Our guide breaks down the true cost of studying in Spain, with city-by-city comparisons for tuition, housing, and daily life.
“How much will it really cost to study in Spain?” It’s one of the first and most important questions every student asks when planning to study in Spain. The good news is that, with smart planning, Spain can be a very affordable country for international students.
This guide will provide a realistic, no-nonsense breakdown of the costs of studying in Spain for international students. The total expense of your studies depends on two key factors: the city you choose, and the length of your course.
We will walk you through every category of spending to help you create a realistic budget and manage your finances with confidence.
For a complete overview of all the practical steps in your journey, from choosing a path to budgeting, see our main Practical Guide to Your Spanish Language Study in Spain.
(Last Updated: February 2026)
Key Takeaways:
- Where you choose to live will have the biggest impact on your budget. Monthly living costs can be over 50% higher in major hubs like Barcelona compared to more affordable cities like Salamanca or Granada.
- Expect rent for a room in a shared student flat to be your single biggest monthly expense, typically ranging from €270 to over €600.
- Before you even arrive, you will need to budget for significant one-time expenses, including visa application fees and purchasing mandatory health insurance.
- The cost of your education can range from around €130 per week for an intensive language course to several thousand euros per year for a university degree.
- With smart planning, a student can live a comfortable life in many Spanish cities on a budget of approximately €700 to €1,100 per month.
What Are the Two Main Costs of Studying in Spain?
When creating your budget, your two main categories of costs will be your academic fees and your day-to-day living costs. To plan your finances effectively, it’s best to think about your spending in these two parts.
First, there are the tuition fees you will pay directly to your language school or university. Second, there are the ongoing living costs you will have each month, such as accommodation, food, and transportation.
How Much are the Tuition Fees for International Students in Spain?
The tuition fees in Spain for international students vary significantly depending on whether you are attending a language school or a university.
Spanish Language Schools
The cost of Spanish language courses is usually calculated on a weekly basis. An intensive program of around 20 hours per week typically ranges from €110 to €230.
In most cases, the longer your course, the lower the weekly cost will be. You can explore and compare options in our Spanish course price comparison.
Public Universities
For Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, tuition at public universities is very affordable, but can still range from €750 to over €3,500 per academic year.
Private Universities
Fees at private universities are higher and can vary dramatically, often ranging from €6,000 to €30,000 per academic year.
How Much are the Living Expenses in Different Spanish Cities?
Your living expenses in Spain are determined by where you choose to live.
Monthly living costs can be over 50% higher in major hubs like Barcelona compared to more affordable cities like Salamanca or Granada.
This table provides an estimate of the monthly budget needed for a student in Spain’s major cities.
| City | Avg. Rent (Shared Houses) | Monthly Groceries | Monthly Transport | Estimated Monthly Total |
| Madrid | €400 – €600+ | ~€200 | ~€50-€70 | €800 – €1,500+ |
| Barcelona | €400 – €800+ | ~€250 | ~€20-€40 | €850 – €1,860+ |
| Valencia | €300 – €450 | ~€180 | ~€20-€50 | €700 – €1,200 |
| Seville | €280 – €400 | ~€150 | ~€35 | €700 – €1,300 |
| Salamanca | €270 – €350 | ~€150 | ~€22 | €500 – €900 |
| Granada | €250 – €400 | ~€150 | ~€40 | €600 – €1,100 |
| Malaga | €300 – €450 | ~€180 | ~€40 | €700 – €1,200 |
If you’d like a more personalized estimate, you can use our Cost of Living in Spain Calculator.
What Other Upfront Costs Should You Budget For?
Before you arrive, you will need to budget for several important one-time costs, which can vary depending on the length of your course.
These costs vary depending on whether you plan a short-term course (under 90 days) or a long-term degree program (over 90 days).
