collageStudying in Spain is a wholesome experience, academically, culturally, and socially. Thousands of students worldwide are interested in pursuing their studies in Spain. One of the factors that makes Spain an ideal destination to pursue a degree is that Spanish universities, apart from their academic excellence, are also affordable, especially when compared to major study abroad destinations, like the US or Australia.
Keep in mind that public universities in Spain are usually cheaper than private universities. So, if you are looking for a more affordable option, public universities might be what you need. The tuition fees for international students are higher in Spain than for domestic/EU students. But overall, the average tuition fees are reasonable and affordable, especially when matched with the cost of living and rent in Spain.
In the following sections, we have listed some of the cheapest universities in Spain for international students, to simplify the process of choosing a university. Note that at public universities in Spain, tuition fees are set by the respective Autonomous Community.
Introduction to Spain
Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and for good reason. Located on the Iberian peninsula and bordered by France and Portugal, Spain is a beautiful country with a long history and rich culture, known for its architecture, food and wonderful climate.
The country is composed of a number of semi-autonomous regions each with a distinct culture and sometimes even local language. In Spain, you can find any landscape from beaches to high mountains – with climates to match. There are historic and modern universities to choose from in large and small cities in every part of the country.
Cost of living and tuition fees in Spain
Good news for students: Tuition fees in Spain are among the lowest in Europe. The tuition fees for Bachelor programmes range from 750 EUR to 2,500 EUR per year, and tuition fees for Master programmes are around 1,000 to 3,500 EUR per year – making Spain a cheap destination for international students. Private universities set their own fees, which can be as high as 20,000 EUR per year.
The cost of living in Spain varies by location, but in general it is easy to live well in Spain on a student budget. Food is cheap and high quality and there are many inexpensive fashionable clothing shops. However, it can be expensive to find accommodation in large cities like Madrid and Barcelona. If you are on a very tight budget you could consider cheaper cities such as Valencia or Seville. And remember, public transport in Spain is efficient and cheap, so you will be able to experience everything the country has to offer no matter where you choose to base your studies.
Student life in Spain
While you can choose from a large number of programmes to study in Spain in English, you may want to brush up your language skills before and while you are there. That will make it much easier to interact with locals, and also equip you with the fourth-most spoken language in the world! For certain regions, such as Catalonia (and its capital Barcelona), it doesn’t hurt to learn at least a few phrases in the regional lingo (Catalonian in this case).
That said, life as a student in Spain is an experience like no other. You will find many friends in the country’s vibrant, diverse student community. Spanish students work hard, but they find plenty of time for fun. If you plan to go out at night, be sure to take an afternoon nap – most clubs don’t even open until after midnight and your friends will want to party until dawn!
Universities in Spain
There are a large number of universities of Spain, many of which hold a great reputation internationally and get ranked high in international rankings. Although most universities in Spain focus on teaching in Spanish, the trend points toward more degree programmes offered in English.
Some of the most notable Spanish public universities include the University of Barcelona, the Complutense University of Madrid, and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid.
If you are thinking about getting an MBA, Spain might be the place for you. Three of Europe’s top 10 business schools are located in Spain: IESE Business School, IE Business School, and Esade Business School. These highly respected institutions have spawned many international top managers.
