Your Ultimate Guide to Student Life in Spain (7 Tips)

A chance to travel back in time and explore life in a place of important political history – this is what Spain offers international tourists and students. Books on world history will always make several mentions about Spain, which has significantly contributed to what the world looks like today. This and many other reasons prove the European country’s popularity as a study abroad destination for international students. The decision is hardly surprising as many people have Spain, the land of stone castles, ornate architectures, vibrant art scene, and modern cities, listed in their top destination options.

International students applying for a slot in a Spanish university need not fret on how things work for such a popular country. You will be grateful to know that this nation has some of the friendliest people on the planet, as well as some of the world’s best universities. The international alumni from Spanish universities are keen to say that the experience has educated not only their minds but their souls as well. Spain has taught them valuable life, history, and cultural lessons, which cannot be found in books or on the web. If you are ready to go on your expedition, let us help you with the essential know-how of life in Spain.

What you need to know about Spain

Spain boasts of having the 5th and the 14th largest economy in Europe and the whole world, respectively.
The country is situated between France and Portugal, nearly in the southernmost part of Europe.
Spain was one of the world’s most powerful empires since centuries ago. It is also one of the oldest constitutional monarchies.
The country’s official language, Spanish, is the second most spoken language in the world, with about 437 million native speakers.
Most international students in Spain are Europeans and Americans.
Spain has a long history under the influence of a variety of cultures, such as the Romans, Arabs, Castilians, Catalonians, Basques, Galicians, and Lusitanians.
Its size contributes to the variation in climate experienced by the Spaniards, although they usually have warm summers and cold winters.
Spain has 74 universities which accept international students.
This country, which has successfully preserved culture and history, is known to have 47 World Heritage Sites.
The Spaniards enjoy the 15th longest life expectancy among all of the world’s peoples.

3 Reasons to Study in Spain

If you ever need more reasons to enroll in one of Spain’s universities, we will give you some. In general though, allow us to say that this European country is one that is filled with opportunities to boost your personal and academic life. Below are the three primary reasons why international students like you should choose Spain to be your study abroad destination.

1. Abundance of Internship and Employment Prospects
Having the 5th largest economy in the whole of Europe, Spain is home to multinational companies where you might just land an internship or employment opportunity. Some of the international connections of this country are firms such as Telefonica, Inditex, Santander Bank, and Repsol YPF. Moreover, it will be a bonus to know that Spain is an active member of influential international organizations such as the European Union, Council of Europe, United Nations, World Trade Organization, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. This could only mean one thing – international students in Spain could build personal and professional networks, which will be of great help in their future career path.

2. World-Class Universities
Universities in Spain, particularly those that specialize in architecture and business courses, are globally recognized for their superior and world-class instructions which have successfully produced competent graduates. The Spanish education system is coveted for its strict adoption of the international standards set by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and the Bologna Process. Despite having a number of the world’s oldest universities, such as the University of Salamanca (1218), Spain incorporates modern teaching methods and facilities to make sure that their students still emerge ahead of the academic race.

3. Opportunity to Learn a New Language
In this day and age where cultural diversity seems a blurry concept because of globalization, the skill of being able to speak another language is a competitive advantage. In Spain, most degree programs are taught in Spanish – the world’s second most spoken language. An international student can get to learn the language (non-native speakers affirm that it is an easy language to master) while studying in the university. With this, you can be sure that more career prospects will turn up.

While the list of reasons can go on, we know you are certainly convinced to start your study abroad journey in Spain.

Things to Prepare Before Studying in Spain

Every study abroad experience takes a great deal of preparation. Before you are on your way to Spain, review our checklist of the essential things you need to prepare for your international student life in Spain.
Select a city to spend your university years in. Whether you want a cosmopolitan or a laid-back lifestyle, Spain has something in store for you. Check out our Best Student Cities in Spain list to aid in your decision-making.
Apply for admission in the university of your choice at least three months before you plan to start your studies. This will give you sufficient time to fix other requirements. Find out the admission process in Spanish universities in our How to Apply for a University in Spain article.
Take the “Selectividad”, a language proficiency exam, or any other tests required of you.
Check if you need to apply for a student visa in Spain. Nonetheless, you will need to submit an application for a student residence permit within 30 days upon arrival in Spain.
Explore the available accommodation options for international students in Spain.
Make sure you have a definite plan on how to cover your education and living expenditures throughout your study program. Spain has fairly affordable living costs, although you may want to apply for scholarship programs to at least reduce some financial burden.
Arrange for your travel to Spain. Make sure you have all the necessary documents to be presented at the port and to the local authorities.

Now you are all settled for your study abroad journey in one of the world’s top tourist and student destinations. Do not worry a bit, you are bound for an experience of a lifetime in the midst of a welcoming society. Buena suerte y adios!