Study in Spain: Complete Guide for International Students (2025–2026)

1. Choose your programme and language of study

Spanish universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees taught in both Spanish and English.

• Programmes in English: Ideal for international students, especially in fields such as Business Administration, Technology, Tourism and International Relations.
• Programmes in Spanish: Offer full cultural immersion and long-term professional benefits (not recommended if you haven’t studied Spanish before).

Expert tip: Choose a programme with strong global career potential. Fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Sustainability, Digital Marketing and Mental Health are growing rapidly and offer excellent international job prospects.

2. Admission requirements

2.1 Undergraduate studies

• Secondary school qualification equivalent to the Spanish Bachillerato
• Academic transcript (translated and legalised by consular legalisation or Apostille)
• Official recognition (“homologación”) of foreign studies
• Language certificate:
  • Spanish: DELE, SIELE or equivalent
  • English: IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent
• Entrance exams (PCE/UNEDasiss) for public universities (private universities may have different criteria)

2.2 Master’s studies

• Recognised university degree
• Academic transcript and grade point average (GPA)
• Official recognition (“homologación”) of foreign studies
• CV, personal statement and letters of recommendation
• Language certificate (Spanish or English, depending on the programme)

3. Prepare and submit your documents

Start early: translations, legalisations and recognition procedures can take months.

3.1 Deadlines (for September intakes)

• Undergraduate: January–June (varies by university)
• Master’s: October–May (varies by university)

4. Admission offers

• Offers may be conditional (pending final documents) or unconditional (full acceptance).

Confirm your place by paying the reservation deposit and obtaining your official admission letter — required to apply for a student visa.

5. Scholarships and funding

Spain offers excellent scholarship opportunities for international (non-EU) students:

• MAEC-AECID Scholarships: Include tuition fees, a monthly allowance and health insurance.
• University and private-organisation scholarships: Awarded on merit or financial need; may include tuition discounts and support for living expenses.
• Check the official Spanish Government scholarships page for international students:
  becaseducacion.gob.es/becas-y-ayudas

Tip: Apply early — most calls open in October and close very quickly.

6. Apply for your student visa

If you are not an EU/EEA citizen, apply for your student visa as soon as possible. It’s recommended to apply 8–12 weeks before your course starts, as consulates may take 4–8 weeks to process applications.

6.1 Required documentation

• Admission letter
• Proof of financial means (scholarship or personal funds covering tuition fees and at least €600 per month)
• Proof of accommodation (book in advance)
• Private health insurance
• Police clearance certificate and medical certificate

7. Arrival in Spain

7.1 Register your address (Padrón/Empadronamiento)

The padrón is the official municipal register of residents, managed by your local town hall (Ayuntamiento). Registration is mandatory for anyone living in Spain, regardless of nationality or legal status.

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss students must register within one month of arrival, as this is required to apply for the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card).

7.2 Apply for your TIE (residence card)

Apply within 30 days of arrival. Your TIE assigns you a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), which you’ll need to study, work, reside or complete any official or financial procedures in Spain.

8. Work while studying

International students may work up to 30 hours per week during their studies. Common roles include:

• Private language tutoring
• Hospitality and catering
• Internships in tech companies
• Freelance or remote work

9. Key tips for international students

1. Start early: Research universities and cities that fit your budget and academic goals. Cities such as Madrid and Barcelona offer a wide range of programmes and prestigious universities, though they tend to be more competitive and accommodation is more expensive than in other parts of Spain.
2. Learn basic Spanish: Even if your programme is in English, knowing essential Spanish will make daily life, integration and paperwork much easier.
3. Begin recognition early: The official validation of your degree in Spain can take 3–24 months depending on the qualification — start as soon as possible.
4. Apply to several universities: Increase your chances of admission and compare programmes, requirements and scholarships.
5. Plan your budget: Consider tuition fees, accommodation, transport, health insurance and personal expenses.
6. Apply for your visa early: Submit your application 8–12 weeks before your course starts to avoid delays.
7. Complete legal procedures after arrival: If your stay exceeds six months, apply for your TIE and complete your padrón registration within the first 30 days.
8. Seek expert advice: At Spain Study Advisors, we guide you through every step — from choosing the right programme to settling in Spain.

More than an academic destination

Spain is not only a study destination — it’s a life-changing experience.
Whether in Granada’s historic centre, on a seaside campus in Valencia, or in Madrid’s cosmopolitan heart, you’ll gain far more than a degree: independence, perspective and friendships that last a lifetime.

10. Need help? Request your consultation.