026 yet. Rankings are updated yearly, so check back later for the latest info.
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1501 | - | - |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Comillas Pontifical University Campus Locations
#1 Main Campus
Spain Country
Madrid City
Comillas Pontifical University Student Reviews & Awards
4.6
Based on 45 reviews
- 5 Star 30 Reviews
- 4 Star 13 Reviews
- 3 Star 0 Reviews
- 2 Star 2 Reviews
- 1 Star 0 Reviews
Academic structure
At Universidad Pontificia Comillas, professors are not only top experts in their fields but also take on significant responsibilities in the university's academic structure. The student body is incredibly international, attracting students from all over the world, providing a truly diverse learning experience. The variety of courses offered is extensive, and the quality of instruction is outstanding. Located in a serene and beautiful student town, the campus has plenty of resources available to support students in their academic journey. Just remember, the Madrid grading system can be quite tough, so be prepared to work hard!
Student environment
The overall environment at Universidad Pontificia Comillas encourages students to stay aware and engaged with the business world. Its strong academic curriculum is designed to challenge students to continually enhance their skills, especially given the competitive nature of having some of the brightest students in the country as peers. Opportunities for socialization are equally vast, with a variety of student clubs providing numerous ways to connect and interact with others. Additionally, the university offers a balanced academic schedule, allowing students to manage their coursework effectively while also taking part in enriching extracurricular activities. This holistic approach helps students develop both academically and socially.
modern facilities
The Universidad Pontificia Comillas is not only an institution of higher education, but a community of academics and students dedicated to personal growth and intellectual development. With exceptional faculty, modern facilities, and a wide range of opportunities for experiential learning, the university creates an environment that fosters the holistic development of its students. From research projects to internships, volunteer work and extracurricular activities, campus is packed with activities that nourish the mind, body and spirit. The rigorous academic programs are carefully crafted to challenge and inspire, while the vibrant student life provides a supportive and engaging community for personal and professional growth.
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