What Are the Best Business Schools in Spain?
Spain is rapidly emerging as one of Europe’s top destinations for international master’s students. With its blend of academic excellence and vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle, Spain offers a unique and enriching study environment.
Let’s take a closer look at what draws so many international students to Spain every year for their master’s degrees.
Why Study in Spain?
Spain is home to several globally ranked business schools and has a rapidly growing number of English-taught master’s programs. Spanish schools are renowned for their innovative teaching methods, strong industry connections, and diverse classrooms that foster global thinking.
A Warm Climate & Culturally Immersive Study Location
Beyond the classroom, students enjoy a high quality of life and rich cultural heritage. Students can network in business hubs like Madrid and Barcelona. Both cities have become business epicenters and start-up hubs, with smaller Spanish cities following suit.
With sun-soaked coastlines, dynamic urban life, and a strong work-life balance, Spain offers a beautiful location for living abroad.
Top Universities for a Master’s Degree in Spain
Let’s further explore the top five universities for a master’s degree in Spain, looking at the highest-ranked universities and what their unique advantages are.
University of Barcelona (UB)
Founded in 1450, the University of Barcelona is one of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. It ranks #149 globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025. The UB ranks #165 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
UB offers the widest course offering of all Spanish universities, with many taught in English. The UB also has 3,578 agreements with foreign universities and institutions. This means that there are 1,400 mobility destinations at global universities. The UB is also home to 16 libraries.
Did you know that UB hosts around 12,600 international students who represent 145 nationalities? It is an excellent place to expand your horizons, grow your network, and make new lifelong friends from around the world.
Complutense University of Madrid (UCM)
Founded in 1499, UCM is one of the oldest universities in the world and a significant center for academic excellence in Spain. UCM has a rich history of academic contributions and notable alumni, including several Nobel laureates and influential political figures. UCM ranks #501 globally in the THE World University Rankings 2025 and #164 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Did you know that UCM collaborates in cooperation with over 900 institutions in 77 countries? It maintains a strong network with international schools and institutions across the globe.
Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB)
Established in 1968, UAB is a public Catalan university with a focus on international collaboration and social responsibility. It offers 143 official master’s degrees, 27% of which are English-taught (2023-2024). UAB ranks highly both in Spain and globally. It ranks #199 globally in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 and #175 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Did you know that UAB offers a UAB Study Room in the Social Sciences Library that is open 24/7 (including weekends and public holidays)? This helps to accommodate the diverse study schedules of students.
Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)
Established in 1968, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) is a public university located in Madrid, Spain. UAM offers 87 master’s degrees, including many English-taught master’s programs. UAM ranks #351 in the THE World University Rankings 2025. It also ranks #198 in the QS World University Rankings.
Did you know that UAM has two campuses in Madrid? They are easily accessible and offer a wide range of services and facilities. This includes libraries, museums, and thirty sports facilities. This ensures a well-rounded on-campus student experience.
University of Navarra (UNAV)
Founded in 1952, the University of Navarra (UNAV) is a Christian-inspired university and a non-profit organization. It offers 43 master’s programs. The school also boasts a diverse student body, made up of 3,920 international students of 115 nationalities.
UNAV ranks #251 globally in THE World University Rankings 2025. It also ranks #249 globally in the QS World University Rankings.
Did you know that the University of Navarra includes 7 campuses and 16 schools, as well as a clinic, 8 research centers, 2 museums, 2 institutes, 2 affiliated entities, and 5 collaborating entities. This includes IESE Business School, that is currently ranked #4 in the Best European Business Schools by the Financial Times.
Tuition Fees & Cost of Living
Spain offers affordable tuition and cheaper living costs as compared to other countries. Let’s further explore the costs involved in living in Spain.
Living Costs in Spain
According to the Europe: Cost of Living Index by Country 2025, Spain ranks #22. This is significantly cheaper than other EU countries such as the Netherlands or Germany. It is an excellent location for those wanting to live and study in Europe on a budget.