- Abat Oliba CEU University
- Autonomous University of Barcelona
- Barcelona Graduate School of Economics
- Barcelona School of Management
- CEU Cardenal Herrera University
- CEU San Pablo University
- Charles III University of Madrid
- Comillas Pontifical University
- Complutense University of Madrid
- EAE Business School
- ESIC Business & Marketing School
- EU Business School
- European University of Valencia
- Gasma – Gastronomy & Culinary Management Campus
- IESE Business School
- IE University
- Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals
- International University of Catalonia
- International University of La Rioja
- Jaume I University
- King Juan Carlos University
- LABA Valencia
- Menéndez Pelayo International University
- National University of Distance Education
- Nebrija University
- Open University of Catalonia
- Pablo de Olavide University
- Polytechnic University of Catalonia
- Pompeu Fabra University
- Public University of Navarre
- Ramon Llull University
- Rovira i Virgili University
- Schellhammer Business School
- TBS Business School
- Technical University of Madrid
- Tecnocampus School of Health Sciences
- Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
- Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM)
- Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena
- University Camilo José Cela (UCJC)
- University of Alcalá
- University of Alicante
- University of Almería
- University of Barcelona
- University of Cantabria
- University of Castilla–La Mancha
- University of Deusto
- University of Girona
- University of Granada
- University of Huelva
- University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- University of Málaga
- University of Murcia
- University of Navarra
- University of Oviedo
- University of Santiago de Compostela
- University of the Balearic Islands
- University of the Basque Country
- University of Valencia
With its stunning sandy beaches, thriving cities, world-class cuisine, beautiful architecture and colorful festivals, Spain is a country that offers the perfect student experience for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in diversity during their academic studies.
Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Spain has become one of the most opted for destinations of study in Europe, especially in the case of international students. The country currently has around 40 universities and institutions in its higher education system.
The Spanish language is also considered to be among the most colourful languages in the world and studying this language is one of the main reasons as to why the country attracts countless foreign students annually.
What’s more, an additional tempting feature is the fact that universities in Spain are fairly cheap, as well as the affordability and relatively cheap costs of living, especially in comparison to other European countries.
Some of the most popular student cities include Granada, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville and Madrid. It is further connected well in terms of transports so students can easily access other famous European cities with no trouble.
Spain has consistently focused on providing comprehensive education. It complies with standards that ensure the academics is consistent with education in other European countries (the EHEA countries).
In this article, we have prepared a list of a few of the cheapest universities in the country for international students. The universities range from recently established young institutions to some of the oldest and most elite universities in the world but tend to offer quality education for relatively cheap costs. We hope you find it useful!
How to Apply to Universities in Spain
Applying to universities in Spain involves meeting the application requirements, language requirements, applying before the application deadline, and so on. This process is often difficult so we’ve made a guide on How to Study in Spain for International Students to help you with the process. You should check it out especially if you don’t know where to start!
How expensive is it to study at a university in Spain?
Spain is known for its cost-free student experience. Costs of living are considered to be up to 20% less than most European countries. In the case of tuition fees, on average, you can expect to pay around EUR 1500 per semester for tuition fees. There are ways that you can study in Spain for free, and if you are interested, read more about How to Study in Spain for Free (7 Steps).
What are the language requirements to qualify for admission?
Spanish tends to be the main language of administration, although several courses are offered in English as well. However, International students are sometimes required to take Spanish language training courses which can be either mandatory or out of the student’s interests.
What programs are offered in Spain?
Spain offers many different programs for international students. Here are some of its most popular programs:
- Business
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Nursing
Affordable Universities in Other Countries
Cheap Universities in Spain
1. University of Navarra
- Tuition fees: From EUR 1050
- Link to university website
Located in the city of Pamplona, the University of Navarra is a private-non profit university that was founded in 1952. Spain does not have many private institutions of education, however, the University of Navarra holds an especially high ranking.
This cheap university in Spain has a student enrolment of over 12,000 students, of which 1500 students are from foreign backgrounds.
A range of undergraduate and graduate-level courses and programs are provided through 14 major faculties that the university is comprised of. Additionally, these include around 35 undergraduate programs and 38 masters programs that are offered.
The university further operates through six main campuses (including two international campuses in Munich and New York). It further maintains a strong reputation for international research despite its small community.
Navarra also has international partnerships with reputed overseas institutions including the University of Edinburgh and the University of Hong Kong.
Based on the Times education rankings, the university has been ranked among the top 5 institutions of higher education in Spain as well as in the top 200 universities in the world.
