Is Barcelona a Good Place for International Students?
Barcelona is a thriving hub for international, world-class education, making it a top destination for students all over the world.
With its welcoming culture and iconic universities, students get an unforgettable learning experience in this country. However, so many other factors come into play when choosing a city to study in abroad. Questions like How are the schools? Are there suitable accommodation? Is the city safe? etc., all play a huge role in determining where you should study.
Based on these factors and more, is Barcelona really good for international students? let’s find out in this post.
Key Takeaways
Barcelona welcomes thousands of international students each year. It is a prime destination for world-class education in Europe, and many courses are offered in English to appeal to the global student community.
Several universities, such as the University of Barcelona, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, ESADE, etc., attract students from all over the world. These academic institutions are also located in the best parts of the city, filled with student-friendly amenities, so foreign students can easily integrate and feel comfortable on arrival.
Student accommodation is also easy to get in Barcelona. Students can choose from on-campus or university-managed residences, shared apartments, PBSAs, homestays or luxury rentals located near campus.
Student Luxe is a renowned connoisseur of the best luxury student accommodation Barcelona has to offer. Students schooling in the city who prefer a more luxurious, private and flexible alternative to on-campus residences will love these private rentals. They are fully furnished and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.
World-Class Education in Barcelona
Barcelona is home to prestigious universities offering a wide range of academic programs taught in both Spanish and English. From business to engineering and design, Barcelona’s academic institutions provide world-class education that prepares students for success in the global marketplace.
Some of the top universities in Barcelona for international students are:
University of Barcelona (UB)
As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Spain, UB offers a wide array of programs across various fields. Its rich academic heritage, combined with modern facilities, attracts students interested in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The university is also known for its strong research programs and international collaborations.
Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)
Specializing in engineering, architecture, and technology, UPC is a leading institution in technical education. International students flock to UPC for its cutting-edge programs in civil engineering, computer science, and urban planning. UPC’s emphasis on innovation and research makes it a top choice for those pursuing careers in STEM fields.
ESADE Business School
Ranked among the best business schools in the world, ESADE is particularly popular with international students pursuing business, management, and law degrees. Known for its rigorous academic programs and focus on entrepreneurship, ESADE offers an international environment where students can network with future global business leaders. Its MBA and executive education programs are highly sought after in the international student community.
Life in Barcelona As an International Student
Barcelona offers a great mix of cosmopolitan living and Mediterranean charm. From the vibrant local food scene to the endless cultural activities, living here means an endless stream of things to see and places to go.
Mediterranean Lifestyle and Weather
One of the biggest draws for international students in Barcelona is the Mediterranean lifestyle. The city's laid-back yet lively atmosphere is perfectly complemented by its beautiful weather, with over 300 days of sunshine per year. This allows students to enjoy outdoor activities year-round, whether it’s relaxing on the city’s famous beaches, exploring parks like Parc de la Ciutadella, or dining al fresco in the many vibrant squares.
Barcelona’s easy pace of life encourages a balanced lifestyle. Students can focus on their studies while also finding time to unwind and enjoy the city. The emphasis on social life, good food, and relaxation contributes to students' overall well-being.
Cost of Living
While Barcelona is generally more affordable than other major European cities like London or Paris, it still offers a range of living options that cater to different budgets.
The cost of living can vary depending on lifestyle preferences, but for wealthy international students, Barcelona provides excellent value for money in terms of quality of life.
Accommodation: Luxury student accommodations in Barcelona offer premium amenities, such as private gyms, pools, and 24-hour security. These accommodations are well-located, close to universities, and provide a comfortable and secure environment for international students.
Dining: Barcelona has a rich food scene that ranges from affordable tapas bars to upscale dining experiences. Students can enjoy a mix of local and international cuisine at various price points, and those looking for fine dining will love the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
Leisure and entertainment: Students in Barcelona enjoy multiple entertainment options, from cultural events and festivals to a thriving nightlife. You can explore the city's historic neighbourhoods or enjoy the beaches whenever you want to.
For international students accustomed to a high standard of living, Barcelona offers the perfect balance between affordability and luxury. You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while studying in one of Europe’s most desirable cities.
Transportation in Barcelona
Moving around in Barcelona is super easy. The city is designed with convenience and accessibility in mind, making it easy for international students to get around. It has a well-developed public transportation system, bike-friendly infrastructure, and extensive connections to other parts of Europe and beyond.
