In recent years, Spain has become a popular country for more and more international students to study in because of itsHigh-quality education system, low tuition fees, pleasant living environmentand multiculturalism are highly sought after. However, there is a wide range of tuition fees across different university types, specialties and regions. In this article, we will analyze in detailDifferences in tuition fees between public and private universities in Spainand shareMoney Saving Tipsthat will help you achieve a more cost-effectivestudy abroadDream!
A comparison of tuition fees of public vs. private universities in Spain
Spanish universities are mainly divided intopublic universityrespond in singingprivate universityTwo categories, with different tuition structures and collection rates.
1. Public university tuition fees (low tuition fees and good value for money)
Spain's public universities are funded by the government, so tuition fees are relatively low and more subsidized for local and EU students. Tuition fees for non-EU students are generally slightly higher, but still more competitive than in other European and American countries.
- Undergraduate level(Non-EU students):EUR 700-3,500/year
- Master's degree(Non-EU students):EUR 1,500-4,500/year
- doctoral stage:: Approximate500-2,000 euros/year
Popular Public Universities Tuition Reference
college | Undergraduate tuition (EUR/year) | Master's tuition (EUR/year) |
---|---|---|
Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) | 2,000-3,000 | 2,500-4,000 |
University of Barcelona (UB) | 1,500-3,000 | 2,000-4,500 |
University of Valencia (UV) | 1,000-2,500 | 1,500-3,500 |
Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) | 1,500-3,500 | 2,500-4,000 |
💡 dominance: Low tuition fees, good value for money, globally recognized degrees
⚠ inferior: Some school programs are taught in Spanish and have higher language requirements.
2. Private university tuition fees (higher tuition fees, rich teaching resources)
Tuition at private universities is usually higher than at public universities, particularlyBusiness, MBA, Design, Medicineand other specialties, and the tuition fees at some of the top private universities are close to the level of prestigious universities in Europe and the United States.
- Undergraduate level::EUR 6,000-30,000/year
- Master's degree::EUR 7,000-35,000/year
- Business School MBA::Euro 20,000-70,000/year
Popular Private Universities Tuition Reference
college | Undergraduate tuition (EUR/year) | Master's tuition (EUR/year) |
---|---|---|
IE Business School | 22,000-28,000 | 35,000-70,000 (MBA) |
ESADE Business School | 18,000-25,000 | 30,000-65,000 (MBA) |
University of Navarra (UNAV) | 10,000-20,000 | 12,000-30,000 |
International University of Barcelona (UIC) | 9,000-18,000 | 10,000-25,000 |
💡 dominance: Teaching resources are abundant, internationalization is high, and the courses are mostlyEnglish lessons
⚠ inferior: Tuition is expensive and some schools offer scholarships, but competition is fierce.
II. Factors affecting school fees
1️⃣ Type of university: Public universities are cheaper and private universities charge more.
2️⃣ Professional category: Business, medicine, and engineering are usually more expensive, and the humanities are relatively inexpensive.
3️⃣ Language of instruction: Tuition fees for courses taught in English are usually more expensive than those taught in Spanish.
4️⃣ International student status: EU students enjoy lower tuition fees and non-EU students may pay higher fees.
5️⃣ location: University tuition fees in big cities like Madrid and Barcelona are usually higher than in smaller cities.
Three,Study in SpainMoney Saving Tips
Although the cost of studying in Spain is relatively low, it is important for international students to learn toRational planning of expendituresremains vital. Here are a fewMoney Saving Tips, helping you to reduce the cost of studying abroad!

1. Application for scholarships
Scholarships are offered by the Spanish government, universities and private organizations, partially covering tuition and living expenses.
✅ Spanish Government Scholarships (MAEC-AECID): For international students, covering tuition, accommodation and living allowance.
✅ Erasmus+ Scholarship: For EU and some international students, supporting short-term exchange or master's programs.
✅ Internal University Scholarships: High scholarships are available at IE Business School and ESADE, and outstanding students have the opportunity to have part of their tuition fees waived.
2. Selection of public universities with lower tuition fees
as ifUniversity of Salamanca, University of Granada, University of Valenciaetc., with lower tuition and lower cost of living.
3. Selection of courses of instruction in Spanish
Courses taught in English are generally more expensive than Spanish courses, and after improving your Spanish language skills, you can apply for aCheap degrees taught in SpanishThe
4. Part-time work reduces the cost of living
Spain allows the holding ofstudent visainternational studentsPart-time 20 hours per weekThe hourly rate is around 7-10 euros, which helps to subsidize the cost of living.

5. Choice of shared or student accommodation
Renting an apartment is an important part of study abroad expenses, and there are options forco-rentingOr apply for a school dormitory to save money.
- Madrid, Barcelona rentals: 400-800 euros/month
- Valencia, Salamanca rent:: 250-500 euros/month
6. Use of student concessions
- buyingStudent bus passes(Monthly passes approximately 20-30 euros)
- utilizationuniversity cafeteria(Lunch 3-5 euros)
- application (form etc)ISIC International Student ID CardDiscounts on museums, theaters, etc.
IV. Conclusion: How to choose the most suitable study abroad program?
1️⃣ Limited budget? Choose a public university, teach in Spanish, apply for scholarships, and choose a low cost of living city (e.g. Salamanca, Valencia).
2️⃣ Seeking internationalization and job prospects? Choose a private university or business school, apply for scholarships, and plan a career path.
3️⃣ Cost of living control? Choose to share a room, apply for a part-time job, and take advantage of student discounts to lower your daily expenses.
Study in SpainNot only can you get a quality education, but it's also extremely cost-effective. With proper financial planning and money-saving techniques, you too can realize your dream of studying abroad at an affordable price!