Undergraduate Degrees in Spain

Spain is definitely a place for ambitious students! Located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, Spain has a favorable climate and a convenient geographical position. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Spanish universities, you will have the chance to experience an unforgettable period of your life. You will meet students from all over the world and have incredible opportunities to pursue your dream career. A bachelor’s degree is awarded by a college or university to a person who has finished undergraduate studies. In Spain, if you complete this degree, which generally takes four years, you will cherish the title of “grado.”

Here’s everything you need to know about undergraduate degrees in Spain:

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Undergraduate Degree Structure in Spain

Bologna Process

Since 1999 Spain has been a full member of the Bologna Process/European Higher Education Area. This unique international collaboration on higher education resulted from 49 countries that came together with a standard set of commitments, structural reforms, and shared tools. The Bologna Process is raised in five columns, starting with the freedom of expression, autonomy for institutions, independent student unions, academic freedom, and ending with the free movement of students and staff. This process includes countries, institutions, and stakeholders of the European area, one of which is also Spain. It aims to strengthen and make the higher education system more compatible with future opportunities in employability.

Undergraduate Degree Duration

The undergraduate degree in Spain has a minimum duration of 240 credits of the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Getting these 240 credits and consequently finishing your undergraduate studies will take four academic years. As an international student seeking a bachelor’s degree in Spain, you will have many study options, such as hospitality, international relations, engineering, computer science, and art history, to mention a few. Besides the full-time study degrees, you can also find part-time and online studies.

Undergraduate Degree Cost in Spain

The cost of undergraduate degrees in Spain differs significantly on several factors. The type of school one has chosen to follow their program, the number of credits, and the region where the institution is located will predetermine the cost of an undergraduate degree. Generally, the price of a bachelor’s degree will be higher in a private university than in a public university. Specifically, the average cost of an undergraduate degree in Spain is around €1,200 for an academic year. EU/EEA students will have to pay this sum of money. Meanwhile, for non-EU students, there can be higher tuition fees.

Take a look at this cost of studying in Spain guide to learn more about how tuition works at Spanish universities.

Types of Undergraduate Degrees Available in Spain

There are many different undergraduate degrees that you will be able to earn while in Spain. Some of the most common in the country include:

  • Arts & Humanities
  • Sciences
  • Business Law
  • Engineering
  • Social Law

Most of the universities in Spain offer undergraduate degrees in these courses. They help you get your foot in the door and can take you to the next level in your education. No matter what interests you, there is a degree that is available to you.

You can check out some of the study programs in Spanish here: https://www.studying-in-spain.com/es/planifique-sus-estudios/carreras-universitarias-en-espana/

How to Apply to an Undergraduate Program in Spain?

The application process for an undergraduate program is unique for students from EU countries. As such, student, your application will have to go through the Spanish National University for Distance Education (SNUDE). Thus, meaning that the application process will have to be online. You will have to submit the form on their website and check the due date. 

If you’re a Non-EU student, then the road to an undergraduate program will require different steps. Thus, you will need to apply for a Volante Accreditation from the Spanish Embassy. The next step will be the completion of Prueba de Acceso a la Universidad (PAU) entrance exam. When gathering all the necessary documentation then, your application to an undergraduate program in Spain will be an easy move.

Admission Requirements

Requirements for applying to a Spanish university are different depending on the student’s nationality. The admission requirements will differ if you’re a student from the EU and China or if you come from other countries. 

The very first admission requirement for European and Chinese students, as well as from other countries, will be to get the recognition of the academic qualifications. Additionally, all the students will have to ensure that their previous education is compatible with Spanish requirements.

Students From the EU and China

The initial admission requirements for an undergraduate degree for EU/China students:

  • Complete the admission form on the SNUDE website.
  • Send the form to the mailing address of SNUDE.
  • Certified copy of the transcripts for the two previous years.
  • Passport copy.
  • Certification of high school completion. 

Upon the successful application to the SNUDE, you will receive a “Credencial de Accesso.” Then, you can proceed with submitting it to the university of your choice.

Non-EU Students

The initial admission requirements for an undergraduate degree for non-EU students:

  • Start your application at the Spanish Embassy in your home country.
  • Get the Volante Acreditativo and submit it to your selected Spanish university.
  • Proof that you have passed the entrance exam called “Selectividad or Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad”.

Top Undergraduate Degrees in Spain

Studying your chosen field at the undergraduate level in a country like Spain will be an unforgettable experience. International students looking for a bachelor’s degree in Spain will have numerous study options available at Spanish universities!

