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- You will receive a quote with different options for you in Spain. Public and Private Universities.
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Great opportunities in Spain, click and let us see together if this amazing destination is right for you.
Study in Spain: complete guide to pursue a university degree or a masters program as a foreign student in 2026 or 2027
Discover how to access Spanish universities, understand the differences between public and private institutions, calculate real costs, and plan every step until your arrival in Spain. At ViveCampsu we support and guide you through the entire process.
Why study in Spain?
Key Points
- High quality education recognized internationally.
- Lower university costs compared to other global destinations.
- Option to work part-time while you study.
- Some programs are 100% in English making social adaptation easier.
- Most degree programs last 4 years.
- Warm and friendly culture
- Excellent quality of life in both large and small cities.
- Opportunity to travel around Europe at low cost.
- Wide range of undergraduate and masters programs in all fields.
- Migratory benefits after completing a program.
Why Spain is one of the best academic destinations for international students
Academic quality and international prestige
Spain is home to universities recognized worldwide. Its undergraduate and graduate programs are accredited within the European Higher Education Area, which makes academic and professional mobility easier across Europe and other continents. In addition, its system combines academic tradition with modern approaches, especially in private universities known for their practical and international focus.
My experience visiting universities and graduate schools
During the month I toured Spanish institutions and participated in events such as ICEF Madrid, I was able to observe real differences between public and private universities, both in infrastructure and methodology. In private universities I found smaller groups, personalized attention, and easier access to laboratories, something that many international students greatly value when they arrive.
Cultural adaptation and student life
Spain shares language, values, and many customs similar to most Western countries, which makes integration easier. Cities like Madrid, Valencia, Seville, or Salamanca offer active student life, efficient transportation, and a safe environment. Many students tell us that they feel like at home, but with the advantages of living and studying in Europe.
Author: Boris Aliaga, former international student and senior educational consultant at ViveCampus, with more than 20 years of experience in international education. Boris has visited many Spanish Universities and knows perfectly the process for an international student to study in this beautiful country.
Updated on: December 1, 2025
Boris visiting Universities in Seville, Spain
Types of institutions in Spain: public and private universities
Differences in teaching, infrastructure, and environment
Public universities are known for their tradition, strong academic focus, and very affordable tuition fees. Private universities, on the other hand, usually offer a more practical approach, smaller groups, strong international presence, and modern, well-maintained infrastructure.
When I visited different private universities in Spain, I was especially impressed by the personalized attention, the easy access to laboratories, and the high percentage of international students in the classrooms, which creates a very comfortable environment for those enrolling in an English-taught program.
Real costs (undergraduate and graduate)
- Public (undergraduate): 800–1.800 € per year.
- Private (undergraduate): 5.000–15.000 € per year.
- Official masters in public universities: 1.000–3.000 €.
- Masters in private universities: 7.000–30.000 €, depending on the school and program.
Which option is best depending on your profile?
There is no universally better option, only the best one for your case. It depends on your degree, your budget, and your learning style. After advising many students, I have seen that some prioritize the low cost and academic tradition of public universities, while others value practical learning, closer support, and networking opportunities offered by private institutions.
Public University: Complutense University of Madrid Campus
Private University: Universidad Europea
Comparison table: public vs private university in Spain
| Aspect | Public University | Private University |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition cost (undergraduate) | 800–1.800 €/year | 5.000–15.000 €/year |
| Masters cost | 1.000–3.000 € (official master) | 7.000–30.000 € (depending on school) |
| Admission | Requires Selectividad/PCE | Normally does not require Selectividad |
| Infrastructure | Good but highly demanded | Modern with faster access |
| Teaching | More theoretical and academic | More practical and employment oriented |
| Group size | Large classrooms, more students per room | Smaller groups |
| International diversity | Lower proportion | High percentage of international students |
| Environment | More massive | Closer and more personalized |
| Ideal profile | Limited budget + academic tradition | Practical learning, innovation, and international environment |
Useful Official Links
Which path to choose to study an undergraduate degree in Spain?
As an international student you have two main paths to study in Spain: public university or private university. Here I explain in a simple way what each option involves.
