- Public university tuition is among the lowest in Western Europe
- Living costs are lower than Germany, France or the Netherlands
- Private universities and business schools teach in English
- Public universities normally require Spanish at B2 and the PCE/Selectividad examinations
- EU degree with access to the Schengen area during study
Tuition fees
| Institution type | Indicative tuition | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Public university (bachelor's) | Approx. EUR 1,500 - 3,500 per year for non-EU students | 4 years |
| Public university (master's) | Approx. EUR 2,000 - 5,000 per year | 1-2 years |
| Private university / business school | Approx. EUR 10,000 - 20,000 per year | 1-4 years |
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Cost of living
Approximately EUR 700 - 1,100 per month depending on the city. Madrid and Barcelona sit at the top of that range; Málaga, Valencia, Granada and Seville are noticeably cheaper.
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Spain student visa requirements
- Courses longer than 90 days require a Spanish national student visa (type D).
- Proof of funds follows the IPREM indicator — EUR 600 per month of study, so roughly EUR 6,000 for a 10-month academic year or EUR 7,200 for 12 months.
- Showing EUR 8,000 - 10,000 is advisable, as consulates in high-volume countries including India apply the rules strictly.
- Funds must be evidenced formally — bank statements, scholarship letters or a legalised parental sponsorship letter. Screenshots of banking apps are not accepted.
- Processing from India typically takes 3-4 weeks; apply through the BLS Spain Visa centre for your jurisdiction.
- You must apply for a TIE (foreigner identity card) within 30 days of arriving in Spain.
- Private medical insurance with no co-payment and full coverage in Spain is required.
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Intakes
- September/October 2026 (main intake)
- January/February 2027 (limited, mainly private institutions)
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Working during and after your studies
Student visa holders may work up to 30 hours per week during studies provided the work does not conflict with study commitments. Confirm the current position before relying on part-time earnings in your budget.
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Universities in Spain we work with
Our Spain counsellors by city
Frequently asked questions
Can I study in Spain in English?
Yes, but mostly at private universities and business schools such as Schiller Madrid. Spanish public universities generally teach in Spanish and require B2 level, so if you want a public university you will normally need a language pathway plus the PCE entrance examinations first.
How much money do I need for a Spain student visa?
The legal minimum follows the IPREM indicator at EUR 600 per month of study — about EUR 6,000 for a 10-month year. In practice we advise showing EUR 8,000 to EUR 10,000, because consulates handling Indian applications apply the requirement strictly.
Is Spain cheaper than Germany for Indian students?
Tuition at Spanish public universities is low but not free, whereas German public universities charge only a small semester contribution. Spain wins on living costs in most cities outside Madrid and Barcelona. Germany requires a blocked account of EUR 11,904; Spain requires roughly EUR 6,000-7,200 in provable funds, so Spain has the lower upfront barrier.
Can I work while studying in Spain?
Student visa holders may work up to 30 hours a week, provided it does not interfere with studies. Realistically, wages and Spanish-language requirements mean part-time work supplements your budget rather than covering it.
Planning to study in Spain?
Talk to a counsellor who handles Spain applications every intake. We will check your eligibility, shortlist universities and lay out the visa timeline. No charge.
Get free consultation