International Students In Spain: Free University Education?

Spain is a popular destination for international students due to its rich history, culture, and food, as well as its reasonably priced tuition fees compared to other countries in Europe. While public universities in Spain are not entirely free, they are much cheaper than private universities. The tuition fees for international students are higher than for domestic/EU students, but the average fees are still considered affordable, especially when compared to the cost of living and rent in Spain.

Public universities in Spain

Tuition fees at public universities in Spain are the lowest in Europe. Prices vary depending on the city and the number of credits of the degree. The price per credit is determined by the regional governments. Each Autonomous Community (e.g. Catalonia, Andalusia, etc.) determines its university fees, which are usually confirmed before the start of the new academic year.

The University of Barcelona, for example, charges between EUR 4,000 and 6,000 per year. The Autonomous University of Barcelona charges EUR 3,000 per year. The Autonomous University of Madrid charges EUR 3,000 per year. The Complutense University of Madrid charges EUR 3,000 per year. Pompeu Fabra University charges between EUR 6,000 and 8,000 per year. The University of Valencia charges between EUR 700 and 1,000 per year.

Private universities in Spain

Public universities in Spain are significantly cheaper than private universities. Private universities in Spain can cost between €5,000 and €18,000 per year in tuition fees, depending on the course and the number of credits. In addition, students will have to pay a monthly fee of around €800. Private universities are free to set their prices, unlike public universities, which are governed by the costs per credit determined by the regional government.

However, private universities in Spain are still considered more affordable than those in Northern Europe and North America. They are also attractive to international students because classes are taught in English, and they offer a wide range of speciality courses.

International University of Rioja

The International University of La Rioja offers three modes of teaching: live classes, personal tutoring, or 100% online teaching. The modern campus is located in Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, and it is the only university in this small, quiet region of Northern Spain.

International University of Valencia

The International University of Valencia has become one of the top five scientific centres in Spain. It is located in the city of Valencia and has grown alongside it for over 500 years. The university has a strong commitment to excellence, embracing UNESCO's humanist perspective, which places people and the planet at the centre of its educational approach.

IE University

IE University is a member of CIVICA, an alliance of ten leading European higher education institutions. It provides a supportive learning environment where students and faculty interact together. IE University offers an inspiring and challenging education that will shape who you are and help you achieve your life goals.

European University of Canary Islands

The European University of Canary Islands has an educational model that embodies the principles of the European Higher Education Area. The professor serves as a reference point and adviser to guide students through their university experience. The student creates their own educational route by acquiring the information, competencies, abilities, and values demanded by today's society.

University of Francisco de Vitoria

The University of Francisco de Vitoria is an international university by origin and mission. It delivers education with the motto: "overcome evil with good". The university wants to produce scientists and educate people who can actively contribute to building a better and more humanistic world. The university has two campuses in Madrid, offering over 50 single and double degrees.

Isabel I University

Isabel I University, also known as University Isabel I of Castile, is a private, state-recognized university. It offers 12 degrees, 7 double degrees, and 18 master's degrees, as well as Vocational Training. Isabel I University has a distinct style in the Spanish university landscape, encouraging invention and creativity.

Other notable private universities in Spain include:

• University of Navarra
• Ramon Llull University
• Comillas Pontifical University
• University of Deusto
• European University of Madrid
• University of Vic – Central University of Catalonia
• UCAM Catholic University San Antonio de Murcia
• CEU San Pablo University
• International University of Catalonia
• Catholic University of Valencia
• Mondragon University
• CEU Cardinal Herrera University
• University Camilo José Cela
• Pontifical University of Salamanca
• Miguel de Cervantes European University
• Saint Teresa of Jesus Catholic University
• San Jorge University
• Abat Oliba CEU University
• Alfonso X el Sabio University
• European University of the Atlantic
• Mid Atlantic University
• Fernando Pessoa Canarias University

Scholarships and grants

Although public universities in Spain are not free, they are very low cost compared to private universities and other countries in Europe. The price per credit is determined by the regional governments and usually varies between €12.50 and €30, so the annual price of a course would be between €750 and €1,800 per year. In contrast, private universities can cost between €5,000 and €18,000 per year.

There are many scholarships and grants available for international students in Spain. These include scholarships from the Spanish government, university scholarships, scholarships from international organisations, and additional financial aid.

Spanish Government Scholarships

The Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture, and Sports offers scholarships to foreign students through various programs like the MAEC-AECID scholarships and the Becas de Colaboración scholarships. The Ministry of Education gives scholarships to EU students who want to enrol in a Bachelor’s degree or Master’s Degree in Engineering, Advanced Technologies, Architecture, Design, Economics, or Management at a top Spanish university. To be eligible, your annual family income should be within a certain threshold, and you should have graduated high school with a minimum GPA of 5 (on a 10-point scale) for financial aid or 8 for academic excellence aid.

