Casa Real has put an end to the debate about Infanta Sofía's future and has finally revealed her next destination. After finishing her high school studies in Wales, the focus was on what her plans would be. With just over two months left before September begins, Casa Real has ended the uncertainty.
From Zarzuela comes the latest update about Infanta Sofía's private life just as she has gained more prominence in recent days. The youngest daughter of the monarchs is preparing for this new stage that, once again, will keep her away from her family.
Casa Real announces the latest update about Infanta Sofía's future
Casa Real has taken the definitive step confirming Infanta Sofía's plans after finishing her international baccalaureate. Having ruled out the idea of following Leonor's footsteps and pursuing a military education, Sofía has chosen university.
In this regard, Casa Real has put an end to the controversy and has acknowledged the theories about the Infanta: she will study abroad. Specifically, it has been confirmed that Infanta Sofía will begin her degree in political science and international relations in September at a university campus in Lisbon.
The chosen institution is Forward College, a European project that divides the degree among Lisbon, Paris, and Berlin over three academic years. Therefore, the Infanta will not remain in the Portuguese capital for her entire university education; she will also travel to Paris and Berlin.
One of the main reasons why Casa Real has chosen this institution is its proximity to Spain. Unlike other options such as the United States, Forward College is only a few hours away by plane. This makes it easier for Infanta Sofía to return to Spain to fulfill her institutional duties.
The plan allows her to combine university life with a discreet institutional agenda, without the pressure that falls on her sister Leonor. At first, she was interested in a broader liberal arts approach, but as a family, they agreed to focus on political and international sciences. This is much more in line with the institutional role of Casa Real, since her role within the Spanish monarchy should not be forgotten.
Casa Real gives details about what Infanta Sofía's stay outside Spain will be like
Casa Real has also explained some additional details about what the institution that will welcome Infanta Sofía in September will be like. As they have explained, the tuition amounts to €18,500 per academic year. Forward boasts small groups, close tutoring, and an international student body; the main instruction is in English, with electives in Portuguese, French, and German depending on the campus.
This way, Infanta Sofía will share classrooms with students from dozens of nationalities. This extends the global environment she experienced at Atlantic College in Wales.
Forward is a recognized center of the University of London; degrees are awarded by UoL with academic direction from LSE or King's. In addition, the institution is registered as higher education in France and is working to ensure its programs are fully valid in the European Union.
After finishing the first academic year, Infanta's next stop will be Paris, until she finishes in Berlin for the third and final stage. The only point that remains to be determined by Casa Real is where Sofía will reside during this first year in Lisbon. The monarchs' priority is to guarantee her safety and to ensure that the Infanta can enjoy her student life like any young person her age.
For now, Sofía will need to settle in Lisbon before September 8, the date set for the start of her university life. From the 8th to the 19th, the institution organizes the so-called "introduction week" so that students can acclimate. It will not be until the 22nd when the Infanta begins her classes, which will continue until June 19.