Updated: November 2025

Dreaming of studying in Spain but worried about the cost? Good news! Spain is offering fully-funded scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year that cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and even travel costs. From vibrant cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Granada to world-class universities, Spain is becoming one of the most attractive destinations for international students.

This guide highlights the Top 6 Fully-Funded Scholarships in Spain 2026 for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students worldwide.

Why Study in Spain in 2026?

Studying in Spain offers the perfect balance of academic excellence, cultural richness, and affordability.

Key Benefits:

  • Internationally ranked universities

  • Many English-taught programs, especially at postgraduate level

  • Lower cost of living compared to many EU countries

  • Mediterranean climate & rich cultural heritage

  • Strong international student community

  • Easy travel access across Europe

Spain is not just a study destination—it’s a life experience.

Spain Scholarships 2026 (Government & EU-Funded)

Below are the most prestigious and fully-funded scholarships available for international students in Spain.

1️⃣ MAEC-AECID Scholarships (Fully Funded)

The MAEC-AECID Scholarship is offered by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote international academic cooperation.

Coverage:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Monthly living stipend

  • Health insurance

  • Travel allowance (selected programs)

  • Research funding

Eligible Levels:

  • Master’s

  • PhD

  • Research & academic exchange programs

🌍 Target Regions: Asia, Africa, Latin America
🔗 Official Website: https://www.aecid.es/en/

2️⃣ Fundación Carolina Scholarship

The Fundación Carolina Scholarship supports students from Ibero-American countries and selected global regions.

Coverage:

  • Full or partial tuition

  • Monthly living allowance

  • Medical insurance

  • Return airfare (most programs)

Eligible Levels:

  • Master’s

  • PhD

  • Postdoctoral research

🔗 Official Website: https://www.fundacioncarolina.es/

3️⃣ FPU & FPI Predoctoral Contracts (PhD – Fully Funded)

These are employment-based PhD funding programs supported by the Spanish government.

Key Benefits:

  • 4-year paid research contract

  • Monthly salary (with annual increments)

  • Full social security & health coverage

  • Tuition fees covered

  • International research mobility funding

Programs:

  • FPU – Academic & university teaching careers

  • FPI – Government-funded research projects

🔗 Official Website: https://www.ciencia.gob.es/

4️⃣ MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships (Fully Funded)

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) are elite EU research fellowships for PhD holders.

Coverage:

  • Competitive salary

  • Mobility allowance

  • Research & training funding

  • Full social security benefits

Fellowship Types:

  • European Fellowship

  • Global Fellowship (with return phase to Europe)

🔗 Official Website: https://marie-sklodowska-curie-actions.ec.europa.eu/

5️⃣ Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships (Fully Funded)

One of the most prestigious scholarships in Europe, Erasmus Mundus allows students to study in multiple countries, including Spain.

Coverage:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Monthly stipend (~€1,000)

  • Travel allowance

  • Installation grant

Degree Level:

  • Master’s only

🔗 Official Website:
https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-catalogue_en

6️⃣ Spanish University Scholarships (UG, Master’s & PhD)

Many Spanish universities and regional governments offer fully or partially funded scholarships for international students.

Coverage May Include:

  • Tuition fee waivers

  • Living expenses

  • Accommodation support

  • Travel grants

🎓 Available for:

  • Undergraduate

  • Master’s

  • PhD programs

🔗 Official Portal:
https://scholarships365.info/spain-scholarships-undergraduate-masters-phd

How to Plan Your Spain Scholarship Applications (2026 Intake)

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Start preparation early (at least 12 months ahead)

  2. Shortlist universities and programs

  3. Prepare required documents:

    • Academic transcripts

    • Language certificates (IELTS / TOEFL / DELE)

    • Statement of Purpose

    • CV / Resume

    • Recommendation letters

  4. Apply for scholarships alongside university applications

  5. Complete language tests early

  6. Apply for a Spanish student visa after acceptance

Final Thoughts

Spain’s fully-funded scholarships for 2026 offer a golden opportunity to study in Europe without financial stress. Whether you aim for a master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral research, Spain has a pathway for you.

✨ Start early. Apply smart. Study in Spain