RESOURCES AND SERVICES
Pontevedra Campus
Students Affairs Office
The Uvigo keeps a web page with key information for students here. You can get information about what to study, access, academic organization, students management and more.
The International Relations Office (ORI) plays a main role to ensure that international mobility students receive the help they need to manage academic and administrative formalities during their stay.
More info:
- https://www.uvigo.gal/en/international/mobility-programmes
- International Relations Office
Edificio Miralles
As Lagoas, Marcosende
36310 Vigo - +34 986 813 550 | 986 811 947
- General enquiries: outgoing.ori@uvigo.gal | incoming.ori@uvigo.gal
- Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00–14:00
Financial Support for Students
Students can access various financial support programs, including scholarships, grants, and tuition fee waivers. The university collaborates with government and private institutions to offer need-based and merit-based financial aid. Work-study opportunities and part-time jobs are also available to help students finance their studies while gaining professional experience.
Mor information about grants can be found here. A variety of grants is available:
- Study grants
- Inclusion grants
- Training grants
- Awards
Insurance
EU/EEA students with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can usually access public health care under the same conditions as Spanish residents.
Non‑EU students are advised to ensure they have appropriate health insurance while living in Spain, as Spanish public health does not automatically cover non‑EU nationals without insurance or residency. Often this means private insurance or reimbursement arrangements with an insurer from their home country.
In addition, the university provides school insurance and accident coverage (e.g., the UVigo seguro escolar and seguro de accidentes for registered students), which can help in cases of accidental injury during university activities. This covers students from official degrees that are under 28 years old in the event of a school accident, illness or family misfortune. It will grant medical, pharmaceutical or economical services depending on the issue.
If you’re sick or have an accident, you must go to the INSS with your registration slip (it must appear that you have paid for school insurance) before you go to your health center. If an emergency occurs, you can file the paperwork on the INSS afterwards.
INSS offices:
- Ourense: rúa Concello,1 - 988 521 000
- Vigo: rúa O Grove, 4 - 986 249 700
- Pontevedra: rúa Gagos de Mendoza, 4 - 986 850 823
More info available here.
Support for students with disabilities and special needs
The University of Vigo provides support for students with disabilities through a dedicated service (SIOPE), offering personalised assistance, academic accommodations, and accessibility support. Facilities across campuses are adapted (e.g., accessible buildings, transport, and learning resources), and students can benefit from counselling, volunteer assistance, and inclusive programmes. Early contact with the service is recommended to ensure appropriate arrangements.
Medical Facilities
The Pontevedra campus provides essential health services and support resources to help students care for their physical and mental well‑being during their time on campus.
Campus Health Services & Support
Although the Pontevedra campus does not have a full hospital on site, the university offers health‑related support through its Área de Servicios á Comunidade (Community Services Area). This office can provide guidance, referrals and information about health services available both on campus and in the local area:
Campus de Pontevedra – Área de Servicios á Comunidade
Tel.: +34 986 801 949 / +34 986 801 955
E-mail: asc‑po@uvigo.gal
These services include advice on accessing medical care, mental health support, well‑being resources, and connections with local health providers. UVigo promotes overall health and wellness through initiatives that encourage healthy habits and provide support where needed.
Local Medical and Emergency Facilities
For general medical care, primary health consultations, emergencies or specialist treatment, students at the Pontevedra campus typically use nearby public health services and facilities operated by the Galician Health Service (SERGAS), including:
- Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Pontevedra (CHU de Pontevedra) – the main public hospital serving the city, located within easy reach of the campus and equipped to handle urgent care and specialist services.
In addition to the hospital, there are local health centres (centros de salud) throughout Pontevedra where students can access routine medical consultations, vaccinations, basic diagnostics and referrals if needed.
For emergency care, dial 112 in Spain to reach urgent medical services, including ambulance support.
Learning Facilities
The Pontevedra Campus is known for its strong focus on creativity, design, communication and interdisciplinary learning. To support this mission, the campus offers a range of modern and specialised learning facilities that help students succeed academically and professionally.
