Top 10 Cities in Spain for International Students

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Spain is one of the popular student destinations because of its institutions, culture, weather, attractions, etc.

Spain is a country for students who want to get the best out of student life experiences. It’s not just in terms of studies, but there’s a lot of enjoyment in Spain, whether it’s nightlife, festivals, bars, and, best of all, budget living!

What is the cost of living in Spain?

Overall, the cost of living in Spain is more affordable than most cities in the EU. The cost of living will depend upon the city in Spain. Some places are cheap, while others may be expensive. For more personalized information, use our cost of living calculator to estimate your desired area’s average cost of living.

What are the Top 10 Cities in Spain for International Students?

Spain is one of the most popular tourist and study destinations. It is one of the biggest countries in Europe, accommodating so many people visiting it every year.

Spain is home to many universities, with its oldest being the Universidad de Salamanca which dates back to 1218.

These are the top 10 universities in Spain:

University of Valencia (La Universitat de València)
Pablo de Olavide University (Universidad Pablo de Olavide)
The University of Granada (Universidad de Granada)
The University of Salamanca (Universidad de Salamanca)
University of Deusto (Universidad Deusto)
Complutense University of Madrid
University of Barcelona (Universitat de Barcelona
Autonomous University of Barcelona (Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona)
University of Cadiz (Universidad de Cádiz)

1. Seville

Seville is the capital city of the region and province of Andalusia. It is also the fourth largest city packed with culture, history, and culture. Seville is famous among Erasmus students and has been ranked #5 as the best city for Erasmus students. There are approximately 60,000 students who choose Spain as their study destination.

Students choose Seville because of its universities, low cost of living, affordable student accommodation in Seville, excellent quality of life, climate, etc. The top 3 universities in Seville are the University of Seville, the University of Pablo de Olavide, the Seville, and the International University of Andalusia.

2. Valencia

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, with a population of 1.5 million. According to QS Best Student Cities, it is ranked as one of the top 100 university destinations in the world. Valencia offers excellent education, quality of life, easy access to public transportation, low cost of living, entertainment, and recreational activities. Approximately 85,000 students are living a vibrant and fun life.

The 3 top universities in Valencia are the University of Valencia, Polytechnic University of Valencia, and San Vicente Mártir Catholic University of Valencia.

3. Madrid

Madrid is one of the most popular universities in Spain and worldwide. The universities in Madrid are globally recognized for their excellent teachings and overall accessibility. Madrid is one of the most student-friendly cities with a diverse international student community. There are approximately 4,500 international students who choose Madrid to pursue their education.

The cost of living in Madrid is higher than other cities in Spain but comparatively lower than in other EU cities. The 3 top universities in Madrid are The Autonomous University of Madrid – Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Charles III University of Madrid – Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M), and Complutense University of Madrid – Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM).

4. Barcelona

Barcelona is among the top choices of student destinations among students. It is one of the best places to study in the world. Barcelona offers high-quality education, rich culture, and a vibrant student community, and is home to the best universities. There are approximately 20,000 international students.

The cost of living and student accommodation in Barcelona is more expensive than other cities in Spain. The top 3 universities in Barcelona are the University of Barcelona, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), and the Polytechnic University of Catalonia.

5. Pamplona

Pamplona is the capital of Navarra, northeastern Spain. It is one of the area’s most significant and noteworthy cities, hosting the world’s biggest parties and the “Running of Bulls” festival. Pamplona is a vibrant student city that offers quality education and is brimmed with entertainment, nightlife, food, and affordable cost of living.

Approximately 12,054 students are studying in Pamplona, of which 1,758 are international students. The top 3 universities in Pamplona are Universidad de Navarra, Universidad Publica de Navarra, and Universidad de Oñate.

6. Zaragoza

Zaragoza is the fifth city in Spain located in north-east Spain that has a rich student culture and environment. Students choose Zaragoza because it offers affordable living, excellent education, leisure, parties, nightlife, and quality of life. The cost of living and student accommodation in Zaragoza is lower than in other student cities.

The top 3 universities in Zaragoza are the University of Saragossa, San Jorge University, and Zaragoza Logistics Center.

7. Salamanca

Salamanca, located in western Spain above sea level on the north bank of the Tormes River, is known for being the most significant artistic and historic city. It is also famous for its ancient architecture and the old University of Salamanca.

The University of Salamanca attracts more than 4,000 international students each year. Students choose to study in Salamanca as it is a compact city offering excellent education, affordable and cheapest living, cultural dimension, and fun entertainment. These are the top 3 universities in Salamanca: the University of Salamanca, the Pontifical University of Salamanca, and the Technological University of Salamanca.

8. Oviedo

Oviedo is in northern Spain that’s gained a name as one of the cleanest cities in Spain. This is an art city with traditional to modern art painted all over it.

It is home to the University of Oviedo, attracting 1,000 international students annually. It is a student hub with a low cost of living and quiet atmosphere, but with many entertaining spots for students to have fun and enjoy life at the same time.

The student life in Oviedo is good as it is one of the cheapest places to live and study. Most campuses are close to the center, within walking distance of the markets, restaurants, pubs, etc. Even the student accommodations in Oviedo are affordable and close to campus, and accessible to other areas too.

There’s only The University of Oviedo which has been the center of academic knowledge and a leader in international innovation for over 400 years.

9. Malaga

Malaga is a municipality of Spain with a history spanning about 2,800 years, making it the oldest inhabited city in Western Europe. It is an art city and home to the famous artist Pablo Picasso lining the city with museums and art galleries.

Malaga is a good student city because it allows students to merge culture and education with its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and delicious cheap food with a low cost of living and affordable housing.

Apart from education, the city is famous among exchange students as the residents are welcoming, friendly, and love to party and enjoy life.

The top 3 universities in Malaga are the University of Malaga, the University of Jaén, and ESIC Barcelona.

10. Granada

Granada is a city in Spain famous for its Islamic architecture and monuments. It is located between the mountain and the sea, which offers a perfect climate for the city’s residents. Granada is a student city offering students the life they would enjoy and, at the same time, study at the best universities.

The cost of living and accommodation in Granada is cheap and affordable, attracting many international students.

The University of Granada is one of the top public universities in Granada, Spain. It is ranked #403 in QS World University Rankings 2024.