The new academic stage of Infanta Sofía has begun shrouded in silence that has only increased curiosity. Her enrollment at the exclusive Forward College in Lisbon promised discretion, but a detail previously hidden has caused a stir.
After the controversy caused by the high cost of her studies abroad, new revelations have come to light. Information such as the residence where she will live, the services, and the total budget involved in this university experience have caused a great stir. All this, meanwhile, the youngest daughter of the monarchs keeps absolute silence.
An international campus in three European cities
With the announcement from the Casa Real about Infanta Sofía's academic plan at Forward College, we learned that the university offers a unique experience in three European capitals. Sofía will start in Lisbon, then continue in Berlin, and finish in Paris. This is an international proposal designed to train future leaders.
The campus in Lisbon is located in the heart of the historic center, on Rua das Flores, very close to Praça do Comércio. The area combines accessibility, a student atmosphere, and a wide cultural offering, ideal for those seeking an immersive and modern education.
The hidden cost that has come to light
Although the environment and the program seem designed for an ideal university experience, it is the price that has attracted public attention. According to official information from Forward College itself, the annual tuition cost amounts to €18,500. On top of this, there are accommodation and living expenses.
The residence where Infanta Sofía will live is located in the university district of Benfica, about 19 mi. (30 km) from the campus. It offers single rooms with private bathrooms, access to a shared kitchen, gym, common areas, and laundry. The monthly price ranges from €590 to €690.
In total, not including personal expenses, books, transportation, or other needs, the cost of Sofía's first year in Lisbon will easily exceed €25,000. This is a figure that has surprised many and that until now had remained unspoken, both by Casa Real and by the young woman's circle.
Sofía and Zarzuela choose silence
Meanwhile, the figure is starting to generate debate, neither Infanta Sofía nor her parents have wanted to comment on the matter. The date of her move has not been confirmed, nor whether she will have security personnel or any type of supervision during her stay. No images of her arrival on campus have been provided either.
The silence contrasts with the growing media interest. The fact that the heir's sister lives outside the country and in a semi-private arrangement adds complexity to the story. Although Forward College has promoted its academic model on social media, they have not made any specific mention of their most illustrious student.
Everything indicates that this stage will be managed with the utmost possible discretion. However, the "secret" about how much it costs to study and live like Sofía has already been revealed. With this, it shows the increasingly thin line between institutional privacy when expenses are covered with public funds.