10 Jun 2025

Considering a master’s degree in Spain? Here’s what you need to know

5/5 - (2 votes)

Spain is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students looking to further their academic education. Mater’s programs in Spain offer a unique combination of educational quality, vibrant culture, and career opportunities, Spain offers a unique environment for international students.

Should I do a master’s degree in Spain?

If you’re thinking about doing a master’s degree in Spain, you’re at an exciting crossroads! Just say yes because that’s the right choice for you!

Spain offers an extensive selection of master’s programs across various fields. Whether you’re interested in business, engineering, humanities, or social sciences, you’ll find numerous options tailored to your academic and professional interests. In the case of HTL International School, you’ll find all programs with the main language in English, and you can choose a secondary language to learn.

Benefits of studying in Spain

Cultural immersion. Studying in Spain means diving into an incredible cultural experience. You’ll get to enjoy delicious food, join local festivals, and explore Spain’s rich history and traditions. It’s a fantastic way to enrich your life and learn about a vibrant culture.

Improve your Spanish. Even if your master’s program is in English, living in Spain will help you improve your Spanish. This is a huge plus, as being bilingual is a valuable skill in today’s global job market.

Affordable costs. Compared to other European countries, Spain offers quality education at relatively reasonable prices. Public university tuition is more affordable, and many cities have a lower cost of living, making it easier to manage your finances.

Meet people from around the world. Studying in Spain means meeting students from all over the globe. It’s a great chance to make international friends and build a network that could benefit your future career.

Travel around Europe. Studying in Spain puts you in a great spot to explore Europe. From your location in Southern Europe, you can easily take trips to other European countries and make the most of your weekends and holidays.

How much does a master’s degree in Spain cost?

The cost of attending university in Spain can vary widely depending on several factors, such as whether you choose a public or private institution, the specific university, the program of study, and your residency status.

Public Universities

Tuition fees:

Undergraduate Programs: Typically range from 750€ to 2,000€ per year for EU students. For non-EU students, fees can be slightly higher, usually between 1,500€ and 3,500€ per year.
Master’s Programs: Generally range from 1,500€ to 4,000€ per year for EU students. Non-EU students might pay between 3,000€ and 6,000€ per year, depending on the program and university.

Additional costs. The registration fee can range from 100€ to 300€. In addition, you will have to take into account the material costs depending on the course, which will be an extra cost.

Private Universities

Tuition fees:

Undergraduate Programs: Typically range from 6,000€ to 15,000€ per year.
Master’s Programs: Generally range from 8,000€ to 20,000€ per year.

Additional costs. In the case of private universities, the registration fee is higher, ranging from 500€ to 1,000€.

Cost of living

Living costs in Spain can vary depending on the city you choose, your lifestyle, and your personal spending habits.

Accommodation. Accommodation is often the largest expense for students, and the cost can vary significantly based on the city and the type of housing you choose.

Shared apartment. Renting a room in a shared apartment is a popular and cost-effective option for students. Prices range from:
- 200€ to 400€ per month in smaller cities like Valencia, Seville, or Granada.
- 400€ to 600€ per month in larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Student residence (dormitory). University dorms or student residences offer convenience and can include amenities like meals and cleaning services. Costs typically range from 300€ to 700€ per month depending on the city and the type of residence.:
Private apartment. Renting a private studio or one-bedroom apartment is more expensive, with costs ranging from 500€ to 1,200€ per month depending on the location and size.

At HTL we help you to find accommodation in Barcelona if you want to study one of our master’s!

Utilities

Utilities such as electricity, heating, water, and internet are often not included in rent, especially if you’re renting a private apartment. On one hand, the basic needs such as electricity, heating and water, the cost can range from 50€ to 100€ per month depending on usage. On the other hand, utilities like internet Costs typically range from 30€ to 50€ per month for a standard broadband connection.

Transportation

Public transportation is efficient and widely used in Spanish cities, making it easy for students to get around. In addition, most cities offer discounted monthly public transport passes for students, ranging from 20€ to 60€ per month depending on the city. However, many students opt to use bicycles, especially in bike-friendly cities like Valencia and Seville. Bike-sharing programs are available for 10€ to €20€ per month.

How to apply for a master’s in Spain?

Each university has its own application process, so be sure to review the specific requirements on the website of the institution offering your desired program. Typically, you’ll be able to submit your application and pay the application fee online.

Some universities also have specific language proficiency requirements that you must meet before you can enroll. The following English language exams are generally accepted:

PTE Academic
IELTS
TOEFL
C1 Advanced

For degrees taught in Spanish, the DELE Spanish test is typically the most common requirement. You can find information on how to register, important dates, and available test locations on their website.

All submitted documents must be in Spanish. If they were not originally issued in Spanish, they need to be translated by a certified translator. Although specific requirements may vary by program, the most commonly requested documents are:

Proof of attainment of bachelor’s degree.
Copy of passport.
CV and References.
Proof of English and/or Spanish language proficiency.
Birth certificate.
Social security.
Evidence of healthcare and insurance in Spain.
Information regarding banks and credit institutions in Spain.
Contacts from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and your own country’s embassy.
Planned budget for your stay.

What visa do I need for a master’s program?

If you’re a non-EU national, you’ll likely need a student visa to live in Spain while pursuing your master’s degree. Anyone from outside of the EU, Iceland, Norway or Switzerland can study in Spain on a tourist visa for up to 90 days. However, if your program extends beyond this period, you’ll need to secure a student visa. After completing your studies, you can extend your stay for an additional year to seek employment in Spain or start your own business.

There are two types of student visas available:

Short-term student visa. This is for students who plan to study in Spain for 91 to 180 days.
Long-term student visa. This is for those studying in Spain for more than six months. Upon arrival, you’ll be able to schedule an appointment to receive a residence card. The visa can be issued for up to two years, and you can renew the residence card when it expires without needing to apply for a new visa.

At HTL we know that the process of going to study in a new country is overwhelming, that’s why we guide you through the process of getting the Visa and finding accommodation in Barcelona. If you are thinking about studying for a master’s in Spain, don’t hesitate any longer and discover the great opportunities we offer at HTL!