International Schools on the Costa del Sol
Families moving to the Costa del Sol have a wide choice of international schools. Most follow the British, American or International Baccalaureate curriculum, so children can move between countries with less disruption. Teaching is usually in English with Spanish added, which helps children settle. This guide covers the main schools, what they cost, how admissions work, and the free Spanish state option.
A wide choice of schools
The coast has one of the largest concentrations of international schools in Spain. Most teach in English and follow a British, American or IB path, so a child can carry on the same style of education they had at home.
Schools cluster around Marbella, Nueva Andalucia, San Pedro and Sotogrande, with more inland and towards Malaga.
- Most teach in English with Spanish added
- British, American and IB curriculums
- Strongest cluster around Marbella and Sotogrande
The best-known schools
Well-regarded schools include Sotogrande International School, Aloha College in Nueva Andalucia, English International College in Marbella, Swans International and Laude San Pedro.
Which curriculum
The British curriculum leads to IGCSEs and A-levels and suits families from the UK and Commonwealth. The American curriculum leads to a high school diploma and suits US-bound families. The IB is international and widely recognised by universities everywhere.
If you may move country again, the IB or British routes travel the most easily.
- British: IGCSE and A-levels
- American: high school diploma
- IB: international, widely recognised
Fees and admissions
International school fees are roughly 500 to 900 euros per month, spread across the year, plus extras for registration, uniform, meals and transport.
Most schools ask for an application, past school reports and sometimes an assessment or interview. Popular schools fill early, so apply well ahead of your move.
- Fees roughly 500 to 900 euros per month
- Extra costs for registration, meals and transport
- Apply early, the best schools have waiting lists
State schools and settling in
Spanish state schools are free and welcome foreign children. Lessons are in Spanish, so many families add private Spanish lessons at first to help children settle.
State school is the fastest route to fluent Spanish and local friendships, though the first term can be hard while the language clicks.
- Free and open to foreign children
- Lessons in Spanish, so expect an adjustment
- Fastest route to fluent Spanish
The top international schools have real waiting lists and real fees, so early planning matters. Not every area has a school nearby, so check travel times before you choose where to buy. And a Spanish state school means full immersion, which works well long term but can be tough for the first term.
Common questions about schools
What do international schools cost?
Fees are roughly 500 to 900 euros per month, spread across the year, plus extras for registration, uniform, meals and transport. Fees vary by school and age, so confirm the current figures directly.
Which curriculums can my child follow?
Mainly British (IGCSE and A-levels), American (high school diploma) and the International Baccalaureate. The IB and British routes tend to travel most easily if you move country again.
Can my children join a Spanish state school?
Yes. Spanish state schools are free and accept foreign children. Lessons are in Spanish, so many families add private language support at the start to help them settle.
When should I apply?
As early as you can. The best-known schools fill months ahead and keep waiting lists, so apply well before your move rather than on arrival.
Which areas are best for schools?
Marbella, Nueva Andalucia, San Pedro and Sotogrande have the strongest cluster of international schools. Check the exact travel time from any home you consider, as it shapes the daily routine.
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