So, you’re thinking about studying abroad in Spain? Awesome choice! Spain is not just about flamenco, paella, and football – it’s also a fantastic place for international students to dive into new experiences and get a top-notch education. From historic cities to lively culture, Spain’s got it all. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of studying in this vibrant country.
Why Choose Spain?
- Amazing Universities: Spain is home to some cool universities like Universidad de Barcelona and Universidad Complutense de Madrid. They offer lots of courses, making sure you get an education that rocks.
- Worldwide Respect: A degree from a Spanish university can open doors around the world. Your future boss might be super impressed with your Spanish education.
- Quality Counts: Spain’s got a team called the National Agency for Quality Assessment and Accreditation of Spain (ANECA) that makes sure your education is top-notch.
- Friendly Vibes: Spaniards are warm and welcoming people. You’ll make friends from all over and get to know their laid-back lifestyle.
- Work & Explore: After your studies, you can score a visa to work for a while in Spain. And oh, don’t forget about the epic beaches, mountains, and cities to explore!
- Fiesta Time: Spanish festivals are legendary. You’ll get to experience La Tomatina, Semana Santa, and more – they know how to party!
Choosing Where to Live and Study
Spain has lots of cities and universities waiting for you. These are some great universities offering a variety of programs to consider:
- University of Deusto
- University of Barcelona
- ESEI International Business School
- Cardenal Herrera University
The University of Barcelona is a public research university located in Barcelona.
Perhaps you prefer to narrow down your options by finding the city that is best for you. Let’s break down some of the characteristics of these popular locations from students, ranging for large cities to some of their smaller counterparts like like Granada and Salamanca.
Madrid: The Capital Vibe
- Courses Galore: Madrid’s universities offer a wide range of programs. Think business, arts, and science.
- Urban Adventure: As the capital, Madrid’s buzzing with life, culture, and events.
- Transport Hub: Well-connected by trains, buses, and flights, making it easy to explore Spain and beyond.
- Higher Living Costs: Being a big city, living expenses can be higher compared to smaller towns.
- International Hub: You’ll meet students from all over the world, making it a super diverse experience.
Barcelona: The Creative Hub
- Art & Design: Barcelona is famous for creativity and design-related courses.
- Stunning Architecture: Gaudi’s masterpieces, need I say more?
- Beachy Bliss: It’s coastal, so beach weekends are a reality.
- Touristy Buzz: It’s a hotspot for tourists, so you might be rubbing elbows with visitors in certain areas.
- Language Mix: Spanish and Catalan are both spoken. Learning a bit of both can be a plus!
Valencia: Sunny & Relaxed
- Science & Tech: Known for engineering, technology, and science courses.
- Mediterranean Charm: Valencia’s got that laid-back Mediterranean vibe.
- Budget-Friendly: Living costs can be friendlier than in Madrid or Barcelona.
- Cultural Festivals: The Fallas festival is epic, showcasing Valencia’s creativity.
- City & Nature Combo: You’ve got the city life and the option to escape to nature easily.
Granada: Historic & Charming
- Art & History: Perfect if you’re into history, art, and cultural studies.
- Alhambra Magic: The iconic Alhambra palace is right here. History lovers rejoice!
- Budget Gem: It’s known for being one of Spain’s most affordable cities.
- Cozy & Small: It’s not as big as Madrid or Barcelona, giving it a more intimate feel.
- Student City: With a good student population, it’s easy to make friends.
Salamanca: Ancient Elegance
- Language Lovers: Salamanca’s famous for teaching Spanish to foreigners. A language student’s dream!
- Historic Beauty: The city’s like a living museum, oozing history.
- Small & Cozy: It’s a charming small city, easy to navigate on foot or bike.
- Academic Atmosphere: The university has a long tradition of learning.
- International Mix: Students come from all around the world to learn Spanish here.
Seville: Andalusian Charm
- Cultural Immersion: Seville is rich in history and culture, offering immersive experiences.
