Study in Spain – RainCity Immigration Ltd

Studying in Spain

Each year, Spain welcomes thousands of international students from around the globe. With a total of 89 universities—including 50 public and 39 private institutions—Spain has become a top study destination thanks to its high-quality education system, vibrant culture, pleasant climate, and abundant opportunities. While citizens of some countries can study in Spain without a visa, others, such as Iranian citizens, must obtain a student visa to pursue their education.

Studying at Spanish Universities

To study in Spain, international students must meet specific requirements, such as proficiency in Spanish or English, having recognized academic credentials, and proving financial capability. Spanish universities—both public and private—offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs.

Postgraduate studies in Spain include Master’s (Master’s degree) and Doctorate (PhD) levels.

Undergraduate Programs in Spain

The undergraduate level in Spain is referred to as “Grado.” International students must fulfill the following criteria to enroll:

Duration: 3 to 4 years
Requirements: High school diploma, passing the “Selectividad” entrance exam
Language Proficiency: Minimum Spanish level B1 and IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent in English)
Credits: 240 ECTS

Master’s Programs in Spain

Duration: 1 to 2 years
Requirements: Valid bachelor’s degree, interview, statement of purpose, or letters of recommendation
Language Proficiency: Minimum Spanish level B2 and IELTS 6.5
Credits: 120 ECTS

PhD Programs in Spain

Duration: 3 to 5 years
Requirements: Recognized master’s degree, research project, proposal, published articles, academic supervisor
Language Proficiency: Minimum Spanish level C1 and IELTS 7.0
Credits: Coursework phase: 60 ECTS; followed by research phase

Top Universities in Spain (2025 Rankings)

University Name	National Rank	Global Rank
University of Barcelona	1	149
Pompeu Fabra University	2	176
Autonomous University of Barcelona	3	199
University of Navarra	4	251–300
Autonomous University of Madrid	5	351–400
Complutense University of Madrid	6	501–600
University of Valencia	6	501–600
Open University of Catalonia	8	601–800
Polytechnic University of Valencia	8	601–800
Rovira i Virgili University	8	601–800
Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya	8	601–800
University of Granada	8	601–800
University of Santiago de Compostela	8	601–800
University of the Basque Country	8	601–800
Carlos III University of Madrid	15	801–1000
Pablo de Olavide University	15	801–1000
Universitat Internacional de Catalunya	15	801–1000
Universitat Ramon Llull	15	801–1000
University of Alcalá	15	801–1000
University of Castilla-La Mancha	15	801–1000
University of Córdoba	15	801–1000
University of Girona	15	801–1000
University of Lleida	15	801–1000
University of Salamanca	15	801–1000
University of Seville	15	801–1000
University of the Balearic Islands	15	801–1000
University of Vigo	15	801–1000

Free Education Opportunities in Spain

There are several ways to study in Spain for free or at a reduced cost:

✔ University Scholarships: Many Spanish universities offer scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, field of study, nationality, and more.

✔ Government Scholarships: The Spanish government provides numerous scholarships to international students. Additionally, both public and private organizations and foundations offer financial aid.

✔ Research Assistantships & Fellowships: Especially at the postgraduate level, universities often provide research assistant positions or fellowships that may include tuition waivers and stipends.

✔ Public Universities: Although tuition at public universities in Spain is not entirely free, it is significantly lower than that of private institutions.

Scholarships for Studying in Spain

According to Spain’s Ministry of Education, more than 16,000 international students benefit from various scholarships each year. Some of the most popular scholarships include:

✔ Spain Government Scholarships
✔ Erasmus Mundus Women and Gender Studies Scholarship – University of Granada
✔ ESADE Ramon Llull University “Do Good Do Better” Scholarship
✔ La Caixa Foundation Scholarship
✔ Universidad Autónoma de Madrid Scholarships
✔ Pompeu Fabra University Scholarships – Barcelona
✔ Master’s Scholarships – University of Barcelona
✔ International Scholarships – University of Valencia
✔ Carolina Foundation Scholarships
✔ IMDEA Networks Institute Ph.D. Scholarships

Working While Studying in Spain

International students are allowed to work up to 30 hours per week with a student visa. Some universities offer work-study programs allowing students to work part-time on campus in roles such as administrative support, tutoring, or assisting in university-related departments.
Students may also take part-time jobs off-campus in roles like restaurant servers, librarians, or shop assistants.

