Find schools
in Spain
Spain offers an excellent network of free bilingual state schools alongside world-class private and international campuses. Browse every option — from subsidised public schools to top IB programmes in Madrid and Barcelona.
Oversubscription is the #1 challenge in Madrid & Barcelona right now
In 2026, Madrid and Barcelona schools are reporting the highest application volumes in a decade. Competition for places — especially in bilingual public schools — has never been tougher. Getting your timing wrong can cost you a full academic year.
"In Spain, knowing when to apply is just as important as knowing where." I help families navigate the regional puntos (points) system for public schools and the early-bird deadlines for top private campuses — so you don't miss your window.
Talk to a Spain school advisorMadrid Admissions Calendar
Key windows and current status for families applying in 2026
The main application window has closed. Families must now wait for Provisional Lists — typically published in late April 2026. If not assigned a place, you can appeal or join the Extraordinary Period.
Admissions are technically open, but high-demand schools like ASM and Hastings are already moving to waitlists for September 2026. Apply now — don't wait until summer.
For families arriving late or who missed the March window. Only remaining unfilled places are available — choice is very limited. Bilingual programme spots are rarely available at this stage.
Madrid only: The calendar above applies to the Community of Madrid. Barcelona (Generalitat de Catalunya), Valencia and Málaga each run on different regional timetables.Talk to an advisor for your specific city →
Madrid Schools by Category
48 verified schools across 4 categories — with fees, neighbourhoods, language tags and insider context
| School Name | Curriculum | Neighbourhood | Language | 2026/27 Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International College Spain (ICS) | IB (Full) | La Moraleja | ES/EN | €12,500 – €26,300 per year |
| American School of Madrid (ASM) | American / IB | Pozuelo | ES/EN | €14,000 – €26,000 per year |
| British Council School | British / Spanish | Pozuelo | ES/EN | €8,500 – €16,000 per year |
King's College | British | Tres Cantos | ES/EN | €9,500 – €20,000 per year |
| Hastings School | British | Chamartín | ES/EN | €8,000 – €16,500 per year |
| St. George's British School | British | Hortaleza | ES/EN | €10,000 – €19,500 per year |
| Runnymede College | British | La Moraleja | ES/EN | €10,000 – €21,000 per year |
| Kensington School | British | Pozuelo | ES/EN | €8,000 – €15,000 per year |
The English Montessori School | British / Montessori | Aravaca | ES/EN | €11,400 – €12,000 per year |
| Brewster Madrid | American | Chamberí | ES/EN | €15,000 – €25,000 per year |
| Lycée Français de Madrid | French | Conde Orgaz | ES/FR | €6,000 – €10,500 per year |
Thames British School | British | Majadahonda | ES/EN | €7,500 – €15,000 per year |
Aquinas American School | American / Catholic | Pozuelo | ES/EN | €9,000 – €18,000 per year |
International School of Madrid | British | Chamartín | ES/EN | €7,000 – €14,500 per year |
Holy Mary British Catholic School | British / Catholic | Chamartín | ES/EN | €8,000 – €15,500 per year |
2026 Insider Notes for Madrid
Aulas de Enlace (Bridge Classes)
Schools in Centro, Chamberí, and Chamartín often have "Link Classrooms" to help non-Spanish-speaking children integrate over the first 6–12 months. Ask specifically about this when visiting.
The "Plazo" Deadline — Don't Miss It
For Public and Concertado, you must apply in the March/April window — no exceptions. For International, a last-minute cancellation spot may open in June/July, but don't count on it.
The Pozuelo Hub
Pozuelo de Alarcón has the highest density of top-tier international schools — ASM, British Council, Kensington, Aquinas. If your family wants to avoid a long commute, living in the West makes sense.
Not sure which category is right for your family?
I help families shortlist the right schools based on budget, location and language goals.
Browse by school type
From free bilingual state schools to elite international campuses — find the right fit
Browse by city
Find schools near where you're planning to live
Spain resources
Everything an expat family needs to navigate school life in Spain
Spanish Bilingual Public School Guide
How Spain's free bilingual state school system works — regional programmes, the puntos (points) admissions system, and how to apply.
British Curriculum Schools in Spain
The full official BSO register of 142+ British curriculum schools across every province in Spain — updated June 2025.
Private & International Schools Guide
Compare British, IB, American and French international schools across Spain. Fees, curricula, admissions timelines and waitlist tips.
City Guide
Neighbourhoods, cost of living, transport links and expat communities in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga and beyond.
Family Activities
Parks, beaches, museums, sports clubs and weekend activities for kids of all ages across Spain.
Festivals for Kids
Annual fiestas, cultural events and celebrations that are perfect for families — from Las Fallas to Semana Santa.
Schools in Spain for Expat Families
If you are moving to Spain with children, it helps to understand the main school options available before you apply. The most common choices are public schools, publicly funded private schools, private schools, and international schools. Each type works differently, so families should think about their child's needs, language level, budget, and how long they plan to stay.
Public & publicly funded schools
Spain has public schools and private schools subsidised with public funds, often called concertados. Admissions to publicly funded schools are regulated by the education authorities, and families can apply within the system set by their local autonomous community.
The admissions process uses a puntos (points) system — siblings already enrolled, proximity to the school, and family income all count. The main application window is typically in March each year.
Bilingual programmes in Spain
Spain also offers state-backed bilingual education programmes in parts of the school system. One of the best-known examples is the British Council / Ministry of Education bilingual programme, which operates across a number of autonomous regions.
