Entering university as an adult without school papers

Key rules

• Over-45 result: The over-45 route is graded only as Apto or No apto, with no numerical mark.
• Where it counts: Over-40 and over-45 passes work only at the university and for the degree or branch where you applied.
• Residence: Non-EU applicants usually need proof of legal residence in Spain, and some universities do not admit non-residents.
• Over-25 pass mark: The over-25 test is passed with 5 out of 10.

Which route fits you

Your age decides the route. Each one is run by the university you apply to, so you register with that university.

• Over 25: you are 25 or older by 1 October of the year of the test, and you have no other qualification that gives access to university.
• Over 40: you are 40 or older in the year you apply, you have no other way in, and you can show work or professional experience related to the degree.
• Over 45: you turn 45 or older in the calendar year of the test, and you hold no academic title that gives access to university.

The over-25 route: an exam

The test usually takes place once a year, in spring. It has a general phase with three compulsory exercises: a Spanish language commentary, a commentary of a text, and a foreign language. There is also a fourth exercise on a specific subject.

A second phase is optional. It tests subjects tied to your degree branch and can improve your admission mark. The pass mark is 5 out of 10. Your pass stays valid with no time limit, but in some cases it only gives admission to the university where you took it. Places are reserved for this route, at least 1 percent of places.

The over-40 route: CV and interview

There is no written exam. The university reviews your CV and documented experience, then holds a personal interview. The result is apto or no apto (pass or fail). A pass gives access only to the degree and university where you applied. The university can also take other training into account.

The over-45 route: test and interview

You take a written commentary on a text and a Spanish-language test, then a personal interview to assess your maturity and suitability for the degree. The result is Apto or No apto, with no numerical mark.

A pass is valid only at the university that ran the test, and only for the branch of knowledge or degree you chose when you registered. It is usually valid for the following academic years. Regions set the public fee. Expect roughly 80 to 120 euros, depending on your region.

If you are a foreigner

You can use these routes if you meet the age condition and hold no qualification that gives access to Spanish university. EU citizens are treated like Spaniards.

If you are from outside the EU, expect to prove legal residence in Spain, usually with your TIE or a residence document, as well as your passport. Rules for people applying from abroad differ by university, and some do not admit non-residents. Ask the admissions office before you pay anything.

Dates and how to register

Tests are usually held between March and May, with registration from about February to April. Some universities offer a second call in autumn. Dates differ by university and region, so check your chosen university's website. The timeline and documents list below show the steps and papers.

Timeline and deadlines

• Register with your chosen university online, pay the public fee and send your identity documents: usually from February to April

• Take the access test or attend the interview: usually between March and May, once a year

• Take the second call if your university offers one: in autumn, at some universities only

• Receive your results: a few weeks after the test

• Pre-enrol at the university: in June and July

Documents you need

• Passport or national identity document, submitted to the university when you register for the test.

• Proof of legal residence in Spain, usually your foreign identity card (TIE) or residence document, if you are not an EU citizen. EU citizens are treated like Spaniards.

• CV with documented professional or work experience related to the degree, for the over-40 route. Your university assesses it before the personal interview.

• CV or interview request, for the over-45 route, submitted when you register with the university.

• Proof that you paid the public test fee, which you pay when you register.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take the over-25 test if I am turning 25 later in the year?

Yes, you can take the over-25 test if you are 25 or older by 1 October of the year of the test. If your birthday falls after that date, you wait for the next year's test. You also must not hold the qualifications for another access route.

Is there an exam on the over-40 route?

No, the over-40 route has no written entrance exam.

Does my pass on the adult route work at any university?

No, a pass on these routes is generally valid only at the university where you took it. On the over-45 route it also holds only for the branch of knowledge or degree you chose at registration. If you want a different university, plan to apply there separately.

How much does the over-45 test cost?

The over-45 test fee is typically about 80 to 120 euros in 2025, depending on your region. Each region sets its own public fee. You pay it when you register with the university.

Can I apply from abroad if I am not a resident of Spain?

Only at some universities, because rules for applicants abroad vary and some do not admit non-residents. Most ask non-EU applicants to prove legal residence in Spain. Ask the admissions service of your chosen university before you pay any fee.