Study in Spain. 177 best institutions in Spain

Each year more and more foreign students choose Spanish schools and universities as they provide high-quality educational services that meet the highest international standards. The country actively develops programs of international cooperation concerning studying language, secondary, higher cycle, magistracy (in English or in Spanish ). The country today is the third largest educational center in Europe after the UK and Germany - every year thousands of foreign students of different ages enter Spain's educational institutions.

Education in Spain is attractive as it gives a great opportunity to receive quality fundamental academic education, to study two languages ​​perfectly (English and Spanish) - the national diploma is quoted in the EU and the world. Specialists who have received professional education in Spain are in demand on the world labor market: knowledge of the local language is highly valued by European, Latin American employers (today this language is the second most used in the international economy, politics, culture). Studying in Spain allows to open wide career opportunities. Due to SMAPSE experts, you can choose from 100 best schools, colleges and universities in Spain and find the most appropriate option. 

Study in Spain: An Overview Foreign students have ample opportunities to study in Spain, whether it's pre-school, primary, secondary, or higher education. Spain's educational institutions, governed by the Ministry and other regulatory bodies, ensure a high standard of education for all.

Pre-School Education in Spain (Preescolar) Children up to 6 years old receive pre-school education known as 'Preescolar'. This initial phase emphasizes intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development. Study in Spain for preschoolers means diving into the language, foundational reading and writing, basic math, and even subjects like music and IT in certain private institutions.

Primary Schooling Accepting children aged 6-12, primary schooling spans 6 academic courses. It's the mandatory first stage of academic education. The curriculum in Spain has a block structure to ensure optimal learning. A unique aspect of primary education here is the continuous assessment, ensuring that students receive feedback on their goals, accomplishments, and skill acquisition.

Secondary Education (ESO) ESO, the next educational level, spans 4 academic courses. The aim of ESO is skill acquisition and preparation for further academic pursuits. In their final year, students opt for subjects aligned with their professional aspirations. To successfully complete ESO, students must pass exams; failing 3 subjects can hamper further admissions, although students can retake the ESO courses.

In addition to the standard middle school curriculum, schools in Spain offer preparatory language courses. There are also special programs to enhance language proficiency.

Language Study in Spain Language education is pivotal in Spain. To study or work in the country, one must pass the DELE exam, which certifies Spanish proficiency. Numerous preparation methods for DELE exist, including language vacations in private schools, children's summer camps, and adult tour trips.

• Cost-Effective: Study in Spain fees are relatively low, especially compared to the UK and the US.

• Rich Academic Traditions: Spain combines ancient academic traditions with modern teaching methodologies.

• Prestige: Studying abroad in Spain is seen as prestigious; European education paves the way for a successful global career.

• High Standards: Spain's educational institutions adhere to top international standards.

• Language Mastery: Their language courses help improve command over foreign languages.

Types of Schools in Spain

• Public Schools

• Parastatal Schools: Also known as dual-funding schools.

• Private Colleges

In line with Spanish laws, children aged 6 to 16 are mandated to obtain primary and secondary education. Enrollment in Spain's schools gives foreign students a chance at bilingual education. After completing their education in Spain, students are well-prepared to join top universities in the UK or France.

Spanish-English private colleges, like Caxton College International Europa in Valencia and King’s College, are popular choices among foreign students. For instance, certificates from Chester College International School in Santiago de Compostela are highly regarded by top US universities.

The average tuition for education in Spain ranges between 500 to 700 euros monthly, excluding extras like excursions and meals. If students opt for residence in private college campuses, the cost of study in Spain might double.

The ideal age for a foreign student to study in Spain is between 10 and 12 years.

Cost of Study in Spain Spain offers more affordable higher education compared to other European nations, which extends to living costs. For instance, a Master's program typically costs between 2500-3000 euros.

University Choices Spain boasts 50 state universities and 10 private ones.

Popular Subjects Among Students In today's competitive global landscape, students focus on aligning their interests with university programs. It's advisable to liaise with school administrators and tutors to select relevant subjects aiding future careers. Current popular electives include computer science and multimedia design. Core subjects that remain in demand are English, foreign languages, math, science, and social studies.

