Higher education in Spain for international students
- Education information
- Higher Education in Spain
- Higher Education Degrees in Spain
- Admission Process for Top Universities in Spain
- Transferring to a Spanish University from Abroad
- Best Spain Universities for Higher Education
- Why Choose Spain's Universities for Higher Education?
- Cost and Fees to Higher Education in Spain for International Students
- Exchange programs at leading universities in Spain
This content was developed with active participation of Shitij Kapur.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/where-to-study/study-in-spain
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Higher_education_in_Spain.
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Top-50 best Marketing programs in the worldSpainBarcelonaCurrently watching: 8from 6450.00 € / semesterApply with documents
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The university ranks the position 17th as one of the Top 25 Best Fashion UniversitiesSpainBarcelonaCurrently watching: 10from 16400.00 € / yearApply with documents
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from 18900.00 € / yearApply with documents
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from 5450.00 € / semesterApply with documents
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Alternative destinations
Education information
Nowadays, Spain is one of the most popular destinations for educational tourism. SMAPSE offers 62 of the best schools and universities in Spain where international students can get prestigious. Obtaining a rating of higher education is possible in advanced public and private universities in Spain. Actually, many foreign students choose getting Higher education in Spain because of the affordable cost. Private universities offer more expensive core programs, but in general, Spanish universities are cheaper than, for example, British or American ones.
Note that there are several options for admission for a foreign teenager to a leading Spanish university:
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You are an applicant;
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You are a student of a foreign university;
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You are a graduate with an international higher education diploma and aim to continue your studies at the best universities in Spain.
Higher Education in Spain
Spain boasts a rich array of higher education institutions ranging from public and private universities to Catholic ones. The nation's classical universities have particularly caught the attention of international students, especially those aiming for humanities-based specialties. This is because Spain has maintained an excellent standard of teaching in fields such as geography, art history, literature, history, and philosophy.
Moreover, applied university courses are also in high demand among foreign students. The top picks include:
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Computer graphics
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Tourism
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Recreation
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Design
Furthermore, for those interested in pursuing education in architecture and construction, technical institutes are readily available. The country has also seen a surge in the popularity of other specialized education centers. Business schools, for instance, have carved a niche for themselves, producing top-notch professionals in management, finance, and marketing.
Higher Education in Spain Fees: What to Expect While the quality of education is top-tier, prospective students often inquire about the cost of higher education in Spain. It's important to note that fees can vary based on factors like the type of institution (public vs. private) and course specialization.
What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?
It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.
Higher Education Degrees in Spain
Degrees in Spanish Universities Spain, like many other European countries, follows the Bologna system of higher education since 2011. This system is divided into three cycles:
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Baccalaureate (Grado): This is the foundational degree that forms the bedrock of higher education in Spain.
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Master (Posgrado): A postgraduate degree for students seeking advanced knowledge and specialization.
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Graduate School (Doctorado): The highest academic degree, tailored for those aiming to delve deep into research and academic exploration.
With these offerings, it's no wonder that universities in Spain continue to be a magnet for students from around the world.
The Spanish Baccalaureate (Grado)
The Spanish Baccalaureate is a comprehensive four-year program, concluding with the awarding of a Grado degree. Universities in Spain offer this bachelor's degree across an expansive range of disciplines, encompassing humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and more precise fields of study.
Furthermore, it's noteworthy that students can also pursue a Bachelor's degree (Grado) in medicine. After completing this four-year program, graduates are equipped to begin careers as nurses.
Master's Courses in Spain:
A Deep Dive for International Students Spain's master's programs are meticulously designed to:
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Enhance in-depth knowledge in a specified domain
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Refine professional skills or provide immersion in scientific research
These programs can range from one to two years, culminating in the awarding of a master's degree to successful graduates. A standout feature of higher education institutions in Spain is the vast array of master's and MBA programs they provide. These top-tier programs, offered by renowned universities in Spain, provide instruction either in Spanish or English.
Requirements for Master's Programs in Spain To be eligible for a master's program in Spain, international students must:
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Complete a specific application questionnaire provided by the Spanish university.
