Study in Spain: Language & Culture

Getting your education at a top university is one of the main reasons to choose to study abroad. The other is the adventure that comes with it. And Spain has a lot of adventure to offer.

With its 17 distinctive regions, Spain has something for everyone. Once your studies are over, you'll have enough time to cross off more than a few items on your to-do list.

Places that spring to mind when considering Spain, like Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid, have something to offer year-round. However, studying in Spain can allow you to explore this Mediterranean country beyond the familiar landscapes and cities.

Languages in Spain

Spain's primary language is Castilian Spanish, the most common language of instruction at universities. Some universities offer courses in English with the opportunity to learn the Spanish language on the side. Still, in most cases, you'll need to read, write, and speak Spanish to study at a Spanish university. Spanish proficiency will also look great on your resume and would be a key to understanding the way of life in Spain.

Spain also has numerous regional languages and dialects, with four local languages holding official status. These are:

• Catalan/Valencian is spoken in eastern regions of Spain and may be the language of instruction at universities in these areas
• Galician is an official language in Galicia, in the northwest of Spain
• Basque is Europe’s only language isolate and is spoken in the western Pyrenees
• Occitan, which is also known as lenga d'òc or Provençal by its speakers, is spoken in the Val d’Aran in Catalonia

There are many language courses you can enroll in before you start your studies. Spanish courses will give you an in-depth understanding of the language and the culture that flourished around it.

Discover some must-do things in Spain that will make your study time unforgettable.

Going Out

Amazing beaches, sunshine, and a relaxed way of life have greatly influenced Spanish culture. The famous siesta breaks take place between 2 and 4 pm. While today's siesta is rarely used for sleeping, planning your trip around these times is essential since most shops are closed.

Since days in Spain can be hot, the country comes to life at night. If you want to spend some time on the dancefloor, the nightlife in Spain will not disappoint. Bigger cities like Madrid and Barcelona are the most popular destinations for students wanting to experience a bustling nightlife.

Food in Spain

One of the quintessential Spanish things you should experience while studying in Spain is the customs surrounding food. Eating and drinking are very important in Spain! Spain is world-renowned for fine dining and is home to more than 1,200 Michelin-starred restaurants. Aspiring chefs come from around the world to study and work in Spain's restaurants.

Like many students, you might skip the fancy restaurants if you're on a tighter budget. No need to worry. Spanish cuisine, consisting of various fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, and olive oil, is incredibly healthy. With Spain's lengthy growing season, some products like wine and olive oil are inexpensive. This way, even if you skip fancy dining out, you can treat yourself to good food and wine.

Another way to enjoy Spanish cuisine on a budget is to head to one of the many bars available in Spanish cities, where you'll always have the option to snack on a nice variety of pinchos or tapas and get a taste of regional cuisine. Tapas are usually included in the price of the drink or offered at a discount. Spanish bars and restaurants are meeting points to have fun, watch a soccer match, meet with friends for a coffee, eat, or party. Any reason is a good enough reason to visit a bar.

Sport and festivals in Spain

Spanish cities are vibrant and exciting. You might watch a Flamenco festival, experience the heated atmosphere of a soccer match, or participate in the world's biggest food fight during La Tomatina.

Art and architecture

If you're interested in art and architecture, Spain is essential. The country is known for artists like Pablo Picasso, Juan Gris, Joan Miró, and Salvador Dalí. Spanish architecture ranges from prehistoric monuments, Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and castles to imperial monuments and Antoni Guadi's Catalan Modernisme.

A camera will be your best friend while traveling through Spain. You'll doubtless want to snap pictures of the breathtaking Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the lush gardens of Alcazar, or the famous Alhambra Palace.

If you're looking for something closer to home, many museums are free of charge or offer a discount for students. Take a rainy day to experience Spain's long artistic heritage and enjoy yourself to the fullest.