Beyond The Code
Don't just learn technology. Create it
Looking for an education at the cutting edge of technology, designed to shape the people who will shape the future? You’re in the right place.
Innovating in the present.
What is 42?
Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software development, data, the cloud and quantum computing are transforming the way we live and work. At 42, you don’t just come to learn how to code: you come to discover how the technology that will shape the future works, how it is designed, trained and developed.
Here, you don’t just memorise theory or sit through traditional lessons. Youlearn by doing, solving real-world challenges and working in teams with other students, through an innovative model based on peer learning that develops both technical skills and key abilities for any professional career: independence, creativity, resilience, adaptability to change and collaboration.
What’s more, the course is 100% free, thanks to the support of the Telefónica Foundation, and is open to anyone of legal age, with no prior experience in programming or computing required.
It’s not just us saying this. In 2026, 42 was recognised as Europe’s most innovative university by the WURI ranking, an international accolade for an educational model that breaks with convention to train the professionals needed by the digital economy.
If you’re looking for a different kind of education—one that’s connected to cutting-edge technologies and designed to prepare those who will shape the future—then 42 Madrid Fundación Telefónica is the place for you.
Find out more about how we learn at our campus in the Program.
Fancy finding out more about the campus before making a decision? There are various ways to do so…
- @42madridftef
- Madrid
EDUCATIONAL experience without limits
A unique concept
Frequently asked questions
We’ve compiled some doubts, questions, and existential crises on a handy FAQ page.
We don’t have any selection quotas at 42. There’s no fixed number of applicants for selection. However, we temporarily reserve 30% of the places to allow women to register throughout a longer period of time.
No, it isn’t necessary either during the piscine or after you become a student. We have 300 iMacs, which are more than enough to cater for the candidates and students. Although you can use your own laptop, it’s advisable to use the ones on the campus, particularly during the Piscine.
The Piscine is demanding and requires spending numerous hours programming and working with the other candidates throughout the 26 consecutive days that it lasts. Although it isn’t impossible to complete it while you work, we recommend making this period a priority.
Not getting through the Piscine stage means that 42 might not be for you, at least for the time being. The Piscine is designed to enable you and 42 to find out whether this educational model is right for both of us. You’ll have to wait for 300 days to re-apply for the Piscine if you don’t get through it the first time.
The start of the studies is a continuation of the Piscine; we always recommend not interrupting this learning process. If you know that you aren’t going to enrol on the campus after the selection process, it would be advisable to give your place to someone who’s eager to start.
All the stages of the application, from the two online tests to the Piscine, must be completed on the same campus.
Their specific dates are always available on our website and social media.
Sign up here. Once you’ve registered, you’ll have to pass two online tests, the first one lasting 10 minutes and the second one lasting a maximum of two hours.
You don’t need any specific training, education or qualifications, as we expect you to commit to the methodology and learning plan at 42. All we ask is for you to be of legal age.
Logical thinking skills and, above all, a resolute attitude are advisable. You have to be able to adapt and overcome difficulties. Proactivity, curiosity, creativity and teamwork are also highly desirable.
