International Schools in Southern Spain: Guide for Expat Families
A guide to international schools in southern Spain for British expat families – covering the Costa del Sol, Sotogrande and the wider Andalusia area, with what to look for and how to choose.
By Sarah B. | Updated April 2026 | 8 min read
Choosing a school is often the deciding factor in where British families with children settle in Spain. Southern Spain has a concentration of international schools that is among the highest in the country – driven by decades of British expat settlement on the Costa del Sol and in the Sotogrande area. This guide covers what is available, what to look for, and how to approach the selection process.
Types of school
British curriculum schools follow the English National Curriculum and offer GCSEs and A Levels. They are the natural choice for families who may return to the UK or who want UK university pathways. Teaching is primarily in English.
IB (International Baccalaureate) schools offer the IB Diploma, which is recognised by universities worldwide including the UK. Many southern Spain international schools offer IB programmes, sometimes alongside British curriculum options. The IB is particularly useful for families who are uncertain where their children may go to university.
Bilingual Spanish-English schools offer the Spanish national curriculum with significant English-language instruction. These produce genuinely bilingual graduates and are a good option for families who plan to stay in Spain long-term and want their children fully integrated into Spanish society.
Key schools in southern Spain
Sotogrande International School (SIS) near San Roque is consistently regarded as one of the best international schools in Spain. It offers the full IB curriculum from early years through Diploma, with a strong track record of university admissions. The school attracts an international student body and has boarding facilities. Fees reflect its premium positioning.
Aloha College in Nueva Andalucía (near Marbella) is one of the most established British curriculum schools on the Costa del Sol. It offers GCSEs and A Levels and has a large British student population. Well-regarded for both academic outcomes and pastoral care.
The English International College in Marbella is another long-established option offering British curriculum through to A Level. Strong results and a large expat community.
Laude San Pedro International College near Marbella offers British curriculum with IB options. Part of the Laude Schools network which operates several schools across Spain.
Swans International School in Sierra Blanca (Marbella) is smaller than the above but well regarded, offering British curriculum through to A Level.
Fees
International school fees in southern Spain range from approximately €8,000 to €18,000 per year depending on the school, age group and whether boarding is involved. Most schools charge additional fees for activities, trips, meals and uniforms on top of the headline annual fee. Budget carefully – the total annual cost is typically 20 to 30% higher than the headline tuition fee.
What to look for when choosing
Visit the school in person before committing. A single open day gives you far more information than any website or guide. Things to assess: the atmosphere and culture, how staff interact with students, class sizes, the mix of nationalities, exam results and university destination data, and whether the curriculum pathway suits your child’s likely future.
Also check admissions availability carefully. The most popular schools have waiting lists, sometimes years long. If you are moving with school-age children, contact schools as early as possible – before your move if at all possible.
Spanish state schools
Spanish state schools are free and legally required to accept all resident children. For younger children who pick up languages quickly, state school with Spanish immersion can work very well and produces genuine bilingualism. For older children who are already established in a UK curriculum, the transition is harder. Many families use state school for primary age and switch to international school for secondary.
What to read next
- Best Regions in Spain for British Expats →
- Cost of Living in Spain for UK Expats →
- Moving to Spain from the UK: Complete 2026 Guide →
This guide is for informational purposes only. School information, fees and availability change. Always contact schools directly for current information and visit before making any decision.