Complete Guide for International Students in Alicante

Alicante is one of the favorite destinations for international students in Spain. With its Mediterranean climate, incredible beaches, and prestigious universities, the city offers a unique academic and personal experience. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know to prepare for your arrival and make the most of your stay.

1. Universities in Alicante

University of Alicante (UA)

The University of Alicante is the main academic institution in the province. Located in San Vicente del Raspeig, 15 minutes from Alicante city center, it has a campus of over 100 hectares with all necessary facilities.

- Students: over 25,000

Erasmus+ programs: agreements with over 300 European universities
- Key areas: Law, Economics, Engineering, Tourism, Translation
  - Transport: TRAM stop on campus (line L2)
    Miguel Hernández University (UMH)
    UMH has campuses in Elche, Sant Joan d'Alacant, and Altea. It is especially known for its health sciences programs.
    - Students: over 15,000
    - Key areas: Medicine, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Pharmacy
      - Main campus: Elche (20 minutes by train from Alicante)

2. Student accommodation

Types of accommodation

- Room in shared flat: The most popular option. Prices between €290 and €450/month depending on the area.

Student residence: More expensive (€500-800/month) but with services included.
- Studio or individual apartment: From €550/month, ideal for couples or long stays.
  Most popular areas
  - San Vicente del Raspeig: Next to the UA campus. Lower prices (€290-380).
  - Alicante City Center: Urban life and leisure. Medium prices (€350-450).
    - San Juan Beach: Peace and beach. Higher prices (€380-500).
      Tips for finding accommodation
      1. Start looking 2-3 months before your arrival
      2. Be wary of ads with prices that are too low
      3. Never pay without seeing the room or without guarantees
      4. Use verified platforms like Roomaways

3. Public transport

Alicante TRAM

The TRAM is the most used transport by students. It connects Alicante city center with San Vicente del Raspeig (UA campus) and the beaches.

- Line L2: Luceros → San Vicente → University

Frequency: every 10-15 minutes
- Monthly pass: ~€35 (unlimited)
  - Single ticket: €1.45
    TAM Buses
    Urban buses (TAM) cover the entire city of Alicante.
    - Monthly pass: ~€30
    - Single ticket: €1.45
      RENFE Commuter trains
      Trains connecting Alicante with Elche, Murcia, and other nearby cities.
      Bicycle
      Alicante is a fairly flat city with bike lanes. The municipal bike rental service costs about €25/year.

4. Essential procedures

NIE (Foreigner Identity Number)

The NIE is mandatory for non-EU students staying more than 3 months. EU students need the EU Citizen Registration Certificate.

- Where: Immigration Office (online appointment)

Documents: Passport, university enrollment, health insurance, proof of financial means
- Time: 2-4 weeks
  Empadronamiento (Municipal registration)
  Empadronamiento is registration at the Town Hall as a resident. Necessary for many procedures.
  - Where: Alicante Town Hall (by appointment)
  - Documents: Passport, rental contract or landlord authorization
    - Time: immediate
      European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
      If you're from the EU, request your EHIC before traveling. It gives you access to Spanish public healthcare.
      Bank account
      The most used banks by students are: N26, Revolut (digital) and BBVA, Santander (traditional). Many offer commission-free accounts for young people.

5. Cost of living

Estimated monthly budget

| Concept | Monthly cost |
|---------|--------------|
| Accommodation | €290 - €450 |
| Food and groceries | €150 - €250 |
| Transport | €35 - €50 |
| Leisure and extras | €100 - €200 |
| Total | €575 - €950 |

Money-saving tips

- Eat at the university cafeteria (menu ~€5)

Shop at supermarkets like Mercadona, Lidl, or Aldi
- Use the TRAM with monthly pass instead of single tickets
  - Take advantage of student discounts at museums, cinema, and transport

6. Climate and what to bring

Alicante has a Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days a year.

Average temperatures

- Winter (Dec-Feb): 10-17°C. You'll need a jacket, but it rarely gets very cold.

Spring (Mar-May): 15-23°C. Ideal, with sunny days.
- Summer (Jun-Sep): 25-32°C. Intense heat, air conditioning is essential.
  - Autumn (Oct-Nov): 18-25°C. Pleasant, occasional rain.
    What to pack
    - Summer clothes and swimsuit (you'll use the beach until October)
    - A light jacket for winter
      - Sunscreen (the sun is strong all year)
        Plug adapter if coming from outside Europe

Ready to find your room?

Explore our verified rooms in Alicante and San Vicente del Raspeig.

View available rooms