Study in Spain has grown incredibly popular among Indian students over the years because of its rich culture, diversified academic offerings, and an increasing number of English-taught programs. The talent flow into this country from India is excellent, especially at IE University in Madrid, whose popularity among Indian students is seen to be on a remarkable rise. The IE Foundation gives financial assistance to the international students, ensuring that these people get through their education and hence become the leaders in society of the future.
The Increase in Indian Students in Spain
The number of Indian students at IE University has increased exponentially over the last decade. From just 58 Indian students enrolled in the 2015-16 academic year, the university now boasts around 170 Indian students for the 2024-25 academic year—a staggering 200% increase. This growth reflects a broader trend of globalisation in education, as IE University emphasises its non-Spanish courses to attract a diverse student body.
Geoffroy Gérard is managing director at IE Foundation and vice dean at IE School of Science and Technology. According to him, India is the top Asian country sending students to IE University, followed by Singapore and the Philippines. “Indian and South Asian students hold great importance for IE University, and we aim to increase their presence at the undergraduate level,” says Gérard. With over 15 percent of IE University’s undergraduates hailing from Asia Pacific region, it now looks forward to accepting talented candidates from India more extensively.
Scholarships and Financial Support
The IE Foundation plays a very significant role in supporting talented students from all around the world by offering a wide range of scholarships to help them get rid of the burden of studying abroad. Every year, the foundation grants approximately 1,000 scholarships to students coming from more than 100 nationalities. These scholarships cover not only tuition fees but also travel and living expenses, which form a comprehensive support system for scholars.
Gérard underlines the quality of the applicants from India: “We are receiving amazing profiles of students each year applying for scholarships. We want more students to come forward and make use of the financial support provided by the IE Foundation.” The commitment of the foundation to fostering talent comes out in its various programs, such as the Young Talented Leader Programme. It is designed to shape future leaders with excellent academic performance and a commitment to social impact.
Networking and Opportunities
Apart from funding support, winners of scholarship awards at IE University are awarded opportunities to build important networks in the form of experts, researchers, or academicians. Exposure does not merely add value to academic study; it builds a foundation to ensure these students are properly set for life in professional fields. Through the support of nearly 300 fellows each year, the foundation has already seen fit to support some 45 students hailing from India.
The foundation is seeking partnerships with corporations, foundations, and individuals for specific scholarship funds to bring in the best talent from India into IE University. “We look forward to the future expansion of this shared impact through strategic partnerships that will bring talent from India, Gerry adds.
Conclusion
Indian students continue making their mark at IE University, Spain. There is always an overwhelming abundance of opportunities for better learning and personal growth on this campus. The fact that the IE Foundation sponsors talented individuals with various scholarships has made the dream to study abroad much less encumbered by financial responsibilities. Spain is no more a mystery land for any Indian student; it now symbolises an opportunity space of innovation and leadership.
