Master's Programs in Spain for International Students

Master's Degree in Spain

Every year, Spain becomes an increasingly popular destination for international students. There are many reasons for this: from the dynamically developing higher education system and tuition fees to the attractive mild climate.

In this article, we will delve into why it is worth choosing Spain for obtaining a master's degree, how to apply for master's programs, how much they cost, and what the employment prospects are after graduation.

Studying for a Master's in Spain

A master’s degree in Spain (Spanish: Máster Universitario) is the second level of higher education, lasting from 1 to 2 years and including 60 to 120 ECTS credits. Spanish master's programs are aimed at in-depth study of a specialty and often include research work, which can become the basis for entering a doctoral program, as well as integrating theoretical knowledge with practice. Programs include internships and projects that allow students to apply their skills in real work environments. Master's programs in Spain are often supported by close ties with businesses, especially in fields such as tourism, IT, engineering, and medicine, providing students with valuable opportunities to establish professional connections.

There are over 2,000 master’s programs in Spain, and about 30% of them are taught in English, making the country attractive for international students looking to deepen their knowledge and gain international experience.

Advantages of Studying for a Master's in Spain

• Prestigious universities and programs. Spanish master's programs are featured in global rankings of the best programs, ensuring high teaching standards and access to international research resources.
• Flexible tuition costs. In public universities, annual tuition can range from 1,000 to 3,500 euros for EU students and from 4,000 to 8,000 euros for non-EU students.
• Programs taught in English and Spanish. Students can choose their language of study and use their time at university to improve their Spanish, which is beneficial for employment in Spanish-speaking countries. Spanish is recognized as the second most widely spoken language in international communication.
• Cultural enrichment and access to European networks. Spain participates in exchange programs such as Erasmus+ and actively promotes intercultural interaction.
• Scholarships and grants. International students can apply for government and private scholarships, such as Becas de Colaboración and Becas de Excelencia, which can cover part or all of the tuition fees.
• Connections with employers. Master’s programs in Spain offer internships organized with university support, helping students integrate into the professional environment and start their careers in Spain or other European countries.

Disadvantages of Studying for a Master's in Spain

• Competition in the job market. While a master's degree provides opportunities to work in Spain, knowledge of Spanish is often a key requirement for employment, and job market competition is high due to the persistently high unemployment rate in the country.
• Cost of living in major cities. Living in cities like Barcelona and Madrid can be expensive compared to other regions.
• Bureaucratic procedures. Applying for a visa, admission, and credential recognition can require time and patience.
• Limited number of programs in English. Although their number is growing, the choice of English-taught programs is still limited compared to those taught in Spanish. National languages like Catalan, Galician, and Basque may also be used in the educational process.
• Traditional approach to learning. Some universities emphasize lectures and theoretical education, which may not suit students who prefer more interactive and practical teaching methods.

Top Universities in Spain

Master’s programs in Spain are strongest in the humanities, social sciences, business, and tourism fields. Spain boasts strong MBA programs taught at business schools featured in the QS rankings, such as IE Business School.

Cost of Master's Programs in Spain

The cost of a master's degree in Spain depends on several factors: the type of university (public or private), the study program, and the region. Programs taught in English may be more expensive, especially specialized or international programs.

Scholarships and Grants for Master's Studies in Spain

Spain is not widely known for a vast variety of scholarship programs, especially for students who do not speak Spanish. However, there are scholarships and grants available for international students offered by universities, the Spanish government, as well as international and private organizations.

Spanish Government Scholarships

Becas de Colaboración — a scholarship program offered by the Spanish Ministry of Education, supporting students completing their bachelor's or starting their master's degree. It encourages student participation in research or academic activities through collaboration with professors and departments. The scholarship is about 2,000-2,500 euros per academic year.

General Scholarships for Studies of Post-Secondary Level (Becas Generales para estudios postobligatorios) — a program for students in post-secondary education, including bachelor's and master's levels, supporting students with limited financial resources.

University Scholarships

• Universidad de Salamanca: Scholarships for undergraduate and master's students.
• Universidad de Barcelona: Several programs, including research scholarships for master's students.
• Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM): Funding for international students.

Erasmus+ Scholarships

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) — a program offering students the opportunity to study in joint international master's programs at various European universities, including Spain.

Scholarships for Specific Programs

Many master's and postgraduate programs offer scholarships or grants, such as for MBA or technical specialty students.

How to Apply for a Master's in Spain?

Applying for a master's degree in Spain requires several steps, including choosing a program, preparing documents, and meeting application deadlines. Specific requirements are set by universities.

1. Choosing a Program and University

Research programs and select a master's program that matches your interests.

2. Entry Requirements

Academic qualification: A bachelor's degree recognized in Spain.

Language requirements: DELE certificate (B2+) or TOEFL/IELTS (B2+) for English-taught programs.

3. Degree Recognition (Homologación)

Degrees obtained abroad may need recognition (homologación).

4. Required Documents
• Application form
• Diploma and transcript
• Motivation letter
• Recommendations
• Resume (CV)
• Language certificate
• Copy of passport
• Exam results (GMAT/GRE)
5. Submitting the Application

Deadlines: January to May.

Application fee: Around 150 euros.

6. Interview/Internal University Exam
7. Receiving the Decision

Working While Studying

International students can work in Spain, but there are restrictions that must be followed to comply with the law.

Work Permit

A permit is required, which must be arranged by the employer. This is a formal process, but without it, the student may be in violation of the law.

Work Hour Restrictions

Up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, full-time during holidays.

Types of Work for Students

• Part-time work
• Internships

Minimum Wage

Approximately 1,100 euros per month for full-time work. If working 20 hours per week, earnings will be proportionally lower.

Taxes and Social Contributions

Taxes are withheld from wages, which must be taken into account.

Obtaining an NIE

Required for work and opening a bank account.

Job Search After Completing a Master's Degree

The high unemployment rate makes job hunting challenging. Knowledge of Spanish, recommendations, and professional experience increase the chances of employment. Students can apply for a job search visa valid for up to 24 months.

Conclusion

Studying for a master's in Spain is an excellent opportunity to gain quality education and develop international connections while keeping tuition and living costs reasonable.