2. University of Granada
- Tuition fees: from EUR 750
- Link to university website
The University of Granada is a public university based in the city of Granada. Its origins date back to the early 16th century and has since expanded into one of the most elite universities in Spain.
Currently, the university has a student enrolment of over 80,000 students, making it the fourth largest university in the country by student population.
Additionally, the university has a high international student ratio and is among the most popular destinations in Europe for student exchange programs; it recently received over 2000 international students over the Erasmus exchange program.
This cheap university in Spain provides education through over 20 schools and academic faculties as well as over 100 academic departments which offer a comprehensive learning experience that covers a range of different fields of study.
The university is ranked among the top 10 universities in Spain and is most known for its optimal programs in Computer Engineering.
3. University of Valencia
- Tuition fees: from EUR 2600
- Link to university website
Founded in 1499, the University of Valencia is among the oldest surviving institutions of higher education in the country and is known for its high and prestigious standards of academics.
Known for being the 3rd largest city in the country, Valencia is home to not just the stunning coastal areas but also this elite university. The university currently provides education for an enrolment of well over 50,000 students.
The majority of courses are taught in Spanish or Valencian but this does not mean the university does not consider the requirements of international students; the university, in fact, offers a multitude of courses in English medium through its international office.
Academically, the university is comprised of 3 main campuses that include different departments spreading through a range of different courses. Several student exchange programs are offered in partnership with other famous overseas universities and institutions.
Students who are also interested in the Erasmus exchange program with other European Universities should know that this iconic university is considered to be among the top 10 universities for Erasmus.
4. Pompeu Fabra University
- Tuition fees: from EUR 3000-4000
- Link to university website
Based in the city of Barcelona, the Pompeu Fabra University is a public research university and is one of the cheapest universities in Spain for international students. Although the university was recently founded into the Spanish education system, it has been classified as one of the most rapidly evolving institutions of higher education in the world.
The university was recently declared as the ‘International Excellence Campus’ by the government of Spain and is also one of the main universities that are selected by international students in the country for their studies.
The institution currently offers education for over 15,000 students, which include 10,000 undergraduates and around 4000 postgraduates. Pompeu Fabra’s principal areas of study are in the fields of Economics and Business although it provides leading academics with professional qualifications as well. Students also have access to Pompeu Fabra’s leading research institutes that focus on cutting edge fields which contribute vastly to solving major challenges in the world.
With its location in the European super hub of Barcelona, the university offers to its students a wealth of opportunities during and after their study at this leading Spanish university.
5. Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
- Tuition fees: from EUR 1500
- Link to university website
Located in the city of Barcelona, the Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (the International University of Catalonia) is a private institution of higher education that was founded in 1997.
Its primary goal was to offer a comprehensive educational experience with an international focus and acclimatize the Spanish experience for foreign students. Currently, the university has a student enrolment of over 6000 undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Academically, the university comprises of over 30 international undergraduate and postgraduate degrees offered under faculties such as economics, law, education, humanities, medicine and architecture.
Short term education courses and diplomas are also selectively offered in addition to the standard degrees. The university further has cutting edge facilities ranging from advanced simulation centers to digital media studios, all for the purpose of providing a novel experience for the students.
Aside from its focused education and academics, the university ensures that students can study at cheap and cost-effective tuition rates.
6. Complutense University Madrid
- Tuition fees: from EUR 4000
- Link to university website
With a rich history dating back to the 13th century, the Complutense University of Madrid is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the world. It is also among the largest universities in the country with a student population of over 86,000 in total.
Additionally, the university holds rank as one of the best universities in the country as well as within Europe. It has repeatedly played a major role in the political development of the country since its inception and is considered to be a research powerhouse as well.
This cheap university in Spain has a range of academic faculties that span across a multitude of fields of study. It currently offers around 80 possible undergraduate majors, over 200 individual degrees as well as 220 doctoral programs.
Furthermore, students have access to over 100 different student organisations and societies that can manage as extra-curricular activities during their studies at the university.
