Universities and Colleges in Spain >> Higher Education for Expats Explained

Why Study Abroad in Spain?

There are many reasons why people come to Spain to take higher education courses. One of them is higher education!

But, leaving aside the vibrant culture, Mediterranean climate, cuisine, and lifestyle, Spain offers a diverse and high-quality higher education system.

With 76 universities and colleges in Spain — two-thirds public, one-third private — Spain provides a wide range of academic programs and degrees. Universities like the Autonomous University of Madrid, the University of Barcelona, and the Complutense University of Madrid rank among the world’s best.

Throw in the fact that tuition fees are affordable and the diverse learning language options, and you see why Spain is an attractive destination for international students.

Whether you or your child are interested in studying in Spain, the country’s diverse higher education landscape offers something to meet your educational goals — and provide a unique and unforgettable experience.

Note: Non-EU/EEA citizens will need a Spanish Student Visa to study in Spain.

Overview of Spanish Higher Education

Spain’s higher education system is characterized by its diversity, offering students a broad spectrum of academic pathways in both public and private institutions.

Diversity of Institutions

The country has a total of 82 universities, with 50 public institutions funded by the state and 32 private universities, some of which are affiliated with the Catholic Church.

This mix of public and private universities provides you with a wide range of options.

Public universities are the backbone of Spain’s higher education system. They are renowned for their comprehensive programs, research facilities, and affordability. Prestigious public universities like the University of Barcelona, Complutense University of Madrid, and the University of Valencia are known for their strong emphasis on research and academic offerings.

Private universities in Spain complement the public system by offering more specialized and flexible programs. Institutions such as IE University, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, and ESADE Business School are globally recognized for their MBA programs and executive education. These universities are known for their innovative teaching methods, international outlook, and strong industry connections in fields such as business, law, and international relations. Private universities often offer programs taught in English, catering to the growing demand for international education.

Read More >> Education in Spain >> An Easy Introduction for Expat Families

European Higher Education Area (EHEA)

Spain’s higher education is integrated into the EHEA. The EHEA promotes the compatibility and comparability of higher education systems in Europe. This means degrees obtained in Spain are recognized across 53 countries (45 in Europe). This makes Spanish degrees very attractive to international students.

Top Ranked Universities and Global Rankings*

Type	Institution	Student Population	QS Ranking	Description
Public	University of Barcelona	63000	93	A research university with an excellent international reputation. Strong in social sciences, life sciences, and engineering.
	Autónoma University of Barcelona	40000	140	Research university, excellent international reputation. Strong in social sciences, life sciences, and engineering.
	Complutense University of Madrid	70000	171	One of Spain’s oldest (established 1470) and largest universities. Strong research emphasis
	Autonomous University of Barcelona	40000	193	Established in 1968. Known for its Faculty of Law.
	Autonomous University of Madrid	29000	214	Founded in 1968. The alma mater of King Felipe VI. Known for its research contributions and strong programs in science and humanities.
	Pompeu Fabra University	12000	248	Research university that focuses on social sciences, humanities, and health. Strong international presence
	Carlos III University of Madrid	21000	311	Founded in 1531 and known for its Faculty of Medicine. Has strong programs in science and technology, as well as a historical and cultural heritage.
	Polytechnic University of Catalonia	30000	354	Specializes in engineering, architecture, and technology. Strong focus on research and innovation.
	University of Granada	50000	403	Founded in 1499, it is one of the oldest universities in Spain. Offers a wide range of programs and is known for its research activities and historical significance.
	University of Valencia	55000	485	Founded in 1218, one of the oldest universities in the world and the oldest in Spain.
	University of Seville	65000	494	Founded in 1505, one of the largest in Spain.
	University of Salamanca	30000	501-510	A prestigious private institution renowned for its business, law, and international relations programs.
	University of the Basque Country	45000	601-650	A major public university known for its research in science, engineering, and social sciences.
Private	University of Navarra	12000	268	Founded by Opus Dei. Known for its medicine, law, and business programs.
	IESE Business School	1100	Business schools  are not included in the QS Rankings,	Part of the University of Navarra, globally recognized for its MBA and executive education programs.
	IE University	8000		A prestigious private institution, renowned for its business, law, and international relations programs.
	ESADE Business School	1500		Known for its MBA and business programs, with a strong international presence and industry connections.

The table shows the top universities and business schools in Spain. Over half are based in the Madrid and Barcelona areas. The University of Barcelona (UB) is arguably the top university. It is renowned for its research and academic excellence, offering diverse programs across 18 faculties in biology, medicine, and the arts. It attracts students and scholars worldwide.

