Starting your studies in Spain means stepping into a world of new cultures and beautiful places to explore. To ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible, it’s essential to be well-prepared before you leave. Our detailed guide will walk you through each step of the preparation process, covering aspects such as arranging housing, getting a local phone number, enrolling in language courses, and more.
1. Housing Arrangements
Finding a comfortable place to stay is one of the first steps in your preparation. Here are some options and tips to consider:
Student Dormitories/Residences: Some universities offer dormitories or residences for students, which can be a convenient option.
Renting an Apartment/Room: Websites like Idealista and Uniplaces allow you to find apartments or rooms tailored for students. Read our useful blog post on accommodation prices in Spain.
Homestay: Living with a local family could be a rewarding cultural experience and an opportunity to practise Spanish.
2. Getting a Spanish Phone Number
Having a local phone number is essential for communication:
Prepaid SIM Cards: Available at various stores, offering flexibility without long-term commitments. Vodafone offers a reliable prepaid SIM card.
Monthly Plans: Consider contracts from local providers like Movistar, Vodafone, or Orange, which offer various packages including data and call services. In order to get a phone contract you need a valid ID, proof of address, your NIE and a Spanish bank account number. You can do all of this when you arrive.
3. Enrolling in a Spanish Language Course
Enhancing your Spanish proficiency will be incredibly beneficial:
University-Provided Courses: Check whether your university offers language courses for international students.
Language Schools: Consider enrolling in a Spanish language school that offers courses tailored to different proficiency levels. Contact us for recommendations and exclusive discounts.
4. What to Pack
Packing wisely can make your initial days more manageable:
Clothing: Consider the climate of the city you’ll be staying in. Don’t forget essentials like comfortable shoes, a raincoat, and adaptable clothing for varying weather. Summer is generally hot all over Spain, and the winter can vary a lot, depending on which region you are in.
Adapters and Chargers: Spain uses Type F plugs, so ensure you have suitable adapters. Bring all necessary chargers for your devices.
5. What to Expect Upon Arrival
Cultural Adaptation: Be prepared to embrace the local customs, cuisine, and lifestyle. There will be a settling in period where you get used to the differences, but keep an open mind and go with the flow!
School Orientation: Attend orientation sessions provided by your institution to familiarise yourself with the campus and available facilities/services.
6. Additional Tips
Health Insurance: Ensure your health insurance is valid and comprehensive for your stay in Spain. You will need this for your student visa.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of essential contacts such as the local embassy, emergency services, and contacts at your university. See our Life in Spain page for useful contact numbers.
Banking: A local bank account with a Spanish IBAN is essential for life in Spain. For a fuss free account we recommend Santander. We also recommend N26 for a 100% online bank. Note that this is a referral link where you earn 10€ if you open an account!
Transportation: Familiarise yourself with the local public transportation system, consider getting transportation cards or passes for buses and metros. See our city guides for detailed information on public transport.