Spain stands out as an ideal destination for enhancing language skills, offering a myriad of opportunities:

• Accredited Language Boarding Schools: These top-tier schools are recognized by the Cervantes Institute. Upon completion of the course, students can sit for the international DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) exam, a testament to their Spanish proficiency. This is especially beneficial for those looking to study or work in Spain or Latin American countries.

• Spanish Summer Camps: These camps seamlessly blend language learning with sports activities like football, tennis, and basketball.

• Elite Private Boarding Schools: Ideal for tourists, these institutions allow students to enjoy Spain’s pristine beaches while elevating their Spanish to a native speaker's level.

Study in Spain Fees: The tuition for these premier language courses starts at a minimum of 200 euros per week. Opting for longer courses can reduce the weekly fee. Typically, international students are housed in school residences. It's important to note that the DELE exam fee is separate and exams are typically held in May, August, or November.

Spain also offers specialized sports schools such as:

• FCB Escola, based on FC Barcelona

• La Escuela de Fútbol 7, affiliated with FC Valencia

• Real Madrid's football club school

Additionally, the Academia Sanchez-Casal in Barcelona offers both tennis training and academic programs for international students.

Popular Subjects for International Students

In today's fiercely competitive world, students are encouraged to align their academic choices with their career interests. Regular interactions with school administrations and tutors can aid in choosing subjects that would be advantageous in the long run.

Recent trends show a surge in popularity for electives like computer science and multimedia design. However, foundational subjects such as English, other foreign languages, mathematics, science, and social studies remain pivotal. Students are always encouraged to prioritize these areas.

Educacion Secundaria Obligatoria (Compulsory Secondary Education): This foundational stage is mandatory for every student. After its completion, students can:

• Enroll in professional schools

• Start working

• Begin pre-university preparations

The Bachillerato Program: This two-year program is akin to the British A-level system. Here, international students can choose specialized subjects that align with their intended university majors in Spain. The best programs to study in Spain categorize specializations into natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, arts, and technology. After completing their high school, students undertake a critical university entrance examination.

Selectividad Certificate: This certificate, which is essential for pre-university preparations, comprises three obligatory written exams in Spanish, Spain's history or philosophy, and a foreign language. Students also have the freedom to select an additional subject of their choice. Languages offered include German, Italian, French, and Portuguese.

British and American international boarding schools affiliated with NABSS offer the chance to obtain the Selectividad certificate. After completion, students receive a Spanish or English secondary education certificate. The instruction medium is English. Notably, the top schools in Spain are accredited by both the British Council and Spain's Ministry of Education.

The education system in Spain is divided into several levels: primary (Infantil), secondary (Secundaria), higher education (Superior) and postgraduate education (Postgrado). Primary education includes three levels: kindergarten (Infantil), which is divided into two cycles, and primary school (Primaria), lasting 6 years.

Secondary education in Spain consists of two main parts: General Education (ESO), lasting 4 years, and Bachillerato, lasting 2 years. Upon completion of ESO, students receive the degree "Diploma de Educación Secundaria".

The duration of higher education depends on the level and chosen specialty. Bachelor's programs usually take 3-4 years, and master's programs another 1-2 years. A doctorate may require several more years.

The official language of instruction at most Spanish universities is Spanish, but courses are also offered in English and other languages to attract international students.

International students can benefit from information resources, advice and support provided by universities and local organizations to successfully study and adapt to Spain. Many universities also provide language training programs for international students.

After completing their studies in Spain, international students can apply for Spanish citizenship, but this is a process that requires certain conditions to be met. One of the key factors is legal and continuous residence in Spain for a certain period of time, usually 10 years. However, there are exceptions, such as for citizens of Latin American countries, which can simplify the process.

Spanish universities are actively involved in the Erasmus exchange program, which provides students with the opportunity to study in other European countries and attracts students from other countries to Spain. In addition, many universities have their own exchange programs and agreements with educational institutions around the world.

In Spain, the quality of education is controlled by the Ministry of Education. Student performance is assessed based on exams, coursework and projects. The rating system is based on a scale from 0 to 10 points.

Spain provides opportunities for international students, including the possibility of working in the country after completing their education. Special visas and programs can also make it easier to start a career.

In most cases, to enroll in a Spanish university, international students must provide the results of a language exam such as the DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) to demonstrate their level of Spanish language proficiency. For programs in English, knowledge of English is required.

Statistics of English courses in Spain

Students Accommodation Options in Spain

Language-General statistics