Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain: A Complete Guide for International Students
By Akshay Patel · Senior International Admissions Consultant · Published 2025-06-22T12:41:41.719Z
Discover everything you need to know about studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain — including top universities, English programs, costs, scholarships, student visas, and housing options. Start planning your perfect international education experience today.
Why Study in Barcelona, Spain?
Barcelona is one of the most popular places for students who want to study abroad . Every year, thousands of students from all over the world pick this amazing city for their studies. But why is Barcelona so special?
Here are a few important reasons:
Beautiful weather all year round
Affordable cost of living compared to other big European cities
Top universities with excellent courses (in English and Spanish)
Rich culture and history
Friendly people and multicultural environment
Delicious food and fun lifestyle
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about studying abroad in Barcelona. From universities, courses, fees, accommodation, scholarships, to student life, this is your complete guide.
Things to Know Before Studying in Barcelona
Before you make your decision, it's good to understand some basic things.
Language
Many people speak Spanish and Catalan in Barcelona. But don’t worry — most international programs are taught in English . Also, many people in the city understand basic English, especially young people.
Currency
Barcelona uses the Euro (EUR/€) . Many daily purchases like bus tickets, food, and even rent are paid in Euros.
Cost of Living
Living in Barcelona is cheaper than cities like London or Paris , but it is more expensive than cities in Eastern Europe . On average, a student will need around €800 to €1,200 per month for rent, food, and other needs.
Best Universities in Barcelona for International Students
Barcelona has some of the best universities in Europe. Many of them offer programs in English and have partnerships with universities around the world.
Here are the top ones:
University Name
Type
Language of Instruction
Popular Programs
University of Barcelona (UB)
Public
Spanish, Catalan, English
Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)
Public
English, Spanish, Catalan
Business, Sciences, Communication
Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)
Public
English, Spanish, Catalan
Law, Economics, Media Studies
ESADE Business School
Private
English, Spanish
Business, Law, MBA
IESE Business School
Private
English
MBA, Executive Education
Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)
Public
Spanish, Catalan, English
Engineering, Architecture, Technology
EU Business School
Private
English
Business, Marketing, Finance
All these universities welcome students from many countries and offer full support for international students.
Most Popular Study Abroad Programs in Barcelona
Students from different parts of the world come to Barcelona to study many different subjects. Here are some popular areas of study:
1. Business and Management
Barcelona is a top city for business studies. Schools like ESADE and EU Business School offer amazing bachelor’s and master’s degrees taught fully in English. You will also get chances to attend internships and network with major companies.
2. Art and Design
Barcelona is the hometown of famous artists like Picasso and Gaudí , so it’s the perfect place to study creative fields. Schools like ELISAVA and BAU offer several design and art programs.
3. Engineering and Technology
The Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) is one of Spain's top engineering schools. They offer programs in civil , computer , mechanical , and electrical engineering .
4. Social Sciences and Humanities
Whether you're interested in history , philosophy , languages , or communication , the University of Barcelona and UPF offer high-quality courses in these areas.
5. International Relations and Law
For students interested in global studies and law, UPF and ESADE have bilingual and English programs that focus on European and international law .
English-Taught Programs in Barcelona
Worried about learning in Spanish? Don’t be. Many universities offer full programs in English, especially for international students.
Here’s a list of sample English-taught programs:
University
Program
Degree Level
UPF
International Business
Bachelor
ESADE
Global Governance & Law
Bachelor
UAB
Business Administration & Management
Bachelor
UPC
Telecommunications Engineering
Master
EU Business School
MBA in International Business
Master
University of Barcelona
Economics
Master
Check the university's official website to confirm the latest information.
Cost of Studying in Barcelona
Tuition Fees
The cost depends on the university and program.
Program Type
Public University Cost (per year)
Private University Cost (per year)
Bachelor’s Degree
€1,000 – €3,000
€5,000 – €25,000
Master’s Degree
€1,500 – €4,000
€10,000 – €30,000
MBA Programs
Not common
€15,000 – €60,000
Public universities are much cheaper but may have fewer seats for non-EU students.
Living Expenses
Here is a basic breakdown of monthly living expenses:
Item
Cost (per month)
Student Housing or Rent
€400 – €700
Food & Groceries
€200 – €300
Transportation
€40 – €60
Entertainment
€100 – €200
Phone & Internet
€30 – €50
Total Monthly Estimate
€800 – €1,200
Students who stay further from city center usually pay less in rent.
Scholarships for International Students in Barcelona
Studying abroad can be expensive. The good news is, there are many scholarships available for students who want to study in Barcelona.
