Guides · English-taught programmes · Study in Spain

English-taught master's in Spain: costs and options

4 min read · 2026-10-21

Spain has many master's programmes taught partly or fully in English, but they are not everywhere and not in every field. The best choices are often in business, engineering, data, computer science, international relations, tourism, and some science programmes. Always check the university's admissions page, because language, tuition, and entry rules can change by programme.

How common are English-taught master's in Spain?

English-taught master's programmes are fairly common in Spain at the postgraduate level, especially in bigger universities and international schools. You will find more options in large cities and in universities that recruit international students.

  • Business and management
  • Computer science and data
  • Engineering and technology
  • Economics and finance
  • International relations and policy
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Some natural science and health-related fields

In some subjects, the whole programme is in English. In others, only some modules are in English. Read the programme page carefully before you apply.

Typical tuition for EU and non-EU students

Tuition in Spain varies a lot. Public universities usually charge less than private universities. The exact fee depends on the region, the university, the number of credits, and whether the programme is official or a university-specific master's.

As a rough guide, public university master's tuition is often in the low to moderate range by European standards. Private universities and business schools can cost much more.

  • Public universities: often several hundred to a few thousand euros per year, but this varies by region and programme.
  • Private universities and business schools: often several thousand euros, and sometimes much more.
  • EU and non-EU students: some universities charge the same fee, while others charge different rates or add extra administrative costs.

Do not rely on general internet advice for the price. Check the university's official fee page for the exact programme. If the programme is official, the university usually explains whether fees differ for EU, EEA, Swiss, and non-EU students.

Language requirements

If a master's is taught in English, universities usually ask for proof of English. The most common tests are IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge exams, but some universities accept other proof too.

  • Previous degree taught in English
  • Official English test score
  • University interview or internal assessment
  • Sometimes no test, if you studied in an English-speaking system

There is no single national rule. Each university sets its own minimum level. Some programmes may also ask for basic Spanish if you will do an internship, research placement, or student services work in Spanish.

Check both the programme page and the university language policy. If you are close to the minimum, ask admissions whether they accept alternative proof before you spend money on a test.

Entry requirements and documents

Most English-taught master's in Spain ask for a recognised bachelor's degree and a complete application file. Some programmes are open to all subjects, while others want a related degree.

  • Passport or ID
  • Bachelor's degree certificate
  • Transcript of records
  • CV
  • Motivation letter
  • English proof
  • References, if requested
  • Portfolio or work samples, for some creative fields

If your documents are not in Spanish or English, the university may ask for official translations. Some programmes also want legalisation or an apostille. The admissions page should say exactly what they accept.

How to find the right programmes

Start with the official university websites. Search for words like "master's in English", "taught in English", or "English track". You can also search by field first and then filter by language.

  • University admissions pages
  • Programme pages from the faculty or school
  • Official Spanish university portals, where available
  • Scholarship pages, if you need funding

Make a short list of programmes that fit your background, budget, and language level. Compare the teaching language, fee structure, internship options, and admission calendar. Do not assume every programme with an English name is fully taught in English.

How to approach universities

First, read the programme page and check if the university wants you to apply through a central portal or directly to the faculty. Some universities answer questions by email before the application opens.

When you contact admissions, keep your message short. Say who you are, what degree you have, and which programme you want. Attach only what they ask for.

  • Your full name
  • Degree and university
  • Programme name
  • Your English level
  • One clear question

If you want a scholarship or fee waiver, check the scholarship's own site. Funding rules are separate from admission rules, and deadlines can be earlier than the university deadline.

Common questions

Do I need Spanish for an English-taught master's in Spain?

Not always. Many programmes only require English. But some universities still recommend basic Spanish for daily life, and a few courses or internships may use Spanish.

Are English-taught master's cheaper for EU students?

Sometimes, but not always. Public universities often have lower fees overall. Some institutions charge different rates for EU and non-EU students, so always check the official fee page for your programme.

Can I apply if my bachelor's was not in the same subject?

Maybe. It depends on the programme. Some master's accept students from different backgrounds, while others want a closely related degree. The university's admissions page will say what is allowed.

How Eduuro helps

Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.

You stay in control, and you can compare interest from different universities without applying for anyone through Eduuro.

Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.

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