1. «Spanish universities are more expensive for foreigners»
Reality: there are no additional costs at public and private universities, except at some universities, where if you do not have Spanish nationality or a residence permit the cost may be higher.
Therefore, there are no extra costs based on nationality or educational system at most universities. Do you know the average cost per year of university? You can find up-to-date information in our post about the cost of Spanish university education.
2. «University entrance exams are easier for Spaniards than for foreigners»
Reality: The PCE exams have an assessable content of the same or lower level than the EBAU/EVAU for Spanish high school graduates. Furthermore, the PCE exams include multiple-choice questions that make it easier to obtain a higher grade.
In conclusion, it can be considered that for most subjects, the PCE exams are more accessible than the EBAU/EVAU. Want to know the difference between the two? If so, you can compare the PCE and EBAU/EVAU exams and see for yourself.
3. «Private universities are better / have more prestige.»
The reality is that public universities in Spain enjoy greater and better recognition. This is because the best professors are considered to be at public universities, in addition to the stigma attached to private universities of "buying" access with money. Public universities operate on a points-based admissions system that does not exist at private universities, where only students with the highest academic records in high school and university entrance exams are eligible.
You can see the difference between public and private universities in our post dedicated to it.
4. "You can enter university without an entrance exam"
Reality: While it's true that in some cases you can access university without an exam, in more than 95% of programs it's essential. When is it not necessary? Well, for degrees with a cut-off score of 5, some private universities, and during certain enrollment periods in some regions.
For this reason, and given the insecurity that exists when it comes to accessing Spanish studies, presenting the PCE seems the best way to ensure a university future.
5. «There are places reserved for Spaniards»
The reality is that there are no regulations governing admissions based on educational systems. In other words, students from Spain and other educational systems compete on equal footing in both public and private universities. What matters in most cases is the final admission score, which is the weighted average of high school or secondary school grades and the university entrance exam (Selectividad). Add to that the fact that the PCE (a specific university entrance exam) is more accessible… guess who has it easier?
Bonus – “Foreigners are not entitled to scholarships”
Reality: most grants do not differentiate based on nationality. The requirements are detailed in the calls for applications, with income level and educational attainment being the most common factors. However, it is possible that the program may require the student to already be enrolled in a Spanish program or course, which is often the main obstacle to receiving a grant.
