Hola! Spain is one of the largest European countries, with its historical, religious, and cultural influences reaching all parts of the world. Every year, tourists flock this country to get a feel for life under the Spanish sun. Its stunning architecture, prevailing socio-political ties, and resolute faith are some of the country’s most enticing features. Spain has a total of 47 World Heritage Sites, which do not fail to persuade visitors to learn more about each site’s history. Likewise, tourists find Spain difficult to resist because of its charming people who know how to have fun. The Spanish cuisine is a must-try for every traveller wishing to explore the world. Moreover, it is the best venue to learn Spanish, the second most-spoken language in the world.
International students have not escaped the appeal of Spain as a study abroad destination. In fact, the country has the third largest number of foreign students enrolled in its universities. The country’s profile as a Spanish-speaking nation does not change this fact. Students go to Spain to receive a first-rate education in a location that promotes a balanced lifestyle. In Spain, international students will learn not just within the four walls of their university classrooms but in the busy streets and active populace of this European country. If you are an international student who has been allured by Spain, it is time to choose which city you want your student life to take place. International students have to make this difficult decision since it is crucial to have a home away from your home country. As a foreign student, you need to be in a place where your morals will not be affected, where you will get the education you deserve, where your lifestyle would not need to be radically altered, and where you will be able to experience comfort and convenience as if you haven’t left home.
To help you with your decision, we have shortlisted 5 cities in Spain that could be perfect for international students like you. De nada. As you read on, try to evaluate which city you think suits your dream destination.
1. Study in Seville
2. Study in Barcelona
3. Study in Madrid
4. Study in Granada
5. Study in Valencia
Seville, the capital of Andalucía, is considered the heart of Spanish culture. In this city, you can imagine being able to turn back time as you walk into its Alcázar castle, filled with elegant baroque designs, the equally ornate Gothic Seville Cathedral, the famous Plaza de España, and the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza. As you take a stroll in its streets, you will feel like it is centuries ago, as you bathe your eyes in the well-preserved city architecture. Seville is also the city where the Spanish national dance, the Flamenco, originated. If you choose to study in Seville, you will be able to witness some of Spain’s most significant festivals, such as Semana Santa and Feria de Sevilla. It is safe to say that Seville is a city which puts a high value on tradition and historical roots, despite the modernity it embraces. This is the ideal city for students who are in the middle of being cosmopolitan and conventional.
Moreover, Seville has top-notch universities which you can enroll in. Spain’s oldest institution for higher education, the University of Salamanca, is located in this city. You will also be delighted to know that the cost of living in Seville is considerably cheaper than in other metropolitan cities in Spain. Despite being an affordable city, you can enjoy the finest of Spanish cuisines (who would not want to miss the world-famous churros) and entertainment in Seville. Choose Seville, and experience the best of Spanish culture!
Barcelona, the capital of Catalunya, is Spain’s second-largest city. It is a highly urbanized city, which is a favorite spot for artists. The legendary architect Antonio Gaudí built Barcelona with an artistic touch that never fails to entice tourists. A short afternoon walk in this city will make you appreciate the ingenuity of Spanish art and architecture.
Because of its cosmopolitan lifestyle, most international students choose Barcelona as their Spanish city base. The city has a relatively young population, which makes way for festivals and social events. For instance, the Primavera Sound Music Festival chooses Barcelona as its annual venue for the city’s vibrant audience. Likewise, this city boasts of top universities, which provide outstanding education for international students. The University of Barcelona, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, and the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya are but a few of Barcelona’s most reputable institutions. Hence, if you are a highly artistic student who loves to revel in all things creative, Barcelona is the right fit for you.
Madrid, Spain’s largest city and the country’s capital, is popular across the world. It is home to globally ranked universities, such as the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, and the Politécnica de Madrid. When you study in Madrid, you will get the chance to enjoy a convenient life, free of transportation and gastronomic woes, as this city seems to have everything you need. You can transfer locations with just one ride away from Madrid. You can explore the city’s cacophony of entertainment centers that will feed not only your stomach but also your homesick soul.
Madrid is a metropolitan venue, however, it still has the old charm present in its boulevards and cultural centers. This is a city for those students who enjoy a fast-paced life. You will also find a flourishing fashion industry in this city, which your eyes will surely enjoy. Moreover, Madrid is the center of Spain’s economic and political activities. Hence, international students can find plenty of relevant employment and internship prospects within the city.
With its sophistication and upscale profile, you can expect that Madrid has a high cost of living in return for the comfort and prestige it can give. If you are up for such a lifestyle, opt for Madrid as your Spanish student city.
See also: How to Get a Scholarship in Spain
Granada, situated at the foot of Sierra Nevada, is a must-visit place in Spain. Termed as the Spanish sweetheart that could steal one’s heart, Granada is usually described as the city with a North African feel, because of its colonial history under Moorish rule. International students choose this city primarily because of its prestigious universities like the Universidad de Granada. You can find a large population of foreign students in this city, which is why you would not even feel nostalgia for your home country. If you are an international student in Granada, you will be exposed to a culturally diverse community in a distinctly designed location. But if you are not yet totally convinced, take it from Ernest Hemingway’s statement about the city: “If you were to visit only a city in Spain, this should be Granada”. Would you rather counter Hemingway’s perception or would you see for yourself what Granada has to offer?
Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, boasts of a large number of international students attending its top universities, particularly its famous business schools. Some of Valencia’s highly rated institutions are the Universidad Politecnica de Valencia and the Universitat de Valencia. While it is a port city, international students are persuaded to live in Valencia because of its richness in cultural festivals and beautiful beaches. In fact, the Las Falles, a parade of giant puppets, and the Festival Internacional de Benicàssim, one of Europe’s biggest music festivals, happen in this city and attract Europeans every year. It is also the city where the scrumptious “paella” dish originated. If you are a student in this city, you can live in a community that provides easy access to entertainment and social engagement opportunities. The word “boredom” will not even enter your vocabulary because a trip to the beach or a short exploration of the city’s amusement spots are all just a stone’s throw away. Of course, this is on top of the world-class education you will be receiving from Valencia’s qualified institutions.
Learning does not end within the premises of a university. It is influenced by the community where the education takes place. International students need to take the university location seriously to ensure that they will live a peaceful, safe, convenient, comfortable, exciting, and interesting lifestyle. A study abroad experience is an excellent way for someone to embrace a new culture, while at the same time preserving their own. Your selected city will contribute to this cultural adventure, which will soon influence the way you handle your social interactions. Do not waste the opportunity, and choose the city you think is most suitable to your learning style and lifestyle preference.
We at Edarabia wish you all the best in your Spanish study journey!
See also: How to Apply for a Student Visa in Spain
Twitter
Add a Comment
Please do not post:
Thank you once again for doing your part to keep Edarabia the most trusted education source.