How to apply to university in Spain: Requirements & Process

Want to apply to a university in Spain? Stay tuned to find out how. Before we get started, here are some important facts about Spain.

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Facts about Spain

Spain is a developed democratic monarchy.

One of the many spectacular things about this country is its breathtaking nature surrounded by hills, mountains, beaches, coasts, and islands. Additionally, Spain has a rich multicultural and Islamic history.

It also comes second to Italy on the UNESCO list of countries with the most historical landmarks. Furthermore, Spain’s rich history has further led to it being one of the most advanced countries in the fields of science and literature, with its first modern university established in the 18th century.

Education in Spain

Given the amount of support Spain gives its educational establishments, the country has become one of the leading countries in the world in the field of education and scientific research.

In fact, there are over 100 universities in Spain, both private and public. It should be noted, each of these universities grant their own internationally recognized degrees. Furthermore, universities in Spain grant graduates the necessary skills they need for their future careers.

You may have noticed there are many options to choose from when it comes to education in Spain. In fact, there are a great number of specialties and sub-specialties to choose from, be it in the field of science or humanities.

For that reason, Spain has become a prime destination for international students from all around the world. Another reason for the number of international students studying in Spain is the language.

Also, the Spanish language is the second most spoken language in the world.

For more information, read our article on the education system in Spain

Requirements for application

There is a list of requirements if you want to apply to universities in Spain. However, these requirements will differ from one university to another. That being said, all universities have the following requirements in common, whether you’re applying for a Bachelors, Master’s or PhD.

Read our article on the admission requirements for universities in Spain.

Also read our article on PhD study in Spain

You need to have passed high school with a good average, especially in your core subjects. The same applies for your Bachelors degree if you are applying for a Masters or PhD. Additionally, your degrees need to be reviewed for equivalence at the Spanish embassy to ensure that your degree is in line with the requirements and policies of the Spanish ministry of education.
If you’re not applying for English-taught courses, you need to have proof of Spanish language proficiency.
You need to have a Spanish student visa, which further allows you to get a legal Spanish residence card.
To apply for undergraduate studies in a university in Spain, you need to pass an entry exam based on the requirements of your chosen institution.

For more information, read our article on Masters study in Spain and studying in Spain in English.
Also read our article on how to get a student visa in Spain

Apply to university in Spain for international students

Non-UE international students who apply for undergraduate studies in a university in Spain need to pass the Selectividad exam also called the Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad. This is an exam with 4 components that will decide if the applicant is eligible to study at any public or private university in Spain.

The Selectividad components include:

A text analysis where you have the choice between 2 texts in Spanish.
Questions on Spain’s history or philosophy, also your choice between the 2 and where you answer several questions on the subject you choose.
A foreign language exam where you choose between English, French, German, Italian or Portuguese
Your choice between several subjects related to Art, Dance, Fine Art and Music and subject related to Sciences and Technology.

Apply to university in Spain: Required documents

As for required documents, they are generally the same for all universities:

A certified original copy of your high school diploma or Bachelors degree if you’re applying for Masters or PhD.
Some universities require school certificates for the last three years of school along with a letter of good standing. In addition to that, you may need to provide a reference letter from your school principal.
A certified copy of your passport.
Passport photos.
Certified original copy of your birth certificate.
If your home country requires military service, you need to have a letter of deferment of military service.

It should be noted, all your documents need to be in Spanish and must be authenticated by consular services at your Spanish embassies. When it comes to applying to universities, applications start in July and each university has its own unique application form.

Additionally, you can either apply directly to your chosen university or online through the official university website.