Education and learning opportunities in Spain for Dutch and Belgian citizens

Spain has become an increasingly attractive destination for Dutch and Belgian citizens who wish to pursue education abroad. With a rich academic tradition, vibrant culture, and growing international student population, Spain offers a range of opportunities—from full-time university programs to vocational training and language immersion. Whether you’re planning to study for a few months or complete an entire degree, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why study in Spain?

For many students from the Netherlands and Belgium, Spain represents the perfect combination of quality education and life experience. It’s a country where you can not only gain a solid academic foundation, but also immerse yourself in a warm climate, diverse cultural life, and a language spoken across much of the world.

Key reasons to consider Spain for your studies:

• Renowned public and private universities

• Affordable tuition compared to other Western European countries

• A wide selection of English-taught programs

• Rich student life and cultural exposure

• Opportunities to learn Spanish, a global language

An overview of the Spanish education system

Spain’s education system is divided into several stages:

1. Educación infantil (0–6 years) – Pre-school, not compulsory

2. Educación primaria (6–12 years) – Primary school, compulsory

3. Educación secundaria obligatoria or ESO (12–16 years) – Lower secondary school, compulsory

4. Bachillerato (16–18 years) – Upper secondary school, not mandatory, but required for university access

5. Formación Profesional (Vocational Training) – Available after ESO or Bachillerato

6. Grado universitario (Bachelor’s Degree) – Usually 3 to 4 years

7. Máster (Master’s Degree) – 1 to 2 years

8. Doctorado (Doctorate) – Typically 3 to 5 years

Universities are either public or private. Public institutions generally have lower tuition fees and follow a standardized academic calendar, while private universities may offer more flexibility and niche programs, often in English.

Access to Spanish education for Dutch and Belgian citizens

As EU citizens, Dutch and Belgian nationals have the right to live and study in Spain without a visa. However, enrolling in a Spanish educational institution does require certain steps:

For university-level education:

• You must have a valid secondary school diploma (such as VWO or a Belgian equivalent).

• Dutch HAVO or Belgian TSO/BSO diplomas may be accepted depending on the institution and study path.

• Many universities require that your diploma be officially recognized (known as homologación) by the Spanish Ministry of Education.

• You may also need to complete an entrance test or language proficiency exam (usually in Spanish, unless enrolling in an English-taught program).

For vocational or language education:

• Vocational programs (Formación Profesional) are often accessible to EU citizens, but may have limited places for non-Spanish speakers.

• Language schools and international academies in Spain offer short- and long-term Spanish courses for all levels.

It is recommended to start preparations several months in advance due to paperwork and housing arrangements.

Language of instruction

While the primary language of instruction at most public institutions is Spanish, the number of English-taught programs has grown significantly in recent years—especially at the postgraduate level. Dutch and Belgian students with strong English proficiency can often enroll in these programs without speaking Spanish, although learning the local language will significantly enhance your experience.

Some regions, such as Catalonia or the Basque Country, may also use regional languages (Catalan, Basque) alongside Spanish in everyday life and occasionally in education.

Popular cities to study in Spain for Dutch and Belgian students

Certain cities in Spain have become particularly popular with international students, including those from the Netherlands and Belgium. Here’s an overview of some of the best options:

Barcelona

A vibrant, multicultural city that blends academic excellence with a creative atmosphere. Barcelona is home to several prestigious universities such as Universitat de Barcelona (UB) and Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), offering English-taught programs in economics, social sciences, law, and more.

Madrid

As the capital, Madrid offers a broad spectrum of academic options, from technical programs at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid to international business degrees. It also hosts numerous exchange programs through Erasmus+.

Valencia

A more affordable yet highly dynamic student city. The University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University of Valencia offer competitive programs in health sciences, engineering, and humanities. Valencia’s Mediterranean lifestyle makes it especially attractive.

Granada

Famous for its historic charm and cost-effective living, Granada is ideal for students looking for a more traditional and immersive Spanish experience. The University of Granada is known for its international collaborations and strong Erasmus+ presence.

Málaga

Located on the Costa del Sol, Málaga is gaining popularity for language courses and arts programs. It offers a relaxed lifestyle, great weather, and a growing tech ecosystem.

Tuition fees and cost of living

Spain is known for offering an excellent price-quality ratio in higher education. Public universities charge annual tuition fees that generally range between €600 and €2,000, depending on the course and region. Private institutions may cost significantly more, but often provide specialized or international programs.

The cost of living varies by city. Smaller towns and southern regions tend to be more affordable, while Madrid and Barcelona have higher rents. On average, monthly expenses including rent, food, and transport can range between €700 and €1,200 per month.

Scholarships and funding

Dutch and Belgian students may be eligible for:

• Erasmus+ exchange grants

• DUO funding (if studying abroad with a recognized institution)

• Scholarships through the Spanish university or private foundations

It is advisable to contact the university or institution of interest to learn about their specific financial aid options.

Want help preparing your move?

Studying in Spain can be a life-changing decision, but it comes with its share of administrative steps and questions. If you need help with translating documents, finding accommodation, applying for a NIE number, or choosing the right program, EmigrateWise is here to support you.

Click Find Help to connect with trusted education advisors, relocation experts, and other professionals who can guide you every step of the way.