Every year, Spain welcomes more than 60,000 international students who decide to study the second most spoken language in the world. Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and other South Asian countries are some of the countries where most of the brave souls who decide to study Spanish in Spain and embark on this new academic adventure come from. And it is not only the number of students taking courses that has increased, but also visa applications from Asia. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Asia accounts for 27% of student visa applications.
As the third most visited country in the world and one of the safest in Europe, Spain ranks among the top destinations for learning the language. Alicante, Granada, Madrid and Barcelona are four of the cities that see the most students walking their streets. But why have they decided to start their new academic journey here? What can they do in these destinations? We’ll tell you everything in this article!
Why is Spain one of the favourite destinations for students from South Asia?
With more than 100 centres in 54 countries and over 24 million people studying Spanish worldwide, Spain ranks as the favourite destination within the Cervantes Institute network.
Its educational quality, safety and affordable lifestyle compared to other European countries make Spain the destination of choice for students looking to take y Spanish language courses to get student visa or to undertake intensive training and improve their language skills.
However, there is no doubt that Spain offers renowned universities, a pleasant climate, a welcoming culture and a lower cost of living than countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States or Australia.
Educational opportunities for South Asian students in Spain
There are countless ways for students to learn Spanish. They can find short and long-term courses, as well as degree programmes where they can learn the language more comprehensively.
Spanish courses and preparatory programmes
Intensive Spanish courses are the most popular option among international students. They enable students to improve their language skills and prepare them for further studies. At Proyecto Español, we offer a wide range of courses to suit all levels.
Undergraduate, master's and doctoral programmes
Spain has more than 80 public and private universities offering internationally recognised courses. Every year, thousands of international students enrol in bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business, engineering, health sciences, tourism, technology and more.
Accredited centres offering assistance with obtaining visas
Another frequently asked question we receive at Proyecto Español concerns student visas. As an accredited centre, we issue the documentation required for submission to the Spanish embassies in New Delhi, Dhaka, Islamabad, and Colombo, as well as offering personalised advice on requirements and deadlines.
How to apply for a student visa from Bangladesh, India or South Asia?
Before travelling to Spain, students must complete an official procedure at Spanish embassies or consulates. Although the steps may vary slightly depending on the country, the process is similar throughout the region.
Step 1: Choose an accredited course
The first thing students need to do is choose the course they want to take in Spain. It is essential that they enrol in an official course that meets the visa requirements. These can be either long or short term.
Step 2: Prepare the necessary documents
Normally, the documentation required to apply for a visa is:
- Valid passport
- Letter of acceptance
- Proof of accommodation
- Economic resources
- International health insurance
- Certificate of good conduct
Step 3: Apply at the Spanish embassy or consulate
Finally, everything must be submitted to the Spanish embassies in the country of origin or the consulates corresponding to each region. The application and approval of the student visa usually takes between 4 and 8 weeks.
Cost of studying and living in Spain for South Asian students
Unlike other Western countries, Spain offers a more affordable cost of living. The average monthly expenditure for a foreign student is usually
Why choose Proyecto Español for your studies in Spain?
At Proyecto Español, we have helped thousands of students who have chosen our centres to learn Spanish. We offer long-term courses valid for student visas accredited by the Instituto Cervantes.
Support for South Asian students in Spain
At Proyecto Español, we understand that moving to a new country can cause doubts and nervousness, which is why we accompany our students from day one to ensure a comfortable, safe and enriching experience.
Help with accommodation
We know that it can be difficult to feel at home when starting a new life abroad. That’s why we offer
Airport transfer and assistance upon arrival
Another of our services is airport transfers and assistance upon arrival, so that you feel accompanied from the moment you set foot on Spanish soil.
Cultural activities and student community
At Proyecto Español, you learn the language both inside and outside the classroom. We organise outings so that you can put what you are learning into practice and integrate more quickly into the local community.
