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Study in Spain

Spain is a popular study destination for international students. The educational system in this country is well-organized, there are numerous degree options, and the level of academic expertise here is remarkable. Students from around the world choose to study in Spain because of the country’s fantastic climate, vibrant cultural scene, and a plethora of career options and educational advancements..
Spain 1

Study in Spain

Spain is a popular study destination for international students. The educational system in this country is well-organized, there are numerous degree options, and the level of academic expertise here is remarkable. Students from around the world choose to study in Spain because of the country’s fantastic climate, vibrant cultural scene, and a plethora of career options and educational advancements.
Spain 1

For international students, Spain is one of the ideal countries in Europe to earn a degree. Browse more to discover why international students choose to study in Spain.

Why Study in Spain?

Top-performing universities. The country is home to some of the best universities in the world, which consistently rank at the top of world university rankings–a big factor in why thousands of international students are attracted to study in Spain.

Government-supported institutions. There are roughly 80 universities in Spain, most of which are state-funded public institutions, and the remainder is private institutions.

Affordable study and living. In general, study and living costs in Spain are lower than in many other countries, which makes it a favorite for international students. Spain’s prices for goods and services are lower than the average compared to other European countries.

Stable economy. Spain’s economy, characterized as a mix of capitalism, is resilient. Its economy is the world’s 12th-largest, and the country is famous for its excellent life quality and good standard of living.

Large influx of overseas students. It is estimated that 208,366 international students are studying in Spain’s higher education institutions, including those in study abroad programs. This total has been steadily rising over the past few years as the attraction of studying overseas for international students continues to grow.

Educational advancement. Some of Spain’s best private schools have been around for a long time. They have defined themselves as global educational leaders, offering various extracurricular activities, advanced techniques, and academic spaces and facilities that help students grow.

Opportunity to learn a new language. Studying in Spain also enables you to learn Spanish, the second most spoken language in the world. The opportunity to study the language is plentiful. There are numerous short-term courses and entire degrees available around the nation for those who do not speak French fluently.

Diverse culture. When you pursue study in Spain, there are innumerable opportunities for you to learn about Spanish history and culture in the country, from historic architecture like the Sagrada Familia to the numerous museums and galleries, wineries, and restaurants.

Academic Excellence

Higher education in Spain is highly regarded around the world, and this is reflected in the country’s powerful placement in education rankings. Spain has a number of top-ranking universities, which indicates its academic performance is well-known and respected worldwide. 


International students and Spaniards alike are drawn to the country’s colleges and universities. In fact, there are currently 1,633,358 students enrolled in Spain’s institutions of higher learning, according to the most recent data. This includes international and domestic students, as the Ministry of Education cites.

Top Education Providers

Higher education institutions in Spain are among the finest in the world. In fact, the Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2022 includes 52 institutions from Spain.

The Top 10 universities in Spain as per the Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2022 are as follows:

World Ranking Spain Rank University City
156
1
Pompeu Fabra University
Barcelona
=170
2
Autonomous University of Barcelona
Barcelona
=193
3
University of Barcelona
Barcelona
251–300
4
University of Navarra
Pamplona
301–350
5
Autonomous University of Madrid
Madrid
401–500
=6
Universitat Ramon Llull
Barcelona
401–500
=6
University of Valencia
Valencia
401–500
=6
University of Vic – Central University of Catalonia
Barcelona
501–600
=9
CEU Universities
Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia
501–600
=9
Complutense University of Madrid
Madrid

Meanwhile, in the QS World University Rankings 2023, Spain has listed 12 universities in the top 500. They are the following:

World Ranking Spain Rank University
178
1
Autonomous University of Barcelona
184
2
University of Barcelona
215
3
Autonomous University of Madrid
226
4
Complutense University of Madrid
233
5
University Pompeu Fabra
253
6
University of Navarra
320
7
University Carlos III de Madrid
343
8
Polytechnic University of Catalonia
347
9
IE University
400
10
Polytechnic University of Valencia
484
11
Technical University of Madrid
494
12
University of Granada
Law Arts and Humanities Marketing and Finance STEM Hospitality Management
Engineering
Medicine
Data Analytics
Business Management
Language and History

Language

Learning Spanish in Spain is a great way to improve your language skills and become familiar with the language. In order to better understand Spanish as an international student, you must first find an appropriate language course and academic institution.

In addition to your degree, many higher education institutions are offering preparatory summer, intensive or extensive Spanish language classes, and courses. To obtain an official diploma in Spanish as a Foreign Language (also known as a DELE), students must complete the DELE exam.

How Much Money is Required to Study in Spain?

Tuition Fee

Fees for official degree courses at public universities are established by the autonomous communities in accordance with the General Assembly for University Policy’s (GAUP’s) guidelines.

Below is a list of average tuition fees when you study in Spain:

Study Level Cost
Bachelor’s program (Public university)
150 - 3,500 EUR/year
Master’s program (Public university)
300 - 3,500 EUR/year
Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate program (Private university)
5,000 - 20,000 EUR/year
Business schools
<25,000 EUR/year

Cost of Living

Every student’s living expenses in Spain are distinct. The cost of living for those who study in Spain can be extremely low or extremely high, but it depends on various factors–from where they live and what kind of lifestyle they would like to follow.

When looking for a student housing option, students should also consider the cost of public transportation, food, and other necessities. 

Below is an estimate of the cost of living in Spain:

Study Level Cost ($)
Rent
$550-$1,100
Electricity
$90
Water
$20
Mobile Phone
$30
Gas
$30
Internet
$45
Eating out
$250-$300
Groceries
$250
Transportation
$50
Gym
$40

Student Visa in Spain

After being accepted to a Spanish university, obtaining a student visa in Spain is usually a simple process. Spanish consulates and embassies in your country can assist you in getting a long-term visa to study in Spain.

For EU Students

The country does not require a student visa for citizens of the European Union or the European Economic Area to study in Spain.

For Non-EU Students

Non-EU students may have a more difficult time acquiring a student visa to study in Spain, but once you’ve enrolled in a Spanish university, the process is fairly smooth.

A student visa normally has the following requirements:

  • A valid passport
  • Medical insurance
  • Proof of financial resources and accommodation
  • Bank statement
  • A criminal record certificate
  • A medical certificate

Note that a student visa cannot be obtained by entering Spain on a tourist visa and then applying for one.

Every year, Spanish universities host a diverse range of student events that allow those who study in Spain to discover the city, savor the local cuisine, and interact with fellow global learners. There’s a good chance that you’ll be able to form lifelong relationships with people from a wide range of upbringings.

Studying in Spain will be a big eye-opener in terms of education, cultural diversity, and so much more. As an international student, it is an experience not worth missing.

Knowing what you’re searching for will guide you to arrive at a life-changing decision for yourself and your future. Pave your way to success with us, MSM Unify. Get to know all the details on how to enter a Spanish university and eventually study in Spain.

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