Are you thinking of studying abroad in Spain in the future? Students are often attracted to spend at least a year in Spain because of its warm climate, sunny beaches, lively cities, local festivals and beautiful architecture. As well as these very valid reasons to study in Spain, the country is also popular with ERASMUS students because it gives students a chance to learn a new language, as well as the fact that Spain has universities with great reputations and is also relatively cheap. The cost of living in Spain for students is much lower than in other European countries, making it the perfect place for student budgets.
In the recent Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2020, Spain sees an impressive 45 of its universities on the list. Let’s have a look at some of the top Spanish universities in Spain’s most popular student cities that have made the list.
Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona
This public university is pretty young, as it was only created in 1990 by the Autonomous Government of Catalonia and was named after the linguist, Pompeu Fabra, a Catalan language expert. Pompeu Fabra is the only Spanish university to make the top 150 Universities in the Times High Education ranking and widely known in Spain as the most efficient university in the country.
Student life can be stressful at times but there’s no better place to relax than in Barcelona with plenty of entertainment for students, including bars, restaurants, the beach, daytrips and so much more.
The Autonomous University of Madrid
Throughout its history, the Autonomous University of Madrid, known informally as the UAM, has been one of Spain's most prominent higher education institutions and year after year makes the rankings of the best universities in Spain and in the world. The campus is located on the outskirts of the city in the area of Cantoblanco and is easily accessible from the city centre by train.
Madrid is once again a great student city and the cost of living, although one of the highest in Spain, is much lower than the European average and is a great option a student budget. Although Madrid doesn’t have a beach, there is no shortage of nightlife and leisure activities to entertain students at weekends.
The University of Navarra
This private university is located in Pamplona and was founded by Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer, the founder of Opus Dei. The University of Navarra has a unique mission statement, striving to seek out the truth while contributing to the academic, cultural and personal development of students. Ranked as the best private university in Spain, the University now also has campuses in San Sebastián, Madrid, Barcelona, Munich and New York, as well as the original campus in Pamplona.
The city of Pamplona is known worldwide for its annual bull run during the San Fermín festival and is also a favourite with students who want a more authentic Spanish student experience outside the big cities of Madrid and Barcelona.
The University of Valencia
The University of Valencia is one of Spain’s oldest universities and over the years has won several prestigious awards, as well as more recently, the prize for the best Erasmus Institution in Spain. Most of the courses are given in Spanish, but the university has promised to increase the number of courses available in the local Valencian language. In some degrees, part of the teaching is also in English.
Valencia is another lively city for students and has the additional attraction of having its own beaches, not to mention the paella or the privileged weather in the city. The city is varied and has something for everyone, including lots of trendy and up-and-coming neighbourhoods, perfect for students.
Choosing where to study abroad is an exciting adventure and Spain is the perfect destination. It may have dawned on you that Spain has a LOT of excellent colleges and universities to choose from. No matter which of the Spanish universities you choose to attend, it will be a wonderful experience, whether you choose one of those mentioned above, or any of the other great universities in Spain.
Who can get a Spanish student visa?
Planning to study in Spain? Non-EU/EEA students need a long-term Spanish Student Visa for stays over 90 days. Learn who is eligible, how to apply, and the conditions for studying and living in Spain legally.
Student accommodation vs. shared flat in Spain: which is better?
University life is a special chapter that leaves a lasting impression. For many students, relocating to a different city becomes essential when their desired degree programme isn’t available locally. But before making the move, one key question often arises: Is it better to rent a shared flat or live in student accommodation? Below, we explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the right choice for your university experience.
Study in Spain: a guide for international students
Studying in Spain isn’t just about attending lectures – it’s about living somewhere with real energy and a pace of life that lets you enjoy both work and play. Each year, Spain draws in roughly 80,000 international students. What you get here isn’t just a university degree, but a daily taste of a culture built around sociability and creativity.
Student accommodation in Granada: best areas to live
Granada is one of Spain's ultimate student cities, with over 60,000 students calling it home. The student experience in Granada is legendary for good reason. It's affordable, sociable, and steeped in culture, making it a top choice for both Spanish and international students. Most students choose between university residences, private studios, or—most commonly—renting a room in a shared apartment with fellow students.
Student life in Granada: how international students live it up
Granada is often described as a true college town—students shape the city’s character, rhythm, and social scene. Thanks to the University of Granada, one of Spain’s largest and most internationally connected universities, the local vibe is energetic and open-minded. Students spill into the city’s ancient streets, the atmosphere is inclusive, and there’s no shortage of options for both study and fun. Many foreigners choose to study in Granada, thanks to its wide range of courses availab
Study in Granada: fees, courses and getting a place
Granada isn’t just famous for its ancient palaces and mountain views – it’s a proper student city at heart. With the University of Granada woven through its cobbled streets, the place hums with youthful energy. Many people here are either students or seem to treat you like one, so you’ll blend in within days. Life is affordable, the tapas culture means you’ll rarely eat alone (or pay much for lunch), and it’s the sort of place where you’ll bump into friends just walking across town
Six best students areas in Barcelona
Home to some of the world's top universities, like the University of Barcelona (UB) and Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona attracts over 25,000 international students and researchers each year. In addition to the city's top-notch universities, it also offers students a beachside lifestyle, endless cultural activities and a student-friendly atmosphere.