Spain is a fascinating choice for international students looking for a top-notch education or hoping to live abroad and experience a different way of life. Some of the top universities in Europe are located in Spain, a country well-known for its dynamic cities, rich cultural legacy, and pleasant weather. Studying in Spain gives international students the chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant and diverse Spanish culture while also obtaining a top-notch education. Few people can truly claim to have studied in one of the most developed nations in the world. Studying abroad in Spain can help you advance both academically and professionally. It will also provide you aninsight into a unique country known for its stunning natural surroundings, fascinating history, mouthwatering food, and highly sought-after language.
However, it might be challenging to know where to begin in this amazing country with so many prestigious universities to select from. Discover which Spanish colleges are the best for international students by reading on!
List of the top universities in Spain for international students
| Number | University Name | Location | QS World Ranking | Average Fee |
| 1 | University of Barcelona | Barcelona | 164 | $2,000-$3,000 USD |
| 2 | Autonomous University | Madrid | 199 | $2,500-$3,000 USD |
| 3 | Complutense University | Madrid | 171 | $3,500 USD + |
| 4 | University of Granada | Granada | 403 | $865-$1,000 USD |
| 5 | University of Navarra | Pamplona, Navarra | 280 | $3,500-$9,000 USD |
| 6 | Autonomous University of Barcelona | Cerdanyola del valley | 149 | 2,000 – $9,000 USD |
| 7 | University of Seville | Seville | 494 | $900-$1,750 USD |
| 8 | Polytechnic University of Valencia | Valencia | 476 | $1,500 |
| 9 | Technical University of Catalonia | Catalonia | 354 | $2,000-$5,000 USD |
| 10 | University of Salamanca | Salamanca | 534 | $1,000-$2,500 USD |
Now know the List of the top universities in Spain for international students with details of location, QS World ranking, and average Fee according to semester.
1. University of Barcelona
- Location: Barcelona
- QS World Ranking: 164
- Average fees for a semester: $2,000-$3,000 USD
Founded in 1450, the University of Barcelona (UB) is one of Spain’s largest and oldest universities, with 76,000 students. When it comes to academic reputation, UB is ranked #1 among the top universities in Spain for international students and among the top 100 globally.At University of Barcelona, the most popular majors are agricultural sciences, veterinary science, economics, and chemistry. A small number of bachelor’s and master’s programs are offered in English, either entirely or in part, despite the majority of courses being taught in Spanish and Catalan.
However, studying alone isn’t enough; the university fosters an ideal atmosphere that accommodates a variety of lifestyles with activities like as volunteer opportunities, special student unions, cultural exhibitions, and top-notch athletic facilities. Furthermore, the QS 2023 study ranks Barcelona as one of the world’s top student cities.
2. Autonomous University of Madrid
- Location: Madrid
- QS World Ranking: 199
- Average fees for a semester: $2,500-$3,000 USD
Madrid is the most populated city in Spain and is home to many cultural attractions. With its more than 70 museums, rich football legacy, vibrant nightlife, and world-class cuisine, Madrid is a great place for students to live. In the classroom, Madrid challenges Barcelona to the same degree as it does on the football pitch. QS lists the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) as one of the top 200 universities worldwide and considers it to be among the greatest Spanish universities. UAM offers a wide range of programs, many of which are taught in English.
Natural sciences, physics and astronomy, and law are among the programs that consistently receive high rankings. Along with more over 30,000 students, UAM also welcomes about 3,000 international students to its ecologically friendly campus. By fostering a friendly social environment, its special mentor program also assists its students in adjusting to life in Madrid.
3. Complutense University of Madrid
- Location: Madrid
- QS World Ranking: 171
- Average fees for a semester: $3,500 USD +
The largest university in Spain, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), is regarded as one of the best public research universities in Spain for international students. Having been established in 1293, it is among the world’s oldest colleges, adding to its rich historical background. It is renowned for its standing in the biomedical sciences, including dentistry, veterinary studies, medicine, and more. Students can select from around 100 undergraduate programs and even more postgraduate degrees.
It is a very diverse university, nevertheless, because of its highly ranked BA programs in history, modern languages, literature, law, and more. From an employer reputation standpoint, QS claims that it’s among the finest in Spain. Along with these options, students have access to over 100 unions covering a variety of interests and activities such as athletics, music, theatre, the arts, and community service.
4. University of Granada
- Location: Granada
- QS World Ranking: 403
- Average fees for a semester: $865-$1,000 USD
Granada is a university city that embodies all that is great about Spain with its expansive strongholds, mediaeval palaces, snow-covered mountains, and close proximity to the Mediterranean. Actually, about 10% of its postgraduate students and 23% of its undergraduate students are foreign nationals. One of the most distinguished Spanish colleges in this field is the University of Granada, which is ranked in the top 100 worldwide for sports science and physical activity courses. It was the first Spanish university to grant degrees in these topics.
