I’ve been deep in research mode lately, trying to choose a school for my child here in Madrid, with a focus on international schools. As many of you know, IB results are a key, hard-data indicator of an international school’s academic caliber. I’ve spent quite some time digging through school websites and education forums to gather data, and I’ve compiled the 2023 IB results for some of Spain’s most popular international schools. I’m sharing this in hopes it will help other parents navigating the same challenging school selection process.
What to Look for in IB Results?
For a quick primer, the maximum score for the IBDP is 45, with the global average typically hovering around 30. A school with an average score of 34 or 35 is already considered quite good. If a school reaches an average of 36 or higher, it’s definitely among the top tier in Spain. Of course, besides the average score, the pass rate and the percentage of students scoring 40 points or more are also crucial. Looking at these metrics together provides a more comprehensive picture of a school’s academic performance.
A Glimpse at 2023 IB Results for Select Spanish International Schools
The table below shows the data I’ve compiled for some of the most sought-after schools, primarily in the Madrid and Barcelona areas, though it includes schools in other popular cities as well. It’s important to note that some IB international schools in Spain, such as Kensington School, may not have published their full data (you can also look into Madrid IB school fees), so the information might be incomplete. Please feel free to add to or correct it!
| School Name | City | 2023 IB Average Score | Notes |
|---|
| Runnymede College | Madrid | 39.3 | Top-tier in Spain, very competitive admissions |
| King’s College, Soto de Viñuelas | Madrid | 37 | Well-established British school, consistently strong academically |
| The English Montessori School | Madrid | 36.3 | Consistent performance, good reputation |
| Sotogrande International School | Sotogrande | 35 | One of the best schools in the southern region |
| American School of Barcelona | Barcelona | 34 | American curriculum, with impressive IB results |
| Benjamin Franklin Int. School | Barcelona | 34 | Another popular American school in Barcelona |
| International College Spain | Madrid | 33 | Part of the Nord Anglia group, well-resourced |
Some Personal Thoughts
Based on the data, top schools in the Madrid area seem to stand out more in terms of scores. For example, Runnymede College’s 39.3 is an exceptionally high score on a global scale. King’s College also consistently maintains high standards. While Barcelona schools like ASB and BFIS might not have such extreme average scores, they are very popular with parents, especially considering their American background and holistic educational philosophy. Additionally, Sotogrande International School in the Malaga region is also well worth considering, particularly for families living in the south.
IB scores are just one factor in choosing a school and should definitely not be the only criterion. Every school has a different culture, curriculum, range of extracurricular activities, and campus environment. The best approach is to attend a school’s Open Day in person, talk to teachers and current students, and get a feel for the atmosphere. After all, the most important thing is to find an environment where your child can thrive and be happy. I hope this information is useful, and I welcome anyone with more insights to join the discussion!
