What it costs to study in Spain: tuition, living and one-off fees
Tuition fees
| Level | Typical annual fee |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | €1,000 to €3,500 at public universities (higher for non-EU in Madrid and Catalonia); €6,000 to €20,000 at private universities |
| Postgraduate | €2,000 to €6,000 at public universities; €15,000 to €80,000 at business schools |
Fees are set per credit by each region.
Living costs
| Monthly cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €350 to €800 (Madrid and Barcelona highest) |
| Food and groceries | €200 to €300 |
| Transport | €20 to €55 with youth passes |
| Utilities and phone | €70 to €120 |
| Health insurance | €40 to €70 private insurance without co-payments |
Total: €800 to €1,300 a month.
One-off costs
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | €80 for most nationalities |
| Health cover | Private insurance without co-payments, budgeted above |
| Flights | Return flights from South Asia or West Africa typically £500 to £900 or equivalent |
| Accommodation deposit | Usually one month's rent, refundable |
| Set-up costs | Bedding, kitchen items, winter clothing: budget the equivalent of £200 to £300 |
Build your own budget
Enter your own figures. This adds them up; it does not know your course.
Where students save
- Choose a city outside the capital: the difference is often 20 to 40 percent on rent.
- Book accommodation with bills included before you arrive.
- Apply early for automatic merit scholarships; see the scholarship guide.
- Plan part-time work at 12 to 15 hours a week, not the maximum.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Do I need Spanish to study in Spain?
For most bachelor's degrees, yes (B2 level). English-taught master's are common in business, engineering and tourism.
Can I work while studying in Spain?
Yes, up to 30 hours a week without a separate permit since 2022, as long as it is compatible with your studies.
How much money must I show for a Spanish student visa?
About €600 a month for the duration of the course (100 percent of the IPREM), plus proof that fees are paid.