Central Library
The campus has a well‑equipped Central Library, which provides:
- Quiet study areas for individual work
- Group work rooms for collaborative projects
- Access to print and digital academic resources
- Connection to UVigo’s wider library network for inter‑campus research
Library staff also offer support for research skills and academic resource use.
Computer Rooms and Technology Resources
Students at the Pontevedra campus have access to computer labs equipped with up‑to‑date hardware and specialised software, supporting coursework in areas such as digital design, communication, engineering and multimedia creation. These labs are available for individual study, project work and practical assignments.
Specialised Learning Spaces
Depending on the degree programme, specialised classrooms and practice areas support technical training and applied learning in fields such as:
- Forestry Engineering and Environmental Sciences
- Communication and Media Studies
- Occupational Therapy and Health Sciences
These spaces combine modern teaching technology (projectors, connectivity, software) with flexible layouts to support diverse instructional methods.
Sport and Leisure Facilities
The Pontevedra campus offers a range of well‑equipped spaces where students can enjoy physical activity, both recreational and organised:
- Sports Pavilion — A multi‑purpose indoor sports hall suitable for team sports and group activities.
- Fitness Room / Gym — Space with strength and cardio equipment available with a student sport membership.
- Multi‑Use Courts — Outdoor and indoor courts for sports such as basketball, volleyball and more.
- Table Tennis Area — A dedicated space for informal games and friendly matches.
These facilities support both individual workouts and structured sport programmes, making it easy for students to maintain an active daily routine.
Special Facilities
The Pontevedra Campus is part of the Campus CREA (“Creativity, Research, Education, Arts”), a specialised university environment that promotes cross‑disciplinary innovation, creativity and social engagement. This distinctive identity shapes many of the special facilities and services available to students on site.
Creative and Innovation Spaces
As the heart of Campus CREA, the Pontevedra Campus supports artistic, communication and design disciplines through dedicated creative facilities. These include:
- Workshops and studios for visual arts, design and multimedia projects.
- Specialised laboratories, such as digital design, 3D modelling and textile/art studios (notably in the Faculty of Design).
- Spaces for exhibitions and presentations where student work and cultural projects can be shown.
These facilities support hands‑on learning, encourage experimentation and reflect the campus’s commitment to integrating creativity, innovation and community engagement across academic programmes.
Administrative and Student Support Centers
The campus includes key student support and administrative services where students can:
- Complete registration, scholarships and enrolment procedures
- Submit documents and access extension activities
- Get advice on community initiatives and volunteering.
These services are centrally located in buildings such as Casa das Campás and the School of Forestry Engineering, making administrative support accessible throughout the academic year.
Childcare and Family Support
The Pontevedra campus houses an on‑site childcare facility (“A Galiña Azul”), providing care and early education services that support students and staff with family responsibilities.
Practical Information For Incoming Mobile Students
The University of Vigo is committed to making your stay as smooth and enriching as possible. Check the specific sections for information accommodation, campus location and transport, health, etc.
The International Relations Office (ORI) and Student Support Unit (SAE) provide guidance on:
- Academic issues and course registration.
- Orientation sessions and integration activities.
- Accessibility services and support for students with special needs.
The Buddy Programme pairs incoming students with local students to help them adapt to university life and the city.
Once registered, students receive a University of Vigo student card, which provides:
- Identification as a UVigo student.
- Access to libraries, labs, and sports facilities.
- Discounts for transport and cultural events.
Free Wi-Fi is available across all campuses through the eduroam network.
VISA
Visa management at the University of Vigo is supported through the International Relations Office, which provides incoming students with guidance on visa requirements, necessary documentation, and pre-arrival procedures. While students must apply for their visa through Spanish embassies or consulates in their home country, the university supplies essential documents such as the admission letter and offers advice throughout the process. Upon arrival, additional support is provided for residence procedures, including obtaining the NIE and TIE.
Cost of Living
Pontevedra is a relatively affordable city for students, especially compared to larger Spanish cities such as Madrid or Barcelona. A student budget of €550–650 per month can comfortably cover accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities.
Advise
- Avoid convenience stores or 24-hour shops for groceries, as they are generally more expensive than supermarkets.
- Plan meals and shop weekly to save money.
