Balearic case topples Spain's private university decree

A 4,500-student minimum for private universities falls as Spain’s Supreme Court strikes down the decree behind it after a challenge by the Balearic Islands. The court says the Spanish government failed to justify rushing the decree through. As of 9 October 2026, challenges from other regions and universities still await rulings.

Why the Balearic Islands challenged it

The Balearic government objected to the student minimum and a requirement for accommodation places covering at least 10% of students. It argued that both rules discriminated against the islands compared with other regions. But the court overturned the decree because the government had not justified the urgent procedure, rather than ruling on those objections.

More cases await rulings

Madrid, Aragón, Extremadura and La Rioja have also challenged the decree. So have institutions including CEU, Fernando Pessoa University and the University of Hespérides. CIS, Schiller, Saint Louis and Francisco Marroquín filed a joint case.

Earlier in 2026, the Supreme Court twice refused requests to suspend the decree while the cases proceeded. It must now rule on the remaining challenges.

Topics: Court cases · Education · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com