Living expenses, such as rent, in Spain can vary by city. In major cities like Barcelona, students can expect rent to be around €930 per month for a 1-bedroom flat in the city center.
In comparison, smaller cities typically offer a lower cost of living. For example, a 1-bedroom flat in the city center of Córdoba can cost around €416 per month. An average student studying abroad in Spain spends around €900 – €1,500 on general living costs.
Tuition Fees in Spain
The cost for a master’s degree in Spain at a public university can range between €604 to €2,565. Alternatively, a master’s degree at a private Spanish university can cost from €1,388 to €105,000 per academic year.
Keep in mind that study costs can differ depending on the university (private vs public), study program, and whether or not you are an EU/EEA student or an international student. Typically, international students pay higher tuition fees. Spanish universities can also charge application fees (these can range from €30 to around €200).
Scholarships & Financial Aid
There are plenty of scholarships and financial aid opportunities available in Spain if you know where to look. Let’s explore some of the options.
Erasmus+ Program
The Erasmus+ program provides scholarships for EU students to study abroad, including in Spain. It is a great way to make your dream of studying abroad a reality.
Government & School Scholarships
The Spanish government and many universities also offer various scholarships and study grants. Use a scholarship finder tool to discover scholarships that best suit your needs and study goals.
Application Process & Admission Requirements
To complete a master’s degree in Spain, you must follow a specific application process. This often requires:
- Proof of a bachelor’s degree
- Official copy of your passport or ID
- Copy of your academic transcript
Some applications require extra documentation. This may include your CV, a motivation letter, and letter(s) of recommendation.
Start your application early so you have all the necessary documents, and submit your application by the correct deadline. For postgraduate studies, students can typically apply directly via the university.
If your program is taught in English, you may be required to take an English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
However, if you are an EU/EEA student, you will not need a student visa, but you do need to register with local authorities once you are in Spain. If you are a non-EU/EEA student, you will need to apply for a student visa.
Student Visa & Work Opportunities
Applying for a Student Visa in Spain
Typically, a master’s degree in Spain can take 1-2 years to complete. This means that you will need a long-stay visa (Visa D) for more than 90 days.
To apply for a student visa in Spain, you will need to submit the following documents:
- Proof of admission to a recognized educational institution (an acceptance letter)
- Proof of Spanish health insurance
- A health certificate
- Proof of financial resources
- Parental consent is required if you are a minor
Working in Spain During and After Studies
Students are allowed to work in Spain if they have a work permit.
After their studies, graduates can apply for a 12-month job searching residence permit. Graduates can work in Spain if they have a valid employer, a work permit, and can prove that they have been in Spain for three years under a student permit.
Career Prospects After Graduation
Staying in Spain can offer many career opportunities for graduates. Cities such as Madrid or Barcelona are excellent places for graduates who want to go into entrepreneurship or tech.
The biggest industries in Spain include tourism, manufacturing, agriculture and food, energy and electricity, and exports and imports. Regardless of which career path you choose, there are many work opportunities for international students. Brushing up on your Spanish will give you a significant advantage in the job market too.
Student Life & Culture in Spain
There is no shortage of things to do as an international student in Spain. The sunny climate ensures plenty of time outdoors. There are plenty of parks, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
Additionally, Spain has many historical landmarks and beautiful architecture to discover. For example, the famous Gaudí architecture or Sagrada Famíliain Barcelona.
Furthermore, the country is renowned for its unique cuisine. Traditional dishes include paella, tortilla española, patatas bravas, gazpacho, among others. For night owls, there are plenty of bars and clubs in which to dance the night away.
Spain offers students a rich and culturally immersive experience both in and outside of the classroom.
¡Vamos a la Playa!
Are you still dreaming of studying your master’s degree in Spain? It’s time to stop dreaming and make it a reality!
In a nutshell, Spain’s affordability, sunny climate, rich culture, and excellent business schools all contribute to its appeal as a top study destination. Immerse yourself in a rich study journey abroad and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Get real insight into studying for a master’s in Spain.
