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Barcelona, the capital of the Catalonian region of Spain, is located in the northeast of the country and on the coast of the Balearic Sea. It is one of Spain’s most vibrant cities, and is known for its unique blend of historical charm and modern, bustling atmosphere. The city is home to more than 1.6 million residents, and is one of the most densely populated cities in Europe.

Barcelona is famous for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in the areas of architecture and arts. It is considered the birthplace of many creative movements, such as Modernisme (also known as Catalan Art Nouveau), and has been the home of famous and influential artists. One of these artists, Antoni Gaudí, has architectural works such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell on display in the city. His works are not only popular tourist attractions, but also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As well as the vibrant city-centre attractions, international students can also take advantage of the beautiful beaches and delicious culinary delights that Barcelona offers.

As well as being a city with cultural and historical significance, Barcelona is also an important economic hub, and plays a role in tourism, commerce, education, and sports. The city gained international attention when it hosted the 1992 Summer Olympics, and has continued to be a popular tourist and study destination ever since.

Why Study in Barcelona?

Barcelona is an ideal destination for international students who are looking for an excellent education in a diverse and modern city. The city can cater for a range of needs, with many universities that offer a variety of programmes at all levels.

Here are some of the reasons that international students should consider Barcelona:

Educational Excellence – Barcelona is home to several prestigious universities that are renowned for their high academic standards and wide range of course offerings. These courses are mostly taught in English, and adhere to the Bologna Process, meaning that they are recognised around the world and meet a consistent standard.

Cultural Diversity – the city of Barcelona is a melting pot of cultures. This diversity fosters an inclusive environment, where international students from all over the world will feel welcomed and at home. You will have the opportunity to learn alongside people from different walks of life, and create a wide reaching network of friends and contacts.

Location – Barcelona’s location in central Europe means that it is incredibly easy for international students to explore the wider area whilst they are studying in Spain. Not only is this important for cultural exchange and development, but also allows students to discover new places.

Language and Communication – while Catalan and Spanish are the most common languages spoken in Barcelona, English is widely accepted and understood. Most universities offer their courses in English, meaning that whilst it is important to pick up some of the local language, you don’t need to be fluent to study in Barcelona.

Vibrant City Life – the city is known for its lively atmosphere, with an range of festivals, exciting nightlife and culinary treats. This ensures that students are getting a well-rounded experience, and have the chance to balance their academics with leisure and personal development.

Professional Opportunities – Barcelona is home to organisations and companies that work in a variety of sectors, meaning that there will be job options for all graduates. As well as this, the city’s location means that you can easily find a job within travelling distance, as all of central Europe is on your doorstep.

How Much Does it Cost to Study and Live in Barcelona?

Studying and living in Barcelona as an international student involves various costs, with tuition fees and accommodation being the most important factors. Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the university you will be attending, as Barcelona is home to both public and private universities. At a public university, you can expect to pay between €1,000 and €15,000 per year, with private universities being more expensive.

Accommodation costs can also vary, as there are many options, such as on campus dormitories, shared apartments, and private rentals. As well as rent, you will also need to consider other living expenses, for example food, transportation, mobile phone bills, etc.

In order to help with tuition fees or living expenses, there are several options for internationals students. These include scholarships and financial aid, offered by a range of organisations, such as the universities themselves, the Spanish Ministry of Education, and other privately funded organisations. If you want to utilise a scholarship to study in Barcelona, you should start your research as early as possible to ensure that you can submit your application in plenty of time.

For more information about study abroad costs, take a look at our advice article about how much it really costs to study abroad.

Things to Do in Barcelona

While Barcelona is home to universities offering high quality education, it is also a city that can offer an equally impressive cultural experience. For sports enthusiasts, Barcelona hosts exciting events such as the Conde de Godó Tennis Tournament, and football matches at the famous Camp Nou stadium, which is the home of FC Barcelona.

The city is a culinary paradise, and will please those who enjoy food. Its diverse immigrant communities mean that the food options appear endless. Neighbourhoods like El Raval and El Born are known for their restaurants and vibrant food scenes, offering a range of Spanish and international cuisines.

Music and theatre lovers will enjoy Barcelona’s many live music venues and theatres. With an efficient public transport system, these locations are incredibly easy to access, no matter where you choose to live.

Art and history enthusiasts will be impressed by cultural offerings, such as:

• Picasso Museum
• Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art
• Joan Miró Foundation
• Catalan National Art Museum
• History Museum of Barcelona

During weekends or holidays, students will be able to take trips to other Spanish cities like Madrid, Valencia or Seville, all of which are within a few hours on the train. For beach lovers, and visit to the Costa Brava or the Balearic Islands offers a wonderful Mediterranean experience. Barcelona’s blend of sports, cuisine, music, art and history make it a unique and diverse environment for international students.

See our Studying in Spain directory for more information about being an international student in the country, as well as other cities, tuition fees and a full list of courses/subjects available.

See all universities in Spain.