- Festivals Galore: Semana Santa and Feria de Abril are iconic festivals you’ll get to experience.
- Language Learning: A great place to learn Spanish with its clear accent.
- Warm Climate: Enjoy a sunny Mediterranean climate all year round.
- Affordable Living: Generally more budget-friendly than larger cities.
Bilbao: Artistic & Modern
- Art & Design: Known for the Guggenheim Museum and creative vibes.
- Industrial Heritage: It combines modernity with a nod to its industrial past.
- Basque Culture: Get to know the unique Basque culture and language.
- Nature Lovers: Located between mountains and the sea, offering outdoor opportunities.
- Gastronomic Paradise: A foodie’s dream with pintxos and Basque cuisine.
Remember, each city’s got its own personality, so think about what clicks with you the most. It’s all about finding the place that feels like a perfect fit for your adventure!
Life in Spain
Learning about the culture, tradition and local way of life in Spain is essential when it comes to deciding how well you will fit in. When you can embrace cultural adaptation, you will feel more comfortable and confident in your day-to-day interactions and enjoy your surroundings more from being immersed into it.
Here are some notable aspects of local life in Spain that international students should know about.
Siesta Culture
- Spaniards take a siesta, a mid-afternoon break. Shops and businesses might close for a few hours.
- It’s a great time to rest, explore, or enjoy a leisurely meal.
Meal Times
- Spaniards have a different meal schedule. Lunch is around 2 PM, and dinner is typically not before 9 PM.
- Embrace the local eating habits and enjoy the relaxed pace.
Socializing & Family
- Spaniards love socializing and spending time with family and friends.
- Expect longer meals and gatherings full of laughter and conversation.
Festivals & Celebrations
- Spain is known for its lively festivals and celebrations. Get ready for music, dancing, and colorful parades.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) and La Tomatina are must-experience events!
Greeting & Personal Space
- Greetings often involve cheek kisses, even if you’re meeting someone for the first time.
- Spaniards tend to stand closer in conversations, so don’t be surprised by less personal space.
Tapas Culture
- Many places offer tapas, small appetizers that come with drinks. It’s a great way to try a variety of local dishes.
- It’s common to hop from one tapas bar to another in the evening.
Late Nights & Weekends
- Nightlife starts late, with many clubs and bars not getting busy until well after midnight.
- Weekends are the perfect time to explore, socialize, and join in the local fun.
Health & Well-being
- Spain places importance on a healthy lifestyle. Fresh produce and Mediterranean diet are common.
- Walking is a common mode of transport, contributing to active living.
Language & Communication
- Spanish is the main language, and some regions have their own languages like Catalan, Galician, and Basque.
- Learning a bit of Spanish can go a long way in making connections with locals.
Respect for Tradition
- Spaniards value their traditions and culture. Showing respect for local customs is appreciated.
Relaxed Attitude
- Spaniards have a relaxed approach to time and deadlines, so be prepared for a more flexible schedule.
Remember, adapting to a new culture is all part of the adventure. Embrace the differences, learn from the locals, and soak in the Spanish way of life!
Apply to Universities in Spain
Spain also embraces modern approaches to education, offering a diverse range of programs in fields such as art, architecture, science, and technology.
Application Requirements
Here’s a simplified list of the general requirements for applying to universities in Spain. Remember, these requirements can vary from university to university and from program to program, so make sure to check the specific admission requirements for the program you’re applying to.
- Application Form:
Fill out the university’s application form online. It’s usually available on their official website. - Educational Documents:
- High School Diploma: For bachelor’s programs, you’ll need to provide a copy of your high school diploma or equivalent.
- Bachelor’s Degree: For master’s programs, you need a copy of your bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
- Language Proficiency:
- Spanish Language: For programs taught in Spanish, you might need proof of your Spanish language proficiency. This can be through exams like DELE or other recognized tests.