Efficient Public Transportation System
Barcelona’s public transportation system is one of the most reliable and efficient in Europe. The city’s extensive metro network is the backbone of public transport, connecting all major neighbourhoods and making it easy for students to travel between their accommodations, universities, and key attractions. With 12 lines and over 150 stations, the metro is a convenient and cost-effective way to navigate the city.
The city also has an excellent bus network, trams, and commuter trains (FGC and Rodalies) that provide connections both within the city and to surrounding areas. Commuter trains will come in handy for students studying at universities located outside the city centre, such as Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya’s (UPC) Sant Cugat campus.
The TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona) system also provides students with a range of affordable fare options, including the T-Jove card, which offers unlimited travel for three months at a discounted rate for students under 25. This allows international students to explore the city freely without worrying about transportation costs.
Bike-Friendly City
For students who prefer an eco-friendly and active way of getting around, Barcelona is an increasingly bike-friendly city. The city has invested in expanding its network of dedicated bike lanes, making cycling a safe and viable option for students.
Barcelona’s bike-sharing service, Bicing, is popular among students who want a convenient way to travel short distances. With over 400 stations across the city, Bicing provides easy access to bikes for quick trips, allowing students to avoid traffic and enjoy the city’s scenic routes.
International Connectivity
One of Barcelona’s biggest advantages for international students is its excellent connectivity to the rest of Europe and beyond. The city’s El Prat Airport offers direct flights to destinations all over the world. For students studying in Barcelona, this means easy access to their home countries as well as the opportunity to travel during holidays and breaks.
Barcelona is also well-connected by train, with high-speed rail links to major European cities such as Paris, Madrid, and Lyon. The city’s central train station, Barcelona Sants, serves lets students explore other parts of Spain and Europe.
Student Support and Safety in Barcelona
International students studying in Barcelona can expect thorough support systems, both from their universities and from the city itself, ensuring they feel safe, secure, and cared for during their time abroad.
University Support Services
Most institutions have dedicated international offices that provide a range of support services, from pre-arrival information and orientation programs to ongoing academic and personal support throughout the academic year. Some of the key services offered include:
Orientation programs: Many universities offer orientation weeks that introduce international students to campus life, the local culture, and essential resources. These programs include guided tours, social events, and practical sessions on topics like banking, healthcare, and transport.
Language support: For students whose first language isn’t Spanish or Catalan, universities often provide language courses to help them improve their communication skills.
Counselling: Many universities have dedicated counselling centres that offer mental health support to students. These services ensure that international students have access to professionals who can assist with any personal challenges they might face, from homesickness to academic stress.
Career services: Universities also provide career services that help students find internships, part-time jobs, and career opportunities, both during and after their studies.
Safety in Barcelona
Safety is a top priority for international students, and Barcelona is generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate. Like any major city, there are precautions students should take, but overall, Barcelona is a welcoming and secure environment for young people from all over the world.
Police presence: Barcelona has a visible and responsive police presence, with dedicated tourist police units that assist foreigners in case of any issues. The Mossos d'Esquadra (Catalonia’s police force) and the Guàrdia Urbana (Barcelona’s local police) work together to maintain order and ensure safety in public spaces.
Safe student accommodations: Student accommodations in Barcelona, especially luxury options, are designed with safety in mind. Many of these housing options come with 24/7 security, CCTV surveillance, and secure access control.
Emergency services: Barcelona has well-established emergency services that international students can rely on in case of incidents. The city’s emergency number (112) connects callers to all emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire departments. Hospitals and healthcare facilities are also easily accessible, and many offer services in English.
Safe neighbourhoods: Some of the safest neighbourhoods in Barcelona are Eixample, Gràcia, and Les Corts. These areas are popular with students due to their proximity to universities, vibrant atmosphere, and relatively low crime rates.
FAQs
Is Barcelona a good place for international students?
Barcelona is one of the best places for international students to study globally. The city offers world-class education and a great, friendly Mediterranean lifestyle that students will appreciate.
Is Barcelona safe for international students?
Yes, Barcelona is generally safe for international students. While petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas, the city has a low overall crime rate.
What accommodation options are available for international students in Barcelona?
Barcelona offers university dormitories, private student residences, shared apartments, and luxury student accommodations.
Wrapping Up
Barcelona is an excellent city for students to get a world-class education in Europe. From the iconic academic institutions and welcoming, Mediterranean lifestyle to luxury student accommodations, the city has all you need to live a luxurious and comfortable student life.
You can find the most exclusive luxury student accommodation Barcelona offers on Student Luxe. These apartments are designed for international students with affluent tastes.
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