Types of Scholarships
Government Scholarships (Spain or your home country)
University Scholarships
Private Institution Scholarships
EU Erasmus+ Scholarships
Examples
BecAs Erasmus Mundus
Fundación Carolina (for Latin American students)
University-Specific Scholarships (e.g., ESADE offers merit-based scholarships for international students)
Always apply as early as possible and check eligibility details.
How to Apply to Universities in Barcelona
Here is a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Choose Your University and Program
Visit the official website, read admission requirements carefully.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Commonly required documents:
Passport
High school diploma or bachelor’s degree
Academic transcripts
Language test results (like IELTS , TOEFL )
Statement of Purpose or motivation letter
Recommendation letters
Step 3: Submit Application Online
Apply directly through the university's admission portal or through a centralized system like UNEDasiss for bachelor’s degrees.
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
Most universities ask for a small fee, usually between €30 and €100.
Step 5: Wait for an Offer Letter
Once accepted, you’ll receive an official admission letter.
Student Visa for Barcelona (Spain)
If you are not from the EU , you will need a Student Visa (Type D) .
Here’s what you typically need:
Valid passport
Admission letter from a recognized university
Proof of financial means (about €600–700/month)
Proof of accommodation
Health insurance coverage
Criminal record certificate
Filled visa application form
Apply for the visa at least 2–3 months before your course starts.
Accommodation Options in Barcelona
Students usually choose one of these:
1. Student Residences
Safe, comfortable, includes meals or cooking areas
Cost: €600 – €1,000 per month
2. Shared Apartments
Live with other students, more independent
Cost: €300 – €600 per month
3. Homestay with a Family
Stay with a local Spanish family
Good for cultural learning and practicing Spanish
Cost: €500 – €800 per month
4. Private Rentals
For students who prefer full privacy
Cost: €700 – €1,200 per month
The earlier you book accommodations, the lower your costs will be.
Life as an International Student in Barcelona
Studying in Barcelona is not just about classes and exams — it’s also about adventure, learning, and personal growth .
Food
Try delicious local dishes like paella , tapas , churros , and bocadillos . There are also many options for vegetarian and halal food.
Travel
Barcelona is well connected. You can take weekend trips to other Spanish cities like Madrid , Valencia , or even travel to France or Italy by train or cheap flights.
Student Discounts
You can get discounts on:
Museums and galleries
Public transport (T-Jove travel card)
Cinema and entertainment
Gym memberships
Nightlife
Barcelona has lively bars, beach parties, music festivals , and student events. But always drink safely and stay in groups.
Safety and Healthcare in Barcelona
Barcelona is a generally safe city especially in student areas. But like all big cities, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.
Healthcare
Every student must have health insurance . You can either:
Use European Health Insurance Card (EU students)
Buy private insurance (non-EU students)
In general, doctors and hospitals in Barcelona provide good quality care.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Study Abroad Experience
Learn basic Spanish or Catalan — it helps a lot
Get involved with student clubs
Network during internships or events
Join language exchange meetups
Explore the city on weekends
Pros and Cons of Studying in Barcelona
Pros
Cons
Beautiful, vibrant city
Some locals don’t speak English
Affordable public education
Bureaucracy can be slow
International student community
Finding housing can be hard in peak times
Great weather & beaches
Big tourist crowds in summer
Easy travel across Europe
Part-time jobs are limited without Spanish
Final Thoughts
Barcelona is one of the best places you can choose for a study abroad experience. Whether you want to learn business, design, engineering, or languages — this city has something for everyone.
With great education, warm people, good food, and a lifestyle that many dream of, your time in Barcelona can become the best years of your life. Make the most of it, and don't be afraid to take the jump.
Choose the right program, plan your budget, apply early, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.
Keep this guide saved for your reference — everything you need to start your study abroad journey in Barcelona is right here.
Frequently asked questions
Can I study in Barcelona without knowing any Spanish or Catalan?
Yes, many universities in Barcelona offer full programs in English, especially for international students. However, learning basic Spanish or Catalan will make daily life easier and help you connect with locals.
How early should I apply for a student visa to study in Spain?
You should apply for your student visa at least 2–3 months before your program starts. Processing times can vary, especially during peak seasons, so applying early helps avoid last-minute stress.
Can I work part-time while studying in Barcelona as an international student?
Yes, students on a Spanish student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. However, you might need a work authorization linked to an internship or job offer, and knowing Spanish is often required.
What are the hidden costs students often forget when budgeting for Barcelona?
Many students forget about health insurance, visa appointments, deposit fees for housing, and initial setup costs like buying kitchenware or transport passes. It's smart to keep an extra buffer of €300–€500 for the first month.
Is it hard to find housing in Barcelona as a new student?
Yes, during August and September, housing demand is high. It’s best to book early or arrive a few weeks before classes start. University housing often fills fast, and shared apartments are more affordable but require early planning.