© freepik.comBarcelona is a fantastic city for expat families, known for its rich culture, Mediterranean lifestyle and excellent education options. Parents can enroll their children in free state-funded public schools or opt for privately owned schools that receive some government funding. These concertados offer education at a subsidized cost. Another option is international schools.
These are an excellent choice for families who want their children to study in English or follow globally recognized programs like the IB (International Baccalaureate) program, or the British, or American systems. In this guide, we'll provide helpful insights and practical advice to assist you in finding the best international school for your child in Barcelona.
Good to know:
There are more than 30 international schools in Barcelona.
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International school students in Barcelona can study for a range of foreign, international and Catalan qualifications. According to the city's town hall, they are:
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Studying at an international school offers many advantages to students of all ages. Here are some that are worth highlighting:
High-quality education: International schools in Barcelona offer globally recognized curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Bilingual education: Many international schools in Barcelona offer bilingual or trilingual education, with instruction in English, Spanish, and often a third language, such as Catalan, French, or German. Using two or more languages helps improve memory and brain function and enhances cultural awareness.
Diverse and multicultural learning environment: These schools attract students worldwide, creating an inclusive and culturally rich environment. Children grow up surrounded by different languages, perspectives and traditions.
Career opportunities worldwide: Graduating from an international school can boost a student's opportunities in the global labor market. Universities and employers in numerous countries recognize many qualifications, especially the IB Diploma.
Personal development: International schools recognize the importance of a holistic education in developing well-rounded individuals. Beyond academic studies, they offer a wealth of extra-curricular activities such as sports, art, music and drama to develop social, physical and emotional skills.
State-of-the-art facilities: International schools in Barcelona are often equipped with modern, state-of-the-art facilities to enhance learning. These include cutting-edge science and technology labs and multimedia-equipped classrooms. Additionally, students benefit from first-class sports facilities, including swimming pools, gyms and playing fields.
Small class sizes: Class sizes are often small in international schools, which allows for more individualized attention.
Barcelona has a good selection of international schools catering to students from all over the world. Whether you are looking for an American, British, or German curriculum or a school with a strong international focus, there are plenty of options to consider. Below is a list of some of the leading international schools in the city:
The American School of Barcelona caters to approximately 1,000 students from 60 countries and has an 8:1 student-teacher ratio. The school follows an American curriculum from preschool through to high school, culminating in the International Baccalaureate Diploma program. Beyond academics, the school encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports, performing arts, fine arts, public speaking, and leadership opportunities. The American School of Barcelona is located just outside the city in the town of Esplugues de Llobregat.
The British School of Barcelona provides a high standard of education to students across its campuses in Barcelona, Castelldefels and Sitges. In 2024, it was awarded the ´Outstanding in Every Category´ status following a British Schools Overseas inspection of the school. At the end of Year 11, students sit exams in nine or ten GCSE subjects and can then study for the IB Diploma or A Levels.
The German School of Barcelona is the only officially recognized German school in Catalonia, offering a high-quality education to around 1,700 students. The nursery, primary, and secondary schools are located across different sites in Esplugues de Llobregat in the Barcelona Metropolitan Area. Most subjects are taught in German, with students also learning Spanish, English, and Catalan, and having the option to study French.
The Benjamin Franklin International School provides an international and American education to children aged 3 to 18. There are approximately 700 students and 100 teachers representing more than 60 nationalities. English is the language of instruction. Facilities are spread over two campuses at one location and include a library, computer lab, science labs, and rooftop patios/areas.
Agora Princess Margaret International School first opened its doors and classrooms in 1967 and is an IB (International Baccalaureate) school. It provides a multilingual curriculum in English, Catalan and Spanish, as well Chinese and French as extracurricular activities. Facilities include a psychomotor skills classroom, a music classroom, a library, an outdoor swimming pool and multi-purpose sports courts.
