A Guide to Higher Ed in Spain
A major perk of my job is being able to visit different areas and their amazing universities. I am currently in the lovely country of Spain. This is a country where I fell in love with education and pursued graduate school. Whether it is the sunshine or the tapas, here is brief overview of university options for students seeking a degree abroad.
Spain boasts a rich tradition of higher education, with its first university, Universidad de Salamanca, established in the 13th century. At the University of Salamanca, there is a wall with intricate carvings of animals. It is said that if you find the frog among the many carvings, you will pass your exams. Today, Spain is home to 91 universities—50 public and 41 private—many of which are internationally recognized for their academic excellence.
Degree Structure and Language of Instruction
Spanish universities offer a variety of undergraduate programs, known locally as grado. These programs typically span three to four years, though more specialized fields like engineering, medicine, and architecture may extend to five or six years. While many courses are taught in Spanish or regional languages such as Catalan or Basque, there is a growing number of programs offered entirely in English or through bilingual immersion formats.
Academic Calendar and Application Deadlines
The academic year in Spain generally begins in September and concludes in July, divided into two semesters:
• First Semester: September to December
• Second Semester: January to May
Application deadlines vary by university and program. For example, Complutense University of Madrid set its application period for international students from June 7 to July 8 for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Admission Requirements
Admission criteria differ among institutions but generally include:
• Completion of secondary education
• Recognition of foreign qualifications by the Spanish Ministry of Education
• Language proficiency in Spanish or English, depending on the program
Non-EU students may also need to take the Spanish university entrance exam, known as “Selectividad.”
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition fees in Spain vary based on the university, program, and student residency status. Public universities often charge EU students between €150 and €3,500 per year for undergraduate courses, while non-EU students might face higher fees. Private universities typically have tuition fees ranging from €5,500 to €20,000 annually.
Financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, are available through the Spanish Ministry of Education and individual universities. It’s advisable to consult the official “Study in Spain” website for comprehensive information on funding opportunities.
Cultural and Practical Considerations
Studying in Spain offers cultural enrichment and personal growth. The cost of living varies by region, with estimates ranging from €850 to €1,000 per month. Housing options include university dormitories, shared apartments, and host families, each providing unique experiences.
School Highlights
IE University offers a variety of English taught programs in Business, Economics, and Finance. It is recognized for its programs in Business and Management Studies, and offers two campuses, one in Madrid and one just north in the smaller city of Segovia.
University of Navarra has programs taught in 50% English and 50% Spanish, including Applied Management, Audiovisual Communication, Biochemistry and Environmental Science, Business, Economics, Global Journalism.
University of Carlos III de Madrid is located a short train ride south of the city center. They have two main campuses in Leganes and Getafe and are known for their programs in Engineering, Finance, and International Studies. They do offer fully 100% English taught programs in International Studies, Management and Technology, Industrial Electronics and Automation, Engineering Physics, Finance and Accounting, and Data Science and Engineering.
Conclusion
Instead of just studying abroad for a semester in Spain, discover the potential degrees you are able to get. This warm and welcoming country offers students a wonderful work life balance. Embarking on this journey can be a transformative experience, combining quality education with the opportunity to explore a vibrant and diverse culture. If you want to read about my experience living and studying in Spain, check out my blog post.