However, there are many universities offering high-quality education and research opportunities away from Spain’s largest conurbations. Some excellent examples include:

University of Valencia (UV)

This institution excels in health sciences — especially medicine and biotechnology — as well as economics, law, humanities, and social sciences. The university has a strong international focus and has established partnerships with universities around the world.

University of Granada (UGR)

Strong in food science, hospitality, tourism, mathematics, computer science, engineering, and nursing, the city’s Moorish heritage means the university also offers unique opportunities for cultural and linguistic programs, particularly in Arabic and Islamic studies.

University of Seville (ICS)

The university is famous for its architecture, law, and engineering programs, as well as its research output in areas such as aerospace engineering, renewable energy, and cultural heritage preservation.

University of Salamanca (USAL)

Spain’s oldest university was founded in 1218. It has a prestigious history, excellence in humanities, and a rich cultural heritage. Distinguished alum

Degree Programs and Language Options

The majority of programs at Spanish universities are taught in Spanish. However, the availability of courses in English has expanded significantly in recent years in response to the demand from international students. These English Medium — and bilingual — programs open Spanish higher education to non-Spanish speakers.

English Medium Programs and Other Non-Spanish Medium Courses

English-Medium Programs

There are over 800 programs taught fully or partially in English, covering a wide range of disciplines. Useful websites to research what is available include:

Studyportals
For Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD and Doctorate programs

Educations.com
Provides details on universities, programs, and application requirements, along with country and student guides.

QS Top Universities
Includes rankings (see previous table) and detailed profiles of Spanish universities.

Particular universities worth looking at are:

IE University (based in Madrid and Segovia)
Programs entirely in English — particularly in business, international relations, and architecture.

ESADE Business School (Barcelona)
Strong international profile providing business, law, and executive education programs in English.

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M)
Offers numerous programs in English, including economics, engineering, and political science.

University of Navarra (UNAV) (Pamplona)
UNAV includes the IESE Business School, which specializes in business administration, international relations, and sciences.

Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) (Barcelona)
Known for its English Medium programs in economics, business, and political science.

Bilingual Programs

Some universities in Spain offer bilingual programs with courses taught in both Spanish and English.

Universidad Pontificia Comillas (Madrid)
Bilingual programs in business, engineering, and law.

University of Valencia (UV)
UV provides programs in both Spanish and English, especially in business and science.

Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB)
Offers bilingual programs in international business, economics, and engineering.

International Qualifications and Accreditations

Apart from Spain’s participation in EHEA, degrees from Spanish institutions are widely recognized by other bodies. Key global accreditations to look for include AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA for business programs, ENAEE for engineering, and various national and international arts bodies for arts programs.

The number of Spanish universities and programs meeting international standards has increased significantly:

Business Programs

Leading the way are institutions such as IE Business School, ESADE, and the IESE Business School. These schools are consistently ranked among the top in Europe and globally. They feature international faculty, diverse student bodies, and strong ties to the global business community.

Engineering Programs

Engineering schools in Spain, such as the Technical University of Madrid (UPM) and the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), are renowned for their research output and industry connections. Accreditation from the European Network for Accreditation of Engineering Education (ENAEE) ensures their degrees are recognized globally.

Arts Programs

With such a rich cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that Spanish universities offer world-class arts programs with institutions such as the University of Barcelona and the Complutense University of Madrid. Recognition of such programs by international arts bodies and the institutions’ participation in global arts networks is a testament to their international credibility and appeal.

Applying to Spanish Universities

If you are a non-EU citizen, before applying to a Spanish university, you need to obtain a Student Visa. To find out how to apply, go to our Spain Student Visa Requirements and Types.

Admission Requirements for International Students

Requirements for international students to be admitted to study at Spanish universities vary. They depend on factors such as your nationality, level of study, program, and the institution’s specific requirements. Generally, you need to have completed your secondary education equivalent to the Spanish Bachillerato and provide various official transcripts and diplomas.

General Admission Requirements

The basic requirements are:

• Completed application form
• Official transcripts and diplomas, translated into Spanish if necessary.
• A valid passport or national ID
• Proof of health insurance for Spanish residency

For Bachelor’s programs, you typically need to provide proof of completing secondary education, such as a high school diploma or equivalent. This may require homologation (homologación) to verify the equivalency with the Spanish system.

Spanish students must take the EBAU (Evaluación del Bachillerato para el Acceso a la Universidad) university entrance exam, which tests competencies in subjects like Spanish language and history.

Students from EU/EEA countries — or those with a European/International Baccalaureate Diploma — are exempt from the EBAU. They only need to provide proof of completing secondary education in their home country. However, for all other non-EU international students (eg from the US and UK) the EBAU or a similar exam called the PCE (Pruebas de Competencias Específicas) is still generally required.

For master’s and doctoral programs, the main requirements are a recognized bachelor’s or master’s degree, respectively, as well as meeting any specific needs of your chosen program.

