Complete guide to studying in Spain
Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Spain
Top reasons to study in Spain:
- High‑quality, internationally recognized education
- Affordable tuition and cost of living
- Sunny, pleasant climate & active lifestyle
- European location & travel possibilities
- Rich culture, diversity & lifestyle
A quick introduction to Spain
Located in the south west of Europe and occupying the majority of the Iberian Peninsula, Spain is a country rich in history and culture that is home to over 220,000 international students from around the world, according to the Spanish Ministerio de Universidades.
Spain offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy beautiful countryside and warm sunny weather, with some of the sunniest cities in Europe.
There are 17 autonomous communities, or regions, of Spain, each with its own distinct identity, and your experience studying in the country will vary a great deal depending on the region in which you choose to study.
Spain is an EU country, and academically it follows the Bologna process and is part of the European Higher Education area, so any qualifications completed in Spain are recognized throughout other EU nations through the ECTS credit system.
International students will find a multicultural environment with a mixture of laid back ‘work-to-live’ and bustling busy cultures. Spain is becoming an increasingly popular study destination, thanks to its high quality education and relatively affordable costs of living.
Many international students in Spain come from surrounding nations such as Italy and France, though students are attracted from around the world, with large numbers of students arriving from countries such as Columbia, China and the United States.
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Spain’s higher education system
There are 91 universities in Spain according to the Ministerio de Universidades, 50 of which are public universities and 41 of which are private. Some of the privately funded institutions in Spain are non-secular universities, such as San Jorge University, which is a Catholic university.
The standards of education that you will receive will be high regardless of whether your chosen university is privately or publicly funded, with Spain’s top ranking universities including public universities such as Pompeu Fabra University and the University of Barcelona, and private universities like the University of Navarra.
As Spain follows the Bologna process, universities offer degrees in a range of disciplines at the following levels:
- Bachelors degrees, which typically take 3 to 4 years of full-time study to complete, resulting in 180 to 240 ECTS credits.
- Masters degrees, which take between 1-2 years of full-time study to complete
- Doctorates, which take between 3 years to complete when studied full-time
Tuition fees for public universities in Spain are set by the autonomous community in which the university is located, and as such will vary by region and university.
As an example of pricing, as an EU citizen at Pompeu Fabra University, which is a public university based in the region of Catalonia in the east of the country, you may be expected to pay around € 1,200 per year in tuition fees for a bachelor’s degree, whilst non-EU students will be expected to pay fees of around €6,800 per year.
The academic year in Spanish universities typically commences in September and finishes the following year in July. Most universities divide the academic year into two semesters, the 1st beginning in September and finishing in February, and the 2nd beginning in February and finishing in July.
University rankings
If you are choosing to study at a university abroad, you will consider a lot of factors when choosing a university.
University rankings are a useful technique to compare the performance of universities by metrics that you might find meaningful as an international student, such as teaching reputation, percentage of staff to students, and student satisfaction.
Spain has a long history of high quality education at its universities, with some of the oldest universities in Europe, such as the University of Salamanca, which was established in the 1200’s.
This tradition is born out in the high performance of Spanish universities in well-known world university ranking systems, which is shown in our table below, which shows the top 15 Spanish universities.
| University | Times Higher Education World University Ranking | Best Global Universities | QS World University Ranking |
| University of Barcelona | 152 | 79 | 165 |
| Autonomous University of Barcelona | 201–250 | 133 | 175 |
| Pompeu Fabra University | 201–250 | 269 | 265 |
| University of Navarra | 301–350 | 385 | 249 |
| Autonomous University of Madrid | 351–400 | 277 | 198 |
| Complutense University of Madrid | 501–600 | 323 | 164 |
| University of Granada | 501–600 | 352 | 431 |
| Rovira i Virgili University | 501–600 | 685 | 731-740 |
| University of Valencia | 501–600 | 251 | 445 |
| University of the Basque Country | 601–800 | 460 | 641-650 |
| University of Córdoba | 601–800 | 1012 | 951-1000 |
| Open University of Catalonia | 601–800 | ||
| Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya | 601–800 | 450 | 371 |
| Polytechnic University of Valencia | 601–800 | 635 | 436 |
| Universitat Ramon Llull | 601–800 | 935 | 466 |
Climate
Spain is known for its sunny weather, but the climate can vary significantly depending on where in the country you choose to study.
