How to study in Spain: universities, visa and costs for international students

Why Spain - and what to know first

• Public universities charge relatively low tuition; private universities and most master’s cost more
• Cost of living is among the lower in Western Europe, especially outside Madrid and Barcelona
• Many bachelor’s are taught in Spanish; English-taught programmes are common at master’s level
• Some basic Spanish helps enormously with daily life, housing and part-time work

Choosing a university and programme

Spain has well-regarded public and private universities across the country - match the programme and language to your level.

• Public universities: lower fees, larger, mostly Spanish-taught bachelor’s
• Private universities and business schools: higher fees, more English, smaller groups
• Check the degree is an official title (“título oficial”) and recognised for your goals
• Shortlist by city, language of instruction, tuition and entry requirements

Get your certificate recognised: UNEDasiss

For most bachelor’s you need your prior schooling recognised so Spanish universities can read your grades.

• UNEDasiss converts your school certificate into a Spanish admission grade and accreditations
• Some programmes also require the credential homologation / equivalencia process
• Start early - recognition can take weeks and gates your application
• Ask us to confirm whether you need UNEDasiss, homologación or both

The Spanish student visa

African applicants need a national (long-stay) student visa from the Spanish consulate in your country.

• Admission letter from a recognised Spanish institution
• Proof of funds - around the Spanish IPREM benchmark per month for your stay
• Private health insurance valid in Spain with no co-payments
• Legalised criminal-record certificate and a medical certificate where required
• Apply for the TIE residence card after you arrive if your stay is over six months

Costs and funding

• Public bachelor tuition is often a few hundred to a couple of thousand euros per year, charged by credit
• Private universities and many master’s range from several thousand euros upward
• Budget roughly €700-€1,100 per month for living costs depending on the city
• Look into university grants, Erasmus+ and regional scholarships - and our scholarships guide

Working while studying and staying on

• Student visas generally allow part-time work within legal hour limits while you study
• Learning Spanish widens your job options far beyond tourism and hospitality
• After graduating you can look into a job-search / stay-back option to find qualified work
• Talk to us to choose a university, handle UNEDasiss and prepare your Spanish student visa