Spain Scholarships 2026-2027 for Pakistani and International Students

Spain is an attractive destination for international students who want to pursue higher education in Europe. Students can explore different funding opportunities offered by Spanish universities, European Union programmes, research institutions and government-related organizations.

Spain scholarships are available through different routes for Bachelor's, Master's and PhD studies. However, there is no single scholarship that automatically provides fully funded admission to every international student. Each funding programme has its own eligibility conditions, academic requirements, benefits and application deadlines.

This guide explains the main scholarship routes for Pakistani and international students, including Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, Spanish university scholarships, MAEC-AECID programmes, Fundación Carolina opportunities and funded PhD research positions.

Spain Scholarships 2026-2027: Quick Overview
  • Study Destination: Spain
  • Target Applicants: Pakistani and international students, subject to programme eligibility
  • Study Levels: Bachelor's, Master's and PhD
  • Funding Sources: Spanish universities, European Union programmes, government-related institutions and research organizations
  • Scholarship Types: Fully funded, partially funded, tuition fee waivers and research contracts
  • Academic Session: 2026-2027 and upcoming 2027-2028 opportunities
  • Application Method: Online through the relevant official institution
  • Application Deadline: Different for each scholarship and university
Important update: Some 2026-2027 scholarship application windows have already closed. This guide identifies the relevant funding routes and explains how to check current and upcoming opportunities. Always confirm the latest application status on the official scholarship website.
Table of Contents
  1. Types of Scholarships in Spain
  2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
  3. Spanish Government Scholarships
  4. MAEC-AECID Scholarships
  5. Fundación Carolina Scholarships
  6. University of Jaén Scholarships
  7. Bachelor's Scholarships
  8. Master's Scholarships
  9. PhD Scholarships and Research Positions
  10. General Eligibility Requirements
  11. Required Documents
  12. Scholarship Benefits
  13. How to Apply
  14. IELTS and English Language Requirements
  15. Application Deadlines
  16. Student Visa Information
  17. Common Application Mistakes
  18. Frequently Asked Questions

Types of Scholarships in Spain for International Students

International students can explore several categories of financial support in Spain. These opportunities are not identical, and applicants should understand the difference before applying.

Funding Route Study Level Funding Type International Applicants
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Master's Full scholarships available Worldwide
Spanish Government General Grants Bachelor's and Master's Tuition and other eligible support Non-EU residence conditions apply
MAEC-AECID Programme-specific Depends on the call Only eligible nationalities and profiles
Fundación Carolina Master's, PhD and research mobility Programme-specific grants Mainly Ibero-American eligibility
University of Jaén Talent Attraction Bachelor's and Master's Tuition and other benefits, depending on award type Countries listed in the relevant call
Funded PhD Research Positions PhD Research employment or fellowship Depends on the vacancy and its conditions

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programme is one of the important European funding opportunities for international students, including applicants from Pakistan.

These Master's programmes are jointly delivered by international groups of higher education institutions. Students may study at more than one university or in different European countries during their programme.

Who Can Apply?

  • Students from all countries can apply, including Pakistani applicants.
  • Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree or be in the final year of their Bachelor's studies.
  • Final-year students must graduate before the Master's programme begins.
  • Applicants must satisfy the academic and language requirements of their selected programme.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected Erasmus Mundus scholarship holders may receive financial support covering:

  • Participation costs of the programme.
  • Contribution towards travel expenses.
  • Visa-related support.
  • Living allowance.

The exact financial arrangements and eligibility requirements should be checked on the website of each Master's programme.

Duration

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programmes normally last between one and two academic years, depending on the programme and its credit structure.

How to Apply?

  1. Visit the official Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters information page.
  2. Explore the programme catalogue.
  3. Select a Master's programme that matches your academic background.
  4. Visit the selected programme's official website.
  5. Review its admission requirements, scholarship conditions and deadline.
  6. Prepare the required documents.
  7. Submit your application directly to the institution or consortium running that programme.

Official Website: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

Important: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are Master's-level opportunities. They should not be presented as a Bachelor's or PhD scholarship programme.

2. Spanish Government Scholarships

The Spanish Ministry of Education offers general scholarships and study grants for eligible students. These grants may support certain university and non-university studies, subject to the applicable rules.

What Study Levels Are Covered?

The 2026-2027 general university scholarship information includes eligible Bachelor's and Master's studies. Doctoral studies are not included in the general university scholarship category described in the government's 2026-2027 guidance.

