MS in Spain 2025 – Best Universities, Fees, Eligibility & How to Apply

Spain has quickly become a top study-abroad destination for international students, especially for those planning to pursue a Master’s degree (MS). With its blend of high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and rich cultural experience, Spain offers everything students need for a fulfilling academic journey. Many of the country’s top public and private universities, such as the University of Barcelona, UC3M, and UAB, are ranked in the QS World University Rankings, making them globally recognised for academic excellence.

Students can choose from a wide range of MS specializations in fields like Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Health Sciences, Law, and Design. The best part is that many of these programs are offered in English, so even if you don’t speak Spanish, you can still study in Spain and live comfortably. However, learning Spanish can help with part-time jobs, daily life, and future work opportunities.

Spain also supports international graduates through its post-study work visa, allowing a 12-month stay-back period, which can be extended if you get a job. Combined with the low cost of living, available scholarships, and a possible path to permanent residency, Spain is a smart, budget-friendly choice for Indian students who want to study MS in Europe and build a global career.

Also Read: Pursue MS Abroad: Top Countries, Costs & Eligibility

Study MS in Spain: Key Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Type	Master’s Degree (MS)
Popular Specializations	Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Law, Health, Design
Top Universities	University of Barcelona, UC3M, UAB, UPF, University of Navarra
Program Duration	9–24 months (some like Dentistry = 36 months)
Language of Instruction	English or Spanish
Tuition Fees (Public Uni)	€1,000 – €4,000/year (EU) €3,000 – €14,000/year (Non‑EU)
Tuition Fees (Private Uni)	€10,000 – €30,000/year
Cost of Living (Monthly Avg.)	€721 (single person) €2,553 (family of four)
Scholarships Available	Yes – offered by universities & Spanish govt.
Post-Study Stay Back	12 months, extendable to 24 months with a job
Popular Job Roles After MS	Data Scientist, Software Engineer, Financial Analyst, AI Specialist
Average Salary After MS	€27,000 – €70,000/year (varies by job & field)
PR Options	Apply after 5 years of legal stay (student/work visa)
Work Permit / EU Blue Card	Available – needs job offer & salary criteria
Language Requirement	IELTS/TOEFL (for English programs), DELE/SIELE (for Spanish)

Why Study MS in Spain?

Spain is now one of the most popular places for students who want to study MS abroad. The country offers top-ranked universities, affordable tuition fees, and a relaxed lifestyle. Whether you are interested in Business, Engineering, Health, or Design, Spain has something for everyone.

• Quality Education at a Good Price: Spain has many well-known public and private universities. Places like Universidad Carlos III de Madrid and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona are ranked in the QS World Rankings. The tuition fees are lower than in countries like the USA or the UK. At a public university, you can do your Master’s in Spain for just €1,000 to €4,000 per year. Scholarships are also available for international students.
• Study in English or Spanish: You don’t need to know Spanish to apply. Many MS programs in Spain are taught in English, especially in business, tech, and international fields. But if you learn Spanish while living there, it’s easier to get jobs and enjoy local life.
• Work Opportunities After MS: After finishing your MS in Spain, you can apply for a 12-month stay-back visa to find a job or start your own business. If you get a job offer, this can be extended to 24 months. You can even apply for an EU Blue Card or PR after 5 years of legal stay.
• Affordable Living & Great Lifestyle: Spain has a low cost of living compared to many other European countries. Cities like Valencia, Seville, and Granada are beautiful and more budget-friendly. Plus, you get to enjoy Mediterranean food, festivals, beaches, and a very friendly local culture.
• Gateway to Europe: Spain is part of the European Union, so after your MS, you can travel or even apply for jobs in other EU countries. It’s a great starting point if you want to build your career in Europe.

Planning your long-term journey in Spain? Read our guide on How to Settle in Spain from India to understand visas, jobs, residency, and everything in between.

Eligibility Criteria for MS in Spain

To be eligible for an MS program in Spain, international students must meet specific academic and language requirements. While each university may have slight variations, the general criteria include:

Academic Requirements

A strong academic background is essential for securing admission to an MS program in Spain. Here’s what you typically need:

• Bachelor’s Degree: You must hold a recognised undergraduate degree equivalent to a Spanish “Grado.” The degree should be of at least three to four years' duration (e.g., BSc, BE, or BTech).
• Minimum GPA: Most universities require a minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some competitive programs—especially in STEM or business—may expect a higher GPA or first-class distinction.
• Relevant Background: For technical, scientific, or specialised programs, your undergraduate degree must be in a related field. For instance, applying for MS in Computer Science would typically require a background in computer science, IT, or engineering.
• Credential Evaluation: If your degree is from outside the EU, some universities may ask for official recognition or credential verification (homologación) through the Spanish Ministry of Education or university-level assessment.

