University preparation in Spain for international students

The homologation procedure for the certificate is provided for foreign applicants (not Europeans) of Spanish universities. The first stage involves the apostille on the document, then the certificate is translated into Spanish, certified by the Ministry of Education. The legalized document on education is submitted to the admissions office of the chosen institution.

Homologation is usually performed while preparing for Selectividad. On average, the process takes 6 - 12 months.

Homologation of the certificate is mandatory for applicants of Spanish public institutions. Private universities do not require the legalization of documents on education. There is also no need for homologation when transferring a student from a university to an institution of higher level, when enrolling in a Master's programme, postgraduate study, PEI and MBA.

Admission to a university without the option of Selectividad is not always possible. For applicants of prestigious specialties in medical, pharmaceutical, architectural, engineering, business areas, the examination is compulsory. They also pass the exam to study at the universities of Alicante, Valencia, Catalonia.

The entrance examination is held annually in June, August / September. Examination programme takes 2 days. Exact test dates are determined approximately in March, at the same time registration for the entrance exam is carried out.

The exam for foreign applicants consists of two parts:

The compulsory phase includes 4 subjects:

• Spanish
• foreign language (Portuguese, Italian, German, French, English for choice)
• history of philosophy or history of Spain
• special subject

The latter is selected from the list in accordance with the direction:

• humanities, social sciences (geography of Spain, economics, Latin, art history, mathematics in social sciences);
• scientific direction (mathematics, technical drawing, physics);
• natural sciences (biology, chemistry).

The Selectividad special phase provides preparation for two more subjects to increase the assessment on the compulsory part. Additional disciplines are chosen in accordance with the priority specialization. A special phase is recommended first of all to entrants of faculties with a large competition (medical, engineering, architectural). The rules for selecting items are similar to those for the 4th block of the mandatory phase.

Selectividad is quite a difficult exam for both the Spaniards and foreign students. It requires special preparation. The preparatory course is designed for 8 months. Classes begin each year in October. The studying programme includes subject, language blocks, examining the methodology for passing the exam and acquaintance with the assessment system.

The results of the exam are evaluated on a 10-point scale. The main is the total score for the mandatory part of Selectividad. The estimate for the special part is applied to the main part with the use of special coefficients. The cumulative test result can reach 12 - 14 points. Passing points are different for faculties of Spanish universities. The result of 10 points and higher is required from the entrants of medical, pharmaceutical, engineering faculties. The passing score for the specialty in law, natural sciences, the humanities, mathematics is 5 points or higher.

There are two main levels in the Spanish higher education system: Bachelor (Grado) and Master (Máster). A bachelor's degree is usually a basic education, and a master's degree is an advanced study that follows a bachelor's degree.

To enroll in a Spanish university, you will need a high school diploma (or equivalent) and a certificate of proficiency in Spanish or English. Most often, educational institutions accept the DELE (Diploma in Spanish as a Foreign Language) certificate or equivalent.

Tuition fees at Spanish universities can vary depending on the level of education and the type of university. For EU residents, prices are usually lower and range from approximately 1,000 to 4,000 euros per year. For international students the cost may be higher.

International students may qualify for a variety of scholarships, such as scholarships for academically gifted students and scholarships based on the student's financial situation. Some are provided by universities, while others are provided by national and international organizations.

To enroll in a program in Spanish, international students are usually required to provide a certificate of proficiency in Spanish, such as a DELE certificate at the appropriate level. For programs in English, an IELTS or TOEFL certificate is required.

Yes, many international students stay in Spain after graduation and find work in different industries. However, for this you need to obtain an appropriate work visa.

Finding accommodation in Spain can be a challenge, especially for international students, as many available accommodations are booked in advance. Many universities provide support in finding student accommodation. Options include student accommodation, renting an apartment or room, living with a host family, or sharing tenancy with other students. Student portals and property rental sites such as Idealista or Fotocasa can also help you find accommodation.

The time it takes to find a job after graduation can vary significantly depending on your specialization, work experience and the current labor market situation. In some cases, graduates can find a job immediately after graduation, while for others it may take several months. It is important to start your job search early and utilize your university's network and career resources.

When studying in Spain, it is important to respect the local culture and customs. Spaniards generally value family values and welcome communication and exchange of opinions. Remember also the role of Spanish culture in the world, including art, music and cuisine.

Spanish universities actively support scientific research in various fields. Students and graduates can participate in research projects and receive fellowships for advanced research programs. This provides unique opportunities to develop research skills and participate in interesting projects.

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