7. Alicante University
- Tuition fees: from EUR 1500
- Link to university website
The University of Alicante (abbreviated to the UA) is a public university based in the city of Alicante in Northern Spain. Founded in 1968, the university has a range of campuses and currently has a student enrolment of over 29,000.
Undergraduate and postgraduate students have access to around 50 different types of degrees. These are managed by over 70 departments that also oversee research fields such as technology, social sciences, education, health sciences and law.
The UA prides itself on being an international campus and focus on providing bilingual education through its degrees and courses; this makes it a very tempting choice for international students.
Additionally, students can work on Spanish language training programs in between their studies so as to improve their experience in the country. Students also have access to a modern and beautiful campus.
The UA is further part of numerous prestigious university networks such as the European University Association and the Compostela Group of Universities.
8. Malaga University
- Tuition fees: from EUR 2500
- Link to university website
The University of Malaga is a public research university located in the city of Malaga in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. First established in 1972, it was built with the intention of creating a diverse education hub in the region in response to the unused coastal areas of Andalusia. Since then, it has undergone a rapid expansion and has become a major university in the country.
The university currently has a student enrolment of over 36,000 students (which includes around 33,000 undergraduates and 3000 postgraduates). It operates via two campuses in Ronda and Antequera in the region.
Academically, the university is comprised of over 81 departments managed through 15 academic centers, which include faculties such as computer engineering, medicine, industrial engineering, economics/business, social sciences, tourism and law.
Through its academic system, the university offers around 120 degrees, 6 double degrees, 20 doctoral degrees as well as over 100 short term courses and diplomas for its students.
9. Salamanca University
- Tuition fees: from EUR 3000
- Link to university website
Our last university in the list of cheap universities in Spain for international students is the University of Salamanca, an institution of higher education located in the city of Salamanca near Madrid. The university’s history goes back as far as the 12th century and is signified as the world’s third oldest university (that is still in operation).
Despite its ancient status as a university, it continues to remain one of the most prestigious institutions in the country and has been ranked among the top 700 universities in the world.
Currently, the university draws in students from across the world in addition to Spain. It happens to be one of the top institutions in the country with the highest number of students who come from outside of the country.
Additionally, the availability of top quality Spanish programs enables the university to receive over 2000 incoming foreign students on an annual basis.
Students have access to numerous degrees of study, of which the most prestigious are in the language studies, economics and humanities subjects.
Cheapest Universities in Spain for International Students
1. University of Granada
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs: 758 EUR ($900 USD) per year
- Tuition Fee for Graduate Programs: 821 EUR ($1,000 USD) to 1,232 EUR ($1,500 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
- Graduate Tuition Fee Link
The University of Granada traces its roots to the Madrasah Yusufiyya, which was established by the Sultan of Granada in 1349. This was an Arabic university teaching different subjects such as astronomy, calculus, and medicine. The University of Granada is one of the cheap universities in Spain for international students.
It was later replaced by the San Cecilio college in 1492. In 1526, Emperor Charles V established a college and in 1531, the University of Granada was officially founded. Today, the university is among the leading institutions of higher learning in the world and continues to accept students from all over the world.
The university has 22 faculties offering a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These programs include Archeology, History, Philosophy, Biology, Physics, Nursing, Medicine, Tourism, Computer Science, and Law.
The university is among the most popular destinations of international students studying under the Erasmus Program of the European Union. Due to this, it has become a hodge-podge of cultures from all over the world. Moreover, Granada is a university city where a good percentage of the population is a part of the academe in one way or another.
2. University of Alicante
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs:
- 831 EUR ($1,000 USD) to 6,800 EUR $8,000 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
Even as the University of Alicante was officially established in 1979, it carries the tradition of the University of Orihuela, which was started in 1545 through a Papal Bull. It was built based on the Center for University Studies and has its main campus located in San Vicente del Raspeig.