- Consider shared apartments to reduce housing costs.
| Product | Cost |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 1.50 - 2.50 |
| Full Breakfast | 4.00 - 7.00 |
| Lunch or Dinner | 10.00 - 14.00 |
| Cinema Ticket | 6.00 - 9.00 |
| Gym Membership (monthly) | 20.00 - 35.00 |
| Grocery Shopping (weekly) | 30.00 - 55.00 |
Housing
The Pontevedra campus offers a range of accommodation opportunities and support services to help students find safe, comfortable and affordable places to live during their studies.
University and Partner Accommodation
While the Pontevedra campus does not operate a large on‑campus residence like some larger campuses, students can access university‑supported housing options and receive guidance on reliable accommodation near campus, including:
- University‑linked residences or student halls — Through UVigo’s accommodation services, students can find listings and guidance for recognised residences close to campus or in the city centre, often with study spaces, shared kitchens and student‑friendly environments.
- Partner housing — Some private residence providers collaborate with the university to offer student‑oriented rooms or apartments with services such as laundry, communal areas and 24/7 access.
Students are encouraged to start their housing search early, especially for the beginning of the academic year, as well‑located and affordable options can fill up quickly.
Private Accommodation
Many students choose private rental options in Pontevedra city, which is compact and highly walkable. Typical choices include:
- Shared apartments (flatshares) — Popular among students for affordability and social living.
- Studios or private rooms — Offers more privacy while still close to campus and city services.
- Rooms in local family homes — A comfortable and often culturally enriching option for international students.
Pontevedra’s rental market is student‑friendly, with many properties within walking distance or a short bus ride from the campus.
More info here.
Transport
The Pontevedra campus is well‑connected, making it easy for students to commute, explore the city, and travel regionally. Pontevedra’s compact, pedestrian‑friendly layout and reliable transport services support both daily campus life and broader travel plans.
Urban Bus Services
Pontevedra has a public urban bus network that serves the city and the university area. These buses offer:
- Frequent connections between student housing, campus facilities, city centre, and key neighbourhoods
- Affordable single tickets and monthly passes for frequent users
- Easy access to shopping, cultural venues and transport hubs
Most bus stops are within a short walk of the campus, and routes are designed to connect students with key areas of the city.
Walking
One of the greatest advantages of Pontevedra city is that it is highly walkable. Many students choose to walk to and from campus or around the city for everyday errands, meals, shopping and leisure. Sidewalks, pedestrian zones and park areas make this safe and enjoyable year‑round.
Bicycle and Micro‑Mobility Options
Pontevedra promotes sustainable mobility through:
- Bike‑friendly streets and paths
- Public bike‑sharing services and rental options
- Safe parking spaces for bicycles near campus
Cycling is a popular alternative for students, especially during mild seasons, offering a quick and healthy way to commute.
Regional Train Connections
The Pontevedra railway station (RENFE) offers connections to major cities and towns across Galicia and Spain. Students can use regional trains to travel to:
- Vigo
- A Coruña
- Santiago de Compostela
- Ourense
This rail access makes weekend trips and regional exploration easy and affordable.
Long‑Distance Coaches
The Pontevedra bus station serves a variety of intercity and long‑distance coach lines, connecting the city with:
- Other major Spanish cities
- Smaller towns across Galicia
- National and international coach networks
Long‑distance buses are a practical choice for holidays or visiting home during breaks.
More info here.
Meals
The Pontevedra campus offers a variety of meal and dining options to support students’ daily routines with accessible, affordable, and nutritious food, both on campus and in the surrounding city.
University Cafeterias and Dining Services
Students at the Pontevedra campus have access to university cafeterias and dining areas located in central academic buildings. These dining spaces provide a convenient option to eat on or near campus without needing to travel far.
In addition to full meals, the campus features coffee spots, snack bars and vending machines, where students can grab:
- Espresso, café con leche or juices
- Sandwiches and pastries
- Quick snacks between classes
Eating Off Campus
The city of Pontevedra has a vibrant food scene with many eateries within walking distance of the campus, offering a range of choices, including:
- Try the “menu del día” at local restaurants for a complete and affordable lunch.
- Cook at home using ingredients from local markets or supermarkets to save money.
