How to Study in English in Spain

If you can’t speak Spanish to save your life, don’t slam the door on your Spanish study abroad dreams just yet! Yes, it might sound scary to pack your bags and go live in Spain without knowing anything besides “Dónde está el baño?” (Ok, or maybe not even that. But hey, no one’s judging. But no matter what level of Spanish language you have, there are many high quality opportunities in Spain that offer instruction entirely in English. 

With so much beauty to behold, it’s no wonder you want to study in English in Spain!

Whether you just want to take a few courses or earn an entire master’s program in Spain taught in English, there are many ways to study in English in Spain while still having a rich cultural experience abroad in the land of flamenco, fiestas, and futbal. With a rich history, amazing food, sun, beaches, art, and culture, it’s no wonder Spain is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in the world. 

From finding English universities in Spain to signing up for study abroad programs, here’s our what you need to know to study in English in Spain.

How to study in English in Spain

1. Find English speaking universities in Spain and directly enroll

Spain has over 75 universities, and several of those are known for having entire degree programs entirely in English. If you want to complete your Bachelor's Degree abroad or just take a few classes in their programs, you might consider enrolling directly in an English-speaking university in Spain. 

[9 Best Universities in Spain for International Students]

So..what is direct enrolling?

Basically, it means you apply and enroll independently to the university in Spain. You’re not considered a study abroad student, but instead, a direct exchange student with the university in Spain. You don’t have your home university or a study abroad program provider arranging and overseeing your enrollment.

Why should you do it?

Enrolling directly is a great choice if your university doesn’t have any study abroad options at English-speaking universities in Spain, or, none that you like. If you enroll directly, you might need to take a “leave of absence” from your home university while you’re abroad, so make sure to meet with your study abroad office and academic advisor early to chat about your plans. 

Here are some universities in Spain taught in English:

• Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona With several Bachelor's Degrees and dozens of Masters’ degrees taught in English, this highly-ranked Spanish university is a winning place to study in English in Spain. Not only will you receive a quality education, but you get to call Barcelona your home—a cosmopolitan Mediterranean city with excellent art, nightlife, tapas, and one of the largest international student populations in Spain. 
• Marabella University As one of the only universities in the South of Spain with a Bachelor’s program in English, Marabella University offers programs in business administration, tourism, journalism, and more. Located on the warm Costa del Sol, near the shimmering, Mediterranean blue coast, this town is a relaxing place to earn your credits in English. 

Tips for applying to bachelor’s degree programs in Spain:

Whether you opt for American universities in Spain or a different strategy, you’re bound to learn a ton.

• Visit your home university study abroad office Even if you don’t study abroad through one of your home university’s study abroad programs, your study abroad office is likely overflowing with resources! Meet with a study abroad advisor and tell them about your goals and what kind of program you’re looking for. They can likely guide you to the resources you need to enroll directly at a university abroad. 
• Check out the Spanish university’s international student admissions page Especially if you don’t hold EU citizenship, you’ll want to check all the requirements for applying as an international student. You will need a student visa and there may be other application requirements. On a more fun note, the international admission page might provide links to international student organizations and clubs—you’ll feel great knowing what kind of support is there, and how many awesome ways you can meet new people!
• Apply early! Universities in Spain usually begin the school year in September or October, and finish around June and July. If you need to take care of that oh-so-exciting visa paperwork, don’t wait until the last minute. Make appointments with your home university study abroad office early, so your home university can approve the courses you want to take in Spain, or at least guide to you the kind of classes you are eligible to take abroad for your degree program. (Because let’s be real, nothing would be a mood killer like finding out all the courses you took abroad didn’t transfer back. *Womp womp*).

Enrolling in English-taught universities in Spain is a surefire way to accomplish your goals.

2. Study Abroad in English in Spain Through a Program Provider

If enrolling directly just doesn’t sound like your thing, then studying abroad through your home university is another excellent option! You will have all the benefits and support of your home university and/or program provider, while still getting the chance to study in Spain in English! 

[9 Best Spain Study Abroad Programs This Year]

If you want to knock out some credits in English, check out the following study abroad programs for a diverse selection of classes at prestigious Spanish universities:

• SAI Semester or Summer at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (AUB). SAI is a small, but excellent, study abroad provider, running programs in Europe since 1995. The AUB Barcelona program has Spring and Fall programs, as well as short summer sessions. Live in a student residence or homestay, and take courses in business, communication, literature, politics, and Spanish language! 
• CIEE programs in Spain. CIEE has been providing study abroad for decades, and offers the following programs in English. Check out their programs “Business + Culture” in Barcelona, “Engineering and Society” in Madrid, and “International Business and Culture” in Seville.
• CEA Semester in Barcelona, Spain. CEA is another great program provider, with opportunities to study at Barcelona’s prestigious universities Pompeu Fabra University or Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Check out their programs in International Business in Barcelona, Liberal Arts and Social Science, Communications & Journalism, and more!

