About the City – Why You’ll Want to Study in Bilbao
Picture this. A riverside city surrounded by green hills, where modern art meets medieval streets and locals greet you with casual warmth. That’s Bilbao.
To study in Bilbao is to live in one of Spain’s most unique urban centers. Located in the heart of the Basque Country, in northern Spain, Bilbao blends cosmopolitan cool with deep cultural roots. Sure, it’s known for the iconic Guggenheim Museum and Michelin-starred cuisine, but ask any student and they’ll tell you this: the city feels like home.
Students flock here not just for degrees, but for the lifestyle. It’s safe. Walkable. Affordable. And incredibly vibrant. With top universities, buzzing creative spaces, growing tech hubs, and beaches just 30 minutes away, Bilbao hits that sweet balance between academic rigor and everyday joy.
This is a city for thinkers, doers, surfers, and tapas enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re into contemporary architecture or cozy study cafés, Bilbao won’t just support your education, it’ll shape who you become.
Why Bilbao is a Great Choice for International Students
1. Top-Notch Universities and English Programs
Don’t be fooled by the relaxed tone, Bilbao takes academia seriously. The University of Deusto and University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) both rank among Spain’s best. Plus, more institutions are offering English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degrees, especially in business, engineering, and international studies.
2. International and Inclusive Community
Every year, over 5,000 international students choose Bilbao. Erasmus+ vibes are strong here, and it’s easy to meet people, through university clubs, local cafés, and student meetups.
3. Affordability Without Compromise
Compared to Madrid or Barcelona, Bilbao is cheaper. You get the perks of urban life without sky-high prices. Monthly rent and public transport are budget-friendly, and food is surprisingly affordable (hello, €1.50 pintxo bars!).
4. Rich Culture That’s Fusion at Its Finest
This isn’t just “Spanish” living, it’s Basque. Think multilingual. Multicultural. And endlessly fascinating. One minute you’re in a Tech Hub, the next enjoying live street music in Casco Viejo.
5. Nature at Your Doorstep
Mountains. Beaches. Forests. You’re never far from adventure. Spend your weekends surfing in Sopelana or hiking in Gorbea, and still be back for Monday lectures.
Looking for world-class education with soul and scenery? It’s time to study in Bilbao.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Bilbao
1. University of Deusto
Prestigious private university known for business, law, social sciences, and theology. Bilingual and international programs. Deusto Business School is AACSB-accredited.
2. University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU)
The city’s largest public university. Strong in engineering, life sciences, education, and arts. Offers over 100 degrees, many available in Spanish, Basque, and English.
3. Mondragon University – Bilbao Campus
Focuses on entrepreneurship, cooperative business models, and innovation. Great for business, industrial design, and engineering.
4. DigiPen Institute of Technology Europe – Bilbao
An American university offering degrees in game design, robotics, and computer science, all taught in English.
5. IMF Smart Education – Bilbao Partner Campus
Online and in-person programs in cybersecurity, project management, and MBA-level business courses.
6. Ayalde College (University of Navarra affiliate)
Offers pre-university and language programs with academic orientation. Often serves international or exchange students.
7. Escuela Universitaria de Enfermería de Leioa (Nursing School)
Renowned for health science education under the UPV/EHU umbrella.
8. IED Kunsthal Bilbao
Design and arts school offering studios in product design, visual design, and fashion arts.
9. Bilbao Artitute (Art & English learning)
Specializes in immersive art, culture, and language training in English. Short-term and semester courses.
10. CEB – Centro de Estudios Bilbao
Private vocational and tech training center offering courses in programming, logistics, and business admin.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Bilbao
- Micampus Bilbao
- Livensa Living Bilbao
- Resa Blas de Otero
- Colegio Mayor Deusto
- Bilbao Residencias
- Residencia Universitaria San Mamés
- Student Experience Zorrotzaurre
- Berri Residence
- Kampus Urban Bilbao
- Palacio Urgoiti Student Housing
These residences offer all-inclusive rents with gyms, study rooms, social areas, and fast Wi-Fi, perfect for both study marathons and Netflix breaks.
Top 10 Student Areas in Bilbao (With Nearby Universities & Housing)
1. Deusto
- Nearby: University of Deusto
- Properties: Colegio Mayor, Micampus, Private Flats
Trendy, safe, and literally steps from campus. Bars, bike paths, and river views. A student favorite.
2. Zorrotzaurre
- Nearby: Student Experience, DigiPen
- Properties: Student Experience Zorrotzaurre
A transforming tech-meets-design island. Ultra-modern and perfect for digital natives.
3. Casco Viejo
- Nearby: Easy commute to most universities
- Properties: Private shared flats
Bilbao’s Old Town. Bustling, historic, quirky. If you love tapas, galleries, and evening walks, this is you.