- English Language: Some universities offer programs in English. You might need to prove your English proficiency with tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
- Transcripts:
Provide official transcripts of your academic records. These show your grades and courses taken. - Statement of Purpose:
A brief essay explaining why you want to study at that particular university and in that specific program. - Letters of Recommendation:
Some universities might require letters of recommendation from teachers or professors who can vouch for your academic abilities. - CV or Resume:
Often needed for master’s or postgraduate programs, showcasing your academic and professional background. - Passport Copy
- Application Fee
Some universities might ask for an application fee when you submit your application. - Interview
For certain programs or competitive courses, you might have an interview as part of the admission process.
Semester Intakes
In Spain, university semesters typically follow a similar structure to other European countries. The academic year is divided into two main semesters:
- First Semester (Semestre 1 or Primer Cuatrimestre): This semester usually starts in September or October and ends around January or February. It includes a break around the Christmas and New Year holidays.
- Second Semester (Semestre 2 or Segundo Cuatrimestre): The second semester typically begins in February or March and concludes around June or July. This semester might include a short Easter break.
The academic year in Spain aligns with the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) framework, ensuring consistency across European countries and facilitating student mobility. Always refer to the official academic calendar of the university you plan to attend for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Key Deadlines
The key deadlines for applying to universities in Spain can vary depending on the institution, the program, and whether you’re an EU/EEA student or an international student from outside the EU/EEA. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Fall Intake (Semester 1):
- Application Period: Usually opens in February or March and closes around April or May.
- Deadlines: Deadlines for the fall intake can range from April to June, depending on the university and program.
- Spring Intake (Semester 2):
- Application Period: Typically starts in September or October and closes around November or December of the previous year.
- Deadlines: Deadlines for the spring intake can range from November to January, depending on the university and program.
Keep in mind that some universities might offer rolling admissions, meaning they accept applications throughout the year until all spots are filled. However, applying earlier often increases your chances of getting the program and housing you prefer. Always double-check the official deadlines for the most accurate information.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees can vary, but on average:
- Bachelor’s: €700 to €1,500 per yea
- Master’s: €1,000 to €4,000 per year
Cost of Living in Spain
Here’s a general overview of the average monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: Rent for a shared apartment or student housing can range from €300 to €600 per month, depending on the city. Larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona might have higher rental costs.
- Food: Food costs can vary. On average, you might spend around €150 to €250 per month on groceries and meals.
- Transportation: Public transportation costs vary by city. A monthly public transportation pass might range from €20 to €60.
- Utilities: This includes electricity, water, heating, and internet. On average, budget around €50 to €100 per month.
- Books and Supplies: Depending on your program, you might spend around €50 to €100 per semester on books and supplies.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance for non-EU students is mandatory and can cost around €60 to €100 per month.
- Personal Expenses: This includes entertainment, clothing, and other personal items. Budget around €100 to €150 per month.
- Total Monthly Expenses: Overall, you might need around €700 to €1,000 per month to cover your basic expenses.
6 Steps to Study in Spain
How can you study in Australia? On Global Admissions, applying is easy and convenient! Just follow these steps.
- Book a call with us
It’s free! Talk with our admissions counselors about your plans, timeline, and budget. We’ll help guide you to good programs and universities. - Find a program
You can search programs for free here
If the program you want is not listed on our database yet, click here - Check your eligibility
Make sure you meet the entry criteria and have the required examinations! - Submit application documents
On Global Admissions, you can use one platform to apply for multiple universities in Australia or around the world. - Pay the application fee
- We will send in your application!
After completing these steps, you just need to wait for your university acceptance and then you can apply for a student visa.
Next Step: ¡España, Aquí Vamos! You’ve done it all – applied, got accepted, and have your student visa. Pack your bags and get ready for an epic adventure in Spain. ¡Vamos!
Let’s embark on your study abroad journey!
