Spain City guide
Study in Barcelona
Barcelona is often the first name people search when looking at Spain. Metro L3 (green) runs under the UB Diagonal campus; a night bus connects to UAB's Bellaterra campus on weekday evenings. Classes in Barcelona alternate between Catalan and Spanish depending on the department, which can be a factor for Spanish-speaking applicants.
Metro L3 (green) runs under the UB Diagonal campus; a night bus connects to UAB's Bellaterra campus on weekday evenings.
Mid-range costs
Student visa (requirements vary by nationality)
Up to 30 hours/week while studying
You pay the institution directly — ApplySite adds no hidden student fees.
Barcelona blends UB, UPF, UPC and design schools between beach and hills. Catalan and Spanish both appear on campus — check which language your degree uses. Metro and tram passes cover most commutes; tourist pressure makes long-term housing competitive in Eixample and Gràcia.
Study authorization for non-EU students follows national rules with local police registration after arrival. Budget for deposits and community fees on top of rent.
ApplySite supports direct applications to verified schools. Use our Spain country guide for visa detail.
City guide
Why students choose Barcelona
- Metro L3 (green) runs under the UB Diagonal campus; a night bus connects to UAB's Bellaterra campus on weekday evenings. Classes in Barcelona alternate between Catalan and Spanish depending on the department, which can be a factor for Spanish-speaking applicants.
- Mixed academic routes: languages, diplomas and degrees in Barcelona
- Side-by-side comparison with other Spain cities on ApplySite
- Program catalog in Barcelona expanding at launch
Education
Types of institutions
Universities and higher education
Institutions with their own admissions in Barcelona; check language of instruction and intake dates.
Colleges and vocational training
Applied one- to three-year diplomas, often with local placements.
Language schools
Intensive courses before academic study or to raise language scores.
Programs
What you can study in Barcelona
Programs are published in stages at launch. Use the links below to explore the country catalog or speak with an advisor.
Catalog expanding at launch
Languages in Barcelona
Language schools and intensive courses in Barcelona to level up before college or university in Spain.
See programs →Catalog expanding at launch
Undergraduate study in Barcelona
Diplomas, technical degrees and pathways with Barcelona institutions focused on local employability.
See programs →Catalog expanding at launch
Postgraduate programs in Barcelona
MBAs, master's and specializations on campus or hybrid with networking in Barcelona's ecosystem.
See programs →Student life
The first semester in Barcelona typically has the highest upfront costs: rental deposit, transit card, course materials and setup expenses. Budget a two-month buffer on top of regular monthly costs before your arrival date.
Visa and paperwork
To study in Barcelona you will typically need the Student visa (requirements vary by nationality). Allow several weeks for documents, biometrics and any health checks required for your nationality. While enrolled, up to 30 hours/week while studying Immigration rules change — confirm on the official government site before you travel.
Guide to Spain →Immigration rules change. Information last updated May 2026 — check the official embassy or government site for your nationality.
Planning your budget
Cost of living in Barcelona
Indicative monthly ranges for one person; rent varies sharply by neighbourhood.
Indicative figures only — not a quote from institutions. Last reviewed in May 2026. Verify rent, tuition and visa fees on official sources before you budget or apply.
Spain
Other cities in Spain
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can I work while studying in Barcelona?
In Spain, the usual rule is: Up to 30 hours/week while studying. Confirm limits on your offer letter and the official immigration site.
How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?
Housing is usually the largest expense. Use the cost table on this page as a guide; it varies by area and housing type in Barcelona.
How do I apply to a program in Barcelona?
On ApplySite you compare programs in Barcelona, save favorites and submit your application directly to the institution with admissions tracking.
Are programs already listed for Barcelona?
The catalog rolls out in phases at launch. Until then use this guide and contact our team if you already have an institution in mind.
Do I pay ApplySite?
No. ApplySite does not charge tuition or hidden student fees. Official costs (application, tuition, insurance if required) are paid directly to the institution under their published terms.
Are there hidden fees when I apply?
Browsing, comparing and submitting your application on ApplySite is free for students. Each school lists its fees; what you pay goes to the institution. We do not add undisclosed charges on top of those amounts.
Planning your move to Barcelona?
Create your account, save institutions you like and send your application when programs go live. You pay the school directly — ApplySite does not charge tuition or hidden fees.