How to study in Spain as a foreigner
The University Student Statistics report, published by the Ministry of Universities last year, reveals that in 2022 there were more than 153,000 non-Spanish students enrolled in different universities. The figure confirms that our country is a great educational destination and that the administrations are working hard to promote the internationalization of Spanish universities. For all these reasons, today we explain how to study in Spain as a foreigner.
Of these more than 153,000 students, 71% come from outside the European Union, specifically 109,104 enrolled. The remaining 48,341 are EU citizens. By region, 24.5% of the students come from Latin America and the Caribbean, 11.1% from Asia and Oceania and 9.5% from North Africa. The report of the Ministry of Universities also focuses on foreign students studying postgraduate studies in Spain.
Requirements to study in Spain as a foreigner
If we are talking exclusively about university studies, the requirements for entry into Spain are very varied and are influenced by the purpose and duration of the stay.
Passport and documentation
In any case, in all situations it is essential to be in possession of a valid passport and to comply with the travel documents.
In this sense, studying in Spain for foreigners requires a valid visa, an employment contract in case of entering the country for work reasons, a letter of admission to an educational center and compliance with the required conditions of stay.
Central Registry of Foreigners and entrance examination
In turn, after finishing compulsory education, it is essential to be registered in the Central Register of Foreigners and to undergo the same tests as Spanish students. Thus, another requirement to study in Spain as a foreigner is to pass the PCE (specific competency tests), which is like a selectividad for foreigners.
This test serves to increase the qualifications before entering a university degree. However, there are countries that maintain a reciprocity agreement in Spain, and they are the following: Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, People’s Republic of China and Switzerland. In these countries, access to universities involves the same conditions as for Spanish students.
Other aspects to take into account when coming to study in Spain
The general bureaucratic requirements to study in Spain as foreigners are those mentioned above. In short, one must be in possession of a valid passport in the country of origin, have previous studies that can be validated with the Spanish baccalaureate and have the foreign degree homologated.
From there, students and families have to take into account other issues, these are not mandatory, but very relevant, such as the prestige of the center and the possibilities for growth in both training and employment.
Studying at SLAM, a passport to success
At SLAM, we offer academic programs based entirely on each student and closely related to high performance sports. In our facilities, students can practice golf, soccer, horseback riding or sailing, among other disciplines.
The center is designed to develop the leaders of the future and we pay special attention to elite education. We promote an ideal environment for both Spanish and foreign students who want to be introduced to a multicultural environment. And they will always be surrounded by other students pursuing the same goals.
In addition, at SLAM we have educational programs ranging from compulsory education to university studies, therefore, we cover the entire educational stage of the students.
Health and finance
Another consideration that answers the question of how to study in Spain if you are a foreigner is the question of health and finances. Our country offers full health care for any person, but it is worth taking an interest in private health insurance, or check both in the country of origin and in Spain what coverage is included in case of any problem.
And as for finances, here it will depend on the needs of each student. Try to organize well the budget for the stay and how much is going to be dedicated to studies, accommodation, transportation, leisure life, sports and cultural activities, and all the necessary expenses.
To know the customs of the country
Spain has cities with a strong university character, with spaces that facilitate the adaptation of foreign students. However, in order to feel more confident, it is advisable that you know something of the Spanish culture and customs, which can be very shocking compared to other countries.
For example, meal times are very late. On the other hand, research beforehand details about public transportation, so that you know how to get around not only the city of your destination, but also the rest of the country.
Now you know how to study abroad in Spain. Beyond what you learn in the field more related to your studies, the most important thing is to live the experience and know how to take advantage of the cultural exchange to grow professionally, as we promote from SLAM.