Studying finance in Spain is possible at bachelor and master level. You can apply to programmes taught in Spanish or English. The guide below shows what you need to know before you start.
Levels of study
Spanish universities offer two main stages for finance:
- Bachelor (Grado) - usually three years. You earn a Bachelor of Science in Finance or Business Administration.
- Master (Máster) - typically one to two years. Options include Master in Finance, Financial Engineering or MSc in International Finance.
Entry requirements
Requirements differ for EU and non‑EU applicants, but the core elements are similar.
- Secondary school certificate (high school diploma) for bachelor programmes. Check the university’s admissions page for grade equivalents.
- Relevant bachelor degree for master programmes. A degree in economics, business or a related field is typical.
- Proof of language proficiency. For Spanish‑taught courses, DELE B2 or equivalent. For English‑taught courses, IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80.
- Official transcript, passport copy and a personal statement.
- Some programmes request a CV or letters of recommendation.
English‑taught programmes
Many Spanish universities run finance programmes completely in English. This is useful if you do not speak Spanish.
- Check the university’s international section for a list of English‑taught finance degrees.
- Typical entry score: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80. Some schools accept Cambridge English C1.
- Courses follow the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) - 60 credits per year.
- Programmes are accredited by the Spanish Ministry of Education, so the degree is recognised across the EU.
Tuition fees
Fees vary by university, programme and your residency status. Use the university’s fee schedule as the official source.
- EU students - typically €1,000 to €3,500 per year for bachelor programmes.
- Non‑EU students - typically €4,000 to €9,000 per year for bachelor programmes.
- Master programmes are usually higher: €2,500 to €5,000 per year for EU students, €6,000 to €12,000 per year for non‑EU students.
- Some public universities offer reduced fees for students with a scholarship or a work‑study agreement. Check the scholarship’s own site for eligibility.
- All tuition amounts are indicative. Always verify the exact amount on the programme page of the university you choose.
Living costs
Cost of living depends on the city. Madrid and Barcelona are the most expensive; smaller towns are cheaper.
- Accommodation - €300‑€600 per month for a shared flat in a big city; €200‑€400 in smaller cities.
- Food - €150‑€250 per month if you cook at home.
- Transport - €30‑€50 per month for a public transport pass.
- Books and study material - €100‑€200 per year.
- Health insurance - EU students can use the European Health Insurance Card; non‑EU students need private insurance, typically €40‑€70 per month.
Application timeline
Most Spanish universities follow a two‑round admission cycle. Plan ahead to avoid rush.
- January‑February - application opening for the autumn intake (September). Submit documents to the university’s online portal.
- April‑May - first round results. If you receive an offer, you can accept and start visa procedures.
- July‑August - second round for remaining spots. Late applications are possible but limited.
- June‑July - for summer intake (rare for finance programmes). Check the specific programme page.
- Always confirm dates on the Spanish Ministry of Education portal or the university’s admissions page.
Common questions
Do I need a student visa for Spain?
Yes, if you are not an EU citizen. After you receive an official admission letter, apply for a student visa at the Spanish consulate in your country. The consulate website gives the exact document list.
Can I work while studying finance?
EU students can work without a special permit. Non‑EU students may work up to 20 hours per week after registering with the local authorities. Check the immigration authority’s guidelines for exact rules.
Are scholarships available for finance students?
Many universities offer merit‑based scholarships for both EU and non‑EU students. The scholarship’s own site lists the amount, eligibility and application deadline. Apply early, as funds are limited.
How Eduuro helps
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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.