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As the International Relations Coordinator at a Spanish university, I welcome dozens of international students every year who arrive with high expectations… and almost always leave saying that Spain exceeded them all.
If you are thinking of sending students to Spain or if we already collaborate on mobility programs, I would like to share with you a general overview of what your students can expect when they arrive here: from what the academic environment is like to the cultural aspects that usually catch their attention the most.
What is the academic experience like in Spain?
- Dynamic and participatory classes
The Spanish university system combines theory with practice. Class participation, teamwork, and continuous projects are highly valued. Your students will not just listen to the professor, they’ll also be expected to debate, give presentations, and collaborate with classmates. The academic system differs in each country, and this is part of the challenge of going on exchange.
- Close relationship with professors
Although it varies by faculty and university, in general, the relationship with professors is quite accessible and direct. It’s common for professors to encourage students to ask questions, participate, and attend office hours. Students are often surprised by and enjoy this closeness.
- Wide range of subjects and international focus
Many Spanish universities offer courses in English and are adapted to Erasmus or international students. Students usually find attractive options and also have the opportunity to take courses related to local history, language, or culture.
- A bit of Spanish goes a long way
Even if they’re going to study in English, knowing some Spanish makes daily life much easier, from grocery shopping to integrating into class groups. They don’t need to arrive with a high level, but a basic foundation helps. An intensive course or a few weeks of practice before traveling can make a big difference.
And outside the classroom, what will they find?
- A welcoming and social atmosphere
Spain is known for its social life and warm spirit. Students usually integrate quickly and make friends with other international students, and if they try, with Spanish students as well. University cities offer a very active cultural and leisure scene. It’s important to encourage students to approach Spanish students, talk to them, and sit next to them in class: this is how integration happens, little by little.
- A rich and diverse culture
Spain is not a uniform country: each region has its own identity, festivals, cuisine, and accent. For students, this is very enriching: they can study in Madrid and travel to Seville, Valencia, or Bilbao and feel like they’re discovering very different realities. It’s true that many take the opportunity to travel around Europe, but Spain has a lot to offer. Spanish universities usually offer various cultural activities for international students: excursions, language exchanges, Erasmus associations… Participating in these is a great way to meet people, practice the language, and feel part of the community.
- Mediterranean lifestyle
Spain is a country that enjoys life. Everything moves a bit more slowly here… and that’s noticeable. Meals are longer, the day starts later, and dinner happens late. For some students, this can be a bit of a “culture shock” at first, but most adapt quickly and learn to enjoy it. In Spain, life happens in the streets. There are always people out at all hours of the day, which may be very different from their home country.
Some quick tips for your students
- It’s common for students to arrive in Spain with certain stereotypes in mind: that it’s all parties, siestas, and beaches. And while social life is important and the weather usually helps, Spain is much more than that.
- To better face the experience, it’s advisable to get informed beforehand about the country and the university.
- Come with an open mind: adaptation is part of the learning process. The student will have to adapt to the environment—the environment won’t adapt to the student.
- We encourage students to come with curiosity, not prejudice. Because in the end, what they find here usually breaks down many preconceived ideas… in good way.
- Remind them they can ask for help. Universities provide academic and psychological support for students who need it.
Patricia Vázquez
Patricia Vázquez Rodríguez es coordinadora de Relaciones Internacionales de la Facultad de Ciencias Humanas y Sociales en la Universidad Pontificia Comillas, donde lleva más de 17 años trabajando con programas de movilidad internacional. A lo largo de su trayectoria, ha acompañado a cientos de estudiantes en sus procesos de intercambio, tanto incoming como outgoing, A lo largo de estos años ha tenido la oportunidad de conocer personas de todo el mundo y convivir con distintas culturas, algo que enriquece su día a día. Está convencida de que la internacionalización es una parte clave en la formación de los estudiantes, y se siente afortunada de poder contribuir a que vivan experiencias transformadoras. Para ella, este trabajo es una forma de sentirse conectada con el mundo y ayudar a formar ciudadanos globales.
