Spain’s cost of living is lower than many of its neighboring countries in Europe. The estimated monthly expenses for an individual in Spain, minus the rent, cost around EUR 609.58. Meanwhile, in other top study destinations in Europe, such as France, the monthly cost is around EUR 810.69 while it’s EUR 758.71 in the UK.
However, as a student, living and studying abroad can still be quite expensive, no matter the country.
Fortunately, there are many ways international students can save money and get discounts in Spain.
Aside from applying for financial assistance, international students are also eligible for various student discounts and promos in Spain.
Read below to know more.
International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
ISIC, which has been around since the 1950s, was recognized by more than a hundred and thirty countries worldwide, and UNESCO. Thus, think of ISIC as a global ID you can use to show your status as an international student.
The card allows students to access discounts from those countries’ hundreds of thousands of establishments offering items or services they can purchase.
ISIC can be purchased by international students for only EUR11 per year and renewed every year until it is needed and until they are eligible for it. ISIC does not have an age limit, as long as the student is taking a full-time course or study program abroad, and even for online training.
You can also use your ISIC to access discounts and promos in Spain’s public transportation.
International Youth Travel Card (IYTC)
The IYTC is for individuals who are not taking full-time courses, are under the age of 30, and perhaps, taking short study programs including:
- Exchange program
- Summer or winter classes
- Internship
- Short-term research program abroad, and so on
IYTC offers young individuals the same advantages as ISIC, except for some offers that are exclusive for full-time students. Moreover, just like ISIC, an IYTC digital version costs EUR11 that is valid for one year.
European Youth Card
Another card that offers a lot of discounts to international students in Spain is the European Youth Card (EYC), also known as Carnet Joven in Spain.
Students can check here if their country has its own EYC. However, in case their country is not included in EYC’s list, students can still apply for an EYC in Spain, which has a lot of city members in EYC.
Everyone, as long as they are under the age of 31 can access this card, and apply for it online.
Aside from the usual discounts in restaurants, or when they are shopping, the EYC also allows students to experience different activities in Spain, such as diving.
Spanish Youth Hostel Network Card (REAJ)
If you want to travel while studying in Spain and want access to discounted hostels across the country and flight tickets, you can purchase REAJ. Students can also use this card in other countries outside of Spain.
Aside from the different discount cards that students can purchase while studying in Spain, other ways to get discounts in Spain to include the student’s ID or official email from their school.
To learn more useful tips and information to make your stay in Spain easier and more fun, you can always check our array of articles at MSM Unify overseas education consultancy.