In general, Spain enjoys long, hot summers and mild winters, particularly in the southern and coastal regions. Sunshine is plentiful, especially in cities like Seville, Valencia and Málaga, where it’s common to see over 300 sunny days a year.
However, not all of Spain has year-round sunshine and blue skies. The north of the country, particularly regions like Galicia and the Basque Country, can be much cooler, cloudier and wetter, with weather more similar to parts of western Europe. The central plateau, where Madrid is located, experiences hot summers but can also get cold in winter, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
In summer, average temperatures across the country range between 25-35°C (77-95°F), with the south regularly seeing higher peaks in July and August.
Winter temperatures vary more by region. In the south and along the Mediterranean coast, you can expect mild winters of around 10-16°C (50-61°F). In central and northern Spain, winter temperatures can drop to 0-8°C (32-46°F), with occasional frost and snowfall inland or in higher elevations.
In short: if you enjoy warm weather, Spain has plenty to offer. Just make sure to check the regional climate of your chosen university city and don’t forget your sunscreen!
Lifestyle and welfare in Spain
Spain is known for its vibrant lifestyle, warm climate, and strong sense of community, making it a popular and welcoming destination for international students.
Whether you’re in a buzzing metropolis like Madrid or Barcelona, or a smaller university city such as Granada or Salamanca, you’ll find an easy-going culture, great food and plenty of support to help you settle in.
Healthcare
Spain has a well-developed healthcare system, and international students can access high-quality medical care during their studies.
If you are a non-EU citizen
You’ll need to have health insurance to cover your stay in Spain. You have two main options:
- Private health insurance: Many students from outside the EU choose an international health insurance plan before arriving. Make sure it meets Spanish visa requirements and covers hospitalisation, emergencies, and general care.
- Register with the Spanish public healthcare system (SNS): In some cases, if you obtain a residence permit and work part-time, you may be eligible to access the public system, though this is not guaranteed.
If you are an EU citizen
Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to use Spanish public healthcare on the same basis as Spanish citizens. You may still be required to register locally and pay part of the treatment cost upfront (with partial reimbursement depending on your coverage).
In either case, it’s recommended to register with a local GP (médico de cabecera) once you arrive, so you can access routine care more easily.
Food
Spain’s food culture is a big part of student life and the good news is, it’s both delicious and affordable.
- Breakfast is usually simple: toast with olive oil and tomato, a pastry, or churros with hot chocolate.
- Lunch (comida) is the main meal of the day and is often eaten between 2-3 PM. Many student cafeterias offer “menú del día”, a set menu with multiple courses at a student-friendly price.
- Dinner (cena) tends to be lighter and later, often not until 9 or 10 PM.
- Tapas culture is a great way to enjoy small plates with friends. In some cities, like Granada, you’ll even get free tapas with your drink.
- Regional dishes vary widely: from paella in Valencia to pintxos in the Basque Country, exploring local food is part of the adventure.
- Spain also has strong supermarket chains and fresh produce markets, making home cooking both easy and budget-friendly.
Leisure
Spaniards place a strong emphasis on social life, community, and enjoying the moment and students are no exception.
- The famous “tardeo” culture (socialising in the afternoon) and late-night lifestyle mean that cafés, plazas, and bars are always lively.
- Universities typically offer sports, clubs, and student organisations to help you meet people and stay active.
- Spain’s cultural scene is rich and accessible: from world-class museums and flamenco shows to film festivals and street parties (known as fiestas), there’s always something happening.
- Popular student cities are near beaches, mountains, or both, so weekend hiking or sunbathing is often just a short trip away.
- For nightlife, Spain’s bars and clubs open late and close even later, but you’ll also find more low-key options like open-air cinemas or local concerts.
