Studying at universities in Spain

The question most frequently asked by high school students and their parents is “Where should I study after finishing school?” Many give preference to European education, and especially to universities in Spain – and there are many reasons why.

Why studying at universities in Spain is so popular

It’s prestigious. Degrees from Spanish universities are recognised worldwide and will help you quickly find a well-paid job on any continent. Twenty-five of Spain’s universities are ranked among the top higher education institutions in the world.

It’s practical. During your years as a student you will gain an excellent command of Spanish, the second most widely spoken language in the world after English. More than 500 million people speak it, which means the demand for specialists is very high.

It’s advantageous. After graduating from any university in Spain, you can apply for a 12-month job-search visa. If you find a job during this period, you can officially obtain a residence card.

It’s affordable. Everything is relative, of course, but compared with tuition fees in other leading European countries, the cost of studying at Spanish universities is significantly lower. And if you choose not to study in Madrid or Barcelona, prices can be very budget-friendly – starting from around 800 euros per year. The cost of living in a student flat or hall of residence is also lower, and everyday food expenses can be quite modest.

It’s exciting. Student life gives you the opportunity to travel freely around Europe and meet people from many different countries. Spaniards themselves are cheerful, sociable and friendly – you certainly won’t be bored with them.

What you need to know to get into a Spanish university

Every university sets its own admission requirements and has its own list of documents needed for enrolment. This list can change from time to time, so before you apply you should always check the up-to-date information on the website of the specific institution.

A typical set of documents for admission to a Spanish university includes:

• A certificate of completion of secondary education (12 years of schooling). For citizens of CIS countries, the school-leaving certificate must usually be supplemented by 1–2 years of study at a university in their home country or by a one-year foundation course in Spain.
• A TOEFL or IELTS certificate confirming your language level (English or Spanish), depending on the language in which you will study.
• A motivation letter – a short but meaningful essay in which the future student explains why they chose this particular university in Spain.
• Certificates and diplomas confirming participation in competitions, Olympiads, international contests and other significant events. These prove the applicant’s social engagement and sporting or academic achievements.
• All documents must be translated, notarised and duly legalised.

The cost of studying at universities in Spain

Of course, everyone wants to know: “How much does higher education in Spain actually cost?” There is no single answer. Tuition fees vary widely between Spanish universities and depend on the field of study, demand for the profession, the status of the institution and its location.

There are no completely free universities in Spain, but if you are highly motivated and prepared to work hard, it is quite possible to study at some of the country’s best and most expensive universities almost free of charge. There is a system of grants and scholarships designed to reward talented and hardworking “straight-A” students.

At public universities in Spain these scholarships can cover up to 100% of tuition fees and living expenses. Private universities also offer financial incentives to their students, reimbursing from 15% to 75% of the money spent.

In other words, studying in Europe, obtaining a highly prestigious degree and an in-demand profession for very reasonable money is absolutely realistic and achievable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreign students study at Spanish universities?

Yes. Spanish universities are open to students from all countries. EU citizens study under the same conditions as Spaniards. Third-country nationals require a student visa (visado de estudios), which is obtained at the Spanish consulate in their country of residence. To enroll, a diploma with a notarized translation into Spanish is required.

Do I need to know Spanish to apply to a Spanish university?

For most programs in Spanish — yes, it is required to confirm a level of B2 or higher (usually a DELE certificate). Many universities offer programs in English — for these, an IELTS or TOEFL is sufficient. During their studies, students quickly improve their language skills, and Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world, making it a valuable asset.

Can I stay to work in Spain after graduating from university?

Yes. After obtaining a diploma, a foreign graduate of a Spanish university has the right to apply for a 12-month visa to search for work (autorización de estancia para búsqueda de empleo). If during this time you find an employer and sign a contract, the visa can be converted into a work residence permit. This is one of the most direct paths to long-term residence in Spain.

How much does it cost to study at a Spanish university?

Public universities are among the most affordable in Europe: the cost of a year of study is 1,000–3,000 € for bachelor's programs. Master's programs cost 2,000–5,000 € per year. Private universities are more expensive: 7,000–15,000 € per year. Living and food expenses are an additional 600–900 € per month depending on the city.