Tenerife has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking to combine quality education, a pleasant climate, and a relatively affordable cost of living within Europe. With volcanic beaches, university towns, and a growing international community, studying there offers a very different experience from that of major European capitals.
WHY CHOOSE TENERIFE
Climate and quality of life
The island maintains mild temperatures for most of the year, usually between 18°C and 28°C. This allows you to enjoy outdoor activities in all seasons.
Safety
Compared to many large European cities, Tenerife is generally considered a quiet and safe place for students.
International atmosphere
Thanks to tourism and university programs like Erasmus, it is common to find students and residents from numerous countries.
Nature and leisure
The island offers beaches, mountains, trails and unique natural spaces, ideal for those seeking a balance between studies and leisure time.
UNIVERSITIES AND STUDY CENTERS
University of La Laguna (ULL)
It is the main public university of Tenerife and one of the oldest in Spain.
Featured areas:
- Engineering
- Sciences
- Medicine
- Psychology
- Tourism
- Philology and translation
Official page:
https://www.ull.es/
Main campuses:
- The Lagoon
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Anchieta
- Guajara
There are also private schools, language academies, and vocational training centers geared towards international students.
BEST AREAS TO LIVE
La Laguna
La Laguna is the most popular option among university students.
Advantages:
- Proximity to the university
- More affordable prices
- Young atmosphere
- Good public transport
Approximate prices:
- Shared room: €250–450 per month
- Small studio: €500–800
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The capital offers more urban life and leisure options.
Ideal for:
- Master’s students
- People who work and study
- Those looking for more nightlife
Approximate prices:
- Room: €350–550
- Apartment: €700–1,200
South Tenerife
Areas such as Costa Adeje or Los Cristianos offer many job opportunities in tourism and hospitality, although they tend to be more expensive and less university-oriented.
ESTIMATED MONTHLY COST OF LIVING
Accommodation:
€250–550
Food:
€180–350
Shipping:
€20–50
Internet and mobile:
€20–40
Leisure:
€100–300
Approximate total budget:
- Economic life: €650–900
- Comfortable life: €1,000–1,500
TRANSPORTATION ON THE ISLAND
Tram
Tram connects Santa Cruz de Tenerife with La Laguna.
Buses (Guaguas)
The TITSA public network covers a large part of the island.
Information:
https://titsa.com/
Student discounts
Students often have access to reduced fares on public transport.
REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Students from the European Union:
- Identity document or passport
- Health insurance
- Registration of residence for long stays
Students outside the European Union:
- Student visa
- Admission letter
- Proof of financial resources
- International health insurance
Official information:
https://www.exteriores.gob.es/
STUDENT WORK
Many students find part-time employment in:
- Hospitality
- Tourism
- Customer service
- Languages
- Digital marketing
Southern tourist areas offer more temporary opportunities, especially during peak season.
LANGUAGE AND ADAPTATION
Although many people speak English in tourist areas, learning Spanish is an improvement:
- Social integration
- Job opportunities
- The academic experience
The local population is usually friendly and open to foreign students.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
Advantages:
- Excellent weather
- Nature and beaches
- Lower cost of living than Madrid or Barcelona
- Relaxed atmosphere
- International community
Disadvantages:
- Some salaries are low
- Transportation dependence
- Competitive rental market
- Fewer cultural offerings than major capital cities
PRACTICAL TIPS
- Find accommodation before the start of the course.
- Consider living in La Laguna if you study at university.
- Join international student groups to find roommates.
- Keep digital copies of all your documents.
- Learn some Spanish before you arrive.
USEFUL RESOURCES
University of La Laguna:
https://www.ull.es/
TITSA Public Transport:
https://titsa.com/
Immigration Information:
https://www.inclusion.gob.es/web/migraciones
Tenerife Tourism:
https://www.webtenerife.com/