Scholarship Components

Depending on the applicant's eligibility, financial circumstances and academic performance, the general scholarship may include different components, such as:

  • Tuition fee support for eligible first-time enrolled credits.
  • Income-related financial support.
  • Residence-related financial support where applicable.
  • Academic excellence-related support.
  • Variable financial assistance subject to the applicable rules.

Can Pakistani Students Apply?

Pakistani applicants should carefully review the nationality and legal residence conditions before relying on this scholarship route.

Under the general rules, non-EU applicants must meet the relevant legal residence requirements. Having a student stay authorization alone does not automatically establish eligibility for the general scholarship.

Important for applicants from Pakistan: Do not assume that a student applying directly from Pakistan can receive the Spanish Government's general scholarship. Check the current official rules and your specific residence status before applying.

Official Information: Spanish Ministry of Education Scholarships Portal

2026-2027 Government Information: Government of Spain, Scholarships and Study Grants 2026-2027

3. MAEC-AECID Scholarships

The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), working under Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, publishes scholarship and training programmes through its MAEC-AECID calls.

These programmes are designed for specific groups and professional or academic profiles. They are not a universal scholarship for all international students.

Who May Be Eligible?

Depending on the programme, eligible applicants may include:

  • Professionals from selected partner countries.
  • Public-sector employees or government officials.
  • Researchers and cultural professionals.
  • Applicants who meet the specific academic and professional requirements of a particular call.

Available Study Areas

Programme areas may include diplomatic training, international studies, cooperation, cultural activities, artistic residencies and research. The available areas change according to the annual call.

Can Pakistani Applicants Apply?

Pakistan is in Asia, but this does not mean that every MAEC-AECID programme accepts every Pakistani applicant. Candidates must check the list of eligible countries, the target applicant group and any employment or professional conditions stated in the specific call.

Official Website: AECID Scholarships and Lectureships

4. Fundación Carolina Scholarships

Fundación Carolina offers academic scholarships and research mobility opportunities in Spain, including postgraduate, doctoral and postdoctoral programmes.

Its programmes are mainly focused on academic cooperation and development in the Ibero-American region. Therefore, international applicants should not assume that all nationalities are eligible.

2026-2027 Scholarship Call

Fundación Carolina announced 736 scholarships and grants under its 2026-2027 call. The published offer included:

  • 228 postgraduate scholarships.
  • 120 doctoral scholarships and short postdoctoral research stays.
  • 114 renewals of doctoral scholarships.
  • 24 teacher mobility scholarships.
  • 250 institutional study scholarships.

The announced application periods for postgraduate and institutional study scholarships ran from 12 January to 2 March 2026, with a separate closing date for the summer school programme. Doctoral, short-stay and mobility applications had a deadline of 9 April 2026.

Are Pakistani Students Eligible?

Fundación Carolina is primarily focused on Ibero-American cooperation. Pakistani students should check the nationality requirements of the specific programme before preparing an application. The 2026-2027 call should not be advertised as generally open to all Pakistani applicants.

Official Website: Fundación Carolina

2026-2027 Call: Official Scholarship Announcement

5. University of Jaén Talent Attraction Scholarships

The University of Jaén in Spain has a Talent Attraction Scholarship Programme designed to attract high-achieving international students for undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

This is a university scholarship programme, not a general Spanish Government scholarship. Its eligibility is based on the conditions and country lists stated in each annual call.

Bachelor's Scholarship Programme

The University of Jaén's undergraduate Talent Attraction calls have offered tuition fee support and, for certain award categories, additional financial assistance. The number of awards, participating degrees and eligibility conditions vary by annual call.

The university's published 2027-2028 undergraduate call describes 75 scholarships, including different award categories. Applicants must check the country list, academic score requirements, available degree programmes and admission conditions.

Master's Scholarship Programme

The University of Jaén's Master's Talent Attraction Programme has also offered tuition support and additional benefits.

For example, the published 2026-2027 Master's call announced 30 scholarships. The award categories differed in their financial support. One category included full tuition fee coverage, administrative fees, school insurance, a financial amount of €3,190 per year and free Spanish courses for non-Spanish-speaking students.

The amount and conditions apply to the specific award category and should not be assumed for every applicant or every university scholarship.

Current Application Status

The university's international calls listing currently marks its 2026-2027 undergraduate and Master's Talent Attraction calls as closed. Its 2027-2028 calls are also listed as closed on the current calls page. Applicants should monitor the university's official website for any future calls or replacement opportunities.

