Study in Spain as a foreigner
Before explaining the process, you should know that in order to study at universities in Spain you must meet a series of requirements. The main thing is that you know that There are 2 types of universities: public and privatePublic universities are cheaper, and there are more than 50 to choose from. 80% of Spanish students choose this option. Private universities are more expensive, but they have recently become more popular, given the personalisation of their services and facilities. Currently, there will be 40 private universities. The best option will depend mainly on the degree to be studied and the economic factor.
Requirements for public universities
- Homologate high school
- Present the PCE tests and obtain an admission grade higher than the cut-off grade for the degree you wish to access.
Requirements of private universities
- Homologate high school.
- Overcoming, in some cases, one's own tests.
Preliminary steps to start the process
- Know the reasons why you want to finish your studies in Spain. It is important to be aware of this, since, as always, you have to consider the advantages and disadvantages.
- Find the destination university and contact it to find out the requirements and timeframes they need.
- Know the city where you will be staying, since university life is only a part of everyday life. You have to know the social and economic side.
Once these steps have been checked, we count the possible situations that may arise.
How to validate university studies in Spain?
There are 3 ways to access Spanish university studies with studies started in another country.
1. Validation of university credits
In this case, the host university, after evaluating the student's academic record and looking at the Study Plan of the home university, determines that the student can access the chosen studies. They may fully or partially validate the university credits that have been obtained. Here we indicate the UCM processes and requirements, the largest public university in Spain.
Advantages
- Access without exam.
- Continuation of the university degree partially or completely from where it was completed in the country of origin.
Drawbacks
- Reserved places. Only 1% of places are available this way.
- Spanish students who change universities or majors are given more weight, while foreign students are relegated.
2. Access with exam
This case is about accessing universities by exam, that is, without taking into account the studies already started and starting the studies from the first year. This option is for public universities. For private universities, it is a matter of paying for the first course. It is aimed at those who have been studying for a short time (one or two years maximum).
Advantages
- Safe way to access universities.
- Equal conditions between Spaniards and foreigners.
Drawbacks
- Everything previously studied is abandoned.
3. Access with an exam and validate studies
This is the best way, since we use both the previous options. It is about applying as if you had finished high school and waiting for a decision on full or partial validation.
Advantages
- Greater security when it comes to guaranteeing university access and being able to take into account what was studied in the country of origin.
Drawbacks
- Validation can take a long time, and the decision may be received when the student is already at the same level as in the country of origin.
- Requires homologation of high school studies.
Other options to study in Spain
- Access to those over 25 years of age. This way is very optimal if you are over 25 years old. With simpler tests than the PCE Selectividad you can access, without the need to homologate or have previous studies. If this is the chosen option, we recommend M25 Academy for the preparation of studies.
- Higher Degree. This study is less than a university study, but it currently enjoys a good reputation and in just 2 years you can obtain a higher degree. You can see the differences with a university degree In the post of our colleagues from PCE School. No prior studies or exams required (only high school).
