Inside Princess Leonor's new life at university where she's treated 'like everyone else'

After weeks of speculation, Spain's Royal Household has finally confirmed Princess Leonor's next move. Following the summer break, King Felipe and Queen Letizia's elder daughter will begin a degree in Political Science at Carlos III University's Getafe campus in Madrid. 

After a rigorous selection process, the Princess successfully secured her place at the prestigious institution, located in Madrid province, just south of the Spanish capital. Within hours of the announcement, a massive buzz took over the Faculty of Social and Legal Sciences, where Leonor is set to become "just another student" this September, as first reported by our sister brand, HOLA.com.

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The news broke just as students and staff were gathered in the courtyard, enjoying glorious sunshine, warm temperatures and a paella lunch. Leonor's decision has been met with widespread praise from her future peers, who have highlighted the university's lively debates and popular teaching staff. 

A particular favourite is Pablo Simón; the political scientist and commentator is a first-year lecturer whose sessions are considered "unmissable," boasting the highest attendance rates on campus. The same cannot be said for Statistics or Macroeconomics, however - they are two of the most feared subjects and see the highest "skip" rates. Many students find themselves signing up for extra tutoring just to keep up with the demanding pace.

Political Science is one of the earliest courses to begin, with the new term starting in the first week of September. "We'd suggest she sticks close to her year group; the classes are small and it feels a bit like a school environment, plus the older students are always on hand to help the freshers," says Lucía, who is currently studying for a joint honours degree in Political Science and International Relations.

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While the transition to university will be a significant one, Leonor does have a head start. She has already completed three years of military training and will be turning 21 just as the term begins. The lively debates that are a staple of her degree shouldn't pose a problem either, as she is already well-versed in public speaking. 

Current students also note that while the first year is primarily introductory and manageable, the academic rigour of the course is still very much apparent. "Some lecturers rely on PowerPoints, but generally, the professors are excellent," though that doesn't seem to stop the cafeteria - and the card games - from being packed, even when students are supposed to be in class.

During her first year, Leonor's timetable will typically run from 9 am until 2 pm. While it is only a 25-minute drive from her home, Zarzuela Palace, she'll need an early start to stay ahead of the morning rush hour and ensure she's on time. There is a fifteen-minute break between lectures - just enough time to grab a €1.10 (£0.95) coffee. If she heads out from the palace without breakfast, she can tuck into the local favourite: tostadas con tomate ( toast with fresh tomato).

While she’ll be able to pop back home for lunch during her first year, she is likely to have afternoon lectures from her second year onwards. At that stage, she can either bring in a packed lunch (there are plenty of rooms equipped with microwaves) or opt for the "set menu" in the canteen. 

For €6.30 (around £5.50), she'll get a starter, a main course, dessert and bread. The quality and value for money even draw in local retirees from Getafe, who often visit the university's dining halls. Raquel, a member of the catering team in the Rectorate canteen, says she is "very excited" and that it will be an "honour to serve the Princess," adding, "I will treat her just like everyone else." Among the students and staff, the firm lunchtime favourite is "el arroz y la carne (the rice dishes and beef) - that's what most people go for."

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Work placements aren't typically taken in the first year; they are usually saved for the fourth. The most popular spots are government ministries, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, though some students choose to write directly to politicians they hope to work for after graduating.

To kick off the academic year, there is a welcome party for all, and at Christmas, each faculty organises social dinners. Not far from Carlos III is 'El Eskinazo', the go-to bar for student life in Getafe once lectures are over. It's famous for its tercios (small bottles of beer), which come with free tapas - the huevos rotos con jamón (broken eggs with ham) is a particularly popular one - and its breaded chicken sandwiches, both at very affordable prices.

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Leonor has already proven herself to be a keen sportswoman; she has recently demonstrated that fencing, volleyball and even regattas are no trouble for her. The university boasts several sports clubs for volleyball and badminton, as well as a gym with state-of-the-art facilities.

In short, it's a vibrant university setting with a brilliant atmosphere - a world away from the military life she has known for the past three years. She'll meet people from across Spain and further afield, given that Carlos III has a large international student body. The diverse range of values and ideas she'll encounter will make for an enriching experience.