Which university in Spain is the best for international students?
Choosing where to study abroad is an exciting yet incredibly overwhelming adventure, so first of all, congratulations on choosing Spain, you’ve made a great choice. Now that you’ve narrowed down the location of your study abroad experience, it may have dawned on you that Spain has a LOT of excellent colleges and universities to choose from.
Don’t fear, that’s why you’ve landed on this article and are continuing your journey towards selecting the perfect place for you (see, you’re already doing a great job).
Spain really gives us heart eyes.
One thing to keep in mind during your search is that no matter which of the many Spanish colleges or Spain universities you attend, it will be wonderful and you will fill your mind with new and exciting knowledge.
That being said, as you make your final decision it is helpful to have an idea of what you are looking for. Spanish colleges and universities come in every size and shape, there is no one size fits all rule when it comes to choosing your home for the next few months or years.
Some Spanish colleges are more accommodating to international students than others, some have a huge student body while others prefer maintaining a smaller class size, and each one is situated in a different climate ranging from on the ocean to tucked away in rolling hills.
The best Spanish college for you is out there, you just have to do a little looking to find it. Whether you’re looking for universities in Spain that teach in English, universities in Madrid, universities in Barcelona, or international universities in Spain, you’ve come to the right place.
We hope this list of the best universities in Spain beckoning international students can help you on your search.
Why study in Spain?
Earning your degree doesn’t have to be boring, stressful, or an event to trudge through, especially if you take the leap to study at one of the many colleges in Spain or Spanish universities. Whether you are looking for the tranquility of sandy beaches, the soft breeze of the coast, new perspective from the top of rolling mountains, or the hustle bustle of cities, Spain has you covered.
With seventeen autonomous regions, you can experience not only the striking differences in Spain’s natural landscapes, but cultural differences too. Listen for the soft lisp of Catalan while sipping coffee and admiring Gaudi’s architecture on the streets of Barcelona, look for the Moorish influence while exploring the Alcazar of Seville, or take a day to get lost in the Prado museum in Madrid.
Wherever you go, you are sure to experience something new and exciting. With world renowned colleges and universities everywhere you look, you will learn as you adventure and ultimately walk away with a world class education.
Always remember to look up and smile.
10 best universities in Spain
1. University of Valencia (La Universitat de València)
Located in Spain’s third largest city, hugging the beautiful Mediterranean coast, is the historical University of Valencia. With beginnings traced back to 1499, it is one of the oldest standing universities in Spain. The three main campuses are spread throughout the urban city, but are located close enough to the coast that you can escape to the beach for a quick stroll. Don’t let the use of Valencian, a variety of Catalan, throw you off. Most locals also speak Spanish, just be sure to register for classes taught in Spanish or English rather than Valencian!
Recommended study abroad programs at University of Valencia
2. Pablo de Olavide University (Universidad Pablo de Olavide)
Pablo de Olavide University is situated just outside the city center of Seville and is spaciously spread out across many acres. A quick bus ride will take you to the heart of Seville where you can walk the pedestrian friendly streets and experience the birthplace of Flamenco. This beautiful university was built in 1997 and offers many modern amenities including university wide wifi, dorms on campus, sporting fields, and an enormous library. Home to only 10,000 students, you may not get as many program choices or connections as at other universities, but you will get a more traditional university experience and form deep bonds with fellow students.
Recommended study abroad programs at Pablo de Olavide University:
Even the cloudy days are beautiful days in España.
3. The University of Granada (Universidad de Granada)
The fourth largest university in Spain, the University of Granada hosts a large percentage of international students each year. Widely considered not only one of the best universities in Spain, but also one of the best universities for international students. With five campuses and a wide array of subjects to study, you are sure to feel catered to and meet students from across the world. Just try not to slip into your native tongue if learning Spanish is your goal!
Recommended study abroad programs at University of Granada:
- API Study Abroad
- AIFS Study Abroad
- Arcos Learning Abroad
- Find more ways to study abroad at the University of Granada
4. The University of Salamanca (Universidad de Salamanca)
If the big city life and blending into the background of a crowded lecture hall aren’t your scene, the University of Salamanca is sure to be the place for you. While studying in this historic city with a small town feel, you will find yourself immersed in the daily life of Spanish culture. With the unique title of the oldest founded university in Spain, the University of Salamanca is a sought after destination for students from across the world.
Recommended study abroad programs at University of Salamanca
There will be architectural wonders around every corner.
5. University of Deusto (Universidad Deusto)
The University of Deusto isn’t just any private university, it is the oldest private university in Spain and the founder of Spain’s first business school. This academically and historically important university draws both local Spanish students and high numbers of international students. Found in the Basque country of northern Spain, students experience a mix of Spanish, French, and Basque culture and language. While religiously affiliated schools aren’t for everyone, Catholics and non-Catholics alike succeed in their world-renowned programs.