Path 1: Public university in Spain
If you choose a Spanish public university, you must prepare for the Selectividad / PCE, which are 5 entrance exams required for public universities.
Pre-university program for Selectividad / PCE
We offer a specialized pre-university program for international students that prepares you for these exams.
- January to May (5 months): EUR 3.500
- October to May: EUR 5.100
- Modality: online classes or in-person classes in Barcelona
This program is designed so you arrive with the necessary foundation and have many more chances of getting into a public university.
In the pre-university program you will be guided to find the right public university for you.
I want to request a quote for public universitiesPath 2: Private university in Spain
If you prefer a more flexible admission process, more personalized classes, and a highly international environment, a private university may be your best option.
We work with excellent private universities in cities such as:
- Madrid
- Murcia
- Valencia
- Sevilla
- Salamanca
- Málaga
- Alicante
These universities offer undergraduate degree and masters programs, with a high percentage of international students and cities with an excellent quality of life.
I want to request a quote for private universitiesIf you still do not know which path is best for you, do not worry.
We can review your case together and help you choose between a public university (with pre-university program and Selectividad) or a private university in cities such as Madrid, Murcia, Valencia, Sevilla, Salamanca, Málaga, among others.
Study a masters degree in Spain
Requirements for official and private masters programs
To study a masters degree in Spain, you will normally need:
- University degree (bachelors or equivalent).
- Academic transcripts.
- Updated resume.
- Motivation letter.
- In some cases, an interview or internal tests.
How to choose the right program
In my conversations with university leaders at events such as ICEF Madrid, a clear pattern appears: public universities usually stand out for their academic rigor and the official validity of their degrees, while private universities perform very well in innovative programs in business, marketing, technology, and innovation, with strong focus on employability and international networking.
Masters degree costs
- Official master in public universities: 1.000–3.000 €.
- Masters in private universities: 7.000–30.000 €, depending on the school and program.
Application process
The process is usually faster than applying for an undergraduate degree, but it requires a more professional presentation: a well-structured CV, clear motivation letters, and in some cases, recommendation letters. Graduate students value clarity in this process, especially when they must balance work and studies.
Student visa for Spain
Main requirements
- Admission letter from the Spanish institution.
- Medical insurance valid in Spain.
- Proof of sufficient financial funds.
- Criminal background check (depending on the country).
- Valid passport and documents apostilled / translated.
Common mistakes we see every year
Some of the most frequent mistakes include submitting incomplete documentation, not respecting consulate deadlines, not providing sworn translations when required, or not demonstrating financial solvency correctly.
Expert support for visas
Having a team specialized in visas makes a big difference. In our case, the visa advisory service provided by ViveCampus is free for our students, and we focus on avoiding unnecessary rejections and delays.
Main cities to study in Spain
When visiting different Spanish cities, I could see that each one offers a unique lifestyle, with very different costs. In general, smaller cities have a lower cost of living, something very important for many international students.
Madrid
Madrid is the university, cultural, and professional epicenter of the country. It is one of the most popular destinations for international students.
Top universities:
- Universidad Europea
- Universidad Complutense de Madrid
- Universidad Camilo José Cela (UCJC)
- Universidad Villanueva
Estimated cost of living: 1.000–1.300 €/month.
Salamanca
One of the most historic university cities in Europe, with a truly student-friendly and very welcoming atmosphere.
Top university:
- Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca
Estimated cost of living: 650–800 €/month.
Murcia
A modern, calm city with an excellent quality–price ratio, ideal for students looking for a more relaxed environment.
Top university:
- Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM)
Estimated cost of living: 650–850 €/month.
Valencia
Valencia combines beaches, great weather, and one of the best qualities of life in Spain, along with very attractive academic options.
Top university:
- Universidad Europea de Valencia
Estimated cost of living: 750–1.000 €/month.
Seville
A city full of history, art, and cultural life, with a warm and very friendly atmosphere for international students.
Top university:
- Universidad Loyola Andalucía
Estimated cost of living: 650–900 €/month.
Barcelona
A dynamic Mediterranean city with an international environment, lively neighborhoods, beaches, culture, and pleasant weather.
Top university:
- Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona
Estimated cost of living: 1.000–1.300 €/month.
