Spain

Country snapshot

• Capital: Madrid

• Language: Spanish (in addition to regional languages; many programmes in English)

• Dial code: +34

• Currency: Euro (EUR)

• Main intakes: September/October and January/February (programme-dependent)

Why study in Spain?

You’ll find reputable universities, research hubs in major cities, and tuition that’s competitive relative to many Western European destinations. Spain’s climate, food, and student-friendly cities make day-to-day life enjoyable, with easy travel across Europe.

Key benefits

• Recognised degrees with growing English-taught options

• Competitive tuition and living costs (varies by region and institution)

• Strong sectors: business, tourism/hospitality, design/architecture, engineering, health sciences

• Vibrant, multicultural student communities in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville

Eligibility (general)

• Undergraduate: Secondary school completion meeting programme prerequisites; subject requirements may apply

• Postgraduate: Relevant bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA/grade varies by programme)

• Language: English tests (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/DUOLINGO) for English-taught tracks; Spanish tests (DELE/SIELE) for Spanish-taught programmes

• Extras: Portfolio/audition (arts/design), entrance exams/interviews for selective courses; work experience for some MBAs

Required documents (typical)

• Valid passport

• Academic transcripts & certificates (official translations/legalisation as required)

• Language test results (English and/or Spanish)

• Statement of Purpose / motivation letter

• 1–2 Letters of Recommendation

• CV/Resume (where applicable)

• Proof of funds for tuition and living costs

• Application forms and passport-size photos

Visa & residence (overview for non-EU/EEA)

• Student visa (long-stay): Apply after receiving your admission/acceptance; provide financial proof, private health insurance, and accommodation details

• NIE/TIE: Obtain your foreigner identification and residence card after arrival, within the prescribed timeframe

• Work during studies: Part-time work is permitted within legal limits and must be compatible with your study schedule (check current hourly caps and conditions)

Work after graduation

Graduates may apply for post-study pathways (e.g., authorisation to look for a job or start a business) and can transition to work permits after securing qualifying employment, subject to current regulations.

Costs (guide numbers)

(Actual figures vary by university, programme, and region.)

• Public universities (non-EU fees): typically €3,000 – €12,000+ per year

• Private universities: often €5,000 – €20,000+ per year

• Living expenses: about €800 – €1,400 per month (Madrid/Barcelona higher; other cities lower)

• Health insurance: private coverage required for visa/residence (cost varies)

Top universities (examples)

• University of Barcelona (UB)

• Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB)

• Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)

• Complutense University of Madrid (UCM)

• Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM)

• University of Navarra

• Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV)

• Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M)

Scholarships & funding (examples)

• National/institutional merit awards and fee reductions

• Programme- or faculty-specific scholarships

• External/country-specific funding schemes

• Erasmus+ mobility for eligible programmes

Application steps

1. Shortlist programmes (language of instruction, prerequisites, deadlines)

2. Check document translation/legalisation requirements for your country

3. Prepare transcripts, SOP, references, CV, language tests, and portfolio/audition materials if needed

4. Submit applications via university portals before the intake deadline

5. Accept offer, pay deposit, and request enrolment/acceptance documents

6. Apply for the student visa; arrange health insurance, accommodation, and proof of funds

7. Travel, complete NIE/TIE procedures, and attend enrolment/orientation