The Autonomous University of Barcelona began in 1968 and currently enrolls over 50 thousand students each year. It is the second largest public university in Barcelona.

The main campus, Bella Terra, is located on the outskirts of Barcelona, at the bottom of the mountains. ISA students studying with Spaniards will utilize Bella Terra and there is public transportation that takes students directly to the campus. International studies take place on two campuses in the city, The Sardenya and Sant Pau campuses. The Sardenya campus is located in a very nice part of town, just outside of the downtown area. The Sant Pau campus is located very close to the Sagrada Familia. The main building at Sant Pau is known as the Casa Convalescéncia, a breathtaking work of art in itself.

The school is equipped with the most modern technology for academia. Students may enroll in modern language classes in addition to many courses taught in English for foreigners. Students studying directly with Spaniards have a wide variety of subjects to study while in Barcelona.