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Study Spanish in Barcelona: Discover schools, prices, and best seasons
Are there scholarships to study Spanish in Barcelona? How much do the courses cost? Which school should I attend? Find all the answers here.
Want to study Spanish in Barcelona? It’s a fantastic idea. There’s no better way to master a language than by immersing yourself in a place where you can practice every day. Plus, Barcelona offers an international vibe and endless things to do. It’s no surprise that thousands of students choose the city every year for their studies.
That said, there’s a lot to sort out before you go—and it won’t be a walk in the park. That’s why we’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know before heading off. We’ll cover the scholarships available to help fund your studies in Catalonia, the top schools in the area, study abroad agencies, and the costs you should expect. Stick with us and start planning your academic adventure in Barcelona today.
How much does it cost to study Spanish in Barcelona
Before you start with the organization, there is something you should ask yourself: Can you afford to study Spanish in Barcelona? Paying for rent or residence, a course and daily expenses is not going to be cheap. You’ll have to consider whether you can afford it.
How much you’ll need to cover your studies in Barcelona really depends on the type of course you choose and your personal expenses. Overall, the cost of living in the city is moderate compared to other European cities. You’ll need more money than if you were studying in Krakow, but less than in a place like Zurich. Here are some prices to give you a clearer picture:
| Approximate cost (€ EUR) | Approximate cost ($ USD) | |
| Standard Spanish Course (20 lessons/week) – 1 week | 290 | 315 |
| Standard Spanish Course (20 lessons/week) – 4 weeks | 1120 | 1220 |
| Intensive Spanish Course (30 lessons/week) – 1 week | 390 | 425 |
| Intensive Spanish Course (30 lessons/week) – 4 weeks | 1520 | 1660 |
| Accommodation in a student residence – 2 weeks | 480 | 520 |
| Accommodation in student residence – 4 weeks | 920 | 995 |
| High season supplement (June-September) per week | 60 | 65 |
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Where to get scholarships to study Spanish in Barcelona
Feeling a bit discouraged after seeing the prices? Don’t give up just yet. There are scholarships available for studying in Spain that can help cover tuition, housing, and other expenses. Here are a few we think are especially worth checking out:
1. The Spanish Language Foundation Scholarships
This U.S. based nonprofit offers scholarships for studying Spanish in Spain, with both partial and full funding options. While the organization is headquartered in the States, the scholarships are open to international students and support immersion programs in cities like Barcelona.
- Eligibility requirements: Must be over 18, show interest in learning Spanish and complete the application process.
- Coverage and benefits: Includes course tuition, some cultural activities and, in some cases, part of the accommodation.
- Amount: Varies according to the call for applications, but may cover up to 100% of the program.
- Type of studies offered: Intensive Spanish courses with a communicative approach.
- How to apply: Access their official website between January and May (spainedu.org) and complete the online application form.
2. Scholarships from Generalitat de Catalunya
The Catalan Agency for University and Research Grants (AGAUR) offers a range of financial aid options for studying in Catalonia. Some of these can even be used for language courses at local institutions.
- Eligibility requirements: Vary according to the call for applications. They usually take into account the applicant’s economic and academic situation.
- Coverage and benefits: Can include total or partial exemption from fees, assistance for accommodation or transportation and teaching materials.
- Amount: Depends on the call and the student’s personal situation.
- How to apply: Check the active calls for applications on the AGAUR website and submit your application during the available period.
3. Erasmus+ Scholarships
While the Erasmus+ program is mainly geared toward university exchanges, it also supports language learning opportunities. If you’re studying at a higher education institution in Europe, you may be eligible to apply for funding to take a Spanish course in Barcelona as part of your academic program.
- Eligibility requirements: Enrollment in a higher education institution in the EU and compliance with the requirements of your institution.
- Coverage and benefits: Covers part of the course tuition, accommodation and living expenses.
- Amount: Between 300 euros and 500 euros ($324-540) per month, depending on the country of origin.
- Type of studies offered: Spanish courses integrated into educational mobility programs.
- How to apply: Check with your university’s international relations office.
Best schools to study Spanish in Barcelona
Alright, now that we’ve got a clearer picture of the costs of studying Spanish in Barcelona—and some scholarships that can help make it more affordable—it’s time to tackle another big question: where to study. Barcelona is a top choice for international students, which means there’s no shortage of Spanish language schools to choose from.
To help you find a school that fits your needs and preferences, we’ve picked out three options that are highly rated by students. One includes accommodation, another doesn’t, and one is tailored specifically for adult learners. This should make it easier for you to find the right fit.
1. Camino Barcelona – With accommodation
Just a 10-minute walk from Plaça Catalunya, this school lets you live and study in the same building. It makes day-to-day logistics a breeze and allows you to fully focus on learning Spanish.
- Courses and levels: They offer intensive and super-intensive programs starting every Monday. They cover all levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Type of Spanish: Spanish from Spain. Practical and communicative approach.
- Accommodation and services: There are shared apartments and rooms in residence. In addition, the school organizes daily cultural activities.
- Price range: A two-week intensive course with shared room accommodation can cost around 920 euros ($988).
Why choose it? Because of its central location. Also for its quality teaching and social program.
2. Expanish Barcelona +30 – For adults
Designed for students over 30 who prefer a more relaxed, mature learning environment. The school is right in the heart of the city, just steps from Passeig de Gràcia.
