Warm weather, friendly and inviting people, a vibrant nightlife and a low cost of living, Spain has it all. Situated along the Mediterranean, Spain has become a favorite of students for an exotic study abroad destination. The rich history and culture of Spain needs no introduction—you will find the remnants of the erstwhile Spanish Empire across the country. Also, the Spanish cuisine happens to be one of the best in Europe. From savory Spanish omelets to Pisto and Paella—it's bound to make you drool. Many clubs in Spain offer free entry which gives you access to a bustling nightlife. While you're in Spain, you can also work up on your Spanish which will give you an added advantage in your career. Some of the top Spanish universities are Universitat de Barcelona, Autonomous University of Madrid, University of Valencia, etc.

​

1) Why should you study in Spain?

Spain offers it all: warm weather, kind and welcoming people, a busy nightlife, and a reasonable cost of living. Spain, which is located on the Mediterranean, has become a popular overseas study location for students looking for a unique experience. Spain's rich history and culture are well-known, and remains of the former Spanish Empire can be seen all around the nation with the best cuisine.

​

2)  What are the University Rankings in Spain like?

In Spain, a total of 76 universities exists, out of which 45 are run by the State of Spain and 31 either by private universities or the Catholic Church. Spain’s oldest University, Universidad de Salamanca goes back to 1218. 

The top universities are situated In Barcelona and Madrid, with 13 of its universities featuring in the QS University Rankings of 2019 under the top 500.

​

3) How open is the country to international students?

With innumerable students coming from all over the world to study in Spain throughout the year, the people of Spain are forthcoming and love to share their culture, cuisine and way of life with people from other nations. This gives the chance to international students to explore the country and gain immeasurable experiences.

 

4) What is the Higher Education System like in Spain?

Following pursuit of other European Nations, Spain rebooted its higher education system in 2007 to follow the Bologna Process.

Higher Education is divided into 3 cycles.

First cycle being Bachelor’s Degree for either 3-4 years. Professional Degrees like Engineering, Law and Medicine are up to 5 years though. 

The second cycle is Masters for 1-2 years and the third cycle is Doctorate.

 

5) What are the standardized tests to be taken to study in Spain?

• To pursue Under-graduation in Spain, you must clear an entrance exam called selectividad or Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad. This is held twice a year and you can take it from your residence nation. After clearing it, you will be eligible to study in any public or private university in Spain.

Apart from this, you must clear language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE which is necessary.

 

• For Masters, you must clear the standard English proficiency tests and check out the requirements of each university as they vary. The usual will include submission of documents etc.

 

6) What are the Popular Courses in Spain?

There is a study curriculum for all students, with career options ranging from history, architecture, sociology, arts, law, management, science, and hospitality.

 

7) What are the Average Tuition Fees and Living Costs like?

The Tuition Fees is one of the lowest in Europe set by the State.

• A Bachelor Program may be between 680 to 1280 EUR annually at a public university. Meanwhile, at a private university it can range from 5500 to 1800 EUR annually.

• For Masters or Doctoral Programs, it can very between 22-36 EUR per credit.

• When it comes to living costs, it would range from 3000-5000 EUR per month on an average, it also mainly depends on your lifestyle.

8) Are there scholarships available to study in Spain?

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is open to international students pursuing a Master's or Doctoral degree program.

The Ministry of Education may be able to help with financial aid. A completed application form must be sent to the Ministry of Education, the Iberoamerican Cooperation Institute, or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Universities in Spain occasionally provide different study scholarships to overseas students who come to study there. Because application deadlines differ, speak with your university's admissions department as soon as possible to prevent missing out on the opportunity to apply.

​

9) What are the Part-Time Work Opportunities available and the rules regarding it?

With a student visa, you can work part-time in Spain for up to 20 hours per week while completing your education. If part-time work is thought to be likely to obstruct your studies, you would likely not be permitted to work while registered as a student in Spain. Non-EU foreign students, on average, are subjected to additional processes and formalities than EU/EEA students.

Being a non-EU/EEA student, you can work till your student visa expires and your employer will have to seek permission from the Foreign Nationals Office before you start working.

Coming to the wage aspect, on an average one would earn about 500 EUR monthly in a restaurant as a waiter, Cashier at a Barista or being a tutor.

​

10) What are the Post-graduation Work Rules and Visa Requirements in Spain?

After you finish your undergraduate or master’s degree, your student visa expires. If you would like to work in Spain, you must apply for a post-study work visa. During this 1-year period, you are not allowed to work, it is meant for securing an employment contract. Once it is obtained, you can apply for a proper work permit/visa.

 

11) How to obtain Permanent Residency in Spain?

To obtain Permanent Residency in Spain, you must legally reside in the country for a period of 5 years. Post this, you can apply for Permanent Residency.