Universities in Spain: Mediterranean culture and academic excellence
PROS:
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Study programs available in both English and Spanish
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University fees and cost of living similar to other Central European countries, if not cheaper
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Universities with a long history and an international reputation for excellence
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Historical and cultural richness, and a wide variety of activities involving young people
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CONS:
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Some programs or courses may only be delivered in Spanish or Catalan
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How does the admissions process work?
1
Choose universities
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The first step is to understand which programs and universities are best suited to you based on your interests and needs. We will work alongside you to carefully evaluate all factors, from academic programs, to costs and city life, to job prospects. Many Spanish universities have unique application paths, and your choice will also determine the next steps.
2
Certify your diploma through UNED
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Almost all Spanish universities require registration with the "UNED" online portal to certify their high school diploma and assess the eligibility of applicants to apply at individual universities. Our team can offer you the support you need in this and all other administrative procedures, both in English and Spanish.
3
Get ready for exams
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Many Spanish universities include entrance exams in their application process. These can be course-specific exams for the degree to which you are applying, or Spanish language exams, or standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, CAS or LNAT. Our expert tutors will support you throughout the preparation to send the results within the due deadlines.
4
CV, motivation and cover letters
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The most creative but also the most demanding part of the application process. Many universities will ask you to submit a CV or portfolio, a motivation letter, and a cover letter written by your teacher or employer. These letters and your CV are your best tools to stand out among candidates. Valdo Academics tutors will help you bring out the best in you and assist your teachers in understanding the cover letter criteria for the Spanish university system.
Which are the best universities?
Universidad Carlos III Madrid
Spanish public university of excellence with the widest range of Spanish / English bilingual courses. It ranks second in all of Spain (U-Ranking 2020) and first in the Madrid area. It is among the “top 50 under 50” of QS University Ranking 2021 and it is the first Spanish university to accept Common App applications.
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Annual fee 2020-21 (EU / EEA students): € 1,283 - € 1,568, depending on the course (Source: UC3M)
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Average cost of living for students in Madrid: € 900 - 1300 per month (Source: Universidad Complutense de Madrid)
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Universitat de Barcelona
Ranked first in Spain and among the top 70 in Europe (QS 2020), it offers degree programs in English, Catalan, and Spanish. In the world rankings, it places steadily in the top 50 for courses in Anatomy and Physiology, Information and Archival Studies, Clinical Medicine, Philosophy, Archeology (QS, 2020; ARWU, 2020).
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Annual fee 2020-21 (EU / EEA students): Between € 2,800 - € 3,600, depending on the program (Source: UB)
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Average cost of living for students in Barcelona: Approximately € 1000 per month (Source: Barcelona School of Management)
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IE University
If you dream of studying Economics and / or Business, you are in the right place! IE is a renowned private international university with offices in Madrid and Segovia, a focus on business and innovation, and a firm place among the best business schools across Europe.
IE has an application process that is unique in Spain and which can be even more complex than the others for non-professionals. The Valdo Academics team is here to help you understand how to proceed and successfully pass each stage of the selection.
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Annual fee 2020-21 (EU / EEA students): € 21,000-23,000 (Source: IE)
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Average cost of living for students in Segovia or Madrid: from € 900 per month upwards, depending on the choice of accommodation (residence on campus, apartment in the city, or with a host family)
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