How Much Does It Cost To Go To University In Spain?

Spain is a captivating Western European country with a rich history and diverse culture, making it a sought-after choice for students seeking quality higher education at a reasonable cost. With its sunny climate, respected universities, and lively student communities, Spain offers an appealing balance of academic standards and lifestyle benefits.

Many universities in Spain hold strong international reputations and feature regularly in global rankings. While most courses are still taught in Spanish, the number of programs offered in English continues to grow, particularly in areas such as business, engineering, and international law. This makes Spain more accessible to international students who may not yet be fluent in Spanish.

University fees in Spain

Compared with countries like the UK or US, studying in Spain remains relatively affordable. Public universities are regulated by Spain’s Autonomous Communities, which means each region sets tuition fees within its territory. Private universities set their own tuition rates and are generally more expensive, but often offer specialised programs and smaller class sizes.

How fees are calculated: Spanish tuition is based on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). A typical full-time load is 60 credits per academic year. Costs per credit vary depending on the subject area, the degree level, and the region where the university is located.

Public universities: For the 2025/26 academic year, fees at public universities generally range from 850 to 2,100 euros per year. Regions such as Andalusia, Galicia, and Cantabria remain the most affordable, while Madrid, Catalonia, and Castilla y León are at the higher end. Medicine, engineering, and other specialist degrees carry higher costs. For example, studying medicine in Andalusia is around 850 euros annually, while in Catalonia it can exceed 2,400 euros per year.

Private universities: Private tuition averages around 10,000 euros annually, but can reach 20,000 euros for certain programs. Business schools are among the most expensive, especially at postgraduate level. Many private institutions market themselves to international students by offering English-language degrees and a more personalised teaching environment.

Examples by degree area:

– Humanities and arts: 900–1,200 euros per year in public universities, 8,000–12,000 in private universities.

– Engineering and technology: 1,200–1,800 euros per year in public universities, 9,000–15,000 in private universities.

– Medicine and health sciences: 1,500–2,400 euros per year in public universities, 12,000–20,000 in private universities.

– Business and economics: 1,000–1,700 euros per year in public universities, 10,000–20,000 in private universities.

EU vs non-EU students: EU nationals and foreigners with Spanish residency usually pay the same tuition as Spaniards. Non-EU students face more variation. Some universities charge the same as for EU students, while others may charge two to three times more. Always confirm directly with your chosen university, as policies differ.

Scholarships and grants: Spain provides a broad range of scholarships and grants. The Ministry of Education and Vocational Training offers need-based and merit-based grants each year, while Erasmus+ supports mobility within Europe. Many Autonomous Communities also provide regional aid. In addition, individual universities often run their own scholarship schemes for international students. Applicants should check both national and local opportunities, as well as any funding available from their home country.

Cost of living for students in Spain

Tuition is only one part of the equation. Living costs vary significantly by city. Madrid and Barcelona are the most expensive, while cities such as Granada, Valencia, or Salamanca are more affordable. On average, students should budget between 900 and 1,300 euros per month to cover accommodation, food, transport, and leisure.

– Rent: Shared flats in smaller cities start from 250–350 euros per month, while private studios in Madrid or Barcelona often cost 800–1,200 euros.

– Food: A monthly grocery bill is typically 150–250 euros. Eating out is affordable, with student menus at many cafeterias for under 12 euros.

– Transport: Monthly passes for buses or metro range from 30 to 60 euros, with student discounts available in most regions.

– Extras: Books, internet, and social life add another 100–200 euros monthly depending on lifestyle.

Accessing university in Spain

Foreign residents in Spain: If you are legally resident in Spain, you may access universities under the same rules as Spanish nationals. You are also eligible for state scholarships. Students finishing secondary school in Spain must sit the Bachillerato Assessment for University Access (EBAU or EvAU), also known as selectividad.

EU citizens: EU citizens usually need to obtain accreditation from the UNEDassis service. Applications open each April. Once approved, you receive a Credencial de Acceso which is required by universities for enrolment.

Non-EU, non-residents: Students from outside the EU must first have their qualifications recognised through the homologación process. This is managed by the Spanish Ministry of Education, although Catalonia, Galicia, and the Basque Country administer their own recognition. Once approved, you may need to sit the EBAU or Specific Competence Tests (PCE). After admission, non-EU students must obtain a student visa.

Important updates for 2025:
After May 20, 2025, all new student visa applications (for non-EU citizens) must be submitted from the student’s country of residence or home country, not from within Spain itself. This change affects language course and academic study visas alike, so advance planning is essential. For anyone currently considering study in Spain, applications must now be made via consulates abroad.

Additionally, new regulations limit student visas based on language courses to a single renewal. For further renewals, or to modify your study permit to a work authorisation in Spain, proof of Spanish proficiency—such as a DELE or SIELE exam certificate—may be required. Securing language credentials early is critical if you plan to remain in Spain or seek work after your initial course.

Recent reforms mean non-EU students are now granted multi-year residence permits rather than having to renew annually. Graduates can also remain in Spain for up to two years after completing their studies to search for work or begin a career.

Part-time work while studying

International students are allowed to work part-time while studying, provided the job does not interfere with academic commitments. The limit is generally 20 hours per week during term time, with the option to work full-time during official university holidays. This can help offset living expenses, though students should not rely entirely on part-time work to fund their studies.

Student life in Spain

Beyond tuition and living costs, student life in Spain is an experience in itself. Universities have active student associations and cultural clubs, while Spanish cities are famous for festivals, music, and nightlife. Social life often starts late, with clubs opening after midnight and many students staying out until dawn. Balancing academic work with socialising is part of the Spanish student rhythm.

Brushing up on Spanish before arrival can enrich your experience. While English is common in academic settings, Spanish is essential for daily life, internships, and future employment. It also helps students integrate better into local communities.

If you are undecided about where to study, see our guide to the 7 Cheapest Cities For International Students Living In Spain.

Health insurance for students

Our Sanitas Students plan is designed specifically for international students in Spain. It fulfils all visa requirements and provides complete medical cover throughout your studies. The plan includes access to Sanitas’ nationwide network of doctors and hospitals, no claims paperwork, and zero out-of-pocket costs for covered services. With healthcare sorted, you can concentrate fully on your studies and enjoy your time in Spain.