Spain – A growing Study Abroad Destination of Europe
Spain, also known as the Kingdom of Spain, is the largest country in Southern Europe. It shares its land borders with Portugal, France, Andorra, Gibraltar, and Morocco and shares its coastal borders with the Mediterranean and Atlantic oceans. It is also the fourth-most populous member state of the European Union. It is famous for its delicious cuisine, iconic landmarks, historical attractions, nightlife, and education system. It is one of the best and fastest-growing study-abroad destinations in the world. Due to its well-organized education system, quality of life, international and creative environment, thousands of networking opportunities, world-class universities, diverse courses or programs, affordable living and tuition fees, career opportunities, and safe and welcoming environment, and being a part of the European Union, it has become an ideal destination for international students.
Spain- Indian Diplomatic Relations
India and Spain have been in a cordial relationship since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1956 with the opening of the Spanish Embassy in New Delhi, which was followed by concurrent accreditation of our high commissioner to London as Ambassador to Spain in 1958. In 1965, the Maharaja of Jaipur, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, was appointed as the first resident Ambassador of India to Spain. In 1992, Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao visited Spain, and after 28 years, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid an official bilateral visit to Spain on 30-31 Many 2017.- Economic and commercial relations: If we look at the economic and commercial relations between India and Spain, Spain is India’s 8th-largest trade partner in Europe. Spain’s top exports to India are Mechanical appliances, electrical machinery, chemicals, plastics, and mineral fuels. Spain’s major imports are textiles, organic chemicals, iron and steel, Madrid seafood, automobiles, and leather. It is the 15th largest investor in India, with a cumulative FDI stock of US$ 3.439 billion (April 2000- March 2021).
- Cultural and academic relations : An essential element of bilateral relations between Spain and India is cultural interaction. Ten scholarships are available each year for Spanish students to study in India, and ICCR also sponsors cultural groups visiting Spain. For the first time, in 2021, the Principality of Andorra will receive four scholarships from ICCR. In 2003, the ICCR, University of Valladolid, and City of Valladolid established Casa de la India, a PPP partnership, to serve as a hub for the cultural, educational, cooperative, and business promotion of India in Spain.
- Indian Community: The proportion of Indian immigrants in Spain’s immigrant population is negligible. The Indian Diaspora is the third largest group of Asian communities. The first Indian residents in the Canary Islands were Sindhis, who left the subcontinent toward the close of the 1800s. In the 1950s and 1960s, a large number of people traveled to Spain from Africa, while others came directly from India. The population of Spanish residents of Indian descent increased from 9000 in 2001 to 54387 in 2020, according to the Spanish National Statistics Institute, or INE.
The diplomatic ties between the two countries have strengthened over the years through high-level visits, cultural exchanges, and collaborations in areas such as trade, investment, defense, and technology. Both nations work closely within the framework of international organizations like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization to address global challenges and promote peace and security. The bilateral relationship continues to thrive, marked by a commitment to deepen economic, political, and cultural ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.
Why to apply for Spain Study Visa
Spain is one of the best countries in the world that provides quality education to international students. It has many world-recognized universities or colleges with diverse course or program options and offers multiple degrees for international students. If you want to study in Spain and are from a non-EU nation, you must apply for a study visa. Once you get the confirmation letter from the Spanish university you have applied for, then you can apply for a Spain study visa. So, achieve your dream of studying in Spain’s top universities or colleges by applying for a study visa. Usually, there are two types of Spanish student visas:
- Type C Visas are needed for short-term, like 90 to 180 days.
- Type D Visas are required for long-term more than 180 days.