Recommended study abroad programs at University of Deusto:
[Compare your favorite programs side-by-side with MyGoAbroad]
6. Nebrija University (Universidad Antonio de Nebrija)
Despite being a relatively small school of approximately 4,000 students across three campuses, Nebrija University maintains a strong draw for international students. A private university located in the heart of the capital of Spain, international students find themselves integrated in classes with Spaniards. Enjoy the feel of a small university with all the perks, classes, and program options of a larger university all while experiencing the hustle and bustle of Madrid.
Recommended study abroad programs at Nebrija University:
You’ll never tire of the hustle and bustle of Barcelona.
7. Complutense University of Madrid (Universidad Complutense de Madrid)
Continuously earning a spot on the list of top universities in Spain, in addition to sporting the title of the most prestigious academic institution in Spain, Complutense University lives up to the hype. With lists of famous and prize winning alumni, you are sure to be academically challenged and motivated. The university has a strong focus on research and allows you the opportunity to learn from world leaders in your field. The large student body and urban feel can be challenging for some, however, it is certainly worth it if you can find your place and feel at home.
Recommended study abroad programs at Complutense University of Madrid:
8. University of Barcelona (Universitat de Barcelona)
A well known research center in the heart of Catalonia with thousands of publications and numerous departments and professors behind it, the University of Barcelona is no stranger to the list of top universities in Spain. In fact, it was the #1 university in Spain for 2019. Known for its international excellence, this university is a natural choice for international students looking to experience the magic of Barcelona.
Recommended study abroad programs at University of Barcelona:
Practice your lithp, eat tapath, and lounge in adorable plazas.
9. Autonomous University of Barcelona (Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona)
If you want to experience Catalan culture in the heart of Barcelona at a university that caters to international students, look no further. The Autonomous University of Barcelona has a strong reputation for research and excellent professors. With classes taught in English, Spanish, or Catalan, you can learn what you want to learn how you want to learn it. Be sure to take time to enjoy all that Barcelona has to offer from white sandy beaches to Gaudi’s unique architecture.
Recommended study abroad programs at the Autonomous University of Barcelona:
10. University of Cadiz (Universidad de Cádiz)
Are you looking for an off the beaten track authentic Spanish study abroad experience where you can actually interact with friendly locals and not be surrounded by tourists? Look no further than the white sandy beaches of Cadiz! Here you will perfect your Spanish while earning academic credits, soak up the sun on the most beautiful beaches of southern Spain, enjoy amazing food, and discover the rich cultural and historic heritage of Western Europe's oldest city with over 3000 years of history.
Recommended study abroad programs at the University of Cadiz:
READ MORE: 11 Reasons Why You NEED to Study Abroad in Spain
How to study in Spain in English
If taking classes in Spanish isn’t part of your study abroad plan, no sweat, most colleges in Spain have a selection of classes available in English. It’s important to note, however, that even if a university offers courses in English, they may not be the courses you are looking to take or enough to fill a typical semester or annual course load.
The best thing to do if you’re looking to study in Spain in English is to get in contact with the college or university and find out which specific classes they offer, or choose a Spanish college or Spain university where classes are only offered in English. There are many English speaking universities in Spain that offer entire degrees in English as well as international universities in Spain that offer all of their classes in English.
The following are some of the Spanish universities with entire programs in English: Marbella University in Malaga, Suffolk University in Madrid, Saint Louis University, Schiller International University, and Boston University.
[Looking for Study Abroad Scholarships? We’ve got plenty]
Take on every city, every village, and every beach in the country.
Next steps for applying to Spanish universities
Now that you have a general idea of some of the best universities in Spain calling international students, you’re hopefully more excited than ever to find your dream university. Here are some helpful tips to keep you moving forward towards achieving your dream of studying in Spain:
- Location, location, location. Do you want a bustling city or a more rural setting? Are you a total beach goer or do you melt under the hot sun? Make a list of your ideal geographic and weather qualities, this will help narrow down which region of Spain is best for you.
- Do your research. Given that you’ve made it all the way through this article, it’s likely you’re familiar with the amount of research that goes into making this decision. Keep at it until you settle on your perfect Spanish university!
- Read program reviews. While it is always key to take reviews with a grain of salt, take a peek for the general feel of all of the reviews. The students shared their thoughts and feelings to help you in your decision process.
- Trust your gut. Did you land on a university website that gives you butterflies? Can you picture yourself walking around on a campus from a picture you’ve seen? Research can only get you so far, sometimes you just have to listen to what feels right and go with it.
Finding universities in Spain for international students can be easy!
Congratulations on making it this far in your journey towards selecting a university in Spain for your study abroad! You are only a few decisions away from finalizing your adventure. When it comes to studying abroad in Spain, there is no wrong choice. So, stop making excuses, get out there and...
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