Availability varies by programme, school, and region, so families should always check what is available locally. In Madrid, the bilingual programme (BEDA) is one of Europe's largest — but places are highly competitive.
Private schools
Private schools in Spain charge fees and are independently run. Some families choose them for smaller class sizes, different educational approaches, or additional language and curriculum options.
Admissions processes vary by school and may include interviews, assessments, or school reports. It is always important to check each school's process carefully before applying.
International schools
International schools are a popular choice for families moving to Spain from abroad. These schools may offer the International Baccalaureate, British, American, French, or other international curricula.
They can be a good fit for families who may move again or who want a more internationally portable school pathway. Spain has one of Europe's largest international school networks — particularly in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and the Costa del Sol.
Help choosing a school in Spain
Every school is different, so it is important to check the admissions rules, deadlines, language of instruction, and support on offer before applying. For families moving from abroad, this can feel overwhelming — especially when school decisions are happening at the same time as housing, paperwork, and relocation planning.
That is where ExpatSchoolFinder can help. We help families explore public schools, publicly funded schools, bilingual options, private schools, and international schools in Spain, so you can better understand what may suit your child and your plans.
Free resources
We share free guides on school systems, family-friendly areas, children's activities, and everyday life after the move to Spain.
Join our WhatsApp group
Connect with other families, ask practical questions, and get support from parents going through a similar move to Spain.
Whether you want to do everything yourself with our resources, or you'd like more hands-on support with schools, relocation, and settling in — ExpatSchoolFinder is here to help make your move to Spain simpler.
Spain's school system explained
Every school type, what it costs, who it's for — and how to get in. Pick a category to explore.
Spanish State Schools (Colegios Públicos)
Spain's state school system is free for all residents. Teaching is in Spanish (and regional languages like Catalan or Basque depending on location). The admissions system uses a points-based (puntos) system.
- Free for all residents — no fees
- Teaching in Spanish (+ regional language in Catalonia, Basque Country, Valencia)
- Puntos (points) system for admissions — siblings, proximity, income all count
- Application window: typically March each year — missing it is costly
- Strong academic results, especially in sciences and languages
- Ideal for families planning a long-term stay in Spain
Our advisors know every school type in Spain — from free state schools to elite boarding. We'll map the right options for your child's age and your timeline.
Holiday camps in Spain
Summer camps, sports camps, language camps and multi-activity programmes for expat kids during school holidays.
Madrid English Summer Camp
Language + SportsThe most popular English-language summer camp in Madrid. Morning English classes, afternoon sports and activities. Run by qualified native English teachers.
Barcelona Beach & Language Camp
Beach + LanguageCombine beach activities with Spanish and English language classes in Barcelona. Surfing, paddleboarding, beach volleyball and cultural visits to the city.
Costa del Sol Multi-Activity Camp
Multi-activityWeek-long multi-activity camps on the Costa del Sol. Swimming, tennis, football, arts and crafts in a safe, English-speaking environment popular with expat families.
Valencia Football Academy Camp
FootballIntensive football training in Valencia, run by UEFA-qualified coaches. Morning training, afternoon matches and team activities. English and Spanish spoken.
Pyrenees Adventure Camp
Adventure & OutdoorResidential adventure camp in the Spanish Pyrenees. Hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking and team challenges. English-speaking instructors.
Seville Arts & Culture Camp
Arts & CultureCreative arts and Spanish culture camps in beautiful Seville. Flamenco, painting, ceramics, cooking and city exploration. A unique cultural experience for expat kids.
Choose the level of support you need
From a £29.99 DIY download pack to full concierge service — we have an option for every family and every budget.
Country Download Pack
A step-by-step downloadable guide to the school system in this country. Everything you need to understand your options, know the deadlines, and start your application — at your own pace.
- Full school system overview (state, bilingual, private, international)
- Application timeline & key deadlines
- Document checklist for your situation
- Catchment area explainer
- School type comparison table
- Top questions to ask schools
- Personalised advice
- Direct support
- Portal guidance
Starter Pack
A personalised written report delivered within 48 hours. Based on your destination country and your child's age, we map out every school option — state, bilingual, private, and international — with catchment areas, application deadlines, and the documents you'll need.
- Personalised school options report
- State & bilingual schools mapped to your area
- Private & international school shortlist
- Catchment area overview
- Application deadline calendar
- Document checklist for your situation
- Active application support
- Portal guidance
- Direct school contact
Guided Application
We actively guide you through the entire application process. From checking your catchment area before you sign your rental contract, to walking you through the local school portal step by step, to confirming everything is submitted correctly.
- Everything in Starter Pack
- Catchment area check before you sign your lease
- Personalised document checklist
- Step-by-step school portal guidance
- Equivalency process support
- Follow-up call to confirm submission
- Email support throughout
- Direct school contact on your behalf
- Application status tracking
Full Concierge
We handle everything. You focus on your move. We contact schools directly on your behalf, track your application status, advise on backup options if your first choice is full, and stay on call until your child has a confirmed place.
- Everything in Guided Application
- We contact schools directly on your behalf
- Application status tracking
- Backup school strategy if first choice is full
- Priority email & WhatsApp support
- On-call through the full process
- Confirmed place — we don't stop until it's done
All prices are per family, not per child. Compare all services →
Navigating Spain's school system?
Between the regional puntos system, bilingual school applications and private campus waitlists — our advisors help families get it right the first time.
Talk to a Spain School Advisor →