Country Profile – Spain

If you’re reading this, we bet you’re one of the many international students who have chosen to study in Spain. And if that’s the case, in Eduropa OÜ we want to help you make sure your stay is as smooth and safe as possible.

Country Profile.

Spain is a country that’s been attracting international students for decades. It’s home to some of the best universities in Europe, and it has a rich cultural heritage. The cost of living is low, making it more affordable than many other European countries. With all this said, there are some things you should know before choosing Spain as your study abroad destination! 

Spain is a great place to study and work. The country has a rich cultural heritage, as well as being home to some of the world’s oldest universities. Spain’s reputation for higher education is also excellent: there are many different universities and courses available, so you can find something that suits your interests and aspirations. 

There are several expenses to consider when studying in Spain. While tuition fees are relatively low compared to other European countries, living costs and travel expenses can add up quickly. 

Health insurance is mandatory for all students who plan on studying abroad for more than 90 days, so factor that into your budget as well. Depending on which type of program you’re enrolled in (language school vs university), there may be additional study materials fees that need to be factored into your overall cost estimate as well too! 

Where to study in Spain.

You can study in Spain at one of the country’s universities, which offer degrees ranging from undergraduate through to postgraduate. At Eduropa OÜ we have the best programs offered in Spain at your disposal.

There are two main types: public universities and private universities. Public universities are state-funded, and tuition is free for EU students (it may be paid by non-EU students). Private universities charge fees but do not receive government funding. 

Most degrees offered at Spanish universities are taught entirely in Spanish, although some may also be available in English or other languages depending on when you’re applying for your course and whether there is demand for this particular degree on your chosen campus. 

Job Prospects for International Students in Spain.

If you’re an international student in Spain, the job market is definitely open to you. Many companies are willing to employ international students as they offer a competitive advantage over local workers in terms of language skills and cultural understanding. 

The most common jobs available include working in the hospitality sector, working as an au pair with families who need help with childcare and housework (this can be a great way to improve your Spanish if needed) or doing some internships at some national companies.

It’s also possible to find work before arriving in Spain by using online job boards such as Indeed or Glassdoor; once there it’s worth joining some local Facebook groups  which might help connect with potential employers too. 

It is possible for you to work in Spain as an international student, during and after your studies.

Visa Requirements.

The first step is understanding what type of visa you need to enter Spain as an international student. You may have heard of different types of visas-such as student visas and work visas-but what is a study visa? It’s exactly what it sounds like: a visa required by some international students to legally enter Spain for the purpose of studying.

What does this mean for you? It means that before you can begin your studies in Spain, you’ll need to apply for a study visa. But don’t worry! We will make sure that your process will run as smoothly as possible!

1. Visa Application Form: Each applicant must complete and sign a visa application, we will help you fill out every section. If the applicant is a minor, a parent or duly accredited representative must sign the application. In the event that the application must be signed by a duly accredited representative, said accreditation may be demonstrated by way of a notarized letter from the applicant or a letter from the applicant’s university or school.
2. Photograph: A recent, passport-size, color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any garments concealing your face.
3. Valid, unexpired passport: Original and photocopy of the biometric data page(s). The passport must be valid for at least the duration of the planned stay and contain two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.
4. Proof of acceptance for the study, training or volunteer activity or internship: Also known as Letter of Acceptance.
5. Proof of financial means: You must provide an original and copy of documents certifying that you (or the legal representative or relative that supports you) has sufficient financial means to cover the expenses of your stay. Non-Spanish documents must be legalized or apostilled and, where applicable, must be submitted together with an official translation into Spanish. If the student is traveling with family members, he/she can see the required minimum amounts here.
6. Health insurance: You must submit an original and copy of documentation proving that you will have public or private health insurance coverage provided by an insurance entity authorized to operate in Spain. The insurance policy must cover all the risks insured by Spain’s public health system. Travel insurance will not be accepted.
7. Criminal record check certificate: If you are going to stay more than 180 days you must submit the original and a copy of your criminal background check(s) issued by your country or countries of residence in the past five years. You must submit a notarized copy of both the original document in English and the Spanish translation.​
8. Medical certificate: If you are going to stay more than 180 days you must submit the original and copy of a medical certificate demonstrating that the applicant does not suffer from any diseases that could have serious repercussions for public health, in accordance with the International Health Regulations of 2005. This certificate must be issued a maximum of 90 days prior to submitting the visa application and must be signed by and include the stamp or letterhead of a doctor. If issued in English, a Spanish translation is required.
9. Proof of residence in your home country: Such as Drivers License or any other official ID.

We hope this article has given you a good idea of the possibilities for studying and working in Spain. If you want to learn more about studying abroad, then email us. We have lots of useful information on how to choose the right program for your needs as well as tips on making your application stand out from others!