List of the Top Universities in Spain
Here is a comprehensive list of the top-notch universities in Spain with rankings:
S.No. | The University of Spain | Ranking in Spain | QS Ranking 2024 |
1 | University of Barcelona | 1 | 152 |
2 | Autonomous University of Barcelona | =2 | 201-250 |
3 | Pompeu Fabra University | =2 | 201-250 |
4 | University of Navarra | 4 | 301-350 |
5 | Autonomous University of Madrid | =5 | 351-400 |
6 | Polytechnic University of Catalonia | =5 | 351-400 |
7 | Polytechnic University of Valencia | =6 | 450-501 |
8 | Complutense University of Madrid | =6 | 501-600 |
9 | University of Granada | =6 | 501-600 |
10 | Rovira i Virgii University | =6 | 501-600 |
11 | University of Valencia | =6 | 501-600 |
Cost of Study and Living in Spain
The cost of study in Spain for international students depends on the university or college, course or program, and place they choose. Spain’s public universities are cheaper than private universities.- Public Universities
| Course or Program | Fees ( in Euro) | Fees (INR) |
| Undergraduate | 750- 2,500 Euro | Rs. 67,412 to Rs. 2,24,742 |
| Postgraduate | 1,000-3,500 Euro | Rs. 89,897 to Rs. 3,14,639 |
- Private Universities
| Type of University | Fees (in Euro) | Fees (INR) |
| Private University | 20,000 Euro | Rs. 17,97,640 yearly |
| Business University | 25,000 Euro | Rs. 22,47,050 yearly |
| MBA | 30,000 Euro | Rs. 26,96,460 yearly |
| City | The average cost of living in Spain per month (in Euro) | The average cost of living in Spain per month (INR) |
| Barcelona | 735- 1,870 Euro | Rs. 66,102 to Rs. 1,68,163 |
| Madrid | 800- 1,500 Euro | Rs. 71,941 to Rs. 1,34, 901 |
| Valencia | 600- 1380 Euro | Rs. 53,960 to Rs. 1,24,109 |
| Seville | 600- 1,300 Euro | Rs. 53,960 to Rs. 1,16,914 |
Best courses to study in Spain
Spain has 76 universities- 45 public universities and 31 private universities. These universities in Spain offer a wide range of courses or programs for international students. Some of the top courses are mentioned below:
Law
- Complutense University of Madrid
- University of Barcelona
- Pompeu Fabra University
- University of Navarra
- University of Valencia
STEM ( Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
Best universities for STEM courses in Spain:
- Polytechnic University of Catalonia
- Polytechnic University of Madrid
- University of Barcelona
- Polytechnic University of Valencia
- University of Seville
Hospitality Management
Best universities for hospitality management courses in Spain:
- European University of Madrid
- UCAM Universidad Catolica San Antonio de Murcia
- University College of Hotel Management and Culinary Arts
- EU Business School
- ESEI International Business School
Computer Science and Information Technology
Best universities for computer science and information technology courses in Spain:
- University Carlos III de Mardid
- Polytechnic University of Catalonia
- University of Barcelona
- Polytechnic University of Valencia
- University of Granada
Art and Humanities
Best universities for art and humanities courses in Spain:
- Pompeu Fabra University
- University of Basque Country
- University of Granada
- Autonomous University of Barcelona
- University of Valencia
Marketing and Finance
Best universities for marketing and finance courses in Spain:
- ESIC School of Business and Marketing Management
- Pompeu Fabra University
- Marbella International University Centre
- Polytechnic University of Cartagena
- EU Business School Spain
Natural Science
Best universities for natural science courses in Spain:
- University of Valencia
- University of Barcelona
- Pompeu Fabra University
- Autonomous University of Barcelona
- Complutense University of Madrid
Spanish Language
Best universities for Spanish language courses in Spain:
- University of Salamanca
- University of Barcelona
- University of Malaga
- University of Alicante
- University of Santiago de Compostela
Spain Student Visa Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a student visa to Spain, applicants must provide proof of enrollment in an accredited educational institution, such as a university or language school. They must demonstrate financial stability to cover living expenses and tuition fees during their stay. Additionally, applicants must show adequate health insurance coverage and a clean criminal record. Proficiency in the language of instruction may be required depending on the course or program. Applicants must also submit a completed visa application form and passport-sized photographs and pay the relevant fees. Meeting these criteria ensures eligibility for a student visa to study in Spain.
Documents required to apply for a Spanish Study Visa
If you are applying for a Spanish study visa, you need to submit all the relevant documents required for the visa application process. It is very important to provide all the documents, as it can enhance the chances of getting approval from the embassy or consulate of Spain. You need the following documents to apply for a Spanish study visa:- Visa application form along with all necessary documents.
- Acceptance letter from a Spanish University.
- Supporting academic documents of previous studies.
- 2 passport-size photographs
- Copies of Travel and health insurance policy.
- Certificate to prove no criminal record.
- Documents to prove financial stability
- Medical certificates
- Valid passport and photocopy of the pages that contain biometric data, previous visas from different countries, and migration certificates.
- Payment receipt of the Spain study visa.
