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Complete guide: How to study Spanish in Málaga?
Ready to learn Spanish? Choose to study Spanish in Málaga and find out what scholarships you can apply for and where to stay.
There is no better way to learn a foreign language than by living in a city where the Mediterranean climate and friendly locals make it easy and enjoyable. That is why more and more international students choose to study Spanish in Málaga. It provides a fully immersive experience, allowing you to live the language every day.
In this article, we help you make it happen with a guide that covers course fees, available scholarships, the best schools to enroll in, and your accommodation options. Keep reading to find out why Málaga is the perfect place to study Spanish!
How much does it cost to study Spanish in Málaga?
The cost of studying Spanish in Málaga depends on the school you choose, how long you plan to stay, and the type of accommodation you book. Overall, the cost of living in Spain is moderate compared to other European destinations. Málaga, in particular, is more affordable than larger cities like Madrid or Barcelona. The table below gives you an idea of typical monthly expenses:
| Concept | Monthly cost |
| Intensive Spanish course, 20 hours per week | $651 – $977 |
| Study materials | $21 – $32 |
| Accommodation (shared apartment) | $325 – $651 |
| Student residence | $542 – $977 |
| Food expenses | $217 – $434 |
| Public transportation | $43 – $54 |
| Leisure and entertainment | $108 – $162 |
It’s also important to factor in monthly internet costs. For international students, having a strong and reliable connection is key to accessing online classes and taking care of visa or scholarship paperwork without any hassle.
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Where to find scholarships to study Spanish in Málaga
There are several options available to help you get a scholarship to study Spanish in Málaga. Most cover part or all of your course fees and often provide support for accommodation and living expenses. Here are a few examples:
- MAEC-AECID Scholarship: Awarded by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it covers full tuition, health insurance, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Cervantes Institute Scholarships: They are specifically designed for international students and can cover up to the full cost of a Spanish course.
- Erasmus+ Scholarships: Targeted at European students who want to take part in an exchange program in Málaga, it also provides financial support for language courses.
- Scholarships from universities and language schools: Many institutions offer partial or full scholarships based on academic performance and financial need.
Best schools to study Spanish in Málaga
Below, we’ve highlighted three schools where you can study Spanish in Málaga. All are located near the beach, and some offer accommodation as well as intensive and standard course options.
1. Cervantes Escuela Internacional – With accommodation
Founded in 1986, this school brings over three decades of experience teaching Spanish to international students. It stands out for its use of interactive, high-quality teaching materials recognized for their effectiveness worldwide. Located just 10 minutes from the city center in Pedregalejo, the area offers beaches, natural parks, and plenty of leisure activities. Some of the services they provide include:
- Intensive 20-hour course: From $141 per week.
- Intensive 20-hour course + 6 hours of flamenco: Combines language with dance from $358 per week.
- Accommodation with a Spanish family: Single room with full board from $309 per week.
- Shared apartment: Single room from $206 per week.
2. Málaga Plus – For adults
Also just a short walk from Pedregalejo Beach and with 30 years of experience, this school offers a special program for adults aged 18 and over. Their teaching approach combines a proprietary textbook, audiovisual materials, magazines, and games. Students come from all over the world, creating a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. Here’s a look at the courses they offer:
- 30-hour intensive adult course: Rates start at $303 per week.
- 20-hour standard adult course: Starting at $195 per week.
3. Expanish Málaga – No accommodation
If you want to study Spanish in Málaga’s historic center, this school, accredited by the Instituto Cervantes, is located in the old town just a short walk from Malagueta Beach. In addition to their courses, they organize weekly activities to help students connect and build a close-knit community. Here’s an overview of the courses they offer:
- 20-hour intensive course: Costs $234 per week.
- 24-hour intensive course: Costs $267 per week.
- 30-hour intensive course: Costs $332 per week.
- 3-month long-term course: $2,811 for 20 hours per week.
- 6-month long-term course: $4,689 for 20 hours per week.
- 12-month long-term course: $7,295 for 20 hours per week.
How to study Spanish in Málaga and work at the same time
Many students choose to work while studying Spanish in Málaga to help cover their expenses. It’s important to be aware of the legal requirements that allow you to work in the country.
For example, if you are a non-EU student, you need to apply for a student visa to work up to 30 hours a week in jobs related to your studies. To obtain it, you must have a job offer and approval from the Foreigners’ Office.
If you are an EU citizen, you can work in the city without any restrictions. The most common jobs for students studying Spanish include:
- Waiter/waitress in restaurants and cafés
- Receptionist in hotels or hostels
- Teacher of your native language in private classes
- Customer service in shops
Best times of year to study Spanish in Málaga
The atmosphere in Málaga changes depending on the season you choose to study Spanish. It also affects prices, as summer is peak tourist season while winter is quieter and more affordable.
Most students opt for intensive courses during the spring and summer months to make the most of Málaga’s sunshine and beaches. Which season would you choose?
- Spring (March–June): Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and more affordable accommodation prices.
- Summer (July–August): You can combine your studies with beach activities and nightlife, although costs may be higher.
- Fall (September–November): Mild temperatures and fewer tourists, making it easier to immerse yourself in local life.
- Winter (December–February): Low season with reduced prices and a quieter city, better for learning without distractions.
Popular agencies for studying Spanish in Málaga
If you need support organizing your trip to study Spanish in Málaga, there are several agencies that help international students take care of all the necessary steps.
Málaga Acoge
This is a nonprofit organization that promotes the integration of immigrants in the city. While social integration is their main focus, they also provide free advisory services that are very useful for international students, such as:
- Reception and legal assistance programs
- Education and intercultural mediation
- Housing and health
Colegio de Gestores Administrativos de Málaga
Association of qualified administrative professionals, specializes in immigration matters. They can guide you on the requirements and obligations for coming to Málaga as a Spanish student. Here are the main services they provide
- Immigration advice and management
- Direct communication with the Immigration Office to resolve incidents
- Visa procedures
- Work permits
Frequently asked questions about where to study Spanish in Málaga
It depends on the length of the course, but the average price for an intensive course of 20 hours per week is between $651 and $977 per month.
Yes, you can apply for various scholarships to help cover tuition and living expenses, such as those offered by MAEC-AECID, the Instituto Cervantes, and Erasmus+.
You can do so if you are from a European Union country or if you have a student scholarship. In the latter case, you are allowed to work up to 30 hours per week.
You can choose to live with a Spanish family while studying, which allows you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and practice the language every day. Other options include sharing an apartment with fellow students, staying in a student residence, or renting a private place.
In spring or autumn, the weather is still pleasant, but the city is less crowded with tourists, making it an ideal time to visit. Prices also tend to be a bit lower compared to summer.
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