Language Proficiency

Depending on the medium of instruction (English or Spanish), students must prove their language proficiency through standardised tests:

For English-Taught MS Programs:

• IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 overall, with no band less than 6.0
• TOEFL iBT: Typically between 80 and 90+
• Duolingo English Test (DET): Accepted by some universities, usually a minimum score of 105–115
• Exemptions: Students who completed their previous education in English may be eligible for a waiver, depending on the institution

For Spanish-Taught MS Programs:

• DELE (Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera): A minimum B2 level is commonly required
• SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española): Also accepted in place of DELE
• Language Preparation: If you don’t meet the Spanish language requirement, many universities offer language pathway programs before the MS begins

Also Read: IELTS vs TOEFL: Choose the Right Exam for 2025 Success

Additional Requirements

Beyond academic and language qualifications, universities in Spain also assess a student’s personal, professional, and academic readiness through supporting documents. These typically include:

• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written SOP outlining your academic goals, motivation, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing the university and program
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually two letters from professors or professional supervisors who can vouch for your academic ability and character
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: An updated resume detailing your academic history, internships, work experience, technical skills, and extracurricular activities
• Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some highly selective programs—especially those in business schools or research-intensive areas—may require you to appear for an entrance test, submit a portfolio, or attend an interview (virtual or in-person)

Admission Process for MS in Spain

Follow the steps below to study MS in Spain:

Step-by-Step Admission Process

1. Choose Your Course and University
   • First, decide on your MS specialization like Business, Engineering, Design, Law, etc.
   • Then select a university in Spain that offers it (public or private).
2. Check Eligibility Requirements
   • You must have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
   • Some courses need a minimum GPA or subject-specific background.
   • Many programs ask for Spanish or English language skills (depending on the course language).
3. Prepare Required Documents
   • Bachelor’s degree certificate
   • Academic transcripts
   • Language proficiency test (like IELTS, TOEFL or DELE for Spanish)
   • Passport copy
   • CV / Resume
   • Motivation letter
   • Letters of recommendation
4. Apply Online on the University Portal
   • Go to the official university website and fill out the online application form.
   • Upload all your documents and pay the application fee (if any).
5. Attend an Interview (if required)
   • Some universities may ask for a video or face-to-face interview.
6. Receive Admission Letter
   • If selected, you will get an offer letter or admission confirmation via email.
7. Apply for Student Visa
   • After getting admission, apply for a Spain student visa at your nearest Spanish embassy.

Top 10 Universities for MS in Spain

Spain is home to several globally recognised universities that offer cutting-edge MS programs across diverse disciplines such as engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and business analytics. 

These institutions are not only ranked among the top in Europe but also feature in global QS rankings, reflecting their academic excellence and international appeal.

Below is a list of the top 10 universities in Spain offering MS programs:

University Name	QS World Ranking 2026	Approximate MS Tuition Fees
University of Barcelona	160	€2,500–€3,500  (INR 2.36L–3.31L)
Autonomous University of Madrid	206	€2,000–€3,000  (INR 1.89L–2.83L)
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona	172	€2,500–€3,500  (INR 2.36L–3.31L)
Pompeu Fabra University	=265	€3,000–€4,000  (INR 2.83L–3.78L)
University of Navarra	=262	€10,000–€16,000  (INR 9.44L–15.10L)
IE University	438	€2,000–€3,000  (INR 1.89L–2.83L)
Complutense University of Madrid	=187	€2,000–€3,000  (INR 1.89L–2.83L)
University of Valencia	=430	€2,000–€3,000  (INR 1.89L–2.83L)
University of Granada	=401	€2,000–€3,000  (INR 1.89L–2.83L)
Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC)	=392	€3,500–€4,500  (INR 3.31L–4.25L)

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and can vary based on the specific program and university policies. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to consult the official websites of the respective universities

MS Specializations in Spain

Spain offers a wide range of MS specializations for international students in different fields like business, healthcare, law, design, and engineering. 

Below are some popular MS programs in Spain with key details:

Popular MS Courses & Specializations in Spain

Program Name	University	Field	Duration
International Business (Spanish)	Universidad Europea	Business & Management	9 Months
UX/UI Design (Spanish)	Universidad Europea	Design & Tech	10 Months
Sports Rehabilitation and Readaptation	Universitat Internacional de Catalunya	Healthcare	12 Months
Business Legal Advice	Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M)	Law & Legal Studies	12 Months
Enterprise Law	Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona	Law & Legal Studies	12 Months
Project Management (Spanish, Blended)	Universidad Europea	Business & Management	Full Time
Emergency & Critical Care Nursing (ESP)	CEU Universities	Nursing	12 Months
Advanced Orthodontics (Spanish)	Universidad Europea	Dentistry	36 Months
Cooperation, Development & Social Economy	Universitat Internacional de Catalunya	Business & Development	12 Months
Contemporary Spanish Language & Literature	Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M)	Modern Languages	12 Months

Cost of Studying MS in Spain

Spain offers a cost-effective education model compared to other top European study destinations. While tuition and living costs vary by city and institution, international students can plan their budgets efficiently with the right information.

Tuition Fees for MS in Spain

MS tuition fees in Spain depend on whether the university is public or private, and the program of study. Technical programs like engineering, computer science, and business analytics tend to be on the higher end of the fee spectrum.

