27.08.2024 
Are you looking for information about the education system in Spain and want to enroll your child in a school or choose a university? We have prepared a detailed guide with the help of an expert to help you understand the structure of education, admission requirements, and the cost of education in Spain. This article will help you find answers to all relevant questions and provide tips for a smooth and convenient learning process abroad.
General Structure of the Education System in Spain
The education system in Spain is divided into several stages:
- Preschool: for children aged 2 to 5 years. This is the initial stage and is not mandatory.
- Primary School (Primaria): from 6 to 12 years. This stage is mandatory for all children.
- Secondary Education (Secundaria): from 12 to 16 years. It concludes compulsory education.
- Bachillerato or Vocational College: after 16 years, students can continue either in the Bachillerato program or choose vocational training.
Types of Schools in Spain
There are three types of educational institutions:
- Public Schools: free schools available for Spanish citizens and residents.
- Semi-private Schools: subsidized schools, often with a religious focus, with affordable fees of about 2000 euros per year.
- Private Schools: can be national or international, offering education in English, Spanish, or French. Tuition fees range from 5000 to 10,000 euros per year.
Choosing an Institution Based on Future Plans
If you plan to study abroad, especially in English-speaking countries, it is better to choose an international school with the International Baccalaureate (IB) program or British schools with the A-level system. This will simplify admission to universities in the UK and the USA.
Universities in Spain
Spain offers a wide selection of universities, both public and private. The most popular universities in the Costa Blanca region are:
- University of Valencia
- Polytechnic University of Valencia
- University of Alicante
- Miguel Hernández University in Elche
Universities in Madrid and Barcelona are also well-known, offering more English-language programs, especially in public and private institutions.
Admission and Candidate Requirements
To enter a university, students need to pass exams in Spanish, even if there are English-language programs. A B2 level of Spanish is required. For international students, it is also important to complete diploma homologation (recognition of the diploma by the Ministry of Education of Spain). In some cases, specialized exams in the chosen field are recommended to improve admission chances.
Opportunities for Studying in English
Although the primary education language is Spanish, larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona offer more English-language programs, allowing international students to study without mandatory Spanish knowledge at the undergraduate level. For master’s programs, Spanish exams are not required.
Cost of Education in Spanish Universities
Undergraduate education at public universities costs an average of 800 euros per year, while master’s programs cost about 2000 euros. At private universities, tuition fees can reach between 12,000 and 15,000 euros per year, and dentistry programs up to 20,000 euros. Madrid and Barcelona generally have higher fees for international students.
Duration of Medical Studies
To obtain a medical degree in Spain, students need to study for 6 years, after which they can begin practicing general medicine. For specialized fields such as surgery, additional residency is required.
Conclusion: Support at Every Stage of Education
The Spanish education system offers many options accessible to international students. If you want your child to enroll in a school or university in Spain, we will be happy to assist with document submission and provide guidance at all stages of the education process.
