Study in Canada

A hassle-free visa process, affordable tuition fees, and highly-ranked universities are some of the many reasons why Canada is the most sought-after study-abroad destination.

Study in Australia

Every year over 637,000 International students choose to study in Australia for a variety of reasons such as the availability of several undergraduate, postgraduate, and part-time work programs.

More Countries

Eton College

Acadia University

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Alexander College

Trinity Western University

Brock University

Capilano University

Cape Breton University

Canadian College

Georgian College

Know what exams and tests you need for admission and advancement.

Exams

How to Get PR in Singapore: A 2025 Guide for Indians and International Students

Cost of Living in Luxembourg in 2025: Expert Advice

Resources

Tools

Things to do before going abroad for studies

Student services

Spain Intakes

Home / Study in Spain / Intakes in Spain

Spain Intakes

Introduction

Spain has become an increasingly popular study destination for international students due to its world-renowned universities, vibrant culture, and favorable cost of living. One of the most important aspects for prospective students to consider is the intake or semester structure in Spain. Spanish universities typically have two major intakes for international students: Fall (September/October) and Spring (January/February), each offering different advantages depending on your academic goals, preparedness, and field of study.

At MSM Unify, we help students navigate these intake options and secure admission to their dream universities. With over 50,000 programs and 1,500+ campuses across 21 destinations, MSM Unify has supported more than 1,86,000 students in realizing their aspirations to study abroad. Whether you’re looking for undergraduate, postgraduate, or specialized courses, MSM Unify’s overseas education consultants can guide you in selecting the most suitable intake for your goals.

Upcoming intake calendar

Spanish universities generally offer two major intakes each academic year, with exact dates varying across institutions. Here is an overview of the intake timelines:

1. Fall intake (Primary intake)

2. Spring intake (Secondary intake)

These intakes allow flexibility for students who may need extra time for visa processing, finalizing applications, or financial arrangements.

Benefits of enrolling for each intake

Both Fall and Spring intakes have unique advantages depending on when you are ready to begin your studies. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits for each intake:

1. Fall intake (September/October)

Both Fall and Spring intakes have unique advantages depending on when you are ready to begin your studies. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits for each intake:

Wider program availability
Most universities open the majority of their programs in the Fall intake, making it the most popular and competitive
More scholarship opportunities
Since the Fall intake is the main semester, scholarships and funding options are more readily available during this period.
Seamless transition
The Fall intake aligns with the academic year in many countries, making it easier for students to transition without long gaps.
Job and internship opportunities
Companies tend to offer more internships and entry-level positions during the Fall, especially for programs in business, engineering, and technology

2. Spring intake (January/February)

Less competition
The Spring intake typically sees fewer applicants, allowing students who may have missed the Fall deadlines a better chance of securing a spot.
Faster application process
With fewer applicants, the application processing times tend to be quicker, which can ease the stress of waiting for admission decisions.
More flexibility
If you need additional time to prepare for language tests, gather documents, or organize finances, the Spring intake allows for this.
Specialized programs
Certain universities open specific postgraduate or short-term programs exclusively during the spring intake, making it ideal for niche areas of study.

Which intake to opt for?

Choosing the right intake largely depends on your personal circumstances, preparedness, and program availability. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Availability of your desired program

If your chosen program is only available during the Fall intake, then that will be your primary option. However, many universities offer multiple intakes for popular programs like business, engineering, and arts.

2. Readiness

Students who feel prepared with their academic records, language proficiency, and finances should opt for the Fall intake. On the other hand, if you need more time to prepare, the Spring intake provides a great alternative.

3. Scholarship opportunities

If securing scholarships or financial aid is a priority, the Fall intake typically offers more funding options, as it aligns with the university’s primary admission cycle.

4. Visa timelines

Ensure you account for the time needed for visa processing. Applying early for either intake can avoid last-minute delays and rejections.

Best time to apply

The ideal time to apply depends on which intake you are targeting. For the Fall intake, it is recommended to start preparing your application by January of the same year. This gives ample time to gather required documents, write statements of purpose, and ensure all details are ready well before the June deadlines.

For the Spring intake, the best time to apply is from August to October. This ensures you are not rushing to complete the application, and it allows for enough time for visa processing.

Starting your application early also gives you access to early-bird scholarships and helps you avoid last-minute stress.

Documents required

The following documents are typically required when applying to Spanish universities:

1. Completed application form

This is the initial step, which will be available on the university’s website.

2. Transcripts and academic records

Ensure you have your official high school or undergraduate transcripts (depending on your program level).

3. Language proficiency test scores

Most programs require proof of Spanish or English proficiency through tests such as DELE, IELTS, or TOEFL

4. Letter of motivation/Statement of Purpose (SOP)

You will need a personal statement outlining why you are interested in studying in Spain and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.

5. Letters of recommendation

Obtain letters of recommendation typically from academic or professional references, such as your teachers, mentors, seniors, etc

6. Passport and visa-related documents

Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your study, and apply for a student visa as soon as you receive your offer letter

7. CV/Resume

Some postgraduate programs may require a professional resume showcasing relevant work experience or internships

Application deadlines

Here are the approximate application deadlines for Spain’s major intakes:

Fall intake

Application deadlines generally fall between April and June.
Spring intake

Applications are typically due between October and November.