4. Enroll in American Universities in Spain

Make friends from all over the world when you study in Spain!

If you think you’ll really miss the familiarity of an American university, then you might want to study at an American university in Spain. Suffolk University (in Boston) has a Madrid Campus, along with the American University’s (based in DC) Madrid campus. AU Madrid’s Madrid Business Program and Global Public Health in Spain and Europe, both in English, and the opportunity to take Spanish language classes, if desired. 

[Study Abroad in Spain on the Cheap: 10 Ways to Keep Your Green]

Suffolk University Madrid offers study abroad programs, as well as the opportunity to enroll directly into their Bachelor’s Degree program.

5. Apply for Masters Programs in Spain Taught in English

If you can’t find the time or a program during undergraduate life, perhaps it’s best if you enroll in a Master's program in Spain? Unlike undergraduate programs, a Master’s program will be around two years and provide you with a specialized focus in a very specific area. Some great places to complete a master’s program in Spain in English include:

• Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona. This powerhouse university in Spain boasts over 45 Master’s Degree programs taught in English (!).
• Barcelona Technology School. From programs in Big Data Solutions to User Experience Design, this university offers 9-month, full-time programs in several fields, with internships and career guidance. Partnered with the University of Barcelona, the Barcelona Technology School is a place to launch digital careers and hone leadership in the technology field.

6. Earn a TEFL Certification in Spain

If you want to develop some skills outside of a university setting, maybe earning a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate in Spain is the best path for you! A TEFL/TESOL certification program will teach you the ins and outs of teaching English and how to create fun, engaging lessons for your students. Many TEFL programs also include job search assistance, if you plan to stick around Spain. The Spanish government’s North American language and culture assistant program is just one option!

Here are some great certification programs in Spain:

• International TEFL Academy in Spain is a reputable, and well-known certification provider, with job placement assistance and a strong alumni network. 
• Language Corps CertTESOL Certification Awarded by Trinity College in London, this Barcelona-based program includes 160 hours of instruction and 6 hours of observed practicum experience inside a classroom. 

7. Stick to bigger cities

If you want to have a better chance at using English, inside and outside the classroom, stick to the larger cities, like Barcelona and Madrid. This doesn’t mean you can easily find an English-speaker whenever you need to, but your chances will be much higher. And remember, even if you prefer to use or only know English, it’s super polite to try and start any conversations with people in Spanish. A simple “hola, buenas” when you enter a shop, “perdon” when you accidentally bump into someone on the subway, and “gracias” when saying thanks will go a long way! 

[14 Reasons Why Spain is the Best Place to Study Abroad in Europe]

Don’t worry about your language level—it’s super appreciated when you try.

*Instantly requests info from universities in Spain taught in English*

Remember to practice Spanish at every chance!

One of the biggest regrets I’ve heard while counseling study abroad students when they return home is that they regret not trying to learn the language while abroad. Even if it was just a basic introduction class that teaches you days of the week, greetings, and numbers, students frequently tell me they wished they would have done…. something. This is because what you learn in class can then be practiced out in the real Spanish world! It’s super exciting and such a rewarding cultural experience.

Here are some ways to practice or learn Spanish while abroad: 

• Enroll in a Spanish class Your program likely has an optional, Spanish language add-on course. Look into taking this if you have the time! It is definitely worth it.
• Join a language exchange group This is a great way to connect with local students who want to practice English, and in turn, they will teach you Spanish! Ask the Spanish university’s international student office or your study abroad program provider to connect you to any opportunities.
• Download the apps Duolingo and Memrise are free apps with small, fun lessons and vocabulary for total beginners and even advanced learners. Babbel is also great, and offers free and paid accounts.
• Find a cafe and talk to the local barista Find a local cafe where you can stop every morning. Making a new routine can help you make these little connections and become a familiar face with the locals. Learn a few simple phrases and introduce yourself (when it’s not busy) to the barista serving your coffee every morning. Ask for advice about their favorite tapas bar or learn how to answer some questions in Spanish when they ask you “Where are you from?” or “What do you study?”

[Browse ALL Study Abroad Programs in Spain]

Andale! Let’s go!

If all else fails, at least the tapas are on point! ;-)

No matter what your language level or goals, Spain is a great place to find programs in both English and Spanish. As an important hub for mediterranean business and culture, you can find a diverse selection of programs in this awesome country. But no matter how much you’re able to surround yourself in the comforts of English, remember to get outside your comfort zone and seize every chance to learn and grow, both with the Spanish language, and with new experiences. You will not only return with memories to last a lifetime, but with such a deeper appreciation for Spain’s amazing culture.

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