University Scholarships

Many Spanish universities offer scholarships and tuition waivers for outstanding international students based on academic merit, extracurricular achievements, and other criteria. For example, the UIC Barcelona Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship that provides financial assistance to international students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree at the Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC Barcelona). The scholarship covers 20% to 50% of the tuition fees, depending on the student's academic performance.

Scholarships from International Organisations

Institutions such as the Organisation of Ibero-American States (OEI) and the Carolina Foundation offer scholarships for students from Ibero-American countries and other regions. The Fundación Carolina scholarships, for instance, promote academic cooperation and cultural exchange between Spain and Latin America. The scholarship program offers full or partial funding for students from Latin American countries to study master’s or doctoral degrees, or conduct research projects, in Spanish universities or institutions.

Additional Financial Aid

Other types of financial aid available to international students include educational loans from banks and agencies, exchange programs that allow students to study abroad without added cost, and part-time work.

Work-study programs

Spanish Language and Internship Programs

Several organizations in Spain offer work-study programs that include Spanish language classes and internships. These programs provide international students with the chance to improve their language skills while gaining work experience in a Spanish company. The Spanish Institute for Global Education, for instance, offers a program that includes an intensive two-week Spanish course followed by an internship placement.

University-Facilitated Internships

Some universities in Spain facilitate internships or work-study programs for their students. These programs allow participants to gain practical experience in their field of study and earn an income. For example, the Internship Placement Program at the Academia Internacional de Lenguas Malaga Spanish Language School combines practical training with cultural immersion, helping students develop professional skills while improving their Spanish language abilities.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

In addition to formal work-study programs, international students in Spain are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies. According to Spanish law, students from EU/EEA countries can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holiday periods. Non-EU/EEA students may require a work permit or visa for part-time employment.

Part-time job opportunities vary depending on location, language proficiency, and field of study. Common options include language tutoring, hospitality and tourism, retail, and internships.

Considerations for Students

When considering a work-study program or part-time work in Spain, students should keep in mind the following:

• Academic Priorities: Balancing work and studies is essential to ensure that part-time employment does not negatively impact academic performance.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Spanish is often required for part-time jobs, especially those involving customer interaction.
• Work Permit Requirements: Non-EU/EEA students must obtain the necessary work permits or authorization before starting part-time work.
• Cultural Adaptation: Working in a foreign country comes with cultural challenges, and students should be prepared to adapt to Spanish work culture and norms.

By participating in work-study programs or part-time employment, international students in Spain can gain valuable work experience, supplement their income, and enhance their overall study abroad experience.

Cost of living

The average cost of living for international students in Spain ranges from €700 to €1,300 per month. This includes expenses for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, study materials, and personal expenses. However, these figures are estimates and can vary depending on factors such as location, lifestyle choices, and individual circumstances.

Accommodation

Accommodation costs vary depending on the city and range from €300 to €600 per month. The cheapest places to live in Spain are Salamanca, Santiago de Compostela, and Granada. Madrid and Barcelona are among the top 50 most expensive places to live globally, so students should consider nearby cities for more affordable options.

Food

Students can eat well for less in Spain. Dining out is affordable, with the average meal costing between €6 and €20 per person. Groceries are also reasonably priced, with a litre of milk costing €1, fresh chicken at €4 per kilogram, potatoes at €0.70 per kilo, frozen pizza at €3.50, and cheddar cheese at €6 for 250 grams. The average food expenditure for an individual in Spain is €125 per month.

Transportation

Public transportation is available through buses and taxis, costing around €2 per trip. Rental cars are also an option.

Health Insurance

Health insurance costs range from €60 to €100 per month. Healthcare in Spain is sponsored by the government, making it affordable for everyone. A doctor's visit without insurance costs around €50.

Utilities

Utilities, including electricity, gas, telephone, and internet, can cost approximately €300 per month. Internet access is widely available and affordable at about €10 per month.

Entertainment

Spain offers a range of affordable entertainment options, including museums, bars, pubs, zoos, markets, shopping centres, and art galleries. There are also plenty of free activities to explore.

Clothing

Clothing is very affordable in Spain, with numerous shopping malls, outlets, and department stores offering a wide range of brands and fashion styles. Barcelona is a popular destination for shopping enthusiasts.

Electronics

Electronics are generally more expensive in Spain than in other parts of Europe, but it is still possible to find good deals by shopping around.

Frequently asked questions