Benefits of Studying in Spain
Spain is an ideal place to study for international students. You can get lots of benefits by studying in Spain. If you are studying in Spain, you can experience its rich culture, taste and enjoy its world-renowned cuisine and food culture, and enjoy the mild Mediterranean climate of Spain. You can visit Spain’s diverse and vibrant cities and travel and explore other European countries while studying there, as it is a part of the European Union. Spain’s world-recognized universities offer high-quality education and research opportunities. Compared to the USA and other European countries, tuition fees and living expenses are affordable in Spain. You can get a post-study work permit in Spain, as well as do part-time work while you study in Spain. During your stay in Spain, you have lots of opportunities to learn the Spanish language.
How to apply for a Spain Student Visa
Being a part of the Schengen countries, Spain become a popular destination for getting higher studies. Every year, many international students apply for the Spain student visa. Are you also applying for a Spain student visa and don’t know how to apply for it? If you are applying for a Spain student visa, first, you need to check your eligibility to apply for the Spain visa. Second, you must prepare all the documents required for the visa process. Third, you need to write a personalized and convincing statement of purpose for a Spain student visa. Fourth, you need to apply for a visa to Spain online, as well as you can also visit the embassy of Spain in India. Fifth, wait for the approval of your study visa from the immigration officials of Spain. At last, after getting approval, you just need to fly to Spain for your higher studies.
SOP for Spain Student Visa Application
To get approval from immigration officials of Spain, a student needs to write an SOP for Spain student visa application. A Statement of Purpose (SOP) for a Spain student visa is a personalized letter written to the embassy or consulate of Spain that shows the student’s intent to visit Spain. It helps Spain’s immigration officials to understand the student’s purpose and motive to visit Spain, personal and professional background, financial stability, and intention to return to the home country. It should be concise, clear, and adhere to the guidelines of the embassy or consulate of Spain.
Other Types of Spanish Visas in Demand
Apart from Spanish student visas, there are also other types of Spanish visas in demand, such as
- Tourist Visa for Spain
- Visitor Visa for Spain
- Business/ Work Visa for Spain
- Employment Visa for Spain
- Spouse Visa for Spain
- Dependent Visa for Spain
Benefits of a Long-Stay Visa for Higher Education in Spain
If you are applying for a long-stay (type D) visa for higher education in Spain, you can get lots of benefits from it. You can stay longer than three months in Spain and can work part-time while studying there. You don’t need to return to your home country to renew your study visa to stay longer in Spain, as it can easily renewed from there after a year if you want to stay long. In a period of up to one year, you can conduct research in Spain if you have a type D visa. You can easily get a work permit after completing your studies. Also, you can easily travel and explore other countries of the European Union or Schengen area.
Insights on Visa Application Success Rates for Spain in 2024
In 2024, the student visa for Spain approval success rate is 97% (approx.). Many factors can influence the success of a student visa application for Spain.
- Documentation: Providing accurate and complete documentation is crucial for a successful visa application. This typically includes proof of acceptance to a recognized educational institution in Spain, evidence of financial means to support oneself during the stay, health insurance coverage, and a clean criminal record, among other requirements.
- Financial Stability: Spanish authorities usually require proof that the applicant has sufficient funds to cover living expenses and tuition fees while studying in Spain. Demonstrate it through bank statements, scholarship awards, or financial guarantees.
- Health Insurance: A valid health insurance policy is mandatory for obtaining a student visa in Spain. This ensures that the applicant has access to necessary healthcare services during their stay in the country.
- Clear Intentions: Applicants need to convincingly demonstrate their genuine intention to study in Spain and return to their home country upon completion of their studies. This can be shown through a well-articulated statement of purpose and plans.
- Language Proficiency: Depending on the language of instruction of the chosen program, applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency in Spanish or another language. Providing language proficiency test scores, such as those for DELE (Diploma in Spanish as a Foreign Language), may strengthen the application.
- Background Checks: Applicants must provide documentation proving they have no criminal record. Any past legal issues could potentially hinder the approval of the visa application.
- Consular Interview: In some cases, applicants may need to attend an interview at the Spanish consulate or embassy in their home country. This interview allows consular officers to assess the applicant’s intentions, credibility, and eligibility for the visa.
Common Reasons for Spain Student Visa Rejection
There are some common reasons why Spain student visa applications get rejected. These reasons can include:
- Incomplete Documentation: Failure to submit all required documents or providing incomplete information can lead to visa rejection. Ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork in order and that it meets the requirements outlined by the Spanish consulate or embassy.
- Insufficient Financial Means: You need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs during your stay in Spain. If your financial documentation is inadequate or unclear, then your study visa for Spain might get rejected.
