Navigating student life in Barcelona: essentials guide

Accommodation

Choosing the right place to call home is pivotal for your comfort and academic success. Barcelona offers a variety of student housing options, including university dormitories, family homestays, shared apartments, and private rentals. Depending on your preference and budget, you might find yourself in a bustling city quarter or a tranquil neighborhood.

• University dormitories: Prices can range from €600 to €1200 per month. We work with our partner, Resa, to offer our students rooms in 8 different student residences around Barcelona. These residences have all-inclusive amenities, covering electricity, gas, water, and internet expenses. Students can enjoy the privacy of their own single or shared room with a dedicated bathroom. Additionally, the student residences have excellent facilities and communal spaces like study rooms and gyms, 24-hour surveillance, and cleaning services. Speakeasy students get a discount on short-term stays.

• Family homestays: Prices can range from €250 to €300 per week. A family homestay is an excellent way to practice your Spanish and experience Spanish culture firsthand. You will have your own room with a desk and closet, your own keys and access to all shared areas of the flat. The laundry and cleaning are included. You will have the option to include breakfast and dinner if you prefer. All the apartments have a Wi-Fi connection and include linens.

• Shared and Private Apartments: Prices can range from €400 to €700 per month for a room. Private studios can go upwards of €900. We work with external partners Live Further and Spot A Home where Speakeasy students get a discount on the registration fee. ShBarcelona also offers a wide portfolio of private apartments with the highest standards. All of them fully furnished, equipped and nicely decorated. For other options, joining local Facebook groups dedicated to housing can be useful.

Eating

The city's food scene is a delightful fusion of Catalan dishes, Spanish classics, and global flavors, ensuring there's something for every palate and budget.

• Groceries and Dining: A monthly budget for food can vary between €200 and €400. Affordable eating out options include numerous cafés and restaurants offering "menú del día" for about €10-€15, a budget-friendly way to enjoy a multi-course meal.

Travel

Barcelona's public transport network is extensive and efficient, encompassing buses, metros, trams, and trains, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.

• Public Transport: A single journey ticket costs €2.40, but the T-Jove card offers unlimited travel for individuals under 25 at €80 for 90 days, valid across all the city's public transport systems.

• Exploring Spain: For trips to other cities, the AVE high-speed train and various budget airlines provide convenient and affordable options. The Renfe website is the go-to for train travel, while bus services like ALSA cater to road travelers.

Student Visa

For non-EU students, obtaining a student visa is essential. Here's a simplified process:

1. Acceptance Letter: Secure admission from a recognized educational institution in Spain.

2. Application: Apply for a student visa at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.

3. Documentation: You'll need to provide your passport, acceptance letter, proof of financial means (around €650 per month), health insurance, and a medical certificate plus criminal records for visas over 6 months.

4. Timing: Apply at least three months before your intended arrival in Spain.

This guide is just a taste of what Barcelona has in store for you. While there are some practical matters to take care of, living and learning in this lively city is bound to be an enriching and unforgettable experience. Take advantage of the chance to dive into the vibrant Catalan culture, history, and academic scene. Barcelona isn't just a place to study; it's a city to live in and fall in love with, offering endless adventures and memories to treasure.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official websites or local resources before making any arrangements. Welcome to Barcelona, where your student journey turns into an adventure!