Bilbao is one of the most interesting student cities in northern Spain. It is smaller than Madrid or Barcelona, but it has a strong university scene, a modern public transport system, and a mix of city life and green space. If you want to study there, check each university's official admissions page for the latest programmes, language rules and dates.
Universities and colleges in Bilbao
Bilbao is best known for the University of the Basque Country - usually called UPV/EHU - which is the main public university in the city and the region. It offers a wide range of subjects, from engineering and science to business, health and social sciences.
There are also private and specialist options in and around the city. These can focus more on business, design, digital fields, or professional study paths. A few programmes are taught partly or fully in English, but many are still in Spanish or Basque.
- UPV/EHU - broad public university, many subject areas
- Private business and specialist schools - often smaller, more focused, and sometimes more international
- Research and professional institutes - useful for master's and postgraduate study
What each place is known for changes by faculty and course. Always check the university's own programme page, not only the general homepage.
English-taught study and language
In Bilbao, you can find some English-taught courses, especially at master's level and in internationalised programmes. At undergraduate level, English options are usually more limited. Many courses still expect Spanish, and in some cases Basque may also matter.
Before you apply, check:
- the language of instruction
- the minimum English level, if the course is in English
- whether Spanish is needed for classes, exams or work placements
- if the university accepts a language certificate or its own test
If you are not yet ready for full study in Spanish, look for preparatory language courses or exchange-style options. The university admissions office can tell you what is realistic for your level.
Living costs and rent
Bilbao is often more expensive than many smaller Spanish cities, but usually cheaper than the most costly parts of Madrid or Barcelona. Your budget depends a lot on where you live, whether you share a flat, and how much you spend on food and social life.
Typical monthly costs for a student may include:
- Rent - usually the biggest cost, especially in central areas
- Utilities and internet - often shared if you rent a room in a flat
- Food - can be managed with supermarket shopping and student meals
- Transport - often lower if you use student passes or local cards
For rent, student rooms and shared flats are usually the most common choice. Prices change by neighbourhood, size, and whether bills are included. The safest way to check the current range is to compare university housing pages, student residence sites, and local housing platforms.
Student housing options
In Bilbao, you will usually see three main housing choices: university residence, shared flat, or a room in a private home. University residences can be convenient, especially for your first term, but places may be limited. Shared flats are very common and can give you more independence.
- University residence - often easier for your first months
- Shared flat - common for longer stays and lower costs per person
- Private room - useful if you want a quieter setup
Before you sign anything, check the contract length, deposit, bills, and cancellation rules. If you are moving from another country, do not pay money to a landlord or agency without a proper contract and proof of the room or flat.
Transport, daily life and part-time work
Bilbao is easy to get around. The city has metro, bus, tram and commuter rail links, so many students do not need a car. Walking is also practical in many areas. If you live further out, check the route from your home to campus before you choose housing.
For part-time work, rules depend on your nationality and residence status. If you are from outside the EU or EEA, you may need permission to work, and your study permit can come with limits on hours. Always check the Spanish immigration authority and the university's international office before you accept a job.
Common student jobs may include hospitality, retail, tutoring, language support or campus-related work. You should not rely on a part-time job to cover all your living costs unless you have checked the legal and practical rules first.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
If university admissions teams search the register, they need clear information. A complete profile can help them see whether you match a course. Keep your details honest, simple and up to date.
- Write your field of interest clearly
- List your latest education and grades
- Show your English level and any Spanish level if you have one
- Upload the documents they usually ask for, such as transcripts and ID
- Use a clean profile photo if the platform asks for one
If you want to stand out, be specific. For example, say whether you want a bachelor's, master's, exchange place, or language pathway. That helps admissions staff understand what you are looking for.
Common questions
Is Bilbao a good city for international students?
Yes, if you want a city with good transport, a strong university base, and a less crowded feel than Spain's biggest cities. It is a good match for students who like a balance of city life and a calmer daily rhythm.
Can I study in English in Bilbao?
Some programmes are in English, especially at postgraduate level, but many are not. Check the programme page and language rules for each course before you apply.
Is it expensive to live in Bilbao?
It is usually in the middle range for Spain - not the cheapest, but often not as costly as the most expensive parts of Madrid or Barcelona. Shared housing is usually the easiest way to keep costs down.
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 decide who to reply to.
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.