The University of Barcelona (UB) is the leading public university in the city and the main university in Catalonia, with the highest number of students and the widest range of courses on offer.
It was founded in 1450 and is considered one of the most important universities in Spain, due to its long tradition, prestige, quality and demanding admission requirements. Currently, it is the top Spanish university in the QS World University Rankings, Academic Ranking of World Universities and SCImago.