Transport
Getting around in Spain is straightforward, with excellent public transport and student discounts widely available.
- Metro and bus systems are well-developed in larger cities. Most offer student travel cards that give unlimited access for a monthly fee.
- Trains (Renfe) are a great way to explore other cities or regions. For cheaper options, look into regional trains (Media Distancia) or long-distance buses.
- Cycling is increasingly popular in cities like Valencia or Seville, which have invested in bike lanes and public bike hire schemes.
- Spain’s compact urban centres mean you can often walk between campus, accommodation, and shops with ease.
Safety
Spain is considered a safe country for international students and is consistently ranked as one of the most peaceful in Europe.
- Violent crime is rare, but petty theft (especially pickpocketing) can be an issue in crowded tourist spots or on public transport.
- Use common sense: keep your phone and wallet secure, and don’t leave belongings unattended.
- Most universities offer support services and safety guidance for students, and emergency numbers are easy to access (dial 112 in any emergency).
Languages
Spanish (Castellano) is the national language and is spoken throughout the country, but regional languages like Catalan, Galician, and Basque are also used in certain areas and may appear on signs or in classrooms.
- Many university programmes, especially at the postgraduate level, are now offered in English, particularly in larger cities.
- However, having at least a basic grasp of Spanish will make your daily life much easier from opening a bank account to ordering food or making friends.
- Most universities offer Spanish language courses for international students, often at a reduced cost or for free.
While many Spaniards, especially younger people, speak some English, making an effort to speak Spanish is appreciated and will help you feel more connected to your new environment.
University cities
Spain offers international students a wide range of environments, from lively beachside towns to historic inland cities. Climate, cost of living and culture can vary significantly by region, so it’s worth considering what kind of lifestyle suits you best.
Here are some of our top picks for student cities in Spain:
Barcelona
Located in Catalonia, on the northeastern Mediterranean coast, Barcelona is one of Spain’s most internationally recognised cities. Known for its stunning architecture (Gaudí’s Sagrada Família being the standout), beach lifestyle and vibrant cultural scene, it’s a major draw for students from around the world.
Barcelona is home to several world-renowned universities, including the University of Barcelona, Pompeu Fabra University, and ESADE Business School.
The city is relatively affordable compared to other major European hubs and offers an exciting nightlife, excellent public transport and a good mix of history and innovation. Be aware that both Spanish and Catalan are official languages in the region.
Madrid
As the capital of Spain, Madrid is the largest city in the country and offers a dynamic and cosmopolitan experience. With its world-class museums, sprawling parks like El Retiro and late-night culture, it’s a lively place to study.
Madrid is home to a number of prestigious universities such as Complutense University of Madrid, Autonomous University of Madrid and IE University, which attract a large international student population.
Living costs in Madrid are higher than in some smaller cities, but there’s a strong student community and plenty of budget-friendly housing, food and entertainment options.
Valencia
Located on the eastern coast of Spain, Valencia combines historic charm with modern innovation. It is Spain’s third-largest city and boasts warm weather, beautiful beaches and the famous City of Arts and Sciences.
Valencia is a student-friendly city with a laid-back lifestyle and more affordable living costs than Barcelona or Madrid. Key institutions include the University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University of Valencia.
Valencia is also the birthplace of paella, and its lively festivals, particularly Las Fallas, offer a great way to immerse yourself in Spanish culture.
Granada
Tucked at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in southern Spain, Granada is one of the most picturesque university cities in the country. It offers a rich mix of Moorish architecture, such as the famous Alhambra, and a lively, youthful student atmosphere.
The University of Granada is one of the oldest and most respected in Spain and the city has a high ratio of students to residents.
Granada is also known for its free tapas with drinks, making it a budget-friendly and fun place to study. Despite its warm climate, it’s also close to ski resorts, giving students the best of both worlds.
Seville
Capital of the Andalusia region, Seville is full of character, known for flamenco, orange trees, and its historic streets and plazas. The city is warm, sunny, and full of life, offering a strong sense of Spanish tradition.