Post-Study Work in Spain

After graduation, international students can apply for a post-study work visa which allows them to stay in Spain for up to one year to find a suitable job or start their own business.
If a job is found within this time, the visa can be converted to a work visa. If not, the stay cannot be extended. Those wishing to start a business must submit a detailed business plan and supporting documents to Spanish authorities.

Tuition Fees in Spain

Tuition costs vary depending on the university type, degree level, field of study, number of ECTS credits, repeated courses, and program location.

Bachelor’s (Public Universities): €2,100 – €4,629/year
Master’s (Public Universities): €604 – €2,565/year
Bachelor’s (Private Universities): €2,400 – €30,000/year
Master’s (Private Universities): €1,388 – €105,000/year
Ph.D.: Up to €3,300/year

Student Visa Costs

Item	Cost

Visa Application

€94

Embassy Service Fee

€18

Health Insurance

€500–€1,000/year

Document Legalization

€5 per page

Financial Proof

€650/month (€7,800/year)

Cost of Living in Spain for Students (2025)

Average monthly living cost for a student: €712/month. This includes:

Accommodation

Shared Apartment Room: ~€400/month
Studio Apartment: €735–€966/month
Student Dormitory: €360–€650/month
One-Bedroom Apartment: €1,073–€1,532/month
Homestay: Free

Food

Groceries: €150–€300/month
Restaurant Meal: €10–€20/meal

Transportation

Public transport monthly pass: €40–€60
Student discounts are available in most cities.

Spain’s Education System

Spain’s education system is regulated by the national government and the individual regional governments of its 17 autonomous communities.
Schooling is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16. After completing secondary education, students receive a diploma and can pursue higher education.

Nursery & Preschool (0–6 years):
Nursery (0–3) is optional and usually not state-funded. Preschool (3–6) is free.
Primary Education (6–12 years):
Compulsory. Covers subjects like languages, math, literature, science, social studies, and art.
Secondary Education (12–16 years):
Mandatory. Includes two cycles: years 1–3 and year 4. Optional subjects like music and foreign languages are available.
Upper Secondary (Post-16):
Students can choose:
- Bachillerato (2 years): Prepares for university
- Vocational Training: Basic (Grado Medio) or Advanced (Grado Superior)
University Education:
Includes Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees. There are about 89 universities.
International students need a recognized high school diploma, a valid language certificate, and a passing grade on the Selectividad (EBAU) entrance exam.

How to Immigrate to Spain for Study

University Admission

To apply for undergraduate admission in Spain, you must have a valid high school diploma equivalent to Spanish standards, which must be validated through the Spanish embassy or consulate.
Once approved, you’ll receive a Volante Accreditation certificate to apply to universities.
You also need to take the EBAU (Evaluación del Bachillerato para el Acceso a la Universidad) entrance exam. It includes:

Text analysis
Spanish history or philosophy
Foreign language
A specialization subject

Passing this test qualifies you for university admission.

Getting a Spanish Student Visa

First, receive a letter of acceptance from a recognized Spanish institution. Then, apply for your visa at the Spanish embassy or consulate.
Once you’ve gathered all required documents and submitted your application, your visa (valid for the duration of your study) will be issued. After arriving in Spain, apply for your residence permit.

Required Documents for a Student Visa

Two completed visa application forms
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
National ID and birth certificate
Two passport-sized photos
University acceptance letter
Health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage/year) – travel insurance not accepted
Proof of financial means (at least €650/month) – e.g., for a 6-month stay: €3,900
Proof of tuition payment

Studying in Spain as a Pathway to Europe

Spain is a fantastic gateway to Europe. With affordable education, high-quality universities, and a globally useful language, it’s ideal for students seeking academic and career opportunities in the EU.

Learning Spanish improves your daily life, study experience, and employability. After graduation, you can work in Spain or elsewhere in Europe. These opportunities can pave the way for a successful career.

Frequently asked questions

What is the average cost of living in Spain for a student?

Approximately €712/month in 2025.

How much does a Bachelor's degree cost in Spain?

Public universities: €2,100–€4,629/year

Private universities: €2,400–€30,000/year

How much does a Master's degree cost in Spain?

Public universities: €604–€2,565/year
Private universities: €1,388–€105,000/year

Do I need to speak Spanish to study in Spain?

While many programs are offered in English, learning Spanish is highly beneficial.

Can I get permanent residency in Spain after studying?

Yes. After graduation, if you find a job, you can apply for a work visa and temporary residence. After 5 years, you may apply for permanent residency.

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