Spain’s government has set aside €2.559 billion for student grants in the 2026–2027 academic year. While the main general scholarship window has closed, families can still apply for support for students with special educational needs until September. Here’s what to know about eligibility, deadlines, and the types of aid available.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, Spain’s government has earmarked €2.559 billion for student grants, aiming to reach nearly one million beneficiaries. The main general scholarship—covering university, vocational training, and Bachillerato—closed its application period in May, but several other forms of support remain accessible for families and students navigating the education system.
General Scholarships: Window Closed
The general grant, often referred to as the beca MEC, is the backbone of Spain’s student aid. It covers a wide range of studies, including Bachillerato, intermediate and advanced vocational training, arts, sports, languages, and official university degrees at both undergraduate and master’s levels. For the 2026–2027 cycle, non-university students could receive a fixed amount of €1,700 linked to family income, up to €2,700 for those living away from home, and a basic grant of €300 (or €350 for basic vocational training). Academic excellence bonuses ranged from €50 to €125, with a variable component starting at €60.
University students were eligible for similar income and residency-linked amounts, plus tuition coverage for official degrees. Notably, doctoral, specialization, and non-official university programs were excluded. A key update this year: students enrolled part-time (48–59 credits) in university or advanced arts programs could receive €350 for income and another €350 for residency, provided they met the criteria. Asset thresholds were also raised by about 10%.
The application period ran from April 7 to May 18, 2026, via the Ministry’s online portal. Students residing in Catalonia had to apply through the Generalitat’s own system. With the deadline now passed, new applications for the general grant are no longer accepted.
Support for Special Educational Needs: Still Open
Families with children requiring specific educational support have until September 10, 2026, to apply for targeted aid. This program, launched in May, is open to students with disabilities, severe behavioral or communication disorders, autism spectrum conditions, or high intellectual abilities. Eligible levels range from early childhood education to Bachillerato and certain vocational training courses.
Grant amounts vary based on individual needs: up to €862 for teaching support, €617 for intercity transport, €574 for school meals, and €1,795 for boarding. Additional funding of up to €913 is available for pedagogical or language re-education. There is also a €400 general subsidy for extra expenses, and students with high abilities can access up to €913 for specialized programs.
Mobility and Private Foundation Grants
Beyond state aid, students seeking international experience can look to programs like Erasmus+, which facilitates study and internships abroad. Application processes and deadlines are managed by each university or institution, so dates vary. Spanish universities also offer their own mobility grants, such as the MUNDE scholarship, which provides €1,800 for international exchanges.
Private foundations play a significant role in postgraduate and research funding. The Fundación ”la Caixa” awards 100 scholarships annually for postgraduate study in Europe, North America, or Asia-Pacific, while Fundación Carolina supports academic mobility between Spain and Latin America. Each program sets its own criteria and deadlines, so applicants must check details individually.
What Families Should Watch
With the main general grant now closed, the most urgent deadline is September 10, 2026, for families seeking support for students with special educational needs. As noted by Talent24h, the landscape of educational aid is diverse, and deadlines do not always align. For those interested in broader support measures, some municipalities are also stepping in—such as Abrera, which will fully fund school transport for 254 students in outlying neighborhoods for the coming year, as detailed in this recent report.
In summary, while the main scholarship window has closed, significant support remains available for families navigating Spain’s education system—especially for those with children requiring additional assistance. Staying informed about deadlines and eligibility is essential to securing these resources.
