12 best private schools in Barcelona 2024

Barcelona stands as one of the world's premier locations for nurturing and educating international students. Its appeal extends beyond the splendid, mild subtropical Mediterranean climate, the architectural grandeur of Catalonia's capital, and its high safety standards. For parents seeking the finest educational opportunities for their children, Barcelona is renowned for its concentration of exceptional private schools.

These top private schools in Barcelona provide a comprehensive and diverse curriculum, laying a robust foundation for university education, not just in Spain but globally. Furthermore, these Barselonan private schools foster values of independence, responsibility, initiative, and individuality in their students.

Students in these institutions are taught to adhere to school rules and norms while enjoying the freedom to select their study subjects and plan extracurricular activities. Welcoming students from all over the globe, these international private schools in Barcelona do not require Spanish residency for enrollment. Upon enrollment, students can also apply for a student visa, making it a convenient choice for international families.

Private schools in Barcelona are categorized into various types, each with its unique characteristics:

American and English Private Schools in Barcelona: These institutions typically follow American or British educational systems and predominantly use English as the medium of instruction.

International Private Schools in Barcelona: These schools cater to a global student body and often offer a diverse curriculum that may include various international education systems.

Spanish Private Schools: These are local private schools that follow the Spanish education system.

These Barselonan private schools differ in their teaching methodologies, languages of instruction, curriculums, final examinations, fees, and admission requirements.

Graduates from these top private schools in Barcelona are eligible for several prestigious diplomas and certifications:

Spanish Bachillerato: Necessary for admission into Spanish universities, this diploma is awarded upon successful completion of studies in both public and private Spanish schools. It's also attainable from certain international, American, and British private schools in Barcelona. Recognized across the EU, it is equivalent to the British A-level and recognized globally.

British GCSE and A-Level Certificates: These qualifications provide access to British universities, known for their high educational standards. They also facilitate admission into universities in Spain, other EU countries, and internationally.

American High School Diplomas and College Entrance Exams (e.g., ACT, SAT, AP): Accepted widely across North America, these are also comparable to high school diplomas from many countries worldwide.

International Baccalaureate (IB): This diploma is accepted by over 2000 universities in 74 countries, including 58 in the USA. It is renowned for offering a comprehensive and in-depth academic experience.

Esther Diaz

Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.

What do parents consider when choosing a Spanish school, apart from the qualifications of teachers?

Foreign families often pay attention to inclusivity and national diversity, individualization of learning, emotional support for each student, compliance with safety protocols. Assess the level of immersion in the Spanish language and culture, the opportunity to get career / educational advice. Of course, they also look at the location, facilities and equipment of the campus - what are the