The University of Seville is one of the largest in Spain and the city has a strong student presence, particularly in the arts and humanities.
Seville is more affordable than many northern cities, with a relatively low cost of living and vibrant student nightlife.
Salamanca
If you’re looking for history and tradition, Salamanca is hard to beat. Home to the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Europe (founded in 1218), the city is steeped in academic legacy.
The entire city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the student population brings it to life with energy and creativity.
Smaller and more compact than many other university cities, Salamanca is a great place for focused study and community living, with an authentic Spanish atmosphere and affordable prices.
Santiago de Compostela
Located in the north-western region of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela is famous for its cathedral and as the end point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. It’s a peaceful, picturesque city with a strong student presence.
The University of Santiago de Compostela has a long academic tradition and a focus on research and innovation.
Galicia’s weather is wetter and cooler than the south of Spain, but the region is known for its natural beauty, green landscapes and excellent seafood.
Student visas
International students who wish to study in Spain will generally need to obtain a student visa (visado de estudios) before arriving in the country.
For study periods longer than 90 days, non-EU/EEA students must apply for a Type D student visa, which allows entry into Spain and enrolment in full-time academic programmes.
Once in Spain, students must also apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 30 days of arrival. This card serves as your residence permit for the duration of your studies.
If you are a student coming from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you do not need a student visa to study in Spain. However, you will still need to register with the local authorities and obtain a certificate of registration as an EU resident.
Student visas are typically issued for the duration of your academic programme and can be extended if you continue your studies.
Costs of studying and living in Spain
Course fees
Public universities in Spain are relatively affordable for international students, with fees partially subsidised by the Spanish government. Tuition fees are charged per ECTS credit (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System), and the cost depends on the degree level, the region, and whether you are an EU or non-EU student.
Bachelor’s degrees (Grado)
At public universities, EU students typically pay between €12 and €30 per ECTS, which means annual tuition fees range from approximately €750 to €2,100 for a full-time course (60 ECTS per year).
Non-EU students may be charged higher fees depending on the university and region, some institutions charge non-EU students as much as twice the standard EU rate. However, this varies and some regions treat EU and non-EU students the same.
Master’s degrees (Máster Oficial)
Master’s fees are slightly higher and typically range from €20 to €55 per ECTS, equating to about €1,200 to €3,300 per year for a 60 ECTS programme. Again, rates may be higher for non-EU students.
It is worth noting that fees for specialised or private master’s programmes (particularly MBAs or degrees in English) can be significantly more expensive.
Doctoral degrees (Doctorado)
Doctorate tuition fees are low across public institutions. Most PhD students pay a nominal enrolment fee of around €400–€700 per year, with the bulk of costs often covered by funding or fellowships offered by universities or government bodies.
Private universities set their own tuition fees, which are typically much higher and can range from €5,000 to over €20,000 per year, depending on the programme and institution.
Living costs
Living expenses in Spain are considered moderate compared to other Western European countries, though costs vary depending on the city you live in.
In general, you should budget between €900 and €1,300 per month to cover your living expenses, including accommodation, groceries, transport and leisure.
Accommodation
Rental costs are typically the biggest expense. Expect to pay:
- €350 – €600 per month for a room in a shared flat (more in cities like Madrid or Barcelona)
- €600 – €900 per month for a private studio or one-bedroom flat.
Student residences (residencias universitarias) are available in most cities and may cost between €300 – €800 per month, depending on location and amenities.
Food and groceries
Groceries will usually cost around €200 – €300 per month, depending on your lifestyle. Eating out is affordable in many Spanish cities, menu del día (set lunch menus) often cost between €10 – €15.
Transport
Public transport is affordable and widely available. Many cities offer student transport passes for buses, trams, and metros, costing around €20 – €35 per month.
Madrid and Barcelona have extensive metro networks, while smaller cities are easily navigated on foot or by bus.
Scholarships
Spain offers a range of scholarship opportunities to international students that can help cover tuition or living costs. These include:
- Erasmus+ mobility grants for EU students studying in Spain as part of exchange programmes.
