How much do universities in Spain cost for a Moroccan student?

Planning to study in Spain from Morocco in 2026? Before choosing your university, it is essential to verify the exact tuition fees that will apply to you.

In Spain, the cost of a university year can vary significantly depending on the region, the institution, the program, and, most importantly, your status as a non-EU student.

A public university can cost less than €1,000 per year in some cases, while a non-resident Moroccan student might pay several thousand euros in another region.

How much does a public university in Spain cost?

Fees for Spanish public universities are generally calculated based on the number of ECTS credits taken. A full-time academic year usually corresponds to 60 ECTS credits.

Some regions remain particularly affordable. In certain public universities in Andalusia, for example, a 60-credit bachelor's year can cost around €760 to €1,100, excluding administrative fees.

In other regions, rates can be higher. In Catalonia, a public bachelor's year can be around €1,000 before any potential surcharges.

However, these prices are not enough to determine the true cost of your studies.

Watch out for fees applied to Moroccan students

This is probably the most important point to check before choosing your university.

The price listed on a public university's website is not necessarily the one that will apply to a Moroccan student.

Some autonomous communities may apply different fees to students who are non-European and non-residents of Spain.

In some Madrid universities, for example, the cost of a 60-credit year for a non-EU foreign student without residency can exceed €6,800 and reach over €8,000, to which administrative fees may be added.

Before paying anything, be sure to ask the admissions office directly:

"What tuition rate will apply to a non-EU, non-resident Moroccan student holding a student visa?"

This simple check can save you a difference of several thousand euros in your budget.

How much does a private university in Spain cost?

Private universities set their own tuition fees.

The most affordable programs can start around €6,000 to €9,000 per year.

On the other hand, certain programs in medicine, dentistry, double degrees, business schools, or specific international programs can exceed €15,000 to €20,000 per year.

You should also verify what the advertised price actually includes.

Additional fees may apply for pre-registration, seat reservation, file processing, exams, teaching materials, or certain types of insurance.

Some deposits may also be non-refundable.

Public or private: what is the total budget to expect?

Tuition fees are only one part of your budget.

For a full twelve-month year, a Moroccan student should budget approximately €10,500 to €24,000 for a program at a public university, depending on the city and the specific university fees.

At a private university, the overall budget may be more in the range of €19,000 to €35,000, or even more for certain programs.

This budget also includes housing, food, transportation, insurance, visa costs, academic procedures, and settling-in expenses.

How can you avoid paying more than expected?

Before finalizing your choice of university, compare the total cost of the project and not just the advertised tuition fees.

A university with very low tuition fees in a city where housing is expensive may end up costing more than a slightly more expensive institution located in an affordable city.

Also, check for installment payment options and any scholarships or discounts offered directly by the institution.

Preparing to fund your studies in Spain

Once you have chosen your university, you must also prepare the resources needed for your stay.

For your visa application, you will specifically need to be able to provide proof of financial resources that meets the applicable requirements.

Depending on your eligibility and the services available in Morocco, Studely can support you in preparing your financial plan, particularly with blocked account and proof of funds, payment, or transfer solutions to the Eurozone.

In summary

The cost of a university in Spain for a Moroccan student in 2026 depends heavily on the institution and the region.

A public university can remain very affordable, but certain fees applied to non-EU students can significantly increase the total cost. In the private sector, you should generally expect to pay several thousand euros more.

Before enrolling, always ask the university for the exact amount applicable to your profile as a non-EU Moroccan student.