Spain 2013/14 - student fees and grants

National student fee

The amount of fees is determined by the kind of the studies, the number of ECTS taken and the number of exams failed in each subject. In addition, amounts differ between regions as each one has a different range.

For international students (from outside the European Union) who have not set their residence in Spain, the fees can be increased, depending on the region.

Exemptions from fees are based in need criteria (family income being the most significant one), but a minimum level of academic performance is also required. Also, large families and disabled persons have very significant discounts, and may even be exempt.

In the current economic crisis context, the government approved a new decree-act on urgent measures for rationalization of public expenditure in education in 2012. One of the measures adopted in this act is that university students have to cover between 15 % and 25 % of the real total cost of their studies (to be decided by each Autonomous Community). These urgent measures were implemented in the academic year 2012/13.

Student grants

Although student grants exist at national, regional and local level, only the ones at national level have been considered here, as they are quantitatively the most important ones. There are many types of grants, aimed at covering different types of expenses such as transportation, residence, meals, books and materials, etc. The grant also covers tuition fees. Students can receive different types of grants, depending on their family income. The average amount of a grant is EUR 2 497.03 and a waiver from tuition fees. The maximum grant is EUR 6 241 and a waiver from tuition fees, and the minimum is EUR 244 and a waiver from tuition fees.

Grants are need-based, but a minimum level of academic performance is also required.

Tax benefit for student's parents

No tax relief for parents.

Family allowances

No family allowances.