Official Scholarship Information: University of Jaén Scholarships and Study Grants

International Calls: University of Jaén International Calls

Bachelor's Scholarships in Spain

Students who have completed their higher secondary education or equivalent qualification can explore undergraduate admission and scholarship opportunities at Spanish universities.

Possible Funding Routes

  • University-specific international student scholarships.
  • Talent attraction programmes for eligible international applicants.
  • Tuition fee reductions and institutional financial support.
  • Scholarships offered through eligible government or cooperation agreements.

Requirements for Pakistani Students

Applicants from Pakistan may need to prepare:

  • Matriculation and Intermediate certificates.
  • Academic transcripts and marksheets.
  • Passport.
  • Proof of eligibility for university admission.
  • Official recognition, equivalence or credential evaluation where required.
  • Language proficiency evidence if required by the degree.

Admission to a Spanish Bachelor's programme may involve additional procedures for recognition of foreign secondary education and access to university studies. The exact process depends on the university, programme and applicable admission rules.

Important: A university scholarship does not automatically guarantee admission. Students must satisfy both the scholarship requirements and the university's academic admission process.

Master's Scholarships in Spain

Master's applicants have access to several funding routes, including Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, university scholarships, selected cooperation programmes and research-oriented Master's funding.

Common Admission Requirements

  • A recognized Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
  • Relevant academic background for the selected programme.
  • English or Spanish language evidence, depending on the course.
  • Statement of purpose or motivation letter, where required.
  • CV or résumé, where required.
  • Recommendation letters, if requested.

Recommended Funding Routes

  1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters for worldwide applicants.
  2. University-specific international Master's scholarships.
  3. MAEC-AECID programmes where the applicant meets the specific call conditions.
  4. Fundación Carolina programmes for applicants who meet its nationality and programme requirements.

Always compare the scholarship's funding coverage with the total cost of tuition, accommodation, travel and living expenses.

PhD Scholarships and Funded Research Positions in Spain

PhD funding in Spain is often offered through university research projects, research institutes, doctoral programmes and European research funding schemes. These opportunities may be advertised as doctoral contracts, predoctoral researcher positions, fellowships or funded PhD vacancies.

1. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Networks

The European Union's Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Networks support international doctoral training programmes. Researchers recruited under these programmes can be of any nationality, subject to the programme's eligibility and mobility rules.

Funding may include:

  • Living allowance.
  • Mobility allowance.
  • Family allowance, where applicable.
  • Other applicable allowances under the relevant funding rules.

Applicants should search for actual funded PhD vacancies rather than applying to a general scholarship form. Vacancies are advertised internationally, including through EURAXESS.

Official Information: MSCA Doctoral Networks

2. University and Research Institute PhD Positions

Spanish universities and research institutes publish funded doctoral positions in different fields. Examples include science, engineering, computer science, biomedical research, social sciences and environmental studies.

Each vacancy has its own requirements, funding arrangements, contract duration and deadline. Candidates should read the individual job description carefully.

3. Search for PhD Opportunities on EURAXESS

EURAXESS is a European research careers portal where universities and research institutions advertise research vacancies.

Applicants can search by country, research field, researcher profile and position type. Select Spain and filter for PhD positions to find current opportunities.

Official Search Portal: EURAXESS Jobs and Career Opportunities

Examples of PhD Opportunities Listed in November 2026

The following are examples of individual research vacancies listed on EURAXESS. Their availability and deadlines can change, so applicants should open the original vacancy before applying.

These are individual research vacancies, not one common Spanish Government scholarship. Their academic requirements, salary or stipend, eligibility and application process are defined separately by the recruiting institution.

General Eligibility Requirements for Spain Scholarships

Eligibility depends on the scholarship provider and the selected degree. The following are common requirements that international applicants may need to meet.

  • Nationality: The applicant must belong to a nationality accepted by the relevant scholarship programme.
  • Academic Background: Applicants must hold the previous qualification required for their intended study level.
  • Academic Performance: Some competitive scholarships require a strong academic record or minimum grade.
  • Language Proficiency: Applicants may need to demonstrate English or Spanish proficiency.
  • Admission: Some scholarships require admission or pre-admission to a participating university.
  • Research Experience: Certain PhD positions may require research experience, publications or relevant technical skills.
  • Residence Conditions: Some government grants have specific legal residence requirements.
  • Previous Funding: Certain programmes restrict applicants who have already received similar funding.

Required Documents for Spain Scholarship Applications

Documents vary by scholarship, university and study level. Applicants should follow the official checklist for their selected opportunity.