- Ministry of Education (Ministerio de Educación y Formación Profesional) grants for academic excellence and financial need.
- University-specific scholarships for international students, check directly with your chosen institution.
- La Caixa Foundation and Fundación Carolina offer scholarships particularly for postgraduate students from Latin America and other countries.
Some regional governments (e.g., Catalonia or Andalusia) also offer grants for students studying in their public universities.
How to apply to university in Spain
There is no single centralised platform for applying to universities in Spain, so the application process varies depending on the university and the applicant’s country of origin. However, there are some common steps and structures that international students should be aware of.
If you are an EU/EEA student, you are generally treated the same as Spanish students when applying for undergraduate degrees. If you are a non-EU student, additional requirements may apply and your qualifications may need to be formally recognised in Spain.
For undergraduate studies at public universities, applications are usually made via the UNEDasiss platform, which is run by the National University of Distance Education (UNED).
This system assesses your academic credentials and, in many cases, issues accreditation so that you can apply to Spanish universities.
Each university also has its own online application portal, and you will need to follow their instructions carefully. You may be required to submit translated and notarised documents, proof of language proficiency (Spanish or English, depending on the programme), a passport copy, academic transcripts, and, in some cases, an entrance exam score.
If you’re applying for a master’s or doctoral degree, you usually apply directly through the university’s own website or admissions portal. Entry requirements vary depending on the programme and institution.
Places may be limited
Some highly competitive programmes, particularly in fields such as Medicine or Veterinary Science, may have limited places, similar to the Dutch numerus fixus system. This is referred to in Spain as “plazas limitadas”, and selection is based on academic merit or entrance exam performance.
Applicants may be ranked according to their grades or the results of the Evaluación de Acceso a la Universidad (EBAU or EvAU), an entrance exam typically taken by domestic students but sometimes required of international students whose qualifications don’t align with the Spanish secondary school system.
Be sure to check with your chosen university whether a course has limited places and if any additional entrance tests or interviews are required as part of the selection process.
Key tip: Because the application system is decentralised, it’s essential to start your application process early, carefully check each university’s website for specific entry requirements and allow time for document translation and validation if needed.
Job prospects for international graduates
If you plan to stay and work in Spain after you graduate, your chances of finding employment will be greatly improved if you speak Spanish. While some international companies operate in English, most jobs, especially outside of major cities, require at least an intermediate level of Spanish.
Your field of study can also make a significant difference. Sectors such as tourism, IT, engineering and business tend to offer more opportunities for international graduates, especially in larger cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.
If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you can live and work in Spain without a work permit, though you will still need to register with the local authorities and obtain a social security number.
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you can apply for a residence permit for job-seeking or entrepreneurship (known as the “autorización de estancia por estudios para búsqueda de empleo o para emprender”). This permit allows you to stay in Spain for up to 12 months after graduation while you look for work or start a business.
To apply, you must:
- Hold a recognised bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degree from a Spanish institution.
- Apply for the permit within 60 days before or 90 days after your current student residence permit expires.
- Show proof of financial means and health insurance during your stay.
Securing a job offer after this period may allow you to switch to a standard work permit (residencia y trabajo).
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to study in Spain?
No. Tuition fees apply at both public and private universities in Spain. However, public university fees are generally lower than in many other Western European countries.
- EU/EEA students typically pay between €680 and €1,500 per year for bachelor’s degrees at public universities.
- Non-EU/EEA students may pay higher fees, depending on the region and the institution.
Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes. International students in Spain are allowed to work part-time (up to 30 hours per week) during their studies, as long as the work does not interfere with their academic schedule.
If you’re from outside the EU/EEA, your employer must obtain a work authorisation on your behalf. EU/EEA students do not need a separate work permit.
Can I stay in Spain after I graduate?
Yes. Non-EU/EEA students can apply for a 12-month residence permit after graduation to look for a job or start a business.
This permit must be applied for before or within 90 days of your current student visa expiring.