Studying in Spain: FAQ

Considering Masters study in Spain? It’s worth noting that you don’t have to speak fluent Spanish to study there, you can take advantage of the many English-taught Masters available in the country. But make sure to take advantage of any Spanish lessons on offer as it's one of the world's top five spoken languages.

To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of common questions about studying in Spain.

#1 How much does it cost to study a Masters in Spain?

A Masters in Spain can cost around €1,320 and €4,320 but it’s worth noting that tuition fees are usually charged per credit rather than semester or academic year.

Subject areas requiring particularly expensive facilities or resources may be more expensive. Costs for non-EU students may also be slightly higher.

#2 Can I get funding to study a Masters in Spain?

There are a number of scholarships and financial packages available to help you fund your Masters. They’re known as becas in Spain and are provided by the government, regional authorities, charities and universities.

#3 Where can I study a postgraduate degree in Spain?

There are currently 50 state-funded universities in Spain offering Masters degrees, and the rest are private institutions. Some are more specialised than others, but most will offer Masters courses in Arts and Humanities, Sciences, Health Sciences, Social and Legal Sciences, and Engineering and Architecture.

#4 How long does it take to do a Masters in Spain?

A Masters in Spain usually takes been one and two years.

#5 What types of Masters degree can I study in Spain?

Following the Bologna Process, a Masters in Spain fits into the ‘second cycle’ of the education system. The academic year generally runs from September to June with two main teaching semesters.

#6 How are Masters courses graded in Spain?

A Masters course in Spain is between 60 and 120 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits. As well as core and optional modules, you’ll be required to complete a dissertation at the end of your degree which generally counts for a quarter of your course.

#7 What are the entry requirements for Masters study in Spain?

You’ll most likely need a Bachelors degree in a related field to your Masters in order to apply. You’ll also be asked to provide an academic transcript, a CV, references, any language test results required and a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.

#8 Where will I live as an international student in Spain?

Most universities will offer accommodation known as colegios mayores, usually a student village attached to the university made up of individual rooms or larger studio flats. You may choose to board with a local Spanish family to integrate yourself into the culture and try out your language skills, or you can also opt for a private rental.

Prices will vary depending on location and type of accommodation. A mid-priced city flat will cost around €360 per month for an en-suite single room and around €500 per month for a studio flat, inclusive of utilities and Wi-Fi. Half or full-board may also be available and will usually cost around €180 per month or €300 per month.

It’s a similar guide price for private rental but it won’t include utilities.

#9 Do I need a visa to study in Spain?

Although EU students won’t need a formal visa, you (as well as students from Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland) will still have to register with the Central Registry for Foreign Citizens and get a Foreign National Identity Number (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros).

If you are a non-EU student, you will have to apply for a type-D visa at the Spanish embassy in your home country. The visa is initially valid for three months, after which you’ll need to have it extended. Make sure you are granted a type 'D' visa with multiple entries as then you can re-enter Spain during your stay if you travel home or outside of the country.

Within a month of arrival you’ll have to apply for a non-community student card from the regional government. This allows you to get a longer-term student visa and also to enrol fully at your university. To do this, you must go to your local Foreign Nationals Office to make an appointment for fingerprinting to process the foreign national ID card. The fee is usually €15.

#10 Do I need health insurance as an international student in Spain?

If you’re from the EU then you can use your European Health Insurance Card to show that you’re covered for any health-related issues.

All other students will need to check if there is a reciprocal healthcare agreement between their country and Spain. If there is then you’ll need to complete a process with your health department authority to qualify for free healthcare in Spain. If there isn’t an agreement then you’ll need to purchase private health insurance before you arrive.

#11 Can I work whilst studying in Spain?

Non-EU students, you can work up to 30 hours per week while you study, but there are some restrictions around making sure it doesn’t negatively affect your studies. Employers will need to apply to Spain’s Foreign Nationals Office for permission to hire you. Your contract can’t be longer than your student visa.

As an EU or EEA student, the rules may be a bit more relaxed but it’s best to get advice from the university’s international office to make sure you comply.

#12 Can I work in Spain after graduating?

Once you’ve finished your Masters degree you can apply for a post-study work visa. This will allow you to stay in Spain for up to one year after graduation while you look for a job. You’ll need to apply at least 60 days before your student visa expires at Spain’s immigration offices (Oficina de Extranjería).