International Schools in Barcelona: A Parent's Guide

Barcelona has become an increasingly popular destination for international families, offering an attractive combination of good weather, beautiful surroundings and a vibrant international community. For families thinking of a move to the city, the family-orientated activities, outdoor life and access to the sea and mountains are a particular draw.

Whether people choose to relocate for work, lifestyle or a new family adventure, there are many benefits to making a move here. 

Education is of course an important consideration for families when moving abroad, and Barcelona offers a wide selection of local and international schools to suit different educational preferences and budgets. However, understanding the differences between the curricula, languages and fees can feel overwhelming. Below I provide an overview of what can be found in the city, with a particular focus on international schools.

What is an international school?

An international school is an educational institution offering an internationally recognised curriculum. The main language of instruction in many international schools in Barcelona is English but there are also schools teaching primarily in French, German, Italian and Japanese. Spanish and Catalan are taught at foreign languages as part of the curriculum.

Even though many local families also choose to send their children to these private fee-paying schools, there tends to be a higher than average number of pupils from other countries on roll and these schools usually, but not always, teach children from 3 – 18 years old.

International schools are particularly attractive to families who want their children to continue with a familiar education system or obtain qualifications that will allow them to attend universities in different countries. They are also attractive to local Spanish and Catalan-speaking families who want immersion in another language.

What international curricula are available in Barcelona?

Barcelona and its surrounding areas, including Sitges, Castelldefels, Gavà and Sant Cugat, are home to more than 40 international schools. Almost half follow the British curriculum, while the American and International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes are each offered by around seven schools. Other options include schools following the French, German, Swiss and Japanese national curricula.

International Baccalaureate

The IB is a globally recognised educational framework that encourages independent learning, critical thinking and global awareness.

There are four IB programmes, catering for different age groups: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP).

When people talk about ‘the IB’ they often mean the IB Diploma, which is a pre-university qualification usually completed between the ages of 16 and 19 years old. Students study a broad selection of subjects and complete additional requirements involving research, critical thinking and community engagement. 

The IB Diploma is offered in one of three primary languages, either English, French or Spanish so it is important to ask which language the school primarily uses, when considering following this programme. 

The IB can be an excellent choice for internationally mobile families who value a broad education and want to keep university options open across different countries.

There are also local public schools and concertades in Barcelona that offer the IB Diploma programme.

British Schools

Barcelona is home to many schools following the national curriculum of England and Wales, often known as British schools. 

Choosing a British school can provide a familiar educational structure for families relocating from the UK or other countries where British education is popular. These schools teach most subjects in English so are popular for families who want their children to become fluent in the language.

Children typically begin with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), followed by Primary education and Secondary school. Between 14–16 years old, students work towards GCSE or IGCSE qualifications, where they typically take up to 10 subjects. British schools in Barcelona then offer A Levels but more increasingly the IB Diploma instead of, or alongside, A Levels.

British schools place importance on academic achievement, independent thinking and extracurricular activities. They can be particularly suitable for families who anticipate returning to the UK or want their children to follow a clearly structured educational pathway.

American Schools 

Based on the US education system, these schools are usually taught primarily in English and lead towards an American High School Diploma, sometimes alongside Advanced Placement (AP) courses or the IB Diploma. American international schools follow an American-style curriculum, with students progressing through Elementary, Middle and High School.

Pupils generally study a broad range of subjects throughout their education. The system often includes continuous assessment, coursework and projects. 

This pathway is particularly appealing to American families and those considering university applications in the United States, although the qualifications are also recognised internationally.

Other curricula

Within Barcelona there are also schools that follow the French, German, Swiss, Japanese and Italian curricula. To search for the different international schools in Barcelona by curricula, use my Barcelona School Directory.

Languages of Instruction

While Catalan is taught as the main language of instruction in local public schools and concertades, international schools in Barcelona always use other languages as their main language of instruction. The majority use English as the primary language but there are also schools teaching primarily in French and German, with Japanese and Italian also used. Spanish and Catalan are taught as language subjects and usually need to be studied for a few hours a week.

Language provision in all these schools varies considerably so it is important to ask about this when considering choosing a particular school. 

School Fees and Additional Costs

International school fees in Barcelona vary depending on the school, curriculum and age of the child. For the 2026–27 academic year, annual tuition can range from approximately €1,000 to over €27,000, depending on the school.

Parents should also budget for additional expenses, which may include:

• Registration and enrolment fees.

• School uniforms and learning materials.

• School transport.

• Lunch 

• Extracurricular activities and school trips.

Always request a detailed breakdown of costs before making a decision, as the initial enrolment charges can make the first year considerably more expensive.

Admissions and Application Procedures

Most international schools accept applications throughout the year, subject to availability. The process usually involves completing an application form, providing previous school reports and submitting identification documents. Some schools arrange an assessment, interview or meeting with the child.

Schools will consider the child's age, academic background, language ability and available places when assessing applications.

It is worth contacting schools early, particularly if you are relocating for a specific September start date.

How to Choose the Right School

Choosing the right international school involves more than comparing academic results. You should consider your child's personality, learning preferences and individual needs, as well as your family's future plans.

Factors to consider could include teaching approach, class sizes, language provision, extracurricular activities, location and overall cost.

How My Barcelona School can help

Finding the right international school in Barcelona can be a stressful and sometimes time-consuming process, particularly when you are unfamiliar with the city and the educational landscape. 

As a Barcelona-based educational consultant, with experience supporting hundreds of families since 2019, I can help you understand what your priorities are and identify schools that can set your child up for success.