Introduction
When considering studying abroad, many students often think of the USA, UK, Australia, or Canada. However, other countries can also provide excellent educational opportunities, often at a lower cost. Spain is one such country. This blog will provide a comprehensive guide to studying in Spain, discussing its advantages, disadvantages, and who should consider this option.
Growing Interest in Spain
In 2016, only 900 students from India chose Spain as their study destination. Today, this number has increased to 4,500. The increasing popularity of Spain as a study destination can be attributed to its favorable climate, vibrant culture, and relatively affordable cost of living and tuition fees.
Pros of Studying in Spain
Affordable Tuition Fees- One of the major advantages of studying in Spain is the affordability of tuition fees. The cost depends on the number of credits a student takes. For a master's degree, students typically take 60 credits per year, totaling 120 credits over two years. Local students pay around 25 euros per credit. Thus, a local student's total tuition cost for a two-year master’s degree is approximately 3,000 euros, which is about three lakh rupees. For international students, tuition fees can be two to four times higher. This means international students might pay between six to twelve lakh rupees for their entire master’s degree. This is still relatively inexpensive compared to many other international destinations, though not as cheap as Germany and Switzerland, which also offer affordable education.
Low Cost of Living- The cost of living in Spain is also quite low compared to other Western European countries. Rent typically ranges from 500 to 700 euros per month. Including other living expenses, a student can expect to spend around 900 to 1,000 euros per month. Students are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week, earning between 7 to 10 euros per hour. This can help cover living expenses, although proficiency in Spanish is usually required for part-time jobs.
Public and Private Universities- Public universities in Spain are generally more affordable than private ones. Some highly recommended public universities include:
University of Navarra
University of Granada
University of Valencia
University of Coruna
University of Zaragoza
These universities offer many courses in English, making it possible to study in Spain without knowing Spanish. Spain attracts around 135,000 international students, but only 4,500 of them are from India, likely due to the language barrier.
Vibrant Culture and Lifestyle- Spain is known for its vibrant culture and lifestyle. From beautiful beaches and historic sites to a lively nightlife and rich culinary traditions, Spain offers a unique and enjoyable living experience. The country’s Mediterranean climate is another attractive feature, providing warm summers and mild winters.
Cons of Studying in Spain
Language Barrier- The biggest disadvantage of studying in Spain is the language barrier. While many universities offer courses in English, most daily interactions, part-time jobs, and local culture require proficiency in Spanish. Competing for jobs against local Spanish-speaking students and international students from Spanish-speaking countries in South America can be challenging.
Recognition of Degrees- Spanish degrees may not hold the same weight as degrees from the USA, UK, or Germany. This can affect job prospects in countries outside of Spain and the European Union. Therefore, if the goal is to work in India or other non-Spanish-speaking countries, it might be better to consider other study destinations.
Permanent Residency (PR) Opportunities
One significant advantage of studying in Spain is the possibility of obtaining permanent residency. After staying in Spain on a work visa for five years, it is possible to apply for permanent residency. As Spain is part of the European Union, this can lead to obtaining a European passport, which offers many benefits, including the ability to live and work in any EU country.
Who Should Study in Spain?
Spain is an excellent choice for students interested in business, law, and technology degrees due to the country's strong economy and job market in these fields. The country has several prestigious business schools and law faculties that are well-regarded globally.
Business and Management- Spain is home to some of the world's leading business schools, such as IE Business School, ESADE, and IESE. These institutions offer a range of MBA and other business-related programs that are highly respected worldwide. Studying at one of these schools can provide excellent networking opportunities and enhance career prospects in the business world.
Law and Legal Studies- Spain’s legal education system is also well-regarded, particularly for students interested in European and international law. Spanish universities offer a variety of law programs in English, which can be beneficial for those looking to work in multinational firms or international organizations.
Technology and Engineering- Spain has a growing tech industry, particularly in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Universities such as the Polytechnic University of Catalonia and the Polytechnic University of Madrid offer strong programs in engineering and technology. Graduating from these programs can open up opportunities in Spain's burgeoning tech sector.
Additional Considerations
Cost of Living- While the cost of living in Spain is relatively low, it is essential to budget carefully. Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona can be more expensive than smaller cities or towns. Sharing accommodation with other students can help reduce living costs.
Cultural Adjustment- Adjusting to a new culture can be challenging. It is important to be open-minded and willing to learn about Spanish customs and traditions. This will not only enhance the study experience but also make it easier to integrate into the local community.
Part-Time Work- While students can work part-time to help cover living expenses, it is important to balance work and study commitments. Securing part-time work may require a good level of Spanish, so taking language classes can be beneficial.
Conclusion
Spain offers many benefits as a study destination, including affordable tuition fees, a low cost of living, and the opportunity for permanent residency. However, it also has significant drawbacks, primarily the language barrier and the global recognition of its degrees.
Students should consider their long-term career goals and the specific advantages of studying in Spain for their chosen field before making a decision. Spain is a great option for those proficient in Spanish or willing to learn the language, especially for students interested in business, law, or technology. For others, it might be worth exploring other countries that offer better opportunities and higher degree recognition.
In summary, while Spain is an attractive and viable option for studying abroad, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully and choose a destination that aligns with one's academic and career aspirations.