Having just moved to Spain, figuring out schooling for my child has been a top priority. I’ve been researching international schools here lately and found that the application deadlines vary widely from one school to another, and the information is quite scattered, which made me a bit anxious. So, I’ve taken the time to compile what I’ve found to share with other parents in the same boat. Hopefully, this helps! If you have experience with this, please feel free to add your insights!
Generally, international schools in Spain follow British, American, French, IB, or other systems. The academic year for most schools runs from September to June. Their admissions process often starts six months to a year in advance. Spots at popular schools are extremely competitive, so securing a spot is far from guaranteed. That’s why planning ahead is crucial! If you miss the deadline, you might have to wait for the next year or end up on a long waiting list.
Key Application Timeline
I’ve summarized a general application timeline that applies to most international schools, which you can use as a reference for [international school admissions]. However, for any specific school, it’s essential to check their official website for confirmation!
- September - December of the previous year: This is the window when most top international schools open applications for the next academic year. During this time, you’ll need to submit the online application form and pay a non-refundable application fee.
- January - March of the current year: Schools begin reviewing applications and scheduling students for entrance exams and interviews. For younger children, this might be a simple observation and interaction session. Older students will likely have written tests, primarily in English and Mathematics.
- March - May of the current year: Schools send out acceptance letters. Once you receive an offer, you typically have one to two weeks to confirm your acceptance and pay a non-refundable reservation fee, which can be quite substantial—often several thousand euros.
- June - September of the current year: Some schools may continue to accept applications if spots are still available, but this is essentially trying to get lucky with last-minute openings, and the chances are slim.
A Quick Look at Schools in Popular Cities
Regarding [application timing], here’s a general overview for a few frequently asked-about schools. Please remember this is just a reference; always check the school’s official website for precise information.
| City | School Type | Peak Application Period |
|---|
| Madrid | British/IB | September - January |
| Barcelona | American/IB | October - February |
| Valencia | British/IB | September - January |
| Malaga | British | October - March |
Just a few final words: when preparing application materials, basic documents include your child’s birth certificate, past school records, a copy of their passport/NIE, and vaccination records. Some schools may also ask parents to write a letter explaining why they chose that particular school. The whole process can be quite tedious and requires patience and attention to detail. In short, for families aiming for a good international school—and thinking about [international school holidays]—procrastination is not an option. Planning and acting early is the key to success! I hope all our children get into their desired schools!
