Princess Leonor of Spain recently wrapped up her Easter break, focusing on key upcoming milestones. Family discussions highlighted her packed schedule, including the Pope’s visit to Spain from June 6 to 12 and the Princess of Girona Awards ceremony on July 14 at Barcelona’s Gran Teatre del Liceu. She will join her sister, 18-year-old Infanta Sofía, for related events in Girona province before summer holidays and a return to studies.
Contrasting Academic Paths for the Sisters
Infanta Sofía pursues Political Science and International Relations at Forward College, a program spanning Lisbon, Paris, and Berlin with a strong European emphasis. Princess Leonor, however, follows a distinct path tailored to her role as heir to the throne.
She nears the end of her military training at the General Air Academy in San Javier, Murcia. The academic term wraps up by late May, followed by exams and a final week of intensive instruction in late June. Commissions presentation in July will mark her completion of service across the Army, Navy, and Air and Space Force, including her first solo flight in a Pilatus PC-21.
Transition to University Life
Post-military, Leonor plans to enroll at a public university in Madrid and return to Zarzuela Palace after five years away. The Royal Household expects to announce details between late April and early May.
While her military training requires government approval, university choices rest with King Felipe, Queen Letizia, and Leonor herself. The Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), where King Felipe studied Law and Economics subjects, leads as a top option due to its prestige and proximity to home. Alternatives include Carlos III University (UC3M), noted for Economics and International Relations, and Complutense University, Queen Letizia’s alma mater.
Broadening Royal Preparation
Leonor’s studies diverge from her father’s path to address 21st-century challenges. King Felipe later earned a Master’s in International Relations at Georgetown University. Her curriculum likely spans Law, Economics, International Relations, Political Science, Geopolitics, emerging technologies, and social sciences on inequality and global cooperation.
This multidisciplinary approach equips the future queen for constitutional duties in a complex world, balancing tradition with modern societal values. As she completes her military phase, Leonor stands ready to embrace civilian education and leadership.
