Studying in Spain is an exciting opportunity full of cultural experiences and academic growth. Whether you're from an EU country or from outside the EU, there are important steps to follow to ensure your study adventure goes smoothly. Below is a comprehensive checklist, distinguishing between EU and non-EU students.

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For All Students: General Preparation

1. ‍University Admission:
   
   • Application: Make sure you apply to the desired university on time and that you have submitted all required documents.‍
     
   • Recognition of degrees: Check if your current degrees and certificates are recognized in Spain.‍
     
2. Finances:
   
   • Study costs: Inquire about tuition fees and any additional costs.‍
     
   • Scholarships and grants: Explore opportunities for financial support, such as Erasmus+ for EU students.‍
     
3. Housing:
   
   • Student accommodation: Contact the university for student accommodation.‍
     
   • Private accommodation: Consider renting an apartment or room; start searching early on Idealista, for example.‍
     
4. Language preparation:
   
   • Learning Spanish: Although many programs are offered in English, basic knowledge of Spanish is helpful.‍
     
   • Language Certificate: Consider obtaining a DELE certificate as proof of your Spanish language proficiency.
     
5. Insurance
   
   • ‍Health insurance:‍ Make sure you have valid health insurance that covers Spain.‍
     
   • Travel insurance: Consider travel insurance for additional coverage
     
6. NIE number:
   • Make sure you have an NIE number, preferably before your arrival in Spain. An expert can help you remotely apply for an NIE. Because of the current local long queues, you may be too late.
     

Specifically for EU Students

1. Identification and Registration:
   
   • Valid passport or ID card: Make sure your ID is valid throughout your stay.‍
     
   • Registration with local authorities: If you stay longer than 90 days, you must register with the Central Register of Foreigners.‍
     
2. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC):
   
   • Apply for EHIC: This card gives you access to medical care under the same conditions as Spanish citizens.
     
3. Financial Proofs:
   
   • Bank statements: Although not usually required, it can be useful to demonstrate financial stability.‍
     
4. Work Opportunities:
   
   • Employment Permission: EU students may work in Spain without additional authorization.
     

Specific for Non-EU Students.

1. Visum and Residence Permit:
   
   • Student Visa Application: Apply for a visa at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.
     
   • NIE: Make sure you have an NIE, preferably before your arrival in Spain. An expert can help you remotely apply for an NIE. Indeed, due to the current local long queues, you may be too late.
     
   • Documents for visa: Usually required: admission letter university, proof of financial resources, medical insurance, criminal record clearance.‍
     
   • ‍Residence card(TIE): Within 30 days of arrival, you must apply for a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero.‍
     
2. Proof of Financial Resources:‍
   
   • ‍Bank statements: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to stay in Spain.‍
     
   • Sponsorship: If you are sponsored, you will need an official statement and financial documents from the sponsor.‍
     
3. Health Insurance:
   • Private Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is mandatory and must be valid in Spain.
     
4. Medical Declaration:
   
   • Health Declaration: Sometimes required for the visa; it must show that you do not have any diseases that could harm public health.‍
     
5. Language Requirements:
   
   • English Language Tests: You may need to submit an IELTS or TOEFL score if your program is in English.‍
     
   • Spanish language tests: Some programs require a DELE certificate.‍
     
6. Work Opportunities:‍
   
   • Limited work hours: Non-EU students may work up to 20 hours per week with a special work permit.‍
     
   • Work permit application: This must be applied for separately and usually requires an employment contract.