Common Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • Recent passport-size photograph, if required.
  • Academic certificates and degrees.
  • Academic transcripts and marksheets.
  • Updated CV or résumé.
  • Motivation letter or statement of purpose.
  • Recommendation letters, where required.
  • English or Spanish language certificate, if required.
  • Research proposal for relevant doctoral programmes.
  • Portfolio or writing sample for selected disciplines, if requested.

Additional Documents for Pakistani Applicants

Pakistani students may also need:

  • Matric and Intermediate certificates for Bachelor's admission.
  • Bachelor's degree and transcripts for Master's admission.
  • Master's degree and research records for PhD applications, where required.
  • HEC attestation or other document authentication if requested.
  • Certified translation of documents when the university requires it.
  • Proof of English or Spanish proficiency, depending on the programme.
Document advice: Do not arrange expensive translations, attestations or equivalence certificates without first checking the requirements of your chosen university or scholarship. Different institutions may follow different procedures.

What Do Spain Scholarships Cover?

Scholarship benefits are not the same for every programme. Some awards cover only tuition fees, while others may provide additional financial assistance.

Benefit Possible Coverage
Tuition Fees Full or partial fee exemption, depending on the award
Living Expenses Monthly or annual financial support, if included
Accommodation Direct housing support or a contribution towards living costs, where specified
Travel Travel contribution under selected international programmes
Health Insurance Insurance support under certain scholarship schemes
Research Funding Research and training support under relevant doctoral programmes
Language Courses Spanish or other language courses where provided by the institution

Before accepting an award, check whether it covers tuition only or also provides enough financial support for accommodation, food, transport, insurance and other expenses.

How to Apply for Spain Scholarships 2026-2027

There is no single application portal for all scholarships in Spain. Applicants must submit their applications to the relevant scholarship provider or university.

Step 1: Select Your Study Level

Decide whether you want to apply for Bachelor's, Master's or PhD studies. Your previous qualification will determine which opportunities you can consider.

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Programme

Search for a degree that matches your previous education, academic interests and career goals. Check whether the programme is taught in English or Spanish.

Step 3: Identify the Funding Provider

Check whether the opportunity is offered by a university, the Spanish Government, the European Union, AECID, Fundación Carolina or a research institute.

Step 4: Check Nationality and Eligibility

Read the full eligibility conditions. Confirm that applicants from Pakistan or your country of nationality are accepted.

Step 5: Prepare Your Documents

Collect your academic records, passport, CV, motivation letter, language certificates and any additional documents requested by the provider.

Step 6: Apply for Admission or Scholarship

Some programmes require a university admission application first, while others allow scholarship and admission applications through the same portal. Follow the specific instructions.

Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline

Complete the online form, upload the required documents and submit your application before the official closing date.

Step 8: Monitor Your Application

Check your email and the official application portal for interview invitations, document requests, results or other updates.

Step 9: Complete Visa Procedures

After receiving admission and the required funding confirmation, check the Spanish student visa requirements applicable to your country of residence.

Is IELTS Required for Spain Scholarships?

IELTS is not a universal requirement for every scholarship or university in Spain. Language requirements depend on the programme and the language in which the degree is taught.

For English-taught programmes, universities may accept IELTS, TOEFL or other approved evidence of English proficiency. Some institutions may accept alternative proof, depending on their admission policy.

For Spanish-taught programmes, applicants may need to demonstrate Spanish language proficiency through a recognized certificate or another form of evidence accepted by the university.

Important: Never assume that IELTS is not required just because a scholarship advertisement says that students from all countries can apply. Check the language requirements of the actual degree programme.

Spain Scholarships 2026-2027: Application Deadlines and Status

Scholarship deadlines vary by provider. The following table summarizes selected opportunities and their published 2026-2027 status as checked for this guide.

Scholarship / Programme 2026-2027 Status Next Step
Spanish Government General Scholarships Application window closed on 18 May 2026 Monitor the next annual call and check residence eligibility
Fundación Carolina Published 2026-2027 deadlines have passed Check the next call and nationality conditions
University of Jaén Bachelor's Talent Attraction 2026-2027 call listed as closed Monitor future university calls
University of Jaén Master's Talent Attraction 2026-2027 call listed as closed Monitor future university calls
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Programme-specific applications, many commonly open between October and January Check each Master's programme immediately
PhD Research Positions Vacancies open throughout the year Search EURAXESS for current vacancies

There is no single closing date for all Spain scholarships. Applicants should use the official programme page to confirm the exact deadline, time zone and required submission method.

Spain Student Visa Information for Pakistani Applicants

Students who receive admission to a Spanish educational institution may need to apply for the relevant Spanish study visa before travelling.

