There’s a huge choice of publicly and privately-run language schools in Madrid. You can take university courses (Autónoma, Complutense, Carlos III, Rey Juan Carlos, Alcalá), go to a language school, resort to the international organisations promoting the learning of Spanish like Instituto Cervantes, or register in one of the many accredited private learning centres.

The best way to learn a language is experiencing the culture it’s associated with. A good option is to join a chat group in a coffeehouse, to have a nice talk over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. There are gatherings and lectures, chats around the table, and bars to listen to other people as they speak in a language different than their mother tongue. The activity is fun and free.

If you’re a non-EU citizen and are planning to stay in Spain for longer than three months, you’ll need to apply for a student visa at the Spanish Consulate in your country. You’ll be asked to show an admission letter or certificate from the educational centre where you’ll take the course. Bear in mind that you should submit your visa application two or three months before your trip.

For stays longer than six months, you should apply for a student residence card, issued by the National Police at their Offices for Foreign Citizens. You should begin the procedures within 30 days of arrival, unless you hold a 180-day student visa.

Other required documents are a valid passport; study, training or research plan to be developed in Spain; medical insurance; medical certificate; proof of financial resources to cover your expenses during your stay in Spain; and lack of criminal record report.

The so-called colegios mayores and the student residences are probably the most interesting places for foreign students to stay in Madrid. All of them are associated with a local university or college. Also, they offer extracurricular activities that invite students to get deep into the city’s life and culture.

Hostels are a good choice for students who don’t want to break the piggy bank. There are plenty of them in Madrid, and they feature all types of facilities and amenities. Learn more about them in the Guide of Small Hotels of Madrid.

For more freedom you can rent an apartment. Your college or university will recommend one of the companies offering rooms in flatshares. This type of accommodation gives students the chance to share time with young people from different countries and backgrounds. You can also find a place that meets your needs on dedicated websites.

Students can work during their Spanish-learning stay in Madrid. This way, they can take in other aspects of Spanish culture and earn money to cover their expenses.

Your student visa allows you to work in Spain up to 20 hours a week, provided that your working hours can be squeezed into your study or research schedule. The company you work for must apply for a work permit at the Office for Foreign Citizens.

Universities usually provide information on part-time jobs so that you don’t spend too much time working. You can find a job matching your background and skills at one of the many dedicated websites.

At the branches of the Official Language School they have boards advertising private language lessons or chat groups.