Study Visa Spain

From historic universities to a thriving startup scene, Spain offers the perfect balance of study, work, and lifestyle.

Study In Spain

Spain is one of the most cost-effective study destinations in Western Europe, offering internationally recognised degrees at significantly lower tuition fees compared to countries like the UK or USA.

Public universities in Spain are state-supported, which keeps tuition fees affordable for both EU and non-EU students. Popular institutions such as the University of Barcelona (UB), Complutense University of Madrid, and University of Valencia are well-established public universities with strong global academic reputations.

Spain’s higher education system combines academic tradition with modern learning, offering strong programs in business, engineering, architecture, health sciences, and technology.

Visa Application Assistance

Our experienced consultants will evaluate your eligibility, identify suitable study options, and advise on the most appropriate pathway based on your educational background, career goals, and destination preferences.

Pre-Departure Orientation

We provide comprehensive pre-departure guidance to help students prepare for their transition abroad. These sessions cover accommodation, travel arrangements, cultural adaptation, banking, healthcare, and important information about student life in the destination country.

Future Settlement

At FUTURE MIGRATE, our support does not end when you receive your study visa. We provide ongoing guidance to help students successfully build their future in Europe. We also help you by providing guidance on options that may lead to long-term residency or citizenship.

Why Study in Spain?

Spain offers a combination of quality education, vibrant culture, and global career opportunities that few countries can match.

🎓 Student Overview

Intakes in Spain

  • Main Intake: September / October (Autumn)
  • Secondary Intake: February (limited programs, mainly Master’s)

Applications usually open several months in advance depending on university.

🎓 Scholarships in Spain

Scholarships are available but highly competitive for international students.

Main Options
  • Spanish Government Scholarships (MAEC-AECID) – mainly postgraduate level
  • Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus – full-funded EU mobility programs
  • University Merit Scholarships – partial tuition reductions (25%–50%)
  • Regional government scholarships (varies by region)

📌 Most students should not rely fully on scholarships and should prepare financial proof for visa purposes.

💰 Cost of Studying in Spain

Tuition Fees

Public Universities

  • Bachelor’s: €750 – €3,500 per year
  • Master’s: €1,000 – €4,500 per year

Private Universities

  • Bachelor’s: €5,000 – €20,000 per year
  • Master’s: €8,000 – €25,000 per year

Public universities are the most common choice due to affordability and strong academic reputation.

Estimate Living Costs 

Major Cities (Madrid, Barcelona)
  • Monthly cost: €900 – €1,200
Smaller Cities (Valencia, Seville, Granada)
  • Monthly cost: €700 – €950

Includes:

  • Accommodation
  • Food
  • Transport
  • Basic personal expenses
📋 Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Programs

  • Minimum 50–60% marks in Higher Secondary Education
  • English language proficiency B2 (IELTS / TOEFL depending on university)
  • Some public universities may require entrance exams or foundation recognition

Master’s Programs

  • Recognised Bachelor’s degree (16 years education)
  • Minimum 55–60% or equivalent CGPA
  • Relevant field of study
  • Work experience (for selected programs only)
  • English proficiency proof B2 (IELTS / TOEFL)

Postgraduate Diplomas (where available)

  • Bachelor’s degree required
  • Relevant academic or professional background
  • Often focused on business, technology, and design fields

General Documents

  • Completed university application
  • Academic transcripts & certificates
  • Valid passport
  • CV / Resume
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation (if required)
  • Language proficiency certificate
  • Portfolio (for creative programs)
🏛️ Top Universities
  • University of Barcelona (UB)
  • Complutense University of Madrid
  • Autonomous University of Madrid
  • University of Valencia
  • Pompeu Fabra University
  • University of Granada
  • University of Navarra (private)

These universities are internationally recognised and widely respected across Europe.

⚠️ Important Spain Immigration Note

  • Student visa is called Estancia por Estudios
  • Issued for full-time academic programs
  • Required for stays longer than 90 days under Spanish immigration law
  • After arrival, students must apply for residence card (TIE)
💼 Post-Study Work

Spain allows international students to gain valuable work experience during and after their studies, subject to Spanish immigration regulations.

Working While Studying

  • International students enrolled in higher education programmes may work up to 30 hours per week during their studies, provided the employment is compatible with their academic schedule.
  • Students can work in sectors such as hospitality, customer service, technology, business support, and internships related to their field of study.

After Graduation

  • Graduates of recognised Spanish higher education programmes may apply for a 12-month residence authorisation to search for employment or prepare a business project in Spain.
  • Once suitable employment is secured, graduates may transition to an appropriate work or residence permit, subject to immigration requirements.
  • Spain does not grant permanent residence automatically after graduation.
  • Student status (“Estancia por Estudios”) is legally different from a standard residence permit.
  • Career opportunities are available in sectors including:
    • Information Technology (IT)
    • Engineering
    • Business & Finance
    • Tourism & Hospitality
    • Healthcare
    • Renewable Energy

Intakes in Spain

  • Main Intake: September / October (Autumn)
  • Secondary Intake: February (limited programs, mainly Master’s)

Applications usually open several months in advance depending on university.

