Every country guide you need to enrol your child in a free state school abroad — from bilingual programmes to university pathways. Save up to €35,000 per year vs international school fees.
The best-kept secret in European expat life: world-class education, zero tuition, and often better integration outcomes than expensive international schools.
All 7 countries charge zero fees for state school education, regardless of nationality.
Portugal, Spain and Netherlands offer free bilingual programmes with 50%+ English instruction.
Abitur, VWO, Matura, Leaving Cert and A-Levels are accepted by top global universities.
Children in state schools integrate faster, make local friends, and become truly bilingual.
State schools, free sixth forms & grammar schools
Free secondary schools & Irish language exemptions
TTO bilingual state schools & VWO diploma pathway
Free Gymnasium & international state schools
Free cantonal schools & bilingual Matura pathway
SESB bilingual state schools & concertado network
PEBI bilingual state schools & free public education
Annual per-child cost comparison across all 7 countries
| Country | Free State School | Mid Private | International School | Annual Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏴 England | £0 | £8,000 | £18,000+ | £18,000+ |
| 🇮🇪 Ireland | €0 | €5,000 | €15,000+ | €15,000+ |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | €0 | €6,000 | €18,000+ | €18,000+ |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | €0 | €5,000 | €20,000+ | €20,000+ |
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | CHF 0 | CHF 12,000 | CHF 35,000+ | CHF 35,000+ |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | €0 | €5,000 | €15,000+ | €15,000+ |
| 🇵🇹 Portugal | €0 | €5,000 | €12,000+ | €12,000+ |
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