- Lack of Proof of Accommodation: You’ll typically need to provide evidence of where you’ll be staying during your time in Spain, whether it’s a dormitory, rented apartment, or with a host family. Not having a confirmed place of accommodation can lead to visa rejection.
- Invalid Travel Medical Insurance: Spain usually requires students to have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay. If your insurance policy doesn’t meet the specified requirements, then your Spain student visa may be rejected.
- Failure to Meet Health Requirements: Some countries require medical examinations to ensure that applicants do not pose a health risk. Failing to meet health requirements, such as mandatory vaccinations, can result in visa rejection.
- Criminal Record: If you have a criminal record, especially for serious offenses, it may affect your eligibility for a student visa. Each case is evaluated individually, but certain criminal convictions can lead to visa denial.
- Lack of Genuine Intentions: Visa officers assess whether applicants genuinely intend to study in Spain or if they may have other intentions, such as working illegally or overstaying their visa. Inconsistencies in your application or during the interview process can raise doubts about your intentions.
- Previous Visa Violations: If you’ve violated visa regulations in the past, such as overstaying a previous visa or being deported from a country, this may negatively impact your current visa application.
- Political or Diplomatic Reasons: Occasionally, visa rejections can be influenced by political tensions or diplomatic issues between countries, although this is less common and typically beyond the applicant’s control.
What to do after getting a Spain Student Visa Refusal
As we discussed above, there are many reasons for a Spain student visa refusal. Many students think about what to do after getting a Spain student visa refusal. So, you need to understand why it was rejected and then re-apply for it. you need to appeal within one month from the date of the rejection. You must write your appeal letter in Spanish or English. The appeal letter for a Spain student visa refusal must include the following information:
- The applicants must include their details, including name, surname, date of birth, NIE or passport number, current address, phone number, and email address.
- The rejection date, like when they received a rejection letter for their Spain student visa and when it was dated.
- A proper reason for rejection and tell why you feel the decision to reject their Spain student visa application was inappropriate. Also, you need to provide convincing arguments for the reasons.
- Signature of the applicant at the end of the appeal letter.
To get approval after getting a Spain student visa refusal, students must write the appeal letter carefully.
Source: Embassy of Spain in India
Conclusion
Getting a Spanish Study Visa becomes difficult if you are not aware of the process and the documents that you need to submit. Statement of Purpose for Spain Student Visa is a crucial document that informs the Visa Officer about your purpose to visit Spain. If you fail to make your case convincing enough then your Study Visa for Spain will get rejected. To avoid this complexity, you must hire Professional SOP writers who can provide you with a well-written Visa SOP for Spain Student Visa. We, at SOP Pro have been providing the best SOP Writing Services for more than 12+ years. You can get in touch with our team, avail our services and fulfill your dream of studying in Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Spain Student Visa
1. What is a Spain Student Visa?
A Spain student visa is a government-issued immigration document required to travel to Spain for study purposes.
2. What is an SOP for a Spain student visa?
An SOP for a Spain student visa is a vital document written by a student to the embassy or consulate of Spain for the visa application process.
3. Is Spain accepting student visas? What is the success rate for Spain student visa approval?
Yes, Spain is accepting the student visa. As of 2024, the success rate for Spain student visa approval is approx. 97%.
4. Can I re-apply after getting a student visa refusal for Spain?
Yes, you can re-apply after getting a refusal for your Spain student visa.
5. Is a part-time work option available for international students studying in Spain?
Yes, a part-time work option is available for international students studying in Spain. Students need to apply for a type D (long-term) visa to work part-time while studying in Spain.
6. What are the popular courses in Spain?
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), Law, Computer Science, and Spanish language are the most popular courses in Spain.
7. Name the top 5 Spanish universities according to the QS World University Rankings.
According to the QS World University Rankings, here is the list of top 5 Spanish universities:
- Autonomous University of Barcelona
- University of Barcelona
- Complutense University of Madrid
- Autonomous University of Madrid
- University of Navarra
7. Are studying and living expenses in Spain affordable for Indian students?
Compared to other European countries, the study and living expenses in Spain are less expensive. So, you can opt for Spain for your higher studies.
8. Can I travel to other European countries on a short-term visa for Spain?
No, you can not travel to other European countries with a short-term (type C) visa for Spain. If you want to travel to other European countries on your Spain student visa, you must apply for a type D (long-term) visa for Spain.
9. What are the names of other European countries I can travel to on my Spain student visa?
The names of other European countries on which you can travel with your Spain student visa are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden and Switzerland.
