Do's and Don'ts for International Students in Spain

Updated date: 21st March 2023

Spain has a unique and complex history that has made the society people fall in love with today. The Universities in Spain offer an education with high international standards. There are numerous study opportunities at Spanish universities. If you are planning to study in Spain this guide will help you. Know here about the Dos and Don'ts for International Students in Spain.

Dos for International Students for Spain

1. Pick the program that’s best for you

Spain is dripping with amazing study abroad opportunities, both in Madrid and every other area. Do your research to select a study program and location that suits your interests and goals best. Check the eligibility criteria and requirements of your chosen course, if you can fulfill them, without wasting time apply for it. If confused about which program to choose, check out this: Most Employable Courses in Spain for International Students

2. Get to know the History, Art, and Architecture

The reminders of the Spanish Golden Age can be experienced throughout the country even to till now. So do not miss the opportunity to gain knowledge and visit architectural places. Spain is the center of European historical events throughout history, and the monumental sites tell many stories. There are also several museums in Spain that you can visit while studying in the country. 

3. Choose accommodation with Locals & International Students

An easy way to mingle with the locals and students from other countries is to share accommodation with them. If your program offers a homestay option, that is the best option to meet locals and also learn the language.  If these options are not available from your institution you can easily find an apartment to share with Spaniards or international students on your own. You will find many university students and young professionals seeking flatmates in your city.

4. Work While studying

Student visas in Spain allow students to work along with their studies. International students on a student visa can work in Spain and earn an extra income. So take this opportunity to manage your living expenses and build a network. You can ask for a work permit from local authorities to work 20 hours per week.

5. Grab the opportunity of international students scholarships

Whether you need a scholarship or you have gained outstanding results in your previous education, apply for the scholarships. Research scholarships in Spain online. The Government of Spain, as well as Universities, offers an abundance of scholarships to international students to encourage them to study in Spain. You can find Scholarships from being fully funded to partially funded towards the tuition fee. You can get more information here: Scholarships in Spain for International students

Don’ts for International Students for Spain

1. Don’t forget the Documents

There are some essential documents you would require in the whole journey of your study abroad starting from the admission application. These documents must be safely placed and taken care of. Do not forget them in your home country. Take them along to Spain for further formalities. Here is a small list of documents 

•  identity card
• passport
• birth certificate 
• proof of enrolment in your institute
• proof of language ability (Spanish/English)
• Proof of other entrance international exams etc
• previous degrees
• Reservation of your accommodation

2. Don’t Neglect Your studies

Studying abroad is a great time to travel, explore new cities, and experience a wonderful time there. However, do not forget the reason why you are in Spain. Don’t forget to attend classes and turn in assignments while studying in Spain!

The academic work that you do while studying abroad will provide a deeper understanding of Spanish culture and will leave you with a more meaningful experience. You also have the chance to gain valuable insight from your professors that can make your life easier at the new place.

3. Don’t Let Fear Keep You from speaking Spanish

It is too easy to stay in your comfort zone and follow the safe route by never taking any big risks.  But if you want to make the most out of your study abroad journey you need to get out of your comfort zone. Studying in Spain is the best way to improve your Spanish language skills. Even if you only have a little knowledge you shouldn’t be afraid to use what you know in your daily life. It is the best time to practice your Spanish while you are studying in Spain.

4. Don’t Expect the Same Comforts as Home

Spain is a modern European country so of course, they have everything you could need to enjoy your time living there. However, things can be very different from what you are habitual of in your home country. You may feel like you are missing some of the comforts you had in your home country. But yes, this is the time to leave your comforts and step out to experience the new world. Within a few months, you will be as comfortable as you were in your home country. Initially, you need to make some effort.

5. Don’t Breach your visa conditions

Follow all the conditions and rules of a Student visa in Spain. Do not stay in Spain once your visa expires by not applying for a timely visa extension. Apply for a visa extension in advance and do not wait until the last minute. According to the student visa rules, Work only for 20 hours per week.

We hope these do's and don'ts for international students in Spain will help you to make your study abroad journey easy. You will see there many students coming from different countries of the world. Get along with them. Even they are new in the country, it will be easy for you to mingle with them. If you face any major problems you can always contact your university for additional support.

You should also check the following articles

Study in Spain without IELTS
Checklist Before going to Study in Spain
Stay back and Work Permit after Study in Spain