Shortly after moving to Spain, finding a school for our child became a top priority. I’ve asked around in various online groups and done a lot of my own research, but the information was quite scattered. I recently came across a rather authoritative ranking of international schools in Spain, particularly for the primary level. I’ve compiled it here to share with everyone, hoping it can help other parents facing the same challenge.
Why Choose an International School?
The main advantage is that the curriculum, such as the IB, British A-Level, or American AP, aligns with international standards. This makes it easier for children to continue their university studies, whether they return to their home country or go elsewhere. Moreover, international schools provide an excellent language environment, with English as the primary language of instruction and Spanish as a compulsory subject for [Spanish international primary schools], which greatly enhances a child’s language skills. Of course, the downside is… they’re expensive! The tuition fees are a significant expense.
A Quick Look at Top International Primary Schools in Spain
The following schools are not ranked in any particular order; they are all top-tier institutions in Spain known for their excellent reputation and university placement rates. I’ve organized their key information into a table for easy comparison. Most of these schools are concentrated in Madrid and Barcelona—after all, these are the two major cities with the most resources.
| School Name | City | Main Curriculum | Reference Tuition Fee |
|---|
| Runnymede College | Madrid | British | €8,000 - €17,000 |
| The English Montessori School | Madrid | British | €7,000 - €12,000 |
| International College of Spain | Madrid | IB | €10,000 - €22,000 |
| Benjamin Franklin International School | Barcelona | American, IB | €12,000 - €21,000 |
| American School of Barcelona | Barcelona | American, IB | €13,000 - €23,000 |
| Sotogrande International School | Cadiz | IB | €9,000 - €19,000 |
Some Personal Thoughts on School Selection
Rankings are just a reference; the most important thing is to see if the school’s philosophy and curriculum are the right fit for your child. For instance, if you plan to move to the UK in the future, a British school with an A-Level focus might be more suitable, which also brings up related topics like [Spanish school uniforms]. If you want your child to have a more well-rounded, inquiry-based education, the IB system is an excellent choice, though you’ll want to compare the [international school fees] for each option. I highly recommend scheduling a visit to your target schools once you’ve narrowed them down. Taking your child to experience the campus atmosphere and talking with the teachers is more valuable than reading any amount of material. Another major factor to consider is the school’s location and commute, as school runs are a daily routine. Hopefully, this information provides a good starting point, and I wish all your little ones the best in finding a school they love!
