Alianza 4 Universidades

The Alianza 4 Universidades (A4U) project has been funded by Erasmus+ programme of the European Union. This publication reflects the views of only A4U. Erasmus+ programme or the Spanish National Agency for the Internationalisation of Education (SEPIE) cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. The Alianza **4 Universidades (4 Universities Alliance, A4U)** is a strategic partnership between four leading Spanish public universities: the **Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB)**, the **Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM)**, **Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M)** and **Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)**. The association grew out of the desire of these four universities, which share the same commitment to quality research and excellence in teaching, to pursue joint projects. **In 2008**, the A4U was set up as an official alliance. Prior to that date, cooperation between the partner institutions had been governed by a general framework agreement, with specific agreements being arranged for each project. The A4U’s objectives include **promoting the research conducted** at the partner universities, primarily in Europe; raising their profiles and enhancing their international reputations by **encouraging contacts in countries** and areas considered to be strategic priorities; improving mobility options for students, teaching staff and researchers; and promoting quality teaching, with a clear commitment to **interuniversity degree** programmes, programmes in English and online training. The A4U receives support from the Spanish government through agreements with the **Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX)** and the **Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)**. It was an active participant in both the founding of [YERUN](https://yerun.eu/), the Young European Research University Network, and the launch of the [IUNE Observatory](https://alliance4universities.eu/en/iune-observatory/), whose work contributes to the knowledge and analysis of the research and technological activity carried out in the Spanish university system. Finally, the A4U is a member of the boards of trustees of several organizations, such as the Spain-China Council, Spain-India Council, Spain-Japan Council and Spain-Australia Council foundations, which help to boost its international exposure.