However, their sports centre provides more than 40 different courses for students if sports and fitness are more important to you than academics. Granade is also a great place for people who like sports involving mountains or water because of its advantageous location. Student societies abound outside of athletics, inviting students of various countries to join and become integrated with their members.
ALSO READ– 10 Reasons Why You Should Study in Spain
5. University of Navarra
- Location: Pamplona, Navarra
- QS World Ranking: 280
- Average fees for a semester: $3,500-$9,000 USD
Situated in the quaint city of Pamplona, the University of Navarra is one of the topuniversities in Spain for international students outside of Barcelona and Madrid. Pamplona is a student-centric city because the majority of its population consists of university students. Actually, about 25% of these students are international, which fosters a vibrant international community. The city is a great place for international students to study because of its large student population. With its close vicinity to Bilbao, Zaragoza, and even France, Pamplona is a great destination for students who want to travel.
International students get access to global top 100 specialisations in fields like business, philosophy, nursing, accounting and finance, and more. They can also pursue bilingual degrees to increase their language proficiency. By organising language-based events for students and creating a friendly atmosphere for international students, on-campus language clubs also foster intercultural understanding among students.
6. Autonomous University of Barcelona
- Location:Cerdanyola del valley
- QS World Ranking: 149
- Average fees for a semester: 2,000 – $9,000 USD
For both teaching and research excellence, the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) is consistently listed among the top universities in Spain for international students. Additionally, it accepts about 2,000 Erasmus students annually and serves about 8,000 international students from 90 countries at any given time. UAB is an excellent venue for people who want to absorb culture through its language, as classes are provided in Spanish, English, and Catalan. In order to receive credit towards their education, students can study for a semester, an academic year, or at UAB summer programs.
Apart from offering language classes and having mobility agreements with foreign universities, the campus culture is welcoming to international students due to its intercultural coexistence concept, clubs, social events, and green spaces.
7. University of Seville
- Location: Seville
- QS World Ranking: 494
- Average fees for a semester: $900-$1,750 USD
Seville, often known as Sevilla, has a remarkably inexpensive cost of living in spite of its pleasant weather, spotless beaches, and diverse architecture. You’ll be left wondering why Seville, a friendly and vibrant city, has such low rent prices and a generally low cost of living. If price is a top concern, the University of Seville should be taken into consideration because of its respectable and lengthy history, which dates back to 1551, and the fact that its tuition is typically less than that of many other Spanish colleges. With a strong focus on innovation and research, as well as a huge number of research centres, laboratories, and institutions, there are many excellent programs available, especially in the scientific field.
With 60,000+ students enrolled in the university, there’s always something to do. The institution hosts a lot of social activities and student gatherings in addition to the city’s warmth and regular festivals, which contribute to the immersive university experience.
8. Polytechnic University of Valencia
- Location: Valencia
- QS World Ranking: 476
- Average fees for a semester: $1,500
Valencia is the third-biggest city in Spain, the origin of paella, and a popular destination for shimmering Mediterranean beaches. The city’s blend of modern and traditional architecture, which lets students enjoy its history and stunning buildings when they’re not studying or lounging on the beach. Apart from its unparalleled coastal way of life, the city’s Polytechnic University of Valencia has received a 5-star ranking from the QS based on factors such as employability, global participation, quality of instruction, and more.
The university accepts a sizable number of overseas students each year and provides a broad choice of English-taught programs. It also helps students have a fulfilling time on campus by providing a variety of clubs, facilities for sports, and activities.
9. Technical University of Catalonia
- Location: Catalonia
- QS World Ranking: 354
- Average fees for a semester: $2,000-$5,000 USD
One of Spain’s top colleges for applied sciences and innovation is the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC), also known as Barcelona Tech. This covers a variety of fields, such as computer science, mathematics, agriculture, engineering, and architecture. Additionally, the UPC takes pride in having the largest enrolment of international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs. For overseas students looking to further their applied scientific education, UPC is an excellent choice because of its international mobility program.
For international students, the “Hola!” is a program that provides language guidelines in Spanish and Catalan, with adventures, cultural events, and a cultural orientation week all combined.
10. University of Salamanca
- Location: Salamanca
- QS World Ranking: 534
- Average fee for a semester: $1,000-$2,500 USD
A vibrant university town with a strong sense of international community, Salamanca is replete with buildings covered in sandstone and bustling market squares. The University of Salamanca was founded in 1218, making it the oldest university in Spain and 558 years older than the US. Approximately one in five residents of the city are university students, and it has one of the greatest concentrations of Erasmus students in all of Europe. This, together with the city’s small size, helps students develop a sense of immediate kinship with the people living there.
It has been educating students for centuries, and because of its legacy and quality, it has maintained a great reputation and been referred to as “the Oxford of Spain.” Students can lead happy lives away from the classroom by taking advantage of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, regular cultural events, international conferences, and small-town atmosphere.
