For Indian students, public universities in Spain are a total game-changer, offering a world-class European degree for a fraction of what you’d pay in the UK or US. In 2026, tuition fees typically range from just €800 to €6,000 (around ₹72,000 to ₹5,40,000) per academic year. To secure your spot, you’ll just need to complete the Homologación process to get your degree recognized and meet the language requirements, usually an IELTS 6.0–6.5 or DELE B2 for Spanish.
If you’re after a global education without the massive price tag, these public institutions are a top-tier choice. While private colleges can get pricey, the public system includes some of the world’s oldest universities with highly subsidized tuition. Whether you’re searching for the cheapest options or a prestigious research hub in Madrid or Barcelona, this guide simplifies the journey to finding your perfect fit.
Why Choose Public Universities in Spain?
Choosing a public university in Spain is a smart move for Indian students seeking a high-quality European degree on a budget. Unlike private colleges, public universities in Spain are government-subsidized, offering world-class education at a fraction of the cost.
Here’s why they stand out for the 2026 intake:
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- Unmatched Affordability: You can study at some of the spain cheapest university for international students with tuition starting as low as ₹72,000 (€800) per year. This makes Spain one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe.
- Global Recognition: Degrees from public universities in Spain for international students follow the Bologna Process, meaning your credits are recognized across the EU and globally.
- Stay Back Options: After graduation, the Job Seeker Visa allows you to stay in Spain for up to 12–24 months to find employment. Learn more about how to secure your post-study work visa.
- English-Taught Programs: Many public universities in Spain now offer full degrees in English, especially in Business, STEM, and Social Sciences.
- Earn While You Learn: You are legally allowed to work up to 30 hours per week on a student visa, an increase from the previous 20-hour limit, to help cover your living expenses in Spain.
Mentor Tip: To maximize your ROI, look at Spanish public universities in cities like Valencia, Granada, or Seville. You’ll receive the same top-tier education as in Madrid or Barcelona but pay nearly 30% less in monthly rent and groceries!
Top 5 Public Universities in Spain for International Students (2026)
Choosing the right university in Spain for international students involves balancing global rankings with your budget. The list of public universities in Spain is extensive, but the following five stand out for their high research output, English-taught programs, and popularity among Indian students.
Note: Fees are based on 60 ECTS credits per year. Conversion rate used: €1 = ₹90.
1. Universitat de Barcelona (UB)
Ranked #1 in the list of public universities in Spain, UB is the go-to for students who want to be in the heart of a global tech and culture hub. It is especially prestigious for Medicine and Life Sciences.
- Student Perspective: It is a city-integrated university, meaning buildings are scattered across Barcelona. You’ll feel like the whole city is your campus.
- Fees (2026): Approx. ₹4.5 L – ₹7 L (€5,000 – €7,800) per year for international students.
- Scholarships: You can apply for the MAEC-AECID grants or university-specific talent waivers.
- Mentor Tip: Barcelona is incredible, but can be pricey. Check out our guide on the cost of living in Spain to budget for your rent and tapas!
2. Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM)
UAM is widely considered a top university in Spain for international students interested in Law and pure Sciences. It is known for its peaceful, sustainable "Cantoblanco" campus.
- Student Perspective: It’s quieter than the city center, offering a focused environment. It has a massive library system and excellent sports facilities.
- Fees (2026): Approx. ₹3.5 L – ₹6 L (€3.900 – €6.700) per year.
- Scholarships: UAM participates in the Erasmus Mundus program, which is perfect if you're looking for fully funded scholarships to study abroad.
- Mentor Tip: This campus is a bit outside the city. A monthly transport pass (Abono) will be your best friend!
3. Complutense University of Madrid (UCM)
As one of the oldest Spanish public universities, UCM is a "prestige brand." If you are into Humanities, Arts, or Social Sciences, this is your place.
- Student Perspective: It has a very "classic" university feel. You’ll be studying alongside over 70,000 students, so the networking opportunities are endless.
- Fees (2026): Approx. ₹6 L – ₹7.5 L (€6.600 – €8.300) per year.
- Scholarships: Indian students often target the Spanish Studies Abroad Merit-Based Scholarship here.
- Mentor Tip: Madrid is a hub for international students. See why so many choose Spain for their higher education.
4. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)
If you want a "proper" campus life as you see in the movies, UAB is the best public university in Spain for international students. It’s located in Bellaterra, a short train ride from the city.
- Student Perspective: Everything is in one place: housing, classes, and social life. It's very international and has a "buddy program" to help Indian students settle in.
- Fees (2026): Approx. ₹3.5 L – ₹5 L (€3.900 – €5.500) per year.
- Scholarships: The Barcelona Graduate School of Economics (BSE), based here, offers massive merit-based waivers. Check out the BSE Scholarship guide for details.
5. University of Granada (UGR)
Looking for the cheapest university in Spain for international students? UGR is a student favorite because the city itself is built around the university.
- Student Perspective: One in every four people in Granada is a student! It’s vibrant, historic, and incredibly affordable.
- Fees (2026): Approx. ₹80,000 – ₹1 L (€880 – €1,100) per year, making it one of the cheapest countries to study abroad.
- Scholarships: The University of Granada offers its own international mobility grants for non-EU students.