It’s important to note that application deadlines may vary depending on the university and the program, so always check with the specific institution for accurate timelines. MSM Unify’s overseas education consultants can assist you in keeping track of these deadlines and ensure you don’t miss out.

Top universities offering admission in respective intakes

Spain is home to several top-ranked universities that accept international students for both the Fall and Spring intakes. Some of the top universities include:

University of Barcelona

The university offers Fall and Spring intakes for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields like business, arts, and engineering.
Autonomous University of Madrid

It primarily admits students in the Fall intake, but select programs are available in Spring.
Pompeu Fabra University

Known for its business and economics programs, this university offers intakes in both September and January.
IE University

This private university offers rolling admissions for most of its programs, allowing for flexibility in choosing your intake.

Conclusion

Choosing the right intake is a crucial step in your journey to study in Spain. With the Fall intake offering a wider range of programs and more scholarship opportunities, and the Spring intake providing flexibility for those who need extra time, each intake has its advantages.

At MSM Unify, we are dedicated to helping you make the best decision based on your academic goals and timelines. Our expert consultants will guide you through every step, from selecting the right intake to securing your admission and handling visa processes. With MSM Unify’s vast network of programs and institutions, you can confidently embark on your academic adventure in Spain, knowing you’ve made an informed choice.

Spain Intakes

Intakes in

Spain

Interested in studying abroad?

Share your details & our experts will call to discuss your goals

FAQs

Got questions?

Find answers here

Q. What are the major intakes in Spain for international students?

Spain offers two major intakes: the Fall intake (September/October) and the Spring intake (January/February).

Q. When should I apply for the Fall intake in Spain?

You should apply between January and June for the Fall intake in Spain, depending on the specific university’s deadlines.

Q. Can I apply for the Spring intake if I miss the Fall intake?

Yes, the Spring intake serves as an alternative for students who may have missed the Fall deadlines or require more time to prepare.

Q. Which intake is better for scholarships in Spain?

The Fall intake in Spain generally offers more scholarships, as it is the main academic semester for most universities.

Q. Do all programs have both Fall and Spring intakes?

No, while many undergraduate programs are available in both intakes, some postgraduate and specialized programs may only be offered during the Fall intake.

Q. What documents are needed for applying to Spanish universities?

Typical documents that are needed to apply to Spanish universities include your academic transcripts, language proficiency scores, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and visa-related papers.

Q. What is the visa processing time for Spain?

It generally takes around 4-8 weeks to process a student visa for Spain, so it’s important to apply well in advance.

Q. Is there a difference in program quality between the two intakes?

No, the quality of education remains the same in both the Fall and Spring intakes in Spain. However, the Fall intake may have more program options available.

Q. When do universities in Spain start the academic year?

The academic year for most universities starts in September/October, while the Spring semester begins in January/February.

Q. How can MSM Unify help me apply to Spanish universities?

MSM Unify’s overseas education consultants can guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right intake and program to meeting deadlines and securing scholarships.

Universities in Canada

Universities in UK

Universities in USA

Universities in Australia

Universities in Germany

Universities in Ireland

Universities in France

Institutions in New Zealand

Featured program​s

Computer Science​

Business

More Degrees

Administration

Applied Sciences

Certification course from IU Germany

Certification course from Q Academy

Bachelor's Degree

Diploma

How to Get PR in Singapore: A 2025 Guide for Indians and International Students

Cost of Living in Luxembourg in 2025: Expert Advice

Spain Intakes

Introduction

Upcoming intake calendar

1. Fall intake (Primary intake)

2. Spring intake (Secondary intake)

Benefits of enrolling for each intake

1. Fall intake (September/October)

Wider program availability

More scholarship opportunities

Seamless transition

Job and internship opportunities

2. Spring intake (January/February)

Less competition

Faster application process

More flexibility

Specialized programs

Which intake to opt for?

1. Availability of your desired program

2. Readiness

3. Scholarship opportunities

4. Visa timelines

Best time to apply

Documents required

1. Completed application form

2. Transcripts and academic records

3. Language proficiency test scores

4. Letter of motivation/Statement of Purpose (SOP)

5. Letters of recommendation

6. Passport and visa-related documents

7. CV/Resume

Application deadlines

Fall intake

Spring intake

Top universities offering admission in respective intakes

University of Barcelona

Autonomous University of Madrid

Pompeu Fabra University

IE University

Conclusion

Intakes in

Spain

Interested in studying abroad?

FAQs

Got questions?

Find answers here

Q. What are the major intakes in Spain for international students?

Q. When should I apply for the Fall intake in Spain?

Q. Can I apply for the Spring intake if I miss the Fall intake?

Q. Which intake is better for scholarships in Spain?

Q. Do all programs have both Fall and Spring intakes?

Q. What documents are needed for applying to Spanish universities?

Q. What is the visa processing time for Spain?

Q. Is there a difference in program quality between the two intakes?

Q. When do universities in Spain start the academic year?

Q. How can MSM Unify help me apply to Spanish universities?

Upload Resume / Applicant Photo

Basic Details

Upload Resume / Applicant Photo

Basic Details

Featured programs

Computer Science