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Romanian Students in Spain: How to Live on a Small Budget

Romanian Students In Spain: How To Live Big On A Small Budget

16 Jun 2025


Studying abroad in Spain as a Romanian student is exciting—a new culture, new friends, and new opportunities. But alongside all that, adventure comes a serious challenge: managing your money. The good news is that with a little planning and smart spending, you can enjoy your life in Spain without breaking the bank.

This guide is packed with practical tips to help you stretch your euros, save smart, and even send money to Romania from Spain when needed. Whether you're living in Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, or a small university town, this is your essential guide to living big on a small budget.

Budgeting Basics For Romanian Students In Spain

Start With A Monthly Budget

A solid monthly budget is the foundation of financial success. Begin by calculating your total monthly income—this includes family support, part-time job earnings, and any scholarships.

Then, break down your expenses:

  • Rent and utilities
  • Groceries and food
  • Transport
  • Mobile and internet
  • Books and study supplies
  • Personal and entertainment

Apps like FintonicMint, or even a simple Excel sheet can help track your spending and highlight areas where you can cut back.

Stick To The 50/30/20 Rule

This method allows flexibility while keeping your financial goals in check.

Smart Saving Tips For Daily Life

Cook At Home More Often

Eating out is fun but costly. By cooking your meals, you not only save money but also eat healthier. Buy groceries from local markets or discount stores like MercadonaLidl, or Dia.

Use Student Discounts Everywhere

As a student, you're entitled to discounts on:

  • Transport (get a student monthly pass)
  • Museum entries and cultural events
  • Software subscriptions like Microsoft Office or Adobe
  • Gyms and fitness centres
  • Always carry your student card and ask if a discount is available.

Share Accommodation

Instead of renting a studio alone, share a flat with other students. This cuts your rent and utility bills in half or more. Look on platforms like Idealista or Badi for student-friendly listings.

Part-Time Jobs And Side Hustles

Many Romanian students in Spain work part-time to cover their expenses. As an EU citizen, you have the right to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays.

Popular Student Jobs Include:

  • Waitressing or barista work
  • Tutoring English or Romanian
  • Babysitting or pet sitting
  • Delivery services or retail jobs

Just make sure your job doesn’t interfere with your studies, and use part of your earnings to send money online to Romania from Spain if needed.

Send Money Home Without Overspending

At times, you may want to support your family back in Romania, whether during emergencies or festivals. But bank fees and poor exchange rates can eat into your funds.

Choose the Right Transfer Platform

Instead of traditional banks, use trusted remittance platforms like ACE Money Transfer, which offer:

  • Competitive exchange rates
  • Low or no fees
  • Fast delivery to Romanian bank accounts or pickup points
  • Mobile-friendly transactions

This makes it easy to send money to Romania from Spain in just a few taps, even on a student budget.

Free And Affordable Entertainment In Spain

Spain is rich in culture, and many experiences don’t cost a thing.

Here’s How To Have Fun Without Spending Much:

  • Visit museums on free entry days (often Sundays)
  • Attend local festivals and street performances
  • Explore parks, beaches, and hiking trails
  • Join university clubs or Erasmus student events
  • Volunteer—gain experience and meet new people

Living fully doesn’t mean spending big. It means being creative with your resources.

Long-Term Financial Tips For Students

Even as a student, it’s a good idea to build healthy financial habits that will serve you for life.

Some habits to start today:

  • Set a small monthly saving goal
  • Avoid debt or credit card overuse
  • Keep a separate savings account for emergencies
  • Use digital banking tools to monitor your finances
  • Compare services before making any online money transfer to Romania from Spain

Living Good on a Budget in Spain

Life as a Romanian student in Spain doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart budgeting, saving, and spending, you can enjoy everything Spain has to offer—from tapas to travel—without going broke.

And when it’s time to give back to your family, make sure your money transfer to Romania from Spain is affordable, fast, and secure. Services like ACE Money Transfer make it easy to send money online to Romania from Spain even when you're working with a student budget.

Financial freedom starts with small steps. Begin today—and live big, even on a small budget.

FAQs

What is the best way to send money online to Romania from Spain as a student?

Using ACE Money Transfer is a great choice. It’s secure, low-cost, and offers fast delivery, which is ideal for students with limited time and budget.

How much should a Romanian student budget monthly in Spain?

On average, €700–€1,000 per month covers rent, food, transport, and basic expenses. Shared living and student discounts can lower this significantly.

Are there any hidden fees when making a money transfer to Romania from Spain?

With reliable services like ACE Money Transfer, fees are transparent. Always review the total cost and exchange rate before confirming the transfer.

Can Romanian students work legally in Spain?

Yes, as EU citizens, Romanian students can work part-time during studies and full-time during holidays without needing a special work permit.

How can I save money while studying abroad?

Use a monthly budget, cook at home, use student discounts, share housing, and avoid unnecessary subscriptions. These habits help you save more and send money to Romania from Spain when needed.


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