- Mentor Tip: In Granada, you often get a free "tapa" with every drink you buy. It’s a literal lifesaver for a student budget!
Specialisations Offered at Public Universities in Spain
Spain is a global hub for several disciplines, ranging from high-tech Engineering to classical Humanities. For Indian students, the list of public universities in Spain provides a diverse range of specialisations, many of which are now offered in English to accommodate the growing number of international cohorts.
The table below highlights the most popular specialisations at Spanish public universities and where you should apply for each:
| Field of Study | Popular Specialisations | Top Public Universities to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| STEM & IT | Data Science, AI, Cybersecurity, Biotechnology, Robotics | UPC (BarcelonaTech), UAM, UC3M, University of Valencia |
| Engineering | Aerospace, Renewable Energy, Civil & Mechanical Engineering | UPM (Madrid), UPC, Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) |
| Business & Economics | MBA, International Business, Finance, Data Analytics | UC3M, Pompeu Fabra (UPF), University of Barcelona (UB) |
| Social Sciences | International Relations, Political Science, Sociology, Law | UAM, UCM (Complutense), UPF, University of Salamanca |
| Health Sciences | Medicine, Nursing, Biomedicine, Dentistry | University of Barcelona (UB), UCM, UAM |
| Arts & Humanities | Art History, Linguistics, Archaeology, Philosophy | University of Granada, University of Salamanca, UCM |
| Hospitality | Tourism Management, Sustainable Hospitality | University of Valencia, University of Granada, UAB |
Step-by-Step Application Guide for 2026
Applying to public universities in Spain requires precision, especially regarding legal documentation. As a Leap Scholar mentor, my top advice is to start at least 8–10 months before your course begins.
1. Shortlist & Check Language Requirements
- Action: Pick 3–5 Spanish universities for international students.
- English Programs: Aim for an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5.Spanish Programs: You’ll typically need a DELE or SIELE B2 certificate.
2. The Homologación (Degree Recognition)
This is the most critical step for Indian students. It is the official process of proving your Indian 12th or Bachelor’s degree is equivalent to the Spanish system.
- Action: Submit your documents to the Spanish Ministry of Education or via the Spanish Embassy in India.
- Tip: This can take 3–6 months. You will receive a Volante Acreditativo (temporary receipt), which allows you to start your university application while the final certificate is being processed.
3. UNEDasiss Accreditation (For Undergraduates)
Most Spanish public universities require international students to apply through UNEDasiss.
- Action: Register on the UNEDasiss portal.
- Entrance Exams: Some competitive courses require you to take PCE (Specific Competency Tests) to boost your entry score.
4. Direct University Application
- Action: Upload your "Volante," transcripts, and a stellar Statement of Purpose (SOP) to the university portal.
- Resource: Don't know where to start? Use our SOP guide for international students to stand out.
5. Spanish Student Visa (Type D)
Once you have your Acceptance Letter, apply for your visa.
- Key Requirements:
- Medical Certificate & Criminal Record Check (Apostilled).
- Proof of Funds: Approx. €600 (~₹63,000) per month of stay.
- Health Insurance for Spain.
Important Deadlines for September 2026 Intake
| Milestone | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Start Homologación | October – December 2025 |
| University Applications | February – June 2026 |
| Visa Application | June – August 2026 |
| Classes Begin | September 2026 |
Conclusion
Choosing a public university in Spain is more than just a way to save on tuition; it is a strategic investment in a global career. With fees at Spanish public universities often costing less than a single semester in the US or UK, Indian students can access top-tier research and a high standard of living without the burden of heavy student debt. By the 2026 intake, the ability to stay for up to 24 months on a job seeker visa makes Spain an even more attractive hub for those looking to enter the European workforce in sectors like tech, renewable energy, and international business.
At Leap Scholar, our mentors act as your guide to simplify the journey, from helping you shortlist the cheapest university in Spain for international students to ensuring your SOP for international students stands out to admissions committees. We can also help you explore collateral-free education loans to ensure your finances are as ready as your academic profile for your 2026 Spanish adventure.
FAQS
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Can I settle in Spain after study?
The post-study work visa will allow you to stay in Spain and start working for up to one year. If you want to stay in the country after completing your degree, choosing the location where you want to settle down carefully is essential.
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Is Spain cheap to study?
Good news for students: Tuition fees in Spain are among the lowest in Europe. The tuition fees for Bachelor programmes range from 800 EUR to 2,500 EUR per year, and tuition fees for Master programmes are around 1,000 to 3,500 EUR per year - making Spain a cheap destination for international students.
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Are public universities in Spain good?
Many of Spain's universities, both in the public and private sector, are ranked among top worldwide universities. They are largely recognized for their academic study programmes in a wide range of study areas, at all levels.
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What is the cheapest university in Spain?
University of Salamanca.
University of Valencia.
University of Alicante.
University of Jaén.
University of Granada.
University of A Coruña.
University of Santiago de Compostela.
University of Zaragoza. -
Is public university free in Spain?
In Spain, Spanish and European students attend public universities for free. International students pay tuition at Spain's 50 public universities. However, the government covers 80% of international tuition, making college very affordable. International students enroll at Spanish universities for under $1,000 per year.
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