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Translate their diploma into Spanish. Occasionally, diploma legalization might also be required.
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Provide a motivation letter.
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Possess a valid foreign passport.
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Obtain a student visa.
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Secure accommodation for the duration of their studies.
Postgraduate Studies in Spain
A doctorate program in Spain typically spans 1 year. To be eligible, applicants must possess a higher education diploma, specifically a Master's degree. This advanced level of study is tailored for those who have an inclination towards research, teaching, and advancing scientific disciplines. Notably, students who've earned their Master's degree outside of Spain can also pursue a Doctoral degree within the country.
University Programs in Spain
Higher education institutions in Spain, including renowned universities, offer specialized programs like "Experto Universitario" and "Master Universitario". To enroll in these, students need to present a diploma that verifies their expertise in the respective knowledge domain. As an illustration, for students with an economics background, these programs offer specialized courses in various areas such as international and domestic economics.
Generally, these courses last around a year. It's worth noting that these specialized university programs are often more expensive than the traditional "Postgrado" courses.
Courses Offered at Top Spanish Universities Many of the elite universities in Spain, particularly the top 15, provide diverse course offerings for foreign students:
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Preparatory programs lasting 1-2 years for new entrants.
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Bachelor's programs, which are 3-year courses.
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Master's programs that offer deep insights into specialized subjects.
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Doctoral programs spanning two years, aimed at seasoned professionals wanting to earn a scientific degree.
Prospective students can refer to lists of top-ranking schools and universities in Spain for a comprehensive view. Furthermore, seeking guidance from educational experts like those at SMAPSE can be invaluable.
Admission Process for Top Universities in Spain
International students aiming to join a prestigious Spanish university post high school must navigate the admission process. This typically involves written entrance exams in subjects like Spanish, the philosophy or history of Spain, and an optional foreign language (German, French, Italian, or Portuguese).
While students can prepare for these exams independently, specialized preparatory programs are also available. Exam sessions are usually conducted in June and September. If a student doesn't pass the summer exams, there's an option to retake them in the fall. However, those holding an International Baccalaureate diploma are exempt from these entrance tests.
By mid-May, Spain's top universities begin their document acceptance phase. Here's a list of required documents:
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D-category student visa.
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Education certificate.
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A valid foreign passport.
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Accommodation details (hostel, apartment rental, or host family).
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Recommendation letter from a previous institution.
To streamline the process, we advise contacting our educational center's specialists to help prepare your visa document package.
Transferring to a Spanish University from Abroad
For those looking to transition from a foreign university to one in Spain, there's a need to gather specific data, like courses previously taken and exam results. This facilitates a comparison of educational programs to determine the most suitable academic course in Spain. Generally, transferring students won't need to sit for entrance exams and can continue with their specialization. However, they must spend a minimum of one academic year in a full-time program at the Spanish institution.
Earning a diploma from a top Spanish institution not only provides a competitive edge in the job market but also unlocks a plethora of opportunities that might remain inaccessible to graduates from other international universities. Concluding your higher education in Spain signifies the acquisition of a specialist degree in your chosen professional arena.
Top Universities in Spain for Quality Higher Education Numerous rankings have been curated based on several metrics, including:
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Nobel Prize recipients among graduates.
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Volume of published academic research.
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The societal impact of the university.
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Employment of graduates in globally renowned companies.
Our experts have sifted through these rankings to spotlight the pinnacle of higher education institutions in Spain, especially those that stand out as appealing choices for international students.
Best Spain Universities for Higher Education
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University of Valencia
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University of Salamanca
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University of Granada
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Independent University of Barcelona
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Complutense University of Madrid
It's noteworthy that the universities in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona consistently witness fierce competition for available slots.
Why Choose Spain's Universities for Higher Education?
Based on feedback from international students and official statistics, the compelling reasons to pursue education in Spain are:
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A diploma from Spain's elite universities enjoys global recognition.
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The aforementioned top universities in Spain often feature their own job placement services, aiding graduates in their job-seeking endeavors.
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Students have the autonomy to craft a personalized academic plan aligned with their objectives and interests.
