Student Life in Spain

Studying in Spain is an unforgettable experience — full of opportunities to grow, learn, and meet people from all over the world.

This section gathers essential resources for Azerbaijani students and international friends who plan to study, live, or continue their education in Barcelona or other Spanish cities.

Whether you’re preparing to move to Spain or already living here — you’ll find practical information to help you navigate university life, legal paperwork, housing, scholarships, and everyday student life.

Housing & Accommodation

Finding the right place to live is one of the first and most important steps in your life in Spain.

Students have several options to choose from:

• University residences (residencias de estudiantes) — usually close to campus, including meals and student community activities.

• Shared apartments (pisos compartidos) — ideal for those who prefer independence and a more local lifestyle.

• Host families (familias de acogida) — a great way to practice Spanish and experience local culture firsthand.

🖇️ Recommended websites:
Idealista, Spotahome, Badi, HousingAnywhere

NIE Registration & Legal Documents

Every international student in Spain must obtain a NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) — a foreign identification number required for renting, banking, and accessing healthcare.
You’ll also need to register at your local city hall (padrón municipal) once you have a fixed address.

🖇️ Official links:
• Spanish Immigration Portal
• Barcelona City Hall – Padrón Registration

Main Universities in Spain

Spain is home to some of the world’s most prestigious and historic universities. Here are some of the most recognized ones:

In Barcelona:

• University of Barcelona (UB) – One of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious universities. ub.edu

• Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) – Known for economics, law, and communication. upf.edu

• Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) – Strong in science, humanities, and social sciences. uab.cat

• Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) – Specialized in engineering, architecture, and technology. upc.edu

In Madrid:

• Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) – One of Europe’s largest universities, known for arts, law, and medicine. ucm.es

• Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) – Highly regarded for science and research. uam.es

• Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M) – Recognized for business, law, and international programs. uc3m.es

• Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) – A leading institution in engineering and technology. upm.es

In Other Cities:

• University of Valencia (UV) – Renowned for humanities, health, and marine sciences. uv.es

• University of Granada (UGR) – Very popular among Erasmus students; strong in computer science and translation. ugr.es

• University of Seville (US) – One of Spain’s oldest universities, famous for its vibrant student life. us.es

• University of Salamanca (USAL) – Founded in 1218, one of Europe’s oldest universities, known for language and literature. usal.es

Scholarships & Financial Support

Spain offers many scholarship and financial aid opportunities for international students. These programs aim to support living and tuition costs while encouraging academic and professional development.

Main Scholarship Programs

• MAEC-AECID Scholarships (Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
  For international students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral studies in Spain. Covers tuition and part of living expenses.
  🔗 aecid.gob.es

• Erasmus+ Mobility Grants
  The EU’s Erasmus+ program allows students to study or complete internships at partner universities in Europe for one or two semesters. Grants cover travel and living expenses.
  🔗 erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu

• Spanish University Scholarships
  Many universities offer internal scholarships or reduced tuition for students. Check the “Becas y Ayudas” section on each university’s website.
  

Other Scholarship Opportunities

• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) – International master’s programs funded across European universities.

• Santander Universities Scholarships – Academic programs and internships for students from Latin America and Europe.

• Fundación Carolina Scholarships – Aimed at strengthening academic ties between Spain and Latin America.
  🔗 fundacioncarolina.es

Additional Tips

• Students should also check regional or municipal scholarship programs (e.g., those offered by Generalitat de Catalunya).

• Applications usually require academic transcripts, a motivation letter, and language certificates (DELE, IELTS, etc.).

• Apply early — most scholarship deadlines are between January and March.

If you need guidance on applying for scholarships in Spain, the ASB & Casa Azerbaiyán team can help you with orientation and support.

Student Life Tips

Student life in Spain goes far beyond the classroom — it’s a chance to make new friends, discover cultures, and grow personally. Here are some practical tips to help you settle into your student life in Barcelona or anywhere in Spain.

Transport & Mobility

• Get a T-Jove card — it offers huge discounts for students under 25 on metro, bus, and train travel. You can get it from TMB (Barcelona Transport Metropolità) or FGC stations.
  🔗 tmb.cat

• Use apps like Citymapper and Moovit to plan your daily routes easily.

University Life & Clubs

• Join student clubs and associations at your university — it’s the best way to make friends and expand your academic and social network.

• Popular options include sports teams, music groups, photography clubs, and international associations (ESN, AEGEE, etc.)

Discounts & Entertainment

• Take advantage of student discounts at museums, cinemas, restaurants, and public transport. Many places accept the “Carné Joven Europeo” (European Youth Card) for extra savings.

• Barcelona hosts cultural events, concerts, festivals, and exhibitions almost every week — a great way to explore the city and meet people.

Language & Culture

• Learn at least basic Spanish (or Catalan) — it will help you in daily life and with administrative tasks.

• For free or low-cost courses, check out Consorci per a la Normalització Lingüística centers.
  🔗 cpnl.cat

Health & Lifestyle

• Join your university gym or take part in open-air activities (football, yoga, cycling, jogging, etc.).

• Buy fresh produce from local markets — it’s both healthier and cheaper.

Final Note

Student life is not just about studying — community involvement, volunteering, and international friendships will enrich your entire experience.
In Spain, student life isn’t just education — it’s a lifelong experience!