Studying in Spain is something that you will certainly enjoy, but you must also consider the cost of studying in Spain. One thing to consider first about studying in Spain is your financial strength.
The cost of studying in Spain is very reasonable, especially when compared to other European countries, as well as other study destinations like the U.S, Canada, and Australia. So how much will it cost you to run a Bachelor or postgraduate program in Spain?
Cost of Studying in Spain for International Students
The overall cost of studying in Spain depends on several factors, such as the course of study, the University of your choice, and the city of resident etc. Getting a scholarship to study in Spain and other financial assistance could also cut down on the cost of study.
University Tuition Fees in Spain
Spain public universities have some of the lowest course fees in Europe, and they are set by the Spanish government authorities for each area.
University tuition fees in Spain are calculated on the pay-per-credit format, a reason why the amount could change if you withdraw and enrol the second or third time in the same programmes. To calculate the annual tuition fee, you will have to multiply the number of credits with 60 – the number of credits (ECTS) each student is expected to complete during one year of study.
Public Universities Tuition Fees in Spain
Undergraduate Programs: Getting a bachelor’s degree in Spain university can cost you between 680 and 2,100 Euros per school year when attending a public university.
Postgraduate Programs: For Master’s or Doctoral degree, the tuition fees are also regulated for public university, and vary between 900 – 3,300 EUR/year.
Private Universities Tuition Fees in Spain
Unlike the public universities, private universities have higher tuition fees. To earn a bachelor’s degree in these universities will cost between 5,500 and 18,000 Euros/year. However, some business schools may charge as high as 20,000 EUR/year.
READ ALSO: List of Cheapest Universities in Spain for International Students.
University Application Fees in Spain
Almost all colleges and universities in Spain charge a fee for admission application. These fees vary but remain less than $50 USD for international students. Ensure you have this fee available while applying to study in Spain.
Student Living Costs in Spain
In addition to the actual tuition and application fees, students will also incur extra fees while studying in Spain. Take a look at some of the fees below.
Costs of Living in Spanish Cities
Generally, international students can comfortably live in Spain without financial pressure. Take a look at some of the living cost in Spanish cities below.
- Madrid and Barcelona are the most expensive cities in Spain. As a student, you can spend as much as 1,000 EUR/month. But you can also run a tight budget of 800 EUR/month.
- Other cities like Cadiz, Seville, and Valencia are relatively cheap, you can enjoy a living cost of 600 – 900 EUR/month on average.
Cost of Accommodation in Spain
The main housing options for international students in Spain are:
- Student residence – the prices range from 360 to 650 EUR/month.
- Rent an apartment – prices for rent are between 450 and 700 EUR/month. Renting an apartment in Madrid and Barcelona costs around 900 – 1,200 EUR/month.
- Homestay – rates are around 700 – 800 EUR/month, with meals included.
However, most students prefer to share a student dormitory or a flat and settle for lower prices.
Cost of Food in Spain
In Spain, students could spend between 300 and 450 EUR/month on food. Some of the cheapest supermarkets in Spain are Bally, Dani, Dia, and Mercadona.
A meal in an inexpensive restaurant cost around 10 EUR, while a three-course meal for two at a medium restaurant has an average of 35 EUR.
Cost of Transportation in Spain
Students could spend about 1.5 EUR on public transport, and a monthly transport pass of 42 EUR and little over 54 EUR in large cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Speed train is also an option for students; the average price for a trip is 75 EUR.
Other Costs to Consider
Students should also consider that during the course of their study in Spain, there will incur extra expenses.
- Books, supplies and other learning materials: 900 EUR/year
- Special classes with different fees: from 30 EUR to around 200 EUR
- Medical insurance: between 70 and 180 EUR/year
Overall the costs of studying in Spain is very affordable, and most defiantly more affordable than in other European countries and cities.
Scholarships and Funding for University in Spain
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships
The EU provides funds to international students selected to attend Erasmus Mundus Joint programmes, either for Master’s or doctoral level studies. The fund is equally provided to students coming from both EU and non-EU countries. For more information, visit the Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for international students.
African Leadership in Business (MBA Scholarships)
Scholarships are offered to African citizens who wish to obtain an MBA in Spain.
For more information, visit the African Leadership in Business.
Other Scholarships for International Students
- The Spanish government.
- Scholarships provided by the Spanish Studies organization.
- Scholarships provided by The American Institute for Foreign Study (addressed to American students).
