Higher education is fairly straightforward in Spain
There are basically two types of Spanish universities: state-run and private. Most have embraced the Bologna Process – also called the Bologna Accord – which seeks to standardize higher-education degrees for all member countries. Hence, a degree obtained in Spain is automatically recognized in 46 countries around the globe, including the European Union, Turkey, and Russia. It also means that some universities now teach entire degrees in English, offering international students an alternative to the more traditional education.
The Bologna Process has transformed the higher-education landscape of Spain, which now comprises the following:
- Grado: Bachelors, usually completed in four years. These Bachelor degrees tend to be longer than the traditional BA or BSc in Europe because they often include a compulsory year abroad.
- Master: Masters Degrees, completed in one year.
- Doctorado: PhD, completed in two years.
This would be the official path followed by a student who undergoes his or her entire higher education in Spain. Additionally, many of these courses offer exchange programs, ranging from a semester to a full year.
Choosing the right qualification and selecting the appropriate university is therefore extremely important, as many degrees (architecture, business, law) are taught differently depending on the university. Spain's El Mundo newspaper publishes a ranking of universities each year that can be helpful in reaching a final decision.
So, you want to study your degree in Spanish
Before choosing this path, prospective students must determine whether their Spanish language skills are strong enough. Most universities include their own Spanish language test as an entrance requirement. Nevertheless, passing the DELE exam with a good grade usually exempts you from going through a Spanish exam at every university you apply for. The DELE exam is a recognized language test that determines if you have a beginner, intermediate, or advanced level in Spanish.
A big step towards your future career
Studying in Spain will open many doors, bringing great career opportunities. It is one of the fastest-growing countries in Europe, and a large number of Spanish multinationals, like BBVA, Banco Santander, Zara or Massimo Duti, are leaders in their respective sectors.
Spanish business schools have moved in lockstep with Spain's emergence as a leading European country, to the point that three of them (IE, IESE, ESADE) now figure among the world's top ten schools in some international rankings. Furthermore, over half a billion people speak Spanish, making it the second most used language in today´s business environment.
Thanks to its geographical position and history, Spain has a strong influence in Europe and Africa and plays a major role in Latin America. The direct consequence of this is that Spanish employers are eager for employees with international profiles, to keep pace with global business developments.
Student life in Spain
In comparison with other European countries, living costs in Spain are low. Food is relatively cheap and the night life Spain is famous for its affordability. Accommodation, on the other hand, can be tricky. A one-room apartment may cost you between 500€ to 1000€ per month, depending on the city, and campus accommodation rates range from €350 to €850.
Flat-sharing remains the best option. Not only is it cheaper, but it is a chance to meet people from around the world. Averaging between €200 to €300 per month (€400 max with all gas/electricity bills) flat-sharing is the best option for any student's budget. Just like in the film L´Auberge Espagnole, you will learn from your flat mates, share many memorable moments, and build an extensive network of lifelong friends.
It is no secret that Spain is a European hub for student exchanges and an attractive destination. The experience is unique and exciting. Some universities have adapted their learning processes to meet the needs of their multicultural students, delivering a truly international education.
Spain's key cities have all the facilities a student could need, and the Spanish approach to life is guaranteed to maximize every student´s social life. Last but not least, the business environment offers excellent career opportunities.
Contributed by:
IE University, Madrid
www.ie.edu