University Type	EU/EEA Students	Non‑EU Students
Public University	€1,000 – €4,000 / year	€3,000 – €14,000 / year
Private University	€7,000 – €20,000 / year	€10,000 – €30,000+ / year

Cost of Living in Spain

The estimated monthly cost for a single person in Spain is around INR 72,000.6, excluding rent. Cost of living in Spain is, on average, 155.7% higher than in India.

Location	Single Person	Family of Four
Spain (avg.)	€721	€2,553
Madrid	€826	€2,917
Barcelona	€832	€2,942
Valencia	€693	€2,452
Malaga	€695	—
Seville	€695	—
Granada	€709	€2,488

Smart Budgeting Tips To Study MS in Spain

• Student Discounts: Spain offers generous student discounts on public transport and cultural events.
• Part-Time Work: Students can work up to 20 hours/week during term time.
• Affordable Dining: University canteens and menú del día options are pocket-friendly.
• Shared Housing: Opting for shared flats (piso compartido) can cut housing costs by 30–40%.

Scholarships to Study MS in Spain

Indian students planning to do a Master's in Spain can apply for many scholarships offered by Spanish universities. These scholarships help cover tuition fees, living costs, or sometimes both. Most of them are open to international students, and they have different deadlines and benefits. Below is a simple list of the top MS scholarships in Spain for 2025.

List of Scholarships for Master's in Spain (2025)

Scholarship Name	University	Deadline
Rovira i Virgili Scholarships	Rovira i Virgili University	June 16, 2025
ITESO Postgraduate Scholarships	ITESO, Mexico	June 13, 2025
UAH Master's Scholarships	University of Alcalá (UAH)	May 30, 2025
UPV Master’s Grants	Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV)	May 3, 2025
UPNA Scholarships	Public University of Navarra (UPNA)	April 11, 2025
UV Master’s Grants	University of Valencia (UV)	April 10, 2025
Federico García Lorca Scholarships	Andalusian Government	April 7, 2025
USC Master’s Scholarships	University of Santiago de Compostela (USC)	March 17, 2025

Tips Before You Apply

• Always check the official website of the university for exact details.
• Deadlines change every year, so apply early.
• Most scholarships require a Bachelor’s degree, language proof, and sometimes a motivation letter or CV.
• Some are only for certain courses or students from specific countries.

 

Looking for ways to study without the financial burden? Explore the Fully Funded Scholarships in Spain for International Students to discover exclusive opportunities that cover tuition, living expenses, and more.

 

Need help navigating the visa process? Check out our complete guide on the Spain Study Visa for Indian Students for eligibility, documents, and step-by-step application tips.

Post-Study Work Opportunities in Spain

The Spanish government allows international students to apply for a stay-back visa to search for a job or even start their own business.

Stay Back Options

• After a Master's in Spain, Indian students get a 12-month extension to look for work or launch a startup under the post-study visa.
• If you find a job offer at that time, your visa can be extended up to 24 months with a work permit.

Popular Job Roles After MS

Many students can find jobs in fields such as:

• Data Scientist
• Software Engineer
• Financial Analyst / Financial Data Analyst
• R&D Engineer
• Biomedical Scientist
• Project Manager
• AI / Machine Learning Specialist
• International Sales

Average Salary After MS in Spain

Here are typical salaries in different roles for MS graduates in Spain:

Job Role	Average Salary (EUR/year)
Data Scientist	€38,000–€41,000
Software Engineer	€35,700–€70,600
Financial Data Analyst/Analyst	$69,700 (€64,000)
General full-time jobs (avg)	€27,000

PR and Permanent Residency Pathway

If you live in Spain legally and continuously for 5 years with a student, work, or other valid visas, you can apply for long-term or permanent residency. This residence permit lets you stay and work in Spain indefinitely, under similar rules to citizens.

Work Permits and Blue Card Options Available

International students can work in Spain with a normal work permit, or choose the EU Blue Card for high-skilled workers. This lets you live and work in Spain for up to 3 years, renewable, and can also count toward long-term residency after 5 years.

• For the Blue Card, you need:
  • A university degree or 5+ years’ experience
  • A binding job offer for at least 1 year
  • A salary of at least 1.5× Spain’s average pay (or 1.2× in shortage jobs).

Language Proficiency and Job Offer May Be Required

• For permanent residency, there’s no strict rule on knowing Spanish, but speaking it helps with daily life.
• For the Blue Card, you need a job offer and the salary threshold, and education or experience as stated above.

Conclusion 

Pursuing an MS in Spain offers international students affordable tuition, world-class universities, and a vibrant European experience. 

Tuition for a master’s at a public university typically ranges from €604 to €2,565 per year, while private universities can charge from €1,388 to €105,000 per year, depending on the program and prestige. 

Top public institutions in Spain include the University of Barcelona, the Autonomous University of Madrid, and the Complutense University of Madrid, with specialized business and digital programs at private schools like IE University and ESADE.

Connect with upGrad experts for help with MS in Spain applications, scholarships, and choosing the right program.