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Ample opportunities exist for international students to master both Spanish and English at a near-native level.
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Spain offers an ideal equilibrium between higher education in Spain fees and the quality of education received.
Beyond the academics, international students can revel in Spain's captivating Mediterranean ambiance.
Study Programs in Spanish Universities
For those enrolled in foreign universities that have forged "exchange agreements" with top-tier Spanish universities, they can opt to study in Spain during their third, fourth, or fifth semesters. This arrangement grants them the status of a visiting student.
However, for aspirants seeking to experience higher education in Spain through such exchange programs, it's crucial to be informed about the existence and efficacy of the said program. It's worth mentioning that navigating the complexities of this academic journey in Spain might pose challenges, but with determination and ambition, success is within reach!
Cost and Fees to Higher Education in Spain for International Students
Spain is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for international students due to its world-class universities, vibrant culture, and relatively affordable higher education system. While the country's tuition fees are generally lower than those in the UK or the US, the costs can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of institution, the course of study, and the student's nationality.
For public universities, international students from outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) typically pay higher tuition fees than domestic or EU/EEA students. On average, undergraduate programs can range from €700 to €2,500 per academic year for EU/EEA students, while non-EU students might pay anywhere from €2,000 to €12,000, depending on the course and university. Master's and doctoral programs, being specialized courses, often come with higher fees, ranging from €1,500 to €3,500 for EU/EEA students, but can be between €3,000 to €20,000 for non-EU students.
Private universities, on the other hand, have their own fee structures, and international students can expect to pay between €6,000 to €18,000 annually, again depending on the course and institution. Apart from tuition, potential students should also account for living expenses. Major cities like Madrid or Barcelona can be more expensive, with monthly living costs averaging €1,000 to €1,500, while smaller cities and towns might be more affordable. Additionally, international students must remember costs associated with health insurance, which is mandatory for visa and residency purposes.
Exchange programs at leading universities in Spain
In the case of obtaining higher education at a foreign university that has entered into an "exchange agreement" with one of the leading universities in Spain, an international student has the right to go to study in Spain in the third, fourth or fifth semesters. Thus, a foreign student receives the status of a student-visitor.
If an international applicant dreams of getting a higher education in Spain in accordance with an exchange program, it is essential to know about the availability of the proposed student exchange program, and how successfully it functions. However, we note that this process of obtaining higher education in Spain is quite difficult and involves some extra activities and only the most persistent and ambitious applicant will achieve his goal!
What is higher education in Spain?
How long does it take to complete a bachelor's degree in Spain?
What languages are used for teaching at universities in Spain?
How much does higher education cost in Spain?
Are there any scholarships or financial aid for international students in Spain?
Can I work while studying?
What document is required to enter a university in Spain?
What are the job prospects after graduating from university in Spain?
Can I get a student visa to study in Spain?
What cultural and academic characteristics exist in Spanish universities?
Top 15 best universities in Spain 2024
1 | Marbella International University Centre |
2 | EU Business School Barcelona |
3 | Les Roches Marbella |
4 | IED Madrid |
5 | IED Barcelona |
6 | Barcelona School of Management |
7 | Geneva Business School Barcelona |
8 | Saint Louis University Madrid |
9 | LCI Barcelona |
10 | School of Tourism and Hospitality Management Sant Ignasi |
11 | International Business School Barcelona (ESEI) |
12 | UCAM - Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia |
13 | INSA Business Marketing and Communication School |
14 | TBS Barcelona |
15 | BEBS Barcelona Executive Business School |
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
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GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
Top 15 best universities in Switzerland 2024
1 | Glion Institute of Higher Education Switzerland |
2 | Les Roches International School Montana |
3 | César Ritz Colleges Switzerland |
4 | IHTTI School of Hotel Management |
5 | Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne |
6 | Geneva Business School |
7 | EU Business School Montreux |
8 | HIM Hotel Institute Montreux |
9 | Swiss Hotel Management School |
10 | Webster University Geneva |
11 | Business and Hotel Management School |
12 | Luzern IMI |
13 | Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) Caux |
14 | International University in Geneva |
15 | Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland |