One of the most popular destinations for students and young employees looking to move and reside is Spain.

The climate, culture, gastronomy, language, and manner of life of the Spaniards are among the many factors that draw thousands of young people each year.

They are joyful and funny people who have become famous for the festivities, as well as the charm of the regions, tradition, history, and an outstanding literary panorama.

Moving to Spain means becoming a part of a way of life that includes sun, beautiful beaches, plenty of art, and plenty of things to do, see, and enjoy. Furthermore, for young people, it is a matter of meeting thousands of people who have travelled from all over the world and who share the same aspirations and passion.

All this has made the country, particularly its capital Madrid, a popular destination for international students looking for a unique experience far from home.

But Spain has a lot more to offer. Actually, there are excellent universities, both public and private, as well as business schools based on the Anglo-American model, which are frequently visited by aspiring managers.

If you're looking for information about living and studying in Spain, this page will provide you with the basics: university education, cost of living, and a special focus on Madrid and its neighbourhoods.

The University system in Spain

Spain's universities are regarded as excellent, and you will be interested to learn that the educational options are incredibly varied.

There are approximately 80 universities, with at least 50 of them being public. This also makes it easier for international students to enrol in educational institutions, both to begin and finish their degree programmes.

In fact, the study cycles and accompanying certifications issued follow the European university system's framework. After earning your High School Diploma, also known as a Bachiller or Técnico in Spain, you can continue your education in one of the following ways:

• Grado, which is a three-year or single-cycle degree for addresses that demand it;
• Postgrado o Máster, which is a master's degree that is finished or merged with the three-year degree;
• Doctorado, which is a research doctorate focused on advanced and technical training.

As a result, a Higher Diploma, or a bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on the path you wish to take, is required to enrol in degree courses in Spain.

Furthermore, some universities require foreign students to pass additional tests, which are primarily designed to validate their Spanish language proficiency. This test is known as PAU (Prueba de Acceso a la Universidad) (University access test).

If you don't speak Spanish, you may be able to study it while in Spain and then take the PAU test afterwards. This, however, is dependent on the organisation of the individual institution, so it is best to check ahead of time to see what the specific protocols are.

If you're looking for a way to get training without breaking the bank, you'll be happy to learn that some Spanish colleges provide scholarships and financial aid.

The Santander bank, the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation and Development, and the Fundación Carolina award prizes to international students in Madrid on an annual basis.

The calls are published every year, and each one specifies the required features.

If you are not a member of the European Union, you will need to obtain and present additional documents in order to study in Madrid; we'll go over them briefly in the next paragraph.

Documents required to live and study in Spain

The Consulate or the Spanish diplomatic representation offices in your country of origin process the authorization to study in Spain.

Students from outside the European Union must also have a valid passport and a visa. This visa is required because it certifies that the student meets the following criteria:

• Admission to a public or private Spanish educational institution;
• Health insurance;
• Availability of funds to allow you to support yourself during your stay.

It is critical to understand that you cannot enter Spain on a tourist visa and then apply for a student visa. You must be in your country of origin to make the request because document processing takes time and involves numerous checks and time.

The general recommendation is to begin the procedures at least three months before the vacation.

If you come from a European Union country, though, things are much easier; all you need is a valid identity document and a valid health card. If your stay will be more than 90 days, you must apply for a foreigner's residency permit or identity card within 30 days of arrival.

This can be done at the local Foreigners' Office, and you can apply in person.

In any event, if you are a student, the best suggestion is to constantly refer to the institution where you wish to study and ask for specific information.

In this regard, let us look at the top universities in Madrid, the city that offers the most possibilities and is preferred by the majority of students.

The main Universities in Madrid

Spain has great universities around the country, including those in Barcelona, Granada, and Valencia. If you want to live and study in the capital, however, you may discover a list of the main Universities in Madrid below.

The Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) is ranked second nationally and among the top ten public universities in the world. The campus is both vast and environmentally friendly.

The best degree programmes it provides are: Sports Science, Law, and Natural Sciences.  Furthermore, it is notable for its international relationships with other institutions throughout the world as well as the organisation of cultural activities for students.

The Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) has a long and illustrious history, dating back to 1822. It is one among Spain's top ten universities, with fields such as Odontology, Veterinary Medicine, and Classics.

If you're looking for language-related degree programmes, this university also offers online courses taught by native speakers.

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) is known for its archival, economics, and business management degree programmes.

This University has several campuses in Getafe and Leganés (south of Madrid) as well as Colmenarejo (north). There are also libraries, language centres, courtrooms, auditoriums, sports facilities, computer rooms, and other attractions.

The Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) offers programmes in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Art, and Design. It has an international reputation and is regarded as the best polytechnic in Spain.

It also offers specific Spanish lessons for Erasmus students and foreigners, in addition to other languages such as Chinese, German, Italian, Polish, and others.

All of these universities provide bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degree scholarships. The criteria used to assign these loans must be validated at each institution.

But now another question naturally arises: where to live in Madrid if you are a student?

In the next paragraph, we offer some suggestions.

The best areas to live in as a student

Madrid is a good place to live.

A dynamic, cosmopolitan city with a mix of new buildings and old landmarks. Ideal for young people who wish to get international experience while both studying and having fun.

Madrid has a high quality of life since it not only has the wonderful universities we mentioned, but also many events, good food, and a vibrant nightlife.

When deciding where to live, keep in mind that your decision is influenced by three primary factors: your budget, your comfort, and the atmosphere you choose.

So, let's see some of the best places to live in Madrid.

The pulsating heart of the city and its geographical centre are Sol and Gran Vía. They serve as a vital transportation centre and are home to bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. It is quite easy to go around and to find everything you need to have a good time. The disadvantage is that the flats are small, and the costs are more expensive.

The Malasaña quarter, just a few blocks from the city centre, offers an alternative lifestyle and is the birthplace of the creative and social movement. It is one of the city's most trendy and hipster neighbourhoods, with restaurants, pubs, vintage shops, and eccentric cafés. It is a popular destination for international students because of its friendly atmosphere.

Between Gran Vía and Malasaa sits Chueca, a well-known area regarded for being the most colourful in the capital. Everyone is welcome, and the atmosphere is cosmopolitan.

Salamanca, near Retiro Park, is the place to go if you want more elegant structures and a quieter ambiance. It is located a little outside the tourist attractions, in an elite neighbourhood with new residences and highly modern structures.

Because these are all outstanding and central neighbourhoods, the prices are a little higher as well. Instead, head to the suburbs, where rates are lower, but you are further away from the nightlife and cultural centre.

Each section of the Spanish capital has its own charm and personality, and you will undoubtedly discover the ideal spot to relax and enjoy your experience.