Small cities: the most affordable option
In general, the smaller the city, the lower the cost of living: rent, transportation, and food are usually significantly cheaper. In many cases, a small city can be between 20 percent and 40 percent cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona, without sacrificing academic quality.
Total costs to study at a Spanish university
Approximate tuition fees
- Public universities (undergraduate): 800–1.800 € per year.
- Private universities (undergraduate): 5.000–15.000 € per year.
- Official master in public universities: 1.000–3.000 €.
- Masters in private universities: 7.000–30.000 €.
Monthly expenses by city (approx.)
- Madrid: 1.000–1.300 €.
- Barcelona: 900–1.200 €.
- Valencia: 750–1.000 €.
- Seville / Murcia / Salamanca: 650–900 €.
Personal tips to save money
When I spent years studying and working abroad, I learned that sharing an apartment, planning your shopping, and always using public transportation make a big difference. These simple decisions help reduce costs without affecting your experience or quality of life.
Step-by-step guide to study in Spain
Recommended timeline
- 12–9 months before: choose your degree or masters program, review requirements, and prepare documentation.
- 9–6 months before: apply to universities and graduate schools.
- 6–3 months before: process your student visa.
- 3–1 months before: look for accommodation, organize your trip, and review final documentation.
Common mistakes we see in international students
- Applying too late.
- Not comparing options between cities and universities.
- Underestimating visa processing times.
- Not calculating the real cost of living accurately.
Benefits of specialized advising
After more than 20 years in the education industry and thousands of students advised, I have seen that those who receive proper guidance gain a clear advantage: they avoid costly mistakes, save time, and make decisions that better match their academic and professional goals.
Frequently asked questions about studying a university degree in Spain
Do I need the Selectividad/PCE to study at a public university in Spain?
Yes. As an international student, you must take 5 entrance exams known as PCE/Selectividad to be admitted to a public university.
Can I study at a private university without Selectividad?
Yes. Private universities do not require Selectividad, but they do require academic transcripts, an interview, and in some cases an internal test.
What documents do I need to apply to a university in Spain?
Generally: passport, high school certificate or university degree, transcripts, sworn translations, Hague apostille, and motivation letter (depending on the case).
What is the Hague Apostille and why do my documents need it?
It is an international seal that validates official documents. Spain requires apostille for academic certificates issued in another country.
How much does it cost to study at a public university in Spain?
Between EUR 800 and 1,800 per year, depending on the program and the autonomous community.
How much does it cost to study at a private university in Spain?
Between EUR 5,000 and 15,000 per year for undergraduate studies; and EUR 7,000 to 30,000 for masters programs.
Which cities are the most affordable for international students?
Generally: Salamanca, Seville, Murcia, and Granada.
They are between 20–40 percent cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona.
Can I work while studying in Spain?
Yes, with a student visa you can work up to 30 hours per week, as long as the job is compatible with your studies.
How long does the student visa process for Spain take?
Usually between 4 and 8 weeks, depending on the consulate and the time of year. ViveCampus will guide you through the process.
Do I have to pay for advising to study in Spain?
It depends on the agency. In our case, advising is 100 percent free, including translations and visa guidance. At ViveCampus we support you throughout the entire process, you do not pay anything and payments are made directly to the institutions.
When should I start the process to study in Spain?
The ideal time is between 9 and 12 months in advance, especially if you want a public university (Selectividad). Contact us so we can review your specific case.
What is a pre-university course for Selectividad and how much does it cost?
It is a preparatory course for the PCE.
Options:
January to May (5 months): EUR 3,500
October to May: EUR 5,100
Modality: online or in-person in Barcelona.
What scholarships are available for international students in Spain?
Some private universities offer partial scholarships. There are also MAEC scholarships, Fundación Carolina grants, and program-specific financial aid. Contact us and we will tell you more based on your specific case.
Can I live in Spain if my university is in another city?
Yes, but it is best to live near your institution. Spain has good transportation, but commuting between cities daily is not practical.
Are classes in Spain in-person or online?
Undergraduate and masters programs are usually mainly in-person. There are online options, but it depends on the program and the institution. Contact ViveCampus so they can guide you with the options.
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