Here are the top undergraduate degrees in Spain:

Bachelor in Hospitality Management 

In Spain, one of the most popular fields of study is Hospitality Management. By earning a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, you will know how to develop business strategies for the tourism industry. If fun activities drive you, you should benefit from a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. Hospitality undergraduate studies will have you build a dynamic career that involves intensive human interaction.

Bachelor in International Relations 

Although many may consider the field of International Relations an integral part of political science, in Spain, you can thrive beyond the political sphere. In essence, the study of international relations will expose you to the opportunity of investigating the complexities of relationships between various countries. If socio-economic problems are your concern too, this field is ideal, as it will give you the chance to create a better society for future generations with the gained knowledge. 

Bachelor in Engineering 

Engineering is a popular field of study in Spain! Whether you choose civil, chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering, you will feel content and have profitable opportunities to exercise your knowledge in any specific engineering discipline. By gaining a bachelor’s degree in engineering, you will become a professional in problem-solving and generate adequate skills for a great career in Spain.

Universities and Colleges for Undergraduate Degrees in Spain

Several universities and colleges throughout Spain offer undergraduate degrees and not just any quality degree — Spanish degrees are internationally recognized! Deciding on an undergraduate degree will be time-consuming since it is pretty personal and vital to one’s future. Below, we have mentioned some of the top universities in Spain for undergraduate studies to help you make your decision!

Here are the top universities for undergraduate degrees:

University of Barcelona 

The University of Barcelona boasts a large number of faculties. As a leading institution in Spain, it combines traditional values with innovation, quality, and inclusion. This higher education institution stands out from the crowd and provides a unique experience by offering a Science Park. There are over 70 bachelor’s degrees and 16 dual-track degrees at the University of Barcelona. By getting an undergraduate degree from UB, you are guaranteed international visibility. 

Pompeu Fabra University 

Having three broad academic focus areas, Pompeu Fabra University offers several undergraduates degree in social sciences and humanities, health and life sciences, and communications and information technologies. By choosing Pompeu Fabra University or as it is also known as UPF, you will also find numerous research groups. Two of the UPF Group members are the Centre for Regenerative Medicine in Barcelona and the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, which enhance the study experience at a higher level.

Autonomous University of Madrid

The Autonomous University of Madrid gives you access to undergraduate university studies. Since it has a broad academic offer that includes undergraduate studies, you will have a high chance of employability in all branches of knowledge. Considered one of the best universities in Madrid, studying at UAM will help you build a solid career. You will find more than 50 university degrees and double degrees on a sustainable campus. Additionally, to start your undergraduate studies at this university, you will have to obtain a valid access mark. 

University of Valencia

The University of Valencia aims to train competent professionals at the European Professional Standard by offering undergraduate degrees. After getting a bachelor’s degree from this university, you will be ready to contribute to the development of the future’s society. Through the training and research that the University of Valencia offers, you will deepen your knowledge of science and culture. There are around five branches of studies from which you can choose different undergraduate degrees, international dual degrees, and simply dual degrees. 

University of Granada

As a public university, Granada is one of the oldest universities in Europe and has a rich history. Its foundation was in 1531, and ever since, it has consistently improved its position in the international rank. With its faculties and schools distributed throughout the metropolitan zone, you will feel at ease knowing that there are diverse undergraduate degrees. Getting your education from a university that has defined the city of Granada architecturally, culturally, and economically will indeed reflect a thriving career for any graduate student. 

Polytechnic University of Catalonia

Students keen on engineering, architecture, science, and technology will find just the right undergraduate degrees at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia. In terms of employment, this university has one of the highest rates in Spain. Standing out on the global stage, the Polytechnic University of Catalonia has remarkable relations with ETSETB, which ensures exchange programs and double degree agreements.

Why Study an Undergraduate Degree in Spain?

Spain is merely a fascinating country and has an incredible context in which any student who holds a bachelor’s degree can thrive professionally and personally. By studying in Spain, you will transform yourself and your mindset. Besides the living conditions and splendid experience in the Iberian Peninsula, you will also have many employment possibilities. 

Here are some of the top reasons why you should get your undergraduate degree in Spain:

  • Outstanding education quality.
  • Affordable tuition fees.
  • Incredible student life.
  • Convenient climate.
  • High employability.
  • Numerous outdoor activities.
  • The exciting Mediterranean lifestyle.
  • Delicious cuisine.
  • Fun shopping experience.
  • Other reasons to study in Spain.