4. Abando
- Nearby: City centre, walkable to Deusto/UPV
- Properties: Mid to upper-range residencies
Elegant, clean, and central. Close to tram routes and nightlife. Slightly pricier.
5. Indautxu
- Nearby: Short tram to UPV, close to everything
- Properties: Resa Blas de Otero
Student-approved and buzzing. You’ll find upscale tapas, shops, and cooperative apartments.
6. San Ignacio & Sarriko
- Nearby: UPV/EHU – Economics, Arts
- Properties: Bilbao Residencias, Sarriko Flats
Spread out with a community feel. More green spaces, more peace.
7. Basurto
- Nearby: Nursing Schools and bus/train stations
- Properties: Livensa Living, shared flats
Super practical area. Affordable, safe, and direct connection to the rest of the city.
8. Leioa (suburb)
- Nearby: UPV/EHU Leioa Campus
- Properties: Kampus Urban, private host families
A bit further out. But roomy, budget-friendly, and surrounded by nature.
9. Santutxu
- Nearby: Red metro line
- Properties: Hostels + studio rentals
Well-connected and mainly residential. Good long-term value for a quiet study lifestyle.
10. Rekalde
- Nearby: Art & Design Schools
- Properties: Short lets and artist apartments
Artsy, close to local studios. Bohemian-chic and underrated.
Cost of Living in Bilbao – Keep It Student-Friendly
Budgeting for school life? Bilbao makes it manageable.
| Category | Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared/private) | €350–€700 |
| Groceries & Food | €150–€250 |
| Transport (Metro Pass) | €30–€40 |
| Phone & Internet | €30–€50 |
| Leisure & Dining | €80–€150 |
| Academic Supplies | €20–€50 |
➡️ Total Estimated Cost: €700–€1,200/month
Pro tips for saving:
- Eat pintxos (tapas) instead of full meals!
- Use your student card for discounts on transport and museums
- Apply for Basque Government grants or ERASMUS funding if eligible
Life in Bilbao is high-quality and low-stress, especially compared to bigger cities like Barcelona or Madrid.
Local Transport Facilities for Students in Bilbao
Bilbao’s public transport is clean, affordable, and impressively efficient.
1. Metro Bilbao
Covers most student hotspots across the city. Well-lit, safe, and user-friendly. Monthly student pass = €30–€40.
2. EuskoTren & Renfe (Trains)
Perfect for campus-hoppers or weekend warriors heading to San Sebastián, Vitoria, or even France.
3. Bilbobus
Easy-to-use buses. Connects smaller neighborhoods to central hubs. Includes night buses too (we love a safe party exit).
4. Bicycle Sharing – Bilbaobizi
Cheap annual bike rentals. With lots of flat routes by the river, two wheels might just be better than four.
5. Walking
This city is made for it. Most universities, cafés, and residencies are 15–20 minutes apart on foot.
Summary – Why You Should Study in Bilbao
Study in Bilbao, and you’re signing up for more than a degree. You’re joining a city that values education, celebrates diversity, and thrives on culture. It’s where you exchange ideas over pintxos, find creative inspiration in the Guggenheim’s shadow, and make friends on a beach hike… all while attending top-tier classes in internationally respected institutions.
You’ll study hard. You’ll eat well. You’ll grow nonstop.
This isn’t just Spain, it’s Basque Country. It moves to its own rhythm. And it just might be the perfect beat for you.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Bilbao
1. Is Bilbao safe for international students?
Yes. It’s one of Spain’s safest cities, especially in student neighborhoods.
2. Are classes available in English?
Absolutely. Many universities offer English-taught bachelor and master programs.
3. What is the average cost of student life in Bilbao?
Anywhere from €700–€1,200/month, depending on your lifestyle and housing.
4. Can I work part-time while studying?
Yes. EU students can work freely. Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours/week with a permit.
5. Is it hard to find student accommodation?
It can be competitive, start 3–4 months early. Check with official university housing first.
6. Do I need to speak Spanish or Basque?
Not a must, but helpful. English can take you far, especially in academia.
7. How’s student life in Bilbao?
Social, active, and diverse. From music festivals to hiking groups, there’s a place for everyone.
8. What’s the weather like?
Mild oceanic climate. Wet winters, sunny springs, and cool summers. Layers work wonders.
9. How do I apply for a student visa?
Contact your nearest Spanish consulate after university acceptance. Expect 4–8 weeks for processing.
10. Why study in Bilbao over Madrid or Barcelona?
Smaller crowds, lower costs, multicultural vibes, strong community, and oh, beaches and mountains nearby.
