Country information Spain
Spain is located on the western part of Europe and has a mixed history, officially called as kingdom of Spain is governed by parliamentary monarchy. The most powerful empire in the 16th century failed to catch up with the trading and industrial revolution when Britain, France and Germany took over to become Europe’s big economies. Spain’s domination in earlier centuries reflects in the fact that nearly 4000 million people speak Spanish as their native language.
Spain has a literacy rate of about 98 % and has a quite average educational system compared to the developed nations because of being negligent for a continuous improvement in the system nevertheless Spain has world class business schools and engineering schools.
Students from EU and USA don’t require a visa if planning for a short trip not more than 90 days. In case of long stay or students from any other countries must apply for student visa with proof of university admission and financial support. It is recommended to apply as early as 3 months before departure but never less than 4 weeks in any case.
Spain continues to grow attracting international students as an active member of the “Lisbon strategy” which intends to produce the most internationally competitive graduates in the world by 2010. The government is keen in marketing Spain’s international programs and increases the numbers significantly. But the unemployment rate in the country is a major concern for international students and seeks a lot of attention from the government. The numbers of twinning program between Spanish universities and top universities in rest of the rest have gone many folds.
The climate of Spain is probably the best invitation to students from all over the world. Surrounded by water bodies, Spain enjoys a diverse climate within different parts of the country. It can be semi arid, continental, oceanic and obviously Mediterranean. Whatever season there is always sun over your head. Summers in some parts can be humid and a bit hot and winters are generally mildly cold and cloudy.
Spain has everything for you. The famous bull fight and vegetable fight are uniquely Spanish. The small islands around Spain are a treat to visit. Water sports, beach volley are very famous sports other than their national sport Football. Don’t forget to visit the FC Real Madrid’s stadium. The metro cities like Barcelona and Milan are known for their modern architecture and the vibrant night life. Almost everyone knows what Spaniards are best known for, of course drinking and hogging.
About 10 % of the country’s population consists of immigrants which is nearly 4.5 million. Large population of Latin Americans and Britons, and also sizeable people from Asian countries can be found. Well, the country is quite international.