- Many cafés and small eateries around Plaza de Ferrería, Alameda and González Garcés are popular among students.
Student Associations
Student associations at the Pontevedra campus organise and host:
- Welcome and orientation events for new and incoming students
- Cultural activities, such as film nights, art exhibitions and music events
- Workshops and talks on academic, social and professional topics
- Volunteering and community outreach initiatives
- Social gatherings and student meet‑ups throughout the academic year
These activities help students build friendships, gain experience in leadership and project management, and actively contribute to the campus community.
Work placement possibilities
The UVigo provides students at the Pontevedra campus with a variety of work placement (internship) opportunities designed to help them gain professional experience, develop practical skills, and build career connections while completing their studies.
Work placements are an important part of many degree programmes and are also available as extracurricular opportunities that complement formal academic training.
Sport clubs/programs
Several informal sport clubs and student groups organize regular practices, friendly games and internal competitions in disciplines such as:
Basketball
Volleyball
Futsal
Table tennis
Mixed recreational sport groups
Students are encouraged to join clubs regardless of skill level — many activities are recreational and social, while others connect to inter‑campus and inter‑university sport events.
More info at https://www.uvigo.gal/en/campus/pontevedra-campus-crea/sports-pontevedra
Language courses
The UVigo offers a variety of language courses to help students improve their communication skills, enhance academic performance, and support integration into university and local life.
The Language Centre (Centro de Linguas) provides courses in Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) for international students, with different levels ranging from beginner to advanced. These courses are designed to help students develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, and are often available at reduced fees or free for exchange students.
In addition, UVigo offers opportunities to study Galician, the co-official regional language, through courses provided by the Galician Language Standardisation Service (Área de Normalización Lingüística). These courses introduce students to Galician language and culture, providing insight into local traditions and enhancing daily interactions on campus and in the community.
Students can also participate in courses for other foreign languages, depending on demand and availability, to support academic and professional development. Many language courses include cultural activities, workshops, and conversation practice, allowing students to apply their skills in real-life contexts.
Events and culture
Main events in Pontevedra City:
- January - March:
- There are seasonal and smaller cultural happenings such as theatre shows, music gigs, and community events (often scheduled from municipal cultural centres)
- April - May:
- Os Maios / Festival de los Maios – A traditional spring celebration on May 1 in Plaza de la Herrería, featuring floral decorations, music and folk activities in the historic centre.
- Children’s & Young People’s Book Fair (Feria do Libro Infantil e Xuvenil) – A lively annual book fair in April promoting children’s literature with workshops, storytelling, exhibitions and performances, usually held at the Pazo da Cultura and outdoor venues.
- Galegote Rock – A festival celebrating Galician‑language music, typically held in April, featuring live concerts and performances around the city.
- June-July:
- Surfing The Lérez – A music festival usually taking place in June near Illa das Esculturas, with live music, entertainment, activities for all ages and often a solidarity entry (e.g., food donation).
- Pontevedra Jazz & Blues Festival – A long‑standing jazz and blues music festival held in July with performances in plazas like Teucro and Herrería, street shows, jam sessions and educational workshops.
- San Benito (Romería de San Benito) – A traditional festival and pilgrimage in the Lérez neighbourhood in July with religious rites, music, food and folkloric gatherings.
- BigSound Festival – A summer music festival (e.g., mid‑July) at Parque Tafisa featuring well‑known pop, rock and urban artists — a major highlight for students and youth audiences.
- August:
- Río Verbena Fest – An urban music and culture festival in late August featuring indie, pop and rock artists with large lineups of national acts.
- Festas da Peregrina (Patron Saint Festival) – Held in early August in honour of the Virxe Peregrina, with street concerts, a battle of flowers, floral offering, fireworks and free performances throughout the historic centre.
- September - October
- Feira Franca – One of Pontevedra’s most iconic medieval festivals, celebrated on the first weekend of September with a medieval market, jousting, falconry shows, crafts, food stalls, performances and historical reenactments that transform the city streets.
- November - December:
- Culturgal – A major cultural industries fair held around late November at the Pazo da Cultura and Recinto Ferial, bringing together writers, artists, performers and cultural professionals with workshops, exhibitions, talks and performances.
More info here.