Common Upfront Costs for All Students
No matter the length of your stay, you should budget for the following:
- Flights to Spain
- School enrollment & material fees
- Initial housing deposit (if booking accommodation in advance)
- First month’s rent (often required upfront when signing a rental contract)
Additional Costs for Short-Term Stays (Under 90 Days)
If your course in Spain is less than three months, you may also need to cover:
- Schengen visa fee (if required for your nationality)
- Travel insurance
Additional Costs for Long-Term Stays (Over 90 Days)
Students enrolling in degree programs or long-term courses should expect:
- Spanish student visa application fee
- Mandatory private health insurance
- Cost of obtaining your criminal records
- Cost of document legalization (Apostilles) and official translations.
While tuition is the largest recurring cost, these upfront expenses are just as important to plan for. Budgeting ahead will ensure a smooth transition when starting your studies in Spain.
How to Save Money as an International Student in Spain?
Living in Spain as an international student can be affordable if you know how to manage your expenses wisely. There are many ways to cut down on daily costs while still enjoying everything Spain has to offer.
- Eat Like a Local
Take advantage of the menú del día (menu of the day) offered at most restaurants during lunchtime. For €10 to €15, you usually get a starter, main course, drink, and dessert!
- Cook at Home
Eating out regularly adds up quickly. Instead, shop at local markets and supermarkets for fresh produce and ingredients.
Not only will this route be cheaper, but it is also a great way to practice your Spanish and explore local cuisine. Some of our team’s favorite supermercados are Carrefour, Mercadona, and Dia.
- Find Roommates
Renting just a room costs much less than renting an entire apartment, and you will split utility bills with your roommates.
Sharing a flat with other students is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to meet new people.
Our Spanish team recommends using apps such as Idealista or Fotocasa to start your search.
- Use Student Discounts
Always carry your student ID card. Many museums, cinemas, cultural attractions, and even some shops offer student discounts (descuentos para estudiantes) that can save you money.
- Save on Public Transport
If you will be using public transportation often, invest in a monthly transport pass (abono). It is far more affordable than buying single tickets and often includes unlimited travel within your city.
- Take Advantage of Free Activities
Spain offers many free activities for students. Many museums have days with free entry, and you can enjoy the country’s beautiful parks, plazas, and beaches at no cost.
Language exchanges (intercambios) are another great way to practice Spanish, meet locals, and make new friends, all without paying for classes or events.
- Travel Smart
When traveling between cities, book train and bus tickets in advance to get the best prices.
You can also look for discount train cards such as the Renfe Youth Card for students under 26.
Alsa, the most popular bus company in Spain, also offers a discount card for international students.
FAQ About the Real Cost of Studying In Spain for International Students
1. Is it cheaper to live in Spain than in the US or UK?
Yes! In general, the cost of living in Spain is significantly lower than in the United States or the United Kingdom, especially regarding accommodation, food, and public transportation.
2. How much money do I need to show for my student visa application?
For a student visa, you must prove access to 100% of Spain’s monthly IPREM, which is approximately €600 per month. For a one-year stay, this totals at least €7,200. While this is the minimum requirement, at Go! Go! España we recommend showing at least €10,000 to ensure there are no issues when applying for a student visa.
3. Are credit and debit cards widely accepted in Spain?
Yes, cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. Apple Pay is also widely available. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially at local markets or in smaller towns.
4. Is it better to get a Spanish SIM card?
For any stay longer than a month, it is recommended to get a local Spanish SIM card. This is much cheaper than using international roaming from your home country.
You can even purchase a Spanish SIM card before traveling to Spain so it is ready to pick up upon your arrival: SpainConnect SIM cards.
5. How much should I budget for travel within Spain?
This depends on your travel style, but with smart planning, weekend trips can be very affordable. A bus ticket between major cities can cost as little as €20 to €30, and booking high-speed trains in advance can save you even more. You will likely travel by train with Renfe or by bus with Alsa. Check their websites for the best deals.
Conclusion: Ready to Plan Your Budget to Study in Spain?
Planning your finances may seem overwhelming, but it is essential for a smooth and stress-free study abroad experience.
With its affordable cost of living, high-quality education, and vibrant culture, Spain is an excellent choice for international students looking to get the most value from their experience.
Ready to find a school and city that fits your budget? The Go! Go! España team offers free guidance and personalized support to help you plan your studies in Spain with confidence.
Contact us today and start your Spanish adventure!
