Why do students struggle to adjust to the new academic environment? Because it is new. Yes, adapting to a new or changing environment is time-consuming and in this process, students often lose a lot of time. College life is precious, and each day must be spent doing quality activities. This might seem easier said than done but for students in Barcelona, this can be a mammoth experience. Therefore, we have brought to you the top five tips to help you adjust to studying in Barcelona.
Learn Basic Spanish and Catalon Phrases
While many people in Barcelona speak English, learning some basic Spanish and Catalan can significantly improve your interactions with locals and show cultural appreciation. Common phrases that students should know include:
| English | Spanish |
| Hello | Hola |
| Good morning | Buenos dias |
| Good afternoon | Buenas tardes |
| Good night | Buenas noches |
| How are you? | ¿Cómo estás? |
| My name is… | Me llamo… |
| I am a student | Soy estudiante |
| I don’t understand | No entiendo |
| Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? |
| How much does this cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? |
| The bill, please | La cuenta, por favor |
| Where is the metro? | ¿Dónde está el metro? |
| I need help | Necesito ayuda |
Embrace the Local Culture
Barcelona has a rich cultural heritage that students should explore to feel more at home. Participate in local traditions and events like:
- La Mercè Festival (September) – A grand celebration featuring parades, fireworks, and live music.
- Sant Jordi’s Day (April 23) – Known as Catalan Valentine’s Day, where people exchange books and roses.
- Castells – Witness or even participate in the traditional human tower-building event, a key part of Catalan culture.
- El Raval and Gràcia Neighborhoods – Ideal for immersing yourself in street art, local markets, and cultural diversity.
Understand Academic Differences
Barcelona’s universities have different academic structures compared to many other countries. Key differences include:
- Lecture Style: Classes may be less structured with a focus on independent learning.
- Attendance Policies: Some universities have strict attendance requirements, while others are more flexible.
- Grading System: Spain uses a 0-10 scale, with 5 being a passing grade. Assignments and participation often contribute significantly to the final grade.
- Language of Instruction: Many programs are in Spanish or Catalan, but English-taught courses are available, particularly for international students.
Manage Your Finances Wisely
Barcelona can be affordable compared to other European cities, but students should budget carefully:
- Rent: A shared apartment costs €350–€700 per month, depending on the location.
- Food: Cooking at home can save money. Grocery shopping at markets like La Boqueria is a great way to find fresh and affordable ingredients.
- Student Discounts: Many places offer discounts on transportation, museums, and restaurants with a valid student ID.
- Cost-saving Activities: Many museums offer free entry on Sundays, and parks like Parc de la Ciutadella are great for socializing without spending money.
By tracking expenses and utilizing student discounts, students can enjoy Barcelona without financial stress.
Utilize Public Transportation
Barcelona has one of the best public transport systems in Europe, making it easy for students to navigate the city.
- Metro & Bus: The T-usual Card (€20/month) allows unlimited travel on buses and metro lines.
- Biking: The Bicing system offers an eco-friendly and affordable way to get around.
- Walking: Many neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly, so walking is a great way to explore hidden gems in the city.
Understanding public transport schedules and options saves time and money while making daily commutes easier.
Top Student Accommodation in Barcelona
As a top study destination in Spain, Barcelona offers multiple housing options for international students. Student accommodation in Barcelona features furnished bedrooms, modern amenities, and on-site security features to offer a safe and thriving environment. Here’s a list of top student accommodation in Barcelona for international students:
- Diagonal Besòs
- Xior Collblanc
- Xior Lofttown
- Livensa Living Barcelona Marina
- Livensa Living Diagonal Alto
- Muntaner 448
- Avenida Madrid 110
- Cristóbal de Moura
- La Fábrica & Co
- Blau Student Housing
Conclusion
Adjusting to studying abroad in Barcelona is an exciting journey that requires cultural adaptation, academic flexibility, financial planning, and social engagement. By learning basic Spanish and Catalan, embracing local traditions, understanding academic differences, managing expenses wisely, and utilizing public transport, students can seamlessly integrate into Barcelona’s vibrant student life and make the most of their international experience.
