Quick Overview
University admission in Spain requires passing the Selectividad/EvAU entrance exam after completing Bachillerato, with scores determining access to specific degrees through the nota de corte (cut-off grade) system. Public universities cost €800-2,000/year depending on region and degree, with Madrid and Catalonia charging most. Apply for Ministry scholarships (becas MEC) providing up to €6,000/year covering tuition plus living expenses for students from families earning under €50,000/year. Applications occur in June-July after exam results, with enrollment in September. Spanish universities offer 4-year Grado degrees with freedom to choose courses within your program, and students often live at home due to high rental costs in university cities.
Key Facts
Public university cost
€800-2,000/year (varies by region and degree)
Entrance exam
Selectividad/EvAU required (€80-100 exam fee)
Scholarships available
Becas MEC: up to €6,000/year (income-based)
Application timeline
June-July applications, September enrollment
Student housing
€300-600/month (residencias) or live at home
Admission system
Nota de corte (cut-off grades) by degree and university
How It Works
Sending Child to University in Spain
Spanish university admission follows a centralized system based on Selectividad/EvAU (Evaluación de Acceso a la Universidad) scores. Students complete Bachillerato (equivalent to A-levels) then sit the EvAU exam in June, scoring 0-14 points (10 from Bachillerato average + 4 from EvAU exams). Each university degree program publishes a nota de corte (minimum score for admission) which varies by demand - competitive degrees like Medicine require 12-13+ while others accept 5-7. Applications are submitted through regional university portals in June-July, ranking up to 12 degree preferences. Public universities charge €800-2,000/year depending on region (Madrid €1,500-2,000, Andalucía €800-1,200) and degree type (engineering/medicine cost more). Apply for Ministry scholarships (becas MEC) in May-August based on family income - families earning under €50,000/year qualify for aid covering full tuition plus €1,500-4,000 for living expenses, with larger awards for students studying away from home. Regional scholarships also exist. Spanish university culture involves living at home if possible due to rental costs (€300-600/month in student cities), part-time work is less common than in Anglo countries, and degrees are 4-year Grado programs with flexibility to choose courses within your specialization.
Planning and preparation
Prepare for Selectividad/EvAU exam
University entrance exam.
Research universities and degrees
Explore options and requirements.
Applying after exams
Submit university applications
Apply through regional system.
Apply for scholarships (becas)
Ministry scholarships for students.
After acceptance
Complete enrollment (matrícula)
Register for specific courses.
Arrange student housing
University residence or private rental.
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