If you’ve ever dreamed of building a career in Europe’s thriving hospitality industry while earning a degree, this may be your last golden chance for 2025. The Universidad de Valencia, in collaboration with top-tier hotel chains and under the Erasmus+ mobility program, is offering international students a dual-study opportunity: an academic program plus a fully paid hospitality internship in Spain.
But here’s the catch: applications close on August 15, 2025.
From affordable Mediterranean living to visa support and multilingual cultural immersion, this unique offer is a gateway to professional growth, real-world experience, and long-term European opportunities. Let’s unpack what this program is about, why it’s attracting global attention, and how you can apply in time.
What Is Spain’s Dual-Study Hospitality Program?
Spain’s dual-study program combines academic coursework in hospitality and tourism with paid, hands-on experience at some of the country’s leading hotels and resorts. Students study at the Universidad de Valencia, one of Spain’s top public universities, while completing internships in partner establishments such as Barceló Hotels, Meliá International, and Iberostar.
According to the Universidad de Valencia official portal, the Erasmus+ funded scheme enables non-EU students to gain:
- Practical work experience in tourism and hospitality
- Monthly stipends (up to €850/month)
- Erasmus student visa support
- Mentorship and career services
This dual format ensures that you graduate with both a degree and real-world experience — an asset that makes you stand out globally.
Why Spain? Why Now?
Spain is Europe’s second most visited country and a global leader in sustainable tourism. The hospitality sector accounts for 12.4% of the country’s GDP (Statista), making it one of the best countries to start a hospitality career.
With hotel occupancy rates surging post-COVID and global brands opening new resorts across Valencia, Malaga, and Barcelona, trained professionals are in demand more than ever. What makes this program particularly compelling:
- Visa Sponsorship: The Erasmus+ visa provides a legal pathway to live, study, and work in Spain, and is extendable.
- Affordable Living: Cities like Valencia offer a high quality of life at lower costs compared to Paris or Berlin.
- Global Alumni Network: UV’s international alumni network spans 120+ countries.
Key Features of the Program
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| University | Universidad de Valencia (Estudi General) |
| Program Duration | 1 academic year + 6-month paid internship |
| Internship Pay | Up to €850/month + meals & accommodation |
| Host Institutions | Iberostar, Meliá, Barceló Hotels, NH Group |
| Visa Type | Erasmus+ Student Visa (with work component) |
| Deadline | August 15, 2025 |
This table gives a quick snapshot, but what lies behind the numbers is a powerful opportunity: a foot in the door of Europe’s hospitality industry.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is open to:
- Recent high school graduates looking to enter the tourism sector
- Undergraduates seeking an international study-work experience
- Career switchers with interest in hotel management, food services, or event planning
Proficiency in English or Spanish is required (B2 level), but intensive language support is offered during the program’s orientation phase.
How to Apply for Spain’s Erasmus+ Hospitality Program
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare Documents:
- Academic transcripts (high school or bachelor’s degree)
- Motivation letter (why hospitality in Spain?)
- Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, DELE)
- Passport bio page
- Submit Application Online: Applications are accepted via the UV International Office Portal.
- Interview & Confirmation: Shortlisted candidates will undergo a virtual interview with both university staff and hospitality partners.
- Visa Processing: Once selected, applicants receive Erasmus+ admission letters to apply for the Spanish Erasmus Student Visa through their local consulate.
- Pre-Departure Orientation: Includes cultural prep, health insurance setup, accommodation arrangements, and internship matching.
What You Gain from the Experience
Beyond the academics and pay, this program delivers deep personal and professional rewards:
1. Global Work Experience
Graduates from this program have gone on to secure full-time roles in:
- Front Office Management
- International Events Coordination
- Food & Beverage Services
- Tourism Business Development
2. Erasmus+ Alumni Status
Erasmus+ alumni are highly regarded by European employers, especially in hospitality, tourism, and customer service industries.
3. Networking & Language Skills
The chance to live in Spain means more than tapas and fiestas. It’s about:
- Building a multicultural peer group
- Learning or perfecting Spanish (spoken in 21 countries!)
- Attending Erasmus events and fairs for job and graduate school leads
Student Testimonials
Here’s what previous participants have said:
“Working at a resort in Alicante while studying tourism theory was the best mix. I made friends from five continents and was offered a job even before graduation.” — Zanele M., South Africa
“UV’s Erasmus+ dual program changed my career trajectory. I now work in Portugal in hotel tech, thanks to the internship experience I gained.” — Mikkel T., Denmark
These stories are not exceptions. They are becoming the norm for international students willing to explore smart pathways.
Pro Tips for a Strong Application
To stand out from the pool of applicants:
- Tailor your motivation letter: Mention why hospitality in Spain excites you and how this aligns with your career vision.
- Highlight multilingual skills: Even basic Spanish helps.
- Get references: Academic or work-related recommendations can push your application further.
- Apply early: Especially for students from high-volume countries like India, Nigeria, and Brazil, earlier submissions often secure faster visa slots.
Related Programs and Alternatives
If you’re still weighing your options, consider comparing this with other Erasmus+ or dual-study options across Europe:
| Program | Location | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Dual Study in Culinary Arts (LUAS) | Finland | Focus on Nordic cuisine & Michelin training |
| Hotel Management @ SRH University | Germany | Longer stay visa options + post-study work rights |
| Erasmus+ Tourism Track (Polytechnic of Porto) | Portugal | Cultural tourism specialization |
You can explore more Erasmus+ funded programs through the Erasmus+ Project Results Platform.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the August 15 Cut-Off
Spain’s hospitality and tourism industry is booming, and this program offers a rare mix of education, paid experience, and long-term European integration. With the deadline fast approaching on August 15, now is the time to take action.
If you’ve been on the fence about studying abroad, consider this your sign. Dual-study models like this one provide an affordable, career-focused entry into Europe — without the debt burden of Western university tuition.
Ready to Apply?
Click here to begin your application via the Universidad de Valencia International Office.
And if you found this post helpful, share it with someone who’s been dreaming of a European adventure. Opportunities like these don’t knock twice!
