Quick Guide to University Application in Spain

Spain is one of the world’s most popular study destinations. Wondering why students choose Spain? 

Aside from its relatively low cost of living and tuition fees in Europe, the country is also home to world-class universities with some even dating back to the 12th century. 

Moreover, before you can start enjoying the benefits of studying in Spain, first, you need to consider its application process. 

To help, here’s a quick guide to university applications in Spain.

An Overview of Spain’s Application System 

Before you go through Spain’s application process, note that the processes of applying for a bachelor’s course may differ between EU students and non-EU students. 

EU Students

EU students can apply to Spain’s universities by going through the Spanish National University for Distance Education (SNUDE). Application for EU students usually starts in April. 

As part of the requirement needed, EU students may have to pass the following requirements: 

• Copy of their valid passport
• Secondary education leaving certificate (or the equivalent of it), or
• Their school or identity card

Students who have successfully applied will receive a Credencial de Acceso (given within three months), which they need to access education in the university of their choice. 

Non-EU Students

Non-EU students cannot go through the SNUDE. Instead, they have to go through the Spanish Embassy located in their home country. 

To apply to a Spanish University, non-EU students need the following: 

• Volante Accreditation – after getting their leaving certificate, or high school diploma, they need to get it validated through a Spanish Embassy first. 
• Pass the Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad – it is a Spanish entrance exam that students can take from their home country. 

Moreover, the Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad , also known as selectividad, consists of four components: 

• Text Analysis
• Questions on Spanish History of Philosophy
• Foreign Language
• The student’s chosen subject (the Arts, Dance and Music, Science, and so on). 

Postgraduate Student Application 

When applying for a postgraduate degree, applicants should directly go to the university’s website. Each university has its own requirements and procedures that applicants can follow, including deadlines and other important dates. 

Moreover, here are some of the most common requirements that postgraduate applicants should pass: 

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• A copy of their valid passport
• Copy of transcripts 

Other documents you may have to prepare, especially when applying for a study visa include the following: 

• Proof of acceptance from a Spanish University 
• Complete application form 
• Photo ID
• Birth Certificate
• Proof of healthcare insurance 
• Proof of finances and your planned budget for your stay in Spain

Remember that the documents should be submitted in Spanish, so, don’t forget to have them translated by official translators first. 

After preparing the needed documents, and getting the needed certificates to continue with your university application in Spain the next step is to wait for your chosen university’s decision. While waiting, and in case you need financial assistance to pursue Spanish education, you can also check out various scholarships that international students are eligible to apply for. 

If you want to learn more about Spain as a study destination, including practical tips and information about studying and living in the country, check out our articles at MSM Unify. If you need help with starting your journey as an international student in Spain, check our list of study programs and institutions now.