Lately, more and more people on the forums have been asking about studying in Spain, so today I want to talk about a university I’m personally very fond of: the University of Alicante. It’s not in a major metropolis like Madrid or Barcelona, but in a beautiful coastal city, offering a very relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for focusing on your studies and enjoying life.
A Stunning Campus Environment
When you talk about UA, the first thing that comes to mind is its campus. Seriously, it’s huge and incredibly modern! The entire campus feels like a large park, with excellent green spaces and contemporary architecture. My personal favorites are the library and the sports center—the facilities are top-notch. Here’s a campus photo to give you a feel for it. Isn’t it amazing?

Academically, UA is also a very solid comprehensive public university. Its programs in Economics, Law, Tourism, and Chemistry are quite well-known. For international students, its Language Center is particularly noteworthy. The teaching quality is high, and many students begin their Spanish journey here. Tuition fees are also at a relatively affordable level among Spanish public universities.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
To give you a clearer picture, I’ve put together a simple summary of its pros and cons for your reference:
| Pros | Cons |
| Beautiful campus with modern facilities | Relatively small city with fewer job opportunities than major cities |
| Low cost of living, great value for money | Less internationally known compared to universities in Madrid or Barcelona |
| Pleasant climate, a Mediterranean coastal city | Crowded with tourists in the summer, which can be noisy |
| Good language immersion environment, many international students | Some top programs aren’t as strong as those at older, more prestigious universities |
In terms of lifestyle, Alicante is a very comfortable city. Sunshine, beaches, and cheap, delicious tapas… daily expenses are significantly lower than in Madrid or Barcelona. Of course, if you’re looking for the hustle and bustle of a big city and endless internship opportunities, then the University of Alicante might not be your first choice. But if you want to spend your study abroad years in a peaceful and beautiful place, UA is definitely worth considering! Some even joke that touring the University of Alicante feels like a retirement paradise. Are there any alumni who have studied or graduated from UA? Feel free to add your thoughts and experiences in the comments!