The Olive Tree School follows a British curriculum and is regulated by The British Council. It provides education in English from pre-school (aged 3) through to primary and secondary to the age of 16. Pupils come from around 30 nationalities. Facilities include a science lab, a theater, swimming pool, motor skills room and gymnasium.
The Lycée Français Bel Air is a French international school with more than 600 students and 50 teachers from 27 nationalities. This educational institute is fully accredited by the French Ministry of National Education and covers all levels, from kindergarten to baccalaureate. It's officially recognized by the Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deporte and the Generalitat de Catalunya. Students have access to a range of facilities including a theater, gymnasium, laboratories, motor skills room and an indoor swimming pool.
Good to know:
The difference between international and bilingual schools is that international schools often cater to expatriates and offer a global curriculum, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), whereas bilingual schools generally use the national curriculum of the country in which they are based and aim to develop fluency in two languages.
At a glance, here is a list of international schools in Barcelona:
Choosing the right international school in Barcelona is a big decision. With a wide range of schools offering different curriculums, teaching styles, and learning environments, it's important to consider various factors to ensure the best fit for your child. Below are some of the most important factors to consider:
Curriculum and accreditation: One of the first things to check is the school's curriculum and whether it provides a recognized and reputational educational program. Barcelona's international schools offer various programs, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (GCSE & A-Levels), American (High School Diploma & AP), and national curriculums from France, Germany, and beyond. Make sure the school is accredited by recognized educational bodies such as the Council of International Schools (CIS), as this ensures high academic standards.
Language of instruction and multilingual education: Depending on your child's language proficiency and future needs, consider whether the school teaches primarily in English, Spanish, or a combination of languages. If your child is not fluent in the main language of instruction, check if the school provides language support programs.
Class sizes and the student-to-teacher ratio: Class size can greatly affect the learning experience, as smaller classes often allow for more personalized attention and student engagement. Also, inquire about the student-to-teacher ratio and the qualifications of the teaching staff.
Extracurricular activities and personal development: A well-rounded education goes beyond academics, so consider the range of extracurricular activities on offer. Look for schools that provide sports, arts, music, drama, and leadership programs to help students develop their social, physical and emotional skills.
Location and transportation: Consider the school's location in relation to where you'll be living. A long or complicated commute can be stressful for both students and parents. Check out transportation options such as the availability of school buses and public transport.
Tuition Fees and additional costs: International school fees can vary widely, so you need to know the full cost of education, including tuition, enrolment fees, extracurricular activities and school trips. Some schools offer scholarships or financial aid, which may help with affordability. Be sure to factor in all potential expenses to ensure the school fits within your budget.
Seek feedback and recommendations: Join local expat forums, social media groups and attend school open days to hear firsthand experiences about the school's teaching quality, student support and overall environment. Personal recommendations can provide insights that brochures and websites may not reveal, helping you make more informed decisions.
Good to know:
The average yearly fees for international schools in Barcelona can range from around 7,000 euros to more than 20,000 euros.
Each international school has its specific admissions process, but applications are generally submitted online. Many schools charge an application fee and require documents such as school report cards and relevant exam certificates for the previous two years. Proof of residency and proof of ID such as passports are also required.
Depending on the school, your child may be asked to attend an informal interview by the teachers or asked to sit an entrance exam. Other requirements vary from school to school, so check the website of the school you're interested in. In general, you may be asked to provide the following:
After submitting your application, your child may be offered a place or placed on a waiting list if spaces are limited. If your application is unsuccessful, the school typically provides feedback on the reasons for the decision.
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Although government funding isn't available for international school fees in Spain, many schools provide scholarships and financial support for families who might struggle with education costs. In addition to scholarships for incoming students, some schools offer bursaries to children already enrolled, whose families face unforeseen financial challenges. Schools may also provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate exceptional talent in academics, sports, or the arts.
Useful links:
Council of International Schools (CIS)
Barcelona International Schools Association (BISA)
International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO)
Department of Education (Departament d'Educació) – Government of Catalonia
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