Language Proficiency

While many programs are taught in Spanish, non-native Spanish speakers can demonstrate proficiency through tests like the DELE (Diploma of Spanish as a Foreign Language) or SIELE (International Spanish Language Evaluation Service).

For English-medium programs, proficiency in Spanish is not required, provided the applicant meets the English language requirements.

Read More >> Best Ways to Learn Spanish >> Our Tips and Resources

English-Medium Programs

Typically, universities require a minimum score in language tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. These are standardized English proficiency tests for non-native English speakers. Both assess reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills but have different acceptance, formats, and scoring systems

For TOEFL, a minimum score of around 80-90 (out of 120) on the internet-based test is common, while for IELTS, a score of 6.0-6.5 (out of 9 in half-point steps) is often required.

Academic Calendar and Key Dates

The academic calendar in the Spanish higher education system typically follows a semester-based structure, although some institutions use a trimester system.

Semester System

The academic year is divided into semesters:

• First Semester
  Begins in late September or early October and ends in January. It includes a Christmas break in late December and exams in January.
• Second Semester
  Starts in February and concludes in June, with a break around Easter and exams held in May and June.

Trimester System

Less commonly, the academic year is divided into three terms with exams at the end of each:

• First Trimester
  Runs from late September to December.
• Second Trimester:
  Spans January to March.
• Third Trimester:
  From April to June

Vacations

There are several scheduled vacation breaks throughout the academic year:

• Christmas
  Typically, from December 22nd to January 8th.
• Easter/Spring Break
  Around one week at Easter.
• Summer vacation
  Starts around June 23rd and lasts 3 months until mid-September.

Also, there are short “bridge” (puente) breaks when public holidays fall on a Thursday, Friday, or Monday.

Key Dates for International Students

You need to be aware of the specific deadlines for your chosen program and university.

• Application Deadline
  Spring — from March to May
  – This enrolls you for the following academic year (the next September)
  – Some universities may have earlier deadlines for specific programs
  – Language proficiency tests are often required to be submitted at the same time.
• Admission Results Announcement
  July for first-semester intake
• Enrolment and course registration
  July to early September
• First Semester (or Trimester) start
  Late September
• Orientation Programs
  Late September to early October

Important exam deadlines include the final exam periods in January and June and re-sit exams typically held in July.

Cost of Universities in Spain for International Students

No one likes tuition fees. However, the cost of attending universities in Spain for international students is relatively affordable compared to other countries.

Overall, the cost of studying in Spain is quite reasonable. Public universities are particularly budget-friendly, while private universities, though more expensive, provide additional amenities and specialized programs.

All this makes Spain an excellent choice for students seeking a world-class education without sky-high costs.

Read More >> Cost of Living in Spain >> How Cheap Is It in 2024?

Tuition Fees and Living Expenses

Tuition Fees — Public v Private

Tuition fees vary significantly between public and private universities.

The lower tuition at public universities certainly makes Spain an attractive and — importantly — accessible option for international students. This is especially significant if you are coming from high-cost education countries like the UK or the United States.

Living Expenses

You can also benefit from relatively low living costs by studying outside the major metropolitan areas of Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.

Of the major cities, Valencia is the most affordable. In Madrid and Barcelona, the average monthly rent for a room in a shared apartment is around €560. In Valencia, rents average around €400 per month.

Other living expenses like food, transportation, and utilities are also generally lower in Spain compared to many European countries. A budget of €800 to €1,200 per month should cover most living costs for an international student in Spain’s major cities.

In smaller cities and towns, living expenses can be even more economical, with monthly budgets potentially as low as €600 to €900.

Note: You may require private medical insurance for your Spanish visa and residency application, so don’t forget to add that cost to your budget.

Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

To offset tuition fees, you can apply for a scholarship or other such funding. These can significantly ease your financial burden and make studying in Spain more accessible.

Government Scholarships

The Spanish government offers several scholarships for international students. The Spanish Ministry of Education’s Becas y Ayudas a Estudiantes Universitarios program provides financial aid for tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses.

The Erasmus+ program — funded by the European Union — offers scholarships for students from EU and non-EU countries to study in Spain as part of exchange programs.

Another program is the “Becas España” scholarship, which is open to students globally and provides funding for tuition, living costs, and health insurance.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many Spanish universities offer their own scholarship programs for international students. For example, the University of Granada has the Athenea3i Research Fellowship, a merit-based award covering living, mobility, and research costs. The UIC Barcelona also provides tuition discounts for outstanding international students.

US International Scholarships

If you are a US citizen, you have access to several international scholarship opportunities to study in Spain. The Fulbright Program offers grants for research, study, or teaching assistant roles, allowing American students to immerse themselves in the Spanish academic and cultural environment for a year.