Study in Spain: Fees and Living Costs
Spain is a popular study location for many international students hoping to explore its fascinating culture and way of life. With its storied past, the Kingdom of Spain offers captivating experiences in its big cities, rural areas, and coastal locales. In Spain, tuition and related expenses are reasonable. The low cost of education in Spain is a major draw for overseas students. Not only is it a particularly appealing location for study abroad, but the cost of living and tuition are also reasonably priced. Living in Spain on a student budget is feasible. In actuality, it is rather easy to do so, especially in light of the low cost of living, accessible public transportation, and abundance of reasonably priced lodging options in Spain.
A Brief Summary of Study Costs in Spain
In Spain, there are three main sources of funding for education: public monies from the state, autonomous, and municipal governments; family-provided private funds; and, to a lesser extent, private organizations. Whether education spending is classified as public or private depends more on the ultimate funding agent’s public or private status than it does on the services’ recipient. In Spain, public funds make up about 80% of education spending, with 20% coming from private sources. Studies in Spain are reasonably priced when it comes to expense. Indian students can study in Spain for relatively little money compared to other nations, as Spain has among of the lowest tuition costs in all of Europe.
Though living expenses differ by area, students can still have a comfortable life in Spain on a tight budget. Food is reasonably priced and of high quality, and there are lots of affordable designer clothing boutiques. On the other side, lodging can be expensive in big cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Tuition Fees of Universities in Spain
The cost of tuition varies in Spain depending on a variety of criteria, including the type of higher education school (public or private), the number of credits earned, the region in which you study, and your nationality. Our study has led us to the conclusion that non-EU/EEA students may experience the following circumstances when enrolling at Spanish public universities:
- They pay the same tuition as nationals of the EU and EEA.
- Their tuition is approximately 1,000–1,500 EUR higher than that of citizens of the EU/EEA.
- Tuition is charged at a rate of three times or even double that.
These circumstances differ from one academic program and university to the next and are not set in stone. Always confirm the kind of tuition that is applicable to students from your nation before selecting a degree.
Tuition fees at public universities
There are two types of degrees that public institutions in Spain offer – official degrees and degrees customized to the university. Each Autonomous Community sets tuition caps for official degrees. They usually fall within one of the following ranges:
Bachelor’s degree courses- 150 – 3,500 EUR Annually
Master’s degree courses – 300 – 3,500 EUR Annually
Since there are no government restrictions on tuition fees for degrees particular to universities, each one is allowed to determine its own price.
Tuition fees at private universities
The cost of tuition at private universities is often greater but still stays under 20,000 EUR each academic year. A business school’s program may cost more than 25,000 euros a year. Additionally, there are MBA programs and degrees in international management that have tuition costs of at least EUR 30,000 per year.
Living costs in Spain for International Students
Living expenses should also be taken into account when evaluating the cost of studying in Spain. Even though Spain is a cheap country, you should still have emergency savings.
- To live in Spain, you’ll need roughly 900–1,100 EUR. The costliest Spanish cities are Madrid and Barcelona; therefore, your expenses will go up if you choose these cities.
- Living costs in Valencia, Seville, and Cadiz are less than in other cities, ranging from 900 EUR per month.
Costs associated with housing for students
In Spain, the primary options for student housing are:
- The cost of a student residential hall might vary from 360 to 650 EUR per month.
- For many students, renting an apartment is the best option. The monthly prices range from approximately 200 EUR to over 1,000 EUR. Websites like Resa and Uniplaces are available to assist you in comparing various living situations. Cohabiting with other students in an apartment can help you save money.
Costs can vary depending on the area, lifestyle, and other factors when living with a Spanish family. Connecting with Spanish families might be facilitated by internet services.
Food costs
There are several options available to students in Spain from the regional cuisine, including “paella,” “escabeche,” and “merienda.” Typically, you would spend between 200 and 400 EUR a month on groceries. It largely depends on your lifestyle choices, such as how frequently you eat out and if you cook. Some of the most affordable supermarkets in Spain are Mercadona, Bally, Dani, and Dia.
A three-course dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant costs 35 EUR, whereas a meal at a cheap restaurant cost about 10 EUR.
Travel expenses
A monthly transport pass costs 42 EUR, and in larger cities, slightly over 54 EUR. A routine trip on public transportation typically costs 1.5 EUR. The average cost of a trip on the AVE (speed train) is 75 EUR, and it allows you to see the beautiful cities of Spain. You can save a lot of money when you use the young travel card. You can also rent a car from nearby businesses if you would rather drive yourself rather than walk.
Additional expenses
- Books, supplies, and more educational resources: EUR 900 annually
Special classes have varying prices, ranging from 30 to around 200 euros.
Conclusion
Students in Spain have relatively low overall living expenses when compared to other Western European countries. Students should budget between €800 and €1,200 a month on average, depending on the city. The biggest costs are lodging, which can run from €300 to €600 a month, food, which is about €150 to €250, and transportation, which is from €50 to €100. An additional €200 to €300 may be spent on entertainment, utilities, and other unnecessary things. Spain provides students with an affordable environment, combining a relatively low cost of living with a high-quality education, despite variations in expenses based on lifestyle and geography.
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