Top 10 Best Universities in Spain

Spain isn’t just about stunning architecture, delicious food, and sunny weather—it’s a global hub for education. With top universities in Spain, rich academic traditions, and vibrant cities, your time here will be nothing short of transformative. From public universities in Spain offering affordable tuition to world-renowned institutions catering to international students, Spain is ready to welcome you.

Let’s explore the best universities in Spain, their tuition fees, acceptance rates, and what makes them stand out. Whether you’re chasing your academic dreams or planning to study in Spain, this guide will help you find your perfect match.

University of Barcelona (UB)

Established in 1450, the University of Barcelona (UB) is Spain’s oldest and largest university, renowned for its research and academic excellence. University of Barcelona offers 73 bachelor’s degrees, 151 master’s programs, and 48 doctoral courses across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, and health sciences. The university of Barcelona campus covers 500,000 square meters, encompassing four campuses with 16 faculties, all situated in the vibrant city of Barcelona. Refer to the following table to know more about University of Barcelona (UB) acceptance rate, tuition fees and placement rate:

Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)

Founded in 1990, Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) is a public institution in Barcelona, recognized for its competitiveness in research and innovative education. It offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines such as social sciences, humanities, and health sciences. UPF’s urban campus integrates modern facilities within Barcelona’s cityscape, providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Refer to the following table to know more about acceptance rate, tuition fees and placement rate at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF):

Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB)

Established in 1968, the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) is a prestigious public university located in Cerdanyola del Vallès, near Barcelona. Consistently ranked among the top universities in Spain and within the top 200 globally, UAB is renowned for its academic excellence and research contributions. UAB offers over 100 undergraduate programs, 300 master’s degrees, and 80 doctoral programs across disciplines such as arts, sciences, engineering, and social sciences. The university’s main campus is situated within a beautiful natural park, creating a peaceful and inspiring learning environment. Refer to the following table to know more about acceptance rate, tuition fees and placement rate at Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB):

University of Navarra (UNAV)

Established in 1952, the University of Navarra (UNAV) is a distinguished private institution with campuses in Pamplona, San Sebastián, Madrid, Barcelona, Munich, and New York City. UNAV offers a diverse array of programs, including 35 undergraduate degrees, 13 dual degrees, and over 38 postgraduate programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, and health sciences. Refer to the following table to know more about acceptance rate, tuition fees and placement rate at University of Navarra (UNAV):

Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM)

Founded in 1968, the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) is a public university located in Spain’s capital. UAM offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields, including arts, sciences, and engineering. UAM’s main campus is situated in a natural park, providing a serene and conducive environment for academic pursuits. Refer to the following table to know more about acceptance rate, tuition fees and placement rate at Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM):

Complutense University of Madrid (UCM)

Established in 1293, the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) stands as one of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious public universities. UCM is located in the heart of Madrid and offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs spanning humanities, social sciences, health sciences, engineering, and law. UCM has two main campuses: Moncloa, which houses the majority of faculties and provides access to libraries, sports facilities, and student housing, and Somosaguas, dedicated to social sciences and communication studies. Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) hosts over 80,000 students, with a strong international community representing more than 130 countries.  Refer to the following table to know more about acceptance rate, tuition fees and placement rate at Complutense University of Madrid (UCM):

University of Valencia (UV)

Founded in 1499, the University of Valencia (UV) stands as one of Spain’s oldest and most respected public universities. The University of Valencia (UV) ranks among the top 500 universities globally, securing its reputation as one of Spain’s leading academic institutions. The UV has 3 campuses: Blasco Ibañez Campus, dedicated to health sciences and teacher training; Tarongers Campus, specializing in social sciences, law, and economics; and Burjassot-Paterna Campus, which focuses on experimental sciences and engineering. Refer to the following table to know more about acceptance rate, tuition fees and placement rate at University of Valencia (UV):

Open University of Catalonia (UOC)

Established in 1994, the Open University of Catalonia (UOC) is a pioneering online university based in Barcelona, Spain. UOC is ranked 601–800th in the World University Rankings 2025 by Times Higher Education. Open University of Catalonia (UOC) offers 27 bachelor’s degrees and 44 master’s degrees in fields such as psychology, computer science, education sciences, information and knowledge society, and economics. Refer to the following table to know more about tuition fees and campus at Open University of Catalonia (UOC):

Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV)

Established in 1968, the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) is a premier public institution in Spain, renowned for its focus on engineering, science, and technology. UPV operates three main campuses: Vera Campus (Valencia), Alcoy Campus, and Gandia Campus, each offering specialized programs and facilities tailored to various fields of study. Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) offers diverse undergraduate and postgraduate courses across disciplines such as architecture, engineering, business, and fine arts. Refer to the following table to know more about tuition fees, acceptance rate and ranking at Open University of Catalonia (UOC):

Rovira i Virgili University (URV)

Established in 1991, the Rovira i Virgili University (URV) is a public university located in Tarragona, Catalonia. URV offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across fields such as arts and humanities, health sciences, engineering, and social sciences. With an acceptance rate of approximately 50%, URV maintains a selective admissions process. As a public institution, tuition fees are regulated and vary depending on the program and level of study.

Conclusion

Studying in Spain means joining a global community of learners in cities bursting with culture, history, and innovation. These colleges in Spain combine affordability, quality, and world-class opportunities, making them ideal for international students in Spain. Choosing one of these top universities in Spain is more than an academic decision—it’s a life-changing adventure. From affordable public universities in Spain to globally recognized institutions, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, get ready to study in Spain, and let these universities be the steppingstones to your success.