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is another option, providing funding for US undergraduates with financial need to study abroad, including Spain.

Advice for Obtaining Scholarships

Look for government, university-specific, and international scholarships. Start the scholarship search and application process early, as deadlines vary and competition can be fierce. Reaching out to your university’s international office or scholarship advisors can also provide valuable guidance throughout the process.

When applying, remember it’s crucial to research the eligibility criteria carefully and submit a strong application to show you in your best light — academic achievements, extracurricular activities, passion for studying in Spain, and future goals. Submit personal statements and obtain recommendation letters.

Many scholarships also require essays or an interview process. Be prepared to articulate your goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Affordable Universities in Spain for International Students

The following is a list of universities considered affordable for international students. All are public universities and offer scholarships for International Students.

They are — with three exceptions — situated away from major cities, so they have a lower cost of living but have strong reputations and rankings.

Thus, they deliver high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of comparable programs in other countries.

Institution	Location	Why Affordable
University of Granada	Granada	Low tuition fees for EU and non-EU students
University of Valencia	Valencia	Reasonable tuition rates
University of Seville	Seville	Low cost of living in Seville
University of Salamanca	Salamanca	Affordable tuition and living costs
Autonomous University of Madrid	Madrid	Low tuition fees for quality education
Polytechnic University of Catalonia	Barcelona	Affordable engineering programs
University of Alicante	Alicante	Low tuition fees and living expenses
University of Zaragoza	Zaragoza	Reasonable tuition rates
University of the Basque Country	Bilbao	Low tuition fees for international students
University of Jaén	Jaén	Affordable tuition and lower cost of living
Pompeu Fabra University	Barcelona	Competitive tuition fees
University of Murcia	Murcia	Low tuition fees and living costs
University of La Laguna	Tenerife	Affordable tuition and living expenses
Rovira i Virgili University	Tarragona	Low tuition fees for international students
University of Castilla-La Mancha	Ciudad Real	Reasonable tuition rates
University of Valladolid	Valladolid	Affordable tuition and living costs
University of Oviedo	Oviedo	Low tuition fees for quality education
University of Santiago de Compostela	Santiago de Compostela	Reasonable tuition rates

Student Life in Spain

Campus Life and Integration Services

Vibrant! Diverse! Enriching!

Three words that best describe campus life for international university students in Spain! Away from the classes and books, Spanish universities reflect the country’s culture and are known for their lively atmospheres and extracurricular activities catering to diverse interests. No matter where your university is, a bustling nightlife is guaranteed!

Extracurricular activities

There is no shortage of these on Spanish campuses. International students are spoilt for choice with clubs and organizations focused on sports, arts, music, or even their own country’s culture.

These activities provide opportunities to meet new people, develop skills, and engage in the local culture. Universities often host events, festivals, and workshops celebrating Spanish traditions and international cultures. From flamenco dancing to paella cooking classes, these experiences complement your studies and allow you to be part of the local community.

Support Services

To aid cultural and academic integration, universities provide support services. International student offices offer programs to help newcomers navigate cultural differences and adjust to the new educational system. They also help with visa issues, housing, and administrative matters. Language courses are available to help students improve their Spanish skills, along with academic support such as including tutoring and writing centers.

Work and Study Opportunities

If you are a non-EU student, your Spanish Student visa allows you to study but not work in Spain. If you wish to work alongside your studies, you will need a Student Work Visa.

Spanish Student Work Visa

You can work up to 20 hours per week as an international student. However, your employer must apply for the permit on your behalf. This is relatively easy to acquire, and universities often assist students with this. Once obtained, your Student Work Visa will be valid for the duration of your studies or the job, whichever is shorter.

Internships

Many universities offer internship programs that count towards academic credit, allowing students to work at companies relevant to their field of study. While the internship must satisfy the 20 hours-per-week rule, if it is part of your academic program, the good news is that you do not require a Student Work Visa — even if the internship is a paid role.

Conclusion

Spain is an outstanding destination for international students.

The country’s high-quality and diverse higher education combines with affordable tuition and living costs. Add in Spain’s integration with the European Higher Education Area, and you have an enriching educational experience, vibrant social life, promising career prospects, and academic mobility.

Furthermore, various scholarships and funding opportunities are available to ease the financial burden, making quality education accessible to a broader audience.

There is something for everyone. Public universities are renowned for their research facilities and comprehensive academic offerings, while private institutions are celebrated for their innovative teaching methods and strong industry connections.

All of this is complemented by a vibrant campus life enriched by Spain’s rich cultural heritage. Studying at University or College in Spain is a truly unique opportunity.

Universities and Colleges in Spain >> FAQs