Bachelor's Programs in Spain for International Students

Overview of Undergraduate Studies in Spain

Spain ranks 23rd in the Global Peace Index 2024. Fifteen Spanish universities are among the top 500 leading universities in the world. In Spain, more than 3,000 undergraduate programs are available, over 15% of which are taught in English, primarily in private universities and business schools.

A bachelor's degree in Spain (Spanish: Grado) is the first level of higher education, typically taking 4 years at universities and evaluated at 240 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer System). In business schools, studies last 3 years or 180 ECTS, but there are various double degree programs with local universities that allow students to gain additional credits to continue their studies at the master's level at a university.

Undergraduate programs provide students with basic knowledge and practical skills in their chosen field. This makes Spanish higher education appealing to those who want not only to acquire basic competencies but also to gain real professional experience.

Undergraduate studies in Spain offer programs in the following fields:

• Business and Economics
• Hospitality and Tourism
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Natural and Exact Sciences
• Engineering and Technology
• Information Technology
• Art, Design, Architecture
• Medicine and Healthcare
• Ecology and Environmental Protection
• Law

Top Universities in Spain According to Global Rankings

Features of Undergraduate Studies in Spain

One of the features of undergraduate studies in Spain is the availability of programs in both Spanish and English, opening opportunities for students with different language proficiency levels. Universities often offer double degree programs, allowing students to study in Spain and other countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and others. Spanish education includes internships and practical classes that enable students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations. Universities frequently collaborate with well-known companies, increasing students' chances of successful employment. An important advantage is the interdisciplinary approach, combining academic knowledge and practical skills to prepare graduates for successful professional life.

Advantages of Undergraduate Studies in Spain

• High quality of education. Spain ranks among the top 50 countries with the best higher education systems globally, thanks to qualified faculty and modern university facilities.
• Prestigious universities. The country has over 70 universities, some of which, like the University of Barcelona and the Autonomous University of Madrid, are in the top 200 universities in the world according to the QS World University Rankings.
• Affordable tuition fees. Tuition in public universities ranges from €750 to €3,000 per year for EU students and from €2,000 to €6,000 per year for non-EU students.
• Multilingualism and choice of instruction language. Students can choose to study in English, Spanish, or Catalan, broadening program options and allowing them to tailor their education to their needs.
• Immersion in Spanish culture and international environment. Studying in Spain offers the opportunity not only to improve Spanish language skills but also to get acquainted with local culture, opening up wide career prospects in the international arena.
• Participation in exchange programs like Erasmus+. Spanish universities actively collaborate with over 30 European countries, offering students the opportunity to spend a semester or a year abroad.
• Scholarships and grants. The government and universities offer scholarships for international students that can cover both tuition fees and living expenses. Among the most popular programs are MAEC-AECI and ICEX.

Disadvantages of Undergraduate Studies in Spain

• Traditional education system. In some universities, the classical teaching method focused on lectures and exams prevails, which may not suit students used to more interactive formats.
• Challenges in finding a job without Spanish proficiency. The Spanish language is very important for employment in the country, especially outside major cities and international companies.
• Possible language barriers. Sometimes the level of English among professors may be lower than expected, creating challenges for international students.
• Bureaucratic difficulties in applying and obtaining a visa. The process of admission and obtaining a student visa can be long and time-consuming.
• High cost of living in major cities. Living in Barcelona, Madrid, and other metropolises is often noticeably more expensive than in other regions of Spain, creating additional financial pressure on students.

Average Cost of Undergraduate Programs by Field

Documents for Undergraduate Studies in Spain

To apply for an undergraduate program at a Spanish university, the following documents are required:

• High school diploma equivalent to the Spanish título de Bachiller.
• Language proficiency proof depending on the language of instruction (DELE for Spanish, IELTS or TOEFL for English). Specific requirements depend on the program and university.
• Entrance exams (Selectividad or similar) to assess the applicant's level of preparation.
• Motivation letter and recommendations, if required by the program.
• Portfolio for creative fields.

Job Search in Spain

During their studies, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week, which enables them to earn additional income and gain professional experience. After obtaining a bachelor's degree, graduates can apply for an extension of their residence permit to continue working (Autorización de Residencia para Búsqueda de Empleo) for up to 1 year. University career centers offer internship programs and job placement assistance, which is especially valuable for international students. Proficiency in Spanish is an advantage for a successful job search in the Spanish labor market.