- Courses and levels: Intensive, semi-intensive and preparation for official exams such as DELE. All levels.
- Type of Spanish: Spanish from Spain, with a communicative and cultural approach.
- Accommodation and services: Does not include accommodation, but advice on how to find options in Barcelona (families, residences or apartments).
- Age range: Aimed at students starting from 30 years old, many of them between 35 and 50 years old.
- Price range: Intensive courses start at 253 euros ($272) per week.
Why choose it? You’ll be able to study in an adult environment, without sharing a classroom with teenagers. Perfect if you are looking for a more personalized experience.
3. Speakeasy BCN – Without accommodation
Already have your accommodation sorted? Then Speakeasy could be a great fit. It’s highly rated by international students for its modern teaching approach and diverse, multicultural atmosphere.
- Courses and levels: Intensive and super-intensive courses, evening classes, DELE preparation and private classes. All levels.
- Type of Spanish: Peninsular Spanish, focusing on the real use of the language.
- Price range: 4-week intensive course starting at 645 euros ($692).
Why choose it? It is an affordable and flexible option. It also has an excellent reputation among students. Great if you already have accommodation in Barcelona.
How to study Spanish in Barcelona and work at the same time
Worried you might not get one of the scholarships we mentioned and unsure how you’ll cover your stay? Good news, you can combine work and study. In fact, it’s quite common to see international students working in shops, cafés, or restaurants.
That said, the type of permit you’ll need depends on your nationality. If you’re a citizen of the EU or the European Economic Area, you won’t need any additional paperwork to work—you’re free to study and work at the same time with no restrictions.
If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll need a Spanish student visa. This allows you to work up to 30 hours per week, as long as the job doesn’t interfere with your studies or class schedule. On top of that, your employer will need to request special authorization from immigration authorities.
Best seasons to study Spanish in Barcelona
Set on studying Spanish in Barcelona but not sure when to go? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it really depends on what you’re looking for. Each season has its own pros and cons, so take some time to think it through. The timing can make a big difference in your overall experience.
Summer guarantees great weather, plus you’ll find lots more international students at the language schools and a lively atmosphere all around. Then again, that vibrant energy is pretty much year-round. The downside? Accommodation and course prices tend to be higher, and spots can fill up quickly.
On the other hand, if you go in winter, you’ll notice the schools are a bit quieter and there are fewer student activities. The upside is that prices are generally lower. While housing in Barcelona is always in high demand, it’ll be a bit easier—and more affordable—to find a spot with a host family or in a student residence compared to the summer.
Looking for a middle ground? Then consider going in spring or fall. The weather’s pleasant, the city isn’t packed with tourists, and prices are more reasonable than during peak season.
Popular agencies to study Spanish in Barcelona
Before we wrap up this guide on studying Spanish in Barcelona, there’s one last thing to mention: specialized study-abroad agencies. While booking through them might cost a bit more, they take care of everything for you—from accommodation and course enrollment to, in some cases, even helping with your student visa.
Just like with language schools, there are plenty of agencies to choose from. To make things easier, we’ve done some digging through student forums and review sites and picked out two that consistently get great feedback.
1. EF Education First
One of the most well-known study abroad agencies in the world, it’s been helping students have educational experiences overseas for over 50 years.
- What does it offer? General and intensive Spanish courses for all levels. Also preparation for official exams such as DELE. Classes start every Monday.
- Accommodation: You can choose between host families with half board or residences shared with other students.
- Activities and social life: Excursions, cultural workshops and events organized by the school.
- Visa counseling: Yes.
- Price range: Starting at 330 euros ($355) per week. Accommodation starts at 280 euros ($300) per week.
2. StudyTravel
Another interesting option is StudyTravel. With more than 25 years of experience, it partners with some of the most prestigious schools in Barcelona.
- What does it offer? General and intensive Spanish programs, available all year round. It also has specific courses for adults over 50 and for Spanish teachers.
- Accommodation: They help you book student residences, apartments or homestays.
- Activities and networking: They offer a full schedule of activities to practice the language and get to know the local culture.
- Advice on visa procedures: Yes.
- Price range: Courses start from 260 euros ($280) per week. Host family accommodation with half board costs about 750 euros ($810) per month.
Frequently asked questions about where to study Spanish in Barcelona
Prices vary depending on the school, the type of course, and how long you stay. To give you a general idea, a four-week intensive course typically costs between 1,120 and 1,520 euros ($1,220–1,660). Accommodation in a student residence for the same period can be around 920 euros ($995). During peak season, you might also need to pay an extra 60 euros ($65) per week.
It depends on your nationality. If you’re an EU citizen, you can work without any restrictions. If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll need a student visa. This allows you to work up to 30 hours a week, as long as it doesn’t conflict with your class schedule. However, your employer will also need to get additional authorization from Spanish immigration authorities.
Summer brings more international students, great weather, and plenty of activities—but also higher prices and quicker sellouts. Spring and fall offer a nice balance between atmosphere and cost. In winter, things are quieter, but prices are more budget-friendly.
Yes, you can apply for scholarships from The Spanish Language Foundation or funding offered by the Catalan government. And if you’re enrolled at a European university, you might also qualify for the Erasmus+ program, which can help cover part of your course fees, housing, and other expenses.