Visa requirements depend on the applicant's nationality, course duration, institution and individual circumstances.

Before applying, check the relevant Spanish Embassy or Consular information for Pakistan and confirm the current requirements. Depending on the case, applicants may need to provide:

  • University admission or enrolment confirmation.
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources or confirmed scholarship funding.
  • Valid passport and application forms.
  • Health insurance that meets the applicable requirements.
  • Medical or police documents where required.
  • Accommodation or other supporting documents, if requested.

Official Information: Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Applicants should check the Spanish Embassy or Consular section responsible for their place of residence for the latest visa procedure and appointment information.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

  • Assuming that every scholarship in Spain is fully funded.
  • Confusing university scholarships with Spanish Government scholarships.
  • Applying without checking nationality restrictions.
  • Ignoring the difference between Bachelor's, Master's and PhD eligibility.
  • Assuming that IELTS is never required.
  • Using an expired scholarship deadline.
  • Submitting incomplete or incorrectly translated documents.
  • Paying an unverified agent who promises guaranteed admission or a scholarship.
  • Ignoring the university admission process after receiving a scholarship offer.
  • Failing to check the official visa requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Pakistani students apply for scholarships in Spain?

Yes. Pakistani students can apply to international opportunities that accept applicants from Pakistan, such as eligible Erasmus Mundus programmes and university or research funding opportunities. However, some Spanish government and institutional scholarships have nationality or residence restrictions.

2. Are there fully funded scholarships in Spain for 2026-2027?

Yes, selected programmes offer full scholarships or substantial funding. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters and some funded doctoral research positions are examples. However, benefits and eligibility depend on the specific programme.

3. Can Pakistani students get Bachelor's scholarships in Spain?

Some Spanish universities offer undergraduate scholarships for eligible international students. Applicants must check the country list, academic requirements, degree availability and admission procedure of each university.

4. Are there scholarships in Spain for Master's students?

Yes. Master's students can explore Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, university scholarships and selected government or cooperation programmes. Each opportunity has separate eligibility and funding conditions.

5. Can international students apply for PhD scholarships in Spain?

Yes. Universities and research institutes advertise funded doctoral positions. Some opportunities are supported by European research funding programmes, including MSCA Doctoral Networks.

6. Is IELTS compulsory for studying in Spain?

No universal IELTS rule applies to every Spanish university. English-taught and Spanish-taught programmes have their own language requirements. Applicants should check the requirements of their selected degree.

7. Does the Spanish Government provide scholarships to all international students?

No. Government grants have specific eligibility conditions. Non-EU applicants must carefully check legal residence and other requirements before applying.

8. What documents are required for Spain scholarships?

Common documents include a passport, academic certificates, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters and language evidence. Additional documents may be required by the university or scholarship provider.

9. How can I find PhD vacancies in Spain?

Applicants can search EURAXESS for PhD positions in Spain. They should filter by research field and read the full vacancy description for salary, contract, eligibility and application details.

10. Is admission guaranteed after receiving a scholarship?

Not necessarily. Some scholarships require a separate university admission or enrolment process. Applicants must satisfy both the scholarship and university admission conditions.

11. Can I apply for more than one scholarship?

This depends on the rules of each programme. Some providers allow multiple applications, while others restrict applications or prohibit combining certain awards. Read the official conditions before applying.

12. Where can I find official Spain scholarship announcements?

Use the official Spanish Ministry of Education, AECID, Fundación Carolina, Erasmus+ and university websites. For research vacancies, EURAXESS is also an important official European portal.

Official Scholarship Websites

Use these official resources to check scholarship eligibility, current calls, application deadlines and admission requirements.

Spain scholarships 2026-2027 for Pakistani and international students, Bachelor's Master's and PhD study opportunities

Related Opportunities

Students interested in international education can also explore other scholarship and study opportunities. Check the eligibility conditions and deadlines before applying.

Follow Review Pakistani Jobs

Follow Review Pakistani Jobs for scholarship announcements, international study opportunities, admissions and education updates.

Disclaimer

Review Pakistani Jobs is an independent information platform and is not affiliated with the Spanish Government, European Union, any university or scholarship provider mentioned in this article. Scholarship details, eligibility, funding and deadlines may change. Applicants must verify the latest information directly from the official provider before submitting an application or making financial decisions.

Written by Muhammad Hammad Habib
Job Information & Digital Content Publisher, Review Pakistani Jobs.

Last updated: 7 November 2026