The university provides a wide range of programs for both local and international students. The different programs offered by the university include Humanities, Marine Studies, Optics and Optometry, Architecture, and Social Work
The university accepts students from different backgrounds and locations around the world. Students can participate or check out some cultural activities and exhibits organized by the university. They can also get involved in sports as a fan or a competitor. Moreover, the students can also join any of the student clubs in the university to keep themselves busy over the weekend.
3. Autonomous University of Madrid
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs:
- 1,283 EUR ($1,500 USD) to 5,571 EUR ($6,600 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
Established as a public university in 1968, the Autonomous University of Madrid was a part of the educational reforms conducted by Spain in the 1960s and 1970s. The move was meant to restructure the university system following an increasing demand for tertiary education in the country.
This cheap university in Spain may be located in a municipality, but it’s among the most prominent universities in Spain. It has seven faculties, namely the Faculty of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy and Liberal Arts, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Faculty of Sciences, and Faculty of Economical Science and Business Management, Faculty of Law, and Faculty of Medicine.
The students have numerous chances of immersing themselves in the rich Spanish culture. They can also join different literary competitions and workshops for their personal development outside of their academics. Sports and social involvement activities are also options for students to keep their free time occupied with meaningful activities.
4. Complutense University Madrid
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs:
- 1,283 EUR ($1,500 USD) to 8,186 EUR ($9,700 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
Even as the Complutense University Madrid, an affordable university in Spain, was officially established in1499 through a Papal Bull, it can trace its roots to the El Estudio de Escuelas Generales, which was established in 1293. The university itself was created to provide classes in Liberal Arts, Theology, and Canon Law to students in the area.
Today, it has expanded to provide a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs to students from all over the world. The programs offered by the university include Design, Business Administration and Management, Mathematics, Political Sciences, Computer Engineering, and Veterinary Science.
Situated in Madrid, the students can keep their weekends busy by exploring this cosmopolitan city with a notable artistic and cultural heritage. They can also watch a host of cultural activities organized by the university. Moreover, the students can also visit the numerous museums located in and around the university to enhance their knowledge about the culture and history of their host country.
5. Pompeu Fabra University
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs:
- EU students – 1,202 EUR ($1,400 USD) to 2,069 EUR ($2,400 USD) per year
- Non-EU students – 6,800 EUR ($8,000 USD) to 10,868 EUR ($12,900 USD) per year
- Tuition Fee for Graduate Programs:
- EU students – 1,869 EUR ($2,200 USD) to 7,000 EUR ($8,300 USD) per year
- Non-EU students – 5,749 EUR ($6,800 USD) to 16,950 EUR ($20,100 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
- Graduate Tuition Fee Link
The Pompeu Fabra University was established by the Catalan Parliament in 1990 inspired by the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, plurality, independence, and justice. The institution aimed at training citizen and professionals to commit themselves to civic values and work towards developing exceptional research
The seven faculties of the university offer a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs to local and international students. These programs include Human Biology, Political and Administration Sciences, Journalism, Law, Economics, Biomedical Engineering, and Humanities.
To ward of stress from academic life, the students can participate in different cultural activities organized by the university. They can also take up a sport or two to boost their health and fitness. Or they can perform their civic duty and volunteer in any of the developmental activities of the university.
6. Universidade Da Coruna
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs:
- EU students – 1,215 EUR ($1,400 USD) to 1,882 EUR ($2,200 USD) per year
- Non-EU students – 2,248 EUR ($2,700 USD) to 3,481 EUR ($4,100 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
Next on our list of cheapest universities in Spain for international students is Universidade Da Coruna. Established under the Galician Universities Law in 1989, the Universidade Da Coruna is located in the Spanish city of A Coruña. Its university departments are located on two campuses, Campus of Ferrol and Campus of A Coruña. Its main goal is to generate, manage, and distribute culture and knowledge through research and teaching
The university offers courses that are constantly evolving to meet the needs of society. Aside from the traditional single majors, the university also offers double majors and international study programs. Some of the programs offered by the university include English, Digital Information and Documentation Management, Landscape, Speech Therapy, and Economics.