🎓 Scholarships in Spain

Scholarships are available but highly competitive for international students.

Main Options
  • Spanish Government Scholarships (MAEC-AECID) – mainly postgraduate level
  • Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus – full-funded EU mobility programs
  • University Merit Scholarships – partial tuition reductions (25%–50%)
  • Regional government scholarships (varies by region)

📌 Most students should not rely fully on scholarships and should prepare financial proof for visa purposes.

💰 Cost of Studying in Spain

Tuition Fees

Public Universities

  • Bachelor’s: €750 – €3,500 per year
  • Master’s: €1,000 – €4,500 per year

Private Universities

  • Bachelor’s: €5,000 – €20,000 per year
  • Master’s: €8,000 – €25,000 per year

Public universities are the most common choice due to affordability and strong academic reputation.

Estimate Living Costs 

Major Cities (Madrid, Barcelona)
  • Monthly cost: €900 – €1,200
Smaller Cities (Valencia, Seville, Granada)
  • Monthly cost: €700 – €950

Includes:

  • Accommodation
  • Food
  • Transport
  • Basic personal expenses

Undergraduate Programs

  • Minimum 50–60% marks in Higher Secondary Education
  • English language proficiency B2 (IELTS / TOEFL depending on university)
  • Some public universities may require entrance exams or foundation recognition

Master’s Programs

  • Recognised Bachelor’s degree (16 years education)
  • Minimum 55–60% or equivalent CGPA
  • Relevant field of study
  • Work experience (for selected programs only)
  • English proficiency proof B2 (IELTS / TOEFL)

Postgraduate Diplomas (where available)

  • Bachelor’s degree required
  • Relevant academic or professional background
  • Often focused on business, technology, and design fields

General Documents

  • Completed university application
  • Academic transcripts & certificates
  • Valid passport
  • CV / Resume
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation (if required)
  • Language proficiency certificate
  • Portfolio (for creative programs)
  • University of Barcelona (UB)
  • Complutense University of Madrid
  • Autonomous University of Madrid
  • University of Valencia
  • Pompeu Fabra University
  • University of Granada
  • University of Navarra (private)

These universities are internationally recognised and widely respected across Europe.

⚠️ Important Spain Immigration Note

  • Student visa is called Estancia por Estudios
  • Issued for full-time academic programs
  • Required for stays longer than 90 days under Spanish immigration law
  • After arrival, students must apply for residence card (TIE)

Spain allows international students to gain valuable work experience during and after their studies, subject to Spanish immigration regulations.

 

Working While Studying

  • International students enrolled in higher education programmes may work up to 30 hours per week during their studies, provided the employment is compatible with their academic schedule.
  • Students can work in sectors such as hospitality, customer service, technology, business support, and internships related to their field of study.

 

After Graduation

  • Graduates of recognised Spanish higher education programmes may apply for a 12-month residence authorisation to search for employment or prepare a business project in Spain.
  • Once suitable employment is secured, graduates may transition to an appropriate work or residence permit, subject to immigration requirements.
  • Spain does not grant permanent residence automatically after graduation.
  • Student status (“Estancia por Estudios”) is legally different from a standard residence permit.
  • Career opportunities are available in sectors including:
    • Information Technology (IT)
    • Engineering
    • Business & Finance
    • Tourism & Hospitality
    • Healthcare
    • Renewable Energy
Make Spain your home today!

Experience a unique blend of education, culture, and career opportunities in one of Europe’s most exciting countries. 

Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students work in Spain?

Yes. International students can generally work up to 30 hours per week while studying, provided the work is compatible with their academic program.

Can I stay in Spain after graduation?

Yes. Eligible graduates may apply for a 12-month job-search residence authorisation after completing a recognised higher education qualification in Spain.

Can I get Permanent Residence (PR) in Spain after study?

Not directly. Students usually need to move from student status to a qualifying residence category (such as employment) and meet long-term residence requirements under Spanish immigration law.

Are English-taught programmes available in Spain?

Yes. Many universities offer Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in English, particularly in business, engineering, technology, international relations, and management.

Can I bring my family to Spain on a student visa?

Students enrolled in higher education programmes may, in certain circumstances, be accompanied by eligible family members under Spain’s immigration regulations. Requirements vary depending on programme level, duration, financial means, and individual circumstances.

Is Spain a good destination for international students?

Yes. Spain offers internationally recognised universities, affordable tuition fees, a high quality of life, access to the Schengen Area, and opportunities to gain European work experience after graduation.