Having recently moved to Spain, finding a school for my child was the top priority. To find the right fit, I researched many international schools in Madrid and Barcelona, learning some lessons the hard way. I haven’t seen much discussion on this topic in the forums, so I’m starting this thread to share the information I’ve gathered. I hope this helps other families with the same needs! Disclaimer: this is purely personal sharing, and the schools are listed in no particular order. They all have excellent reputations and university placement rates.
Madrid Area
Madrid’s educational resources are truly impressive, with many top-tier international schools and fierce competition. Most of the best schools are concentrated in affluent northern neighborhoods like La Moraleja and Pozuelo de Alarcón.
- Runnymede College: This school is a prime example of a purely British education. It’s academically rigorous, and its Oxbridge acceptance rate is one of the highest in Spain. The school is quite traditional and has high expectations for its students. Getting in is not easy; you need to apply very far in advance. The waiting list is said to be incredibly long.
- International College of Spain (ICS): This is one of Madrid’s most established IB schools, offering the IB curriculum from primary to high school. It has a fantastic campus environment and is highly international, with students from all over the world. If you want your child to apply to universities worldwide, the versatility of the IB diploma is a significant advantage.
- The American School of Madrid (ASM): Those interested in an American-style education should take a close look at this one. ASM has a long history, top-notch facilities, and a particularly strong athletics program. The curriculum is American-based, supplemented with the IB Diploma Programme, and most graduates go on to top universities in the United States.
Barcelona Area
Barcelona also offers a wide range of international schools, and the atmosphere feels a bit more liberal and diverse than in Madrid. Many schools are located in beautiful surroundings on the outskirts of the city.
- Benjamin Franklin International School (BFIS): A top American school in Barcelona, on par with ASM in Madrid. The school emphasizes innovation and personalized development and has a strong academic atmosphere. Admission is also competitive, so early planning is essential, and the entrance assessments are not simple.
- The British School of Barcelona (BSB): This school is very well-known in Barcelona. It also offers a purely British education—similar to many other prestigious schools in Spain—and provides A-Level courses. BSB has multiple campuses, covering all age groups from early years to secondary school. The school places great emphasis on the holistic development of students and offers a rich variety of extracurricular activities.
- American School of Barcelona (ASB): Another excellent American school that offers AP courses and the IB Diploma. ASB graduates also have great university placements, with many attending Top 50 universities in the US. The school has a strong sense of community and close parent-school communication.
Here is a brief summary of the different curriculum systems to help you choose based on your child’s characteristics and future plans. Every school has its own open days. I highly recommend visiting the schools in person to get a feel for the atmosphere and talk to the admissions officers. It’s more effective than reading any brochure.
| Curriculum System | Key Features | Best for Students |
|---|
| British System | In-depth curriculum; students focus on 3-4 subjects they excel at | Students with clear goals, or those who excel in specific subjects rather than being all-rounders |
| American System | Wide course selection, high flexibility, focus on well-rounded skills | Students with diverse interests and strong all-around abilities |
| International Baccalaureate (IB) | Focuses on holistic development; requires academics, activities, and an extended essay | Strong learners who are well-rounded and possess good self-management skills |
P.S. Choosing a school is a massive project. Besides rankings and university placement rates, factors like the school’s culture, location, and tuition fees must also be considered. I wish everyone the best in finding the most suitable school for their child! I also welcome others with experience to share their insights
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