In addition to academic excellence, the university also encourages its students to give back to society by performing volunteer work for the local community. The students can also enrich themselves by attending cultural activities organized by the university. Moreover, the students are also encouraged to keep themselves fit by taking advantage of the different sports facilities in the university.
7. University of Santiago de Compostela
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate and Graduate Programs:
- 3,650 EUR ($4,300 USD) to 5,170 EUR ($6,100 USD) per course
- Tuition Fee Link
The University of Santiago de Compostela, one of the cheapest universities in Spain, was established in 1495 with the foundation of the Grammatic Academy as a school for the poor in San Paio de Antealtares monastery. It is a part of the Galician University System and is currently its headquarters. Its campuses are filled with natural, cultural, and scientific heritage the university has accumulated during over 500 years of existence.
The university offers over 60 undergraduate courses and more than 100 graduate degrees. These degrees provide the students with the knowledge and training they need after they graduate. The degrees offered by the university include History of Art, Psychology, Computer Engineering, Medicine, and Journalism, among others.
The university gives the students the chance to experience different cultures through the different activities and events it organizes. It also promotes health and wellbeing through the different sports activities it makes available to the student
8. Nebrija University
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs: 4,625 EUR ($5,500 USD) per semester
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
Established in 1995, the Nebrija University was named after Antonio de Nebrija, a Spanish humanist who authored the first Spanish language dictionary. He also promoted the study of literature and classical language. The philosophy of the university is to learn by doing, which encourages its students to focus on creating knowledge to surpasses any challenges in life.
The university offers a wide array of programs designed to develop the individual talents of its students. These programs include Journalism, Primary Education, Marketing, International Relations, Law, Automobile Engineering, and Tourism.
The university supports the extracurricular activities of its students by organizing interest-based clubs that contribute to their personal and professional development. The university also has several multicultural spaces that promote the different cultures of its students.
9. University of Barcelona
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs:
- EU students – 1,061 EUR ($1,300 USD) to 1,660 EUR ($2,000 USD) per year
- Non-EU students – 5,400 EUR ($6,400 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
Established in 1450, the University of Barcelona, an affordable university in Spain, is among the oldest universities in Catalonia. Its charter was issued by King Alfonso V the Magnanimous after the city of Barcelona requested it. In the same year, a Papal Bull was also issued by Pope Nicholas V.
The university is among the best in the world. It has consistently ranked high among all the universities and is one of the best Spanish universities right now. The university offers numerous degrees, including Art History, Biotechnology, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Physiotherapy, Tourism, and Fine Arts.
The university has 16 libraries where the students can expand their knowledge about the degrees they’re taking. It also promotes language learning among the students who come from different parts of the world. Moreover, the university also promotes health and wellbeing by encouraging the students to take up at least one sport.
10. Mondragon University
- Tuition Fee For Undergraduate Programs:
- 5,500 EUR ($6,500 USD) to 11,000 EUR ($13,000 USD) per year
- Tuition Fee for Graduate Programs:
- 7,320 EUR ($8,700 USD) to 12,500 EUR ($14,800 USD) per year
- Undergraduate Tuition Fee Link
- Graduate Tuition Fee Link
The final candidate on our list of cheapest universities in Spain is Mondragon University. Even though it was officially established in 1997, the Mondragon University traces its roots to the Escuela Politécnica Superior, which was founded in 1943 by Fr. José María Arizmendiarrieta. It is a non-profit university situated in the Basque Country.
The university has four faculties offering a good number of undergraduate and graduate courses for its students who come from all over the world. The degrees offered by the university include Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Primary Education, and Audiovisual Communication.
The university also supports the extracurricular activities of its students by promoting different sports they can participate in. It also organizes events and activities to allow the students to socialize outside of the four walls of the classroom
collage