Lately, I’ve been looking at schools in Valencia for my little one, and it’s been a real headache. After doing some research, it seems that in Valencia, the American School of Valencia and Complejo Educativo Mas Camarena are two options you can’t ignore. Today, I’ll focus on what I’ve learned about ASV and also make some comparisons with Mas Camarena, hoping to provide some reference for other parents facing the same dilemma.
School Overview
ASV, short for the American School of Valencia, offers a purely American educational system, as its name suggests. The school is located in Puzol, about 20 kilometers from Valencia’s city center, within an affluent residential area called Los Monasterios. The environment is truly impressive—built on a hillside with excellent green spaces and modern-looking facilities. In contrast, Mas Camarena is closer to the city, which might be a logistical advantage for families living downtown.
ASV’s most significant feature is its international character. I’ve heard that its student body represents over thirty different nationalities, creating an excellent linguistic environment. English is the primary language of instruction, with Spanish and Valencian also offered. This is particularly appealing for families who want an international path for their children, aiming for universities in Europe or the US. The curriculum runs from preschool through high school, culminating in the globally recognized IB Diploma.
Application and Tuition Fees
Now, for the topic everyone cares about most: money. The cost of international schools is certainly not cheap. ASV has a tiered tuition structure, with different fees for different grade levels. I’ve put together a rough estimate of the annual tuition fees for your reference.
| Grade Level | Approximate Annual Tuition |
|---|
| Preschool | 7,000 - 9,000 |
| Elementary School | 10,000 - 12,000 |
| Middle School | 12,000 - 14,000 |
| High School | 15,000 - 18,000 |
Note: The figures above are estimates. Actual fees may be adjusted annually, so be sure to verify them on the official website.
The application process generally involves submitting an online application, providing required documents, interviews for both the student and parents, and possibly an entrance exam, similar to other private schools in Valencia. Because spots are very limited, especially in the lower grades, it’s highly recommended to start preparing and get on the waiting list more than a year in advance. Unlike Mas Camarena, which has multiple campuses and relatively more spots available, securing a place at ASV is extremely competitive.
My Personal Dilemma
My family and I are currently torn. ASV’s American-style education and IB system are very appealing, and I feel it would be better for developing my child’s overall skills and international perspective. However, the downsides are the higher tuition fees and the high demand for places. On the other hand, Mas Camarena is a top-tier local private school in Spain, known for being academically rigorous with outstanding university entrance exam results. Its tuition is a little cheaper actually, significantly cheaper than ASV’s, and it’s closer to the city. So, the choice between a purely international education versus a top Spanish private school that is more locally-focused with stronger academic results is a decision that really depends on our family’s plans and our child’s needs. I wonder if there are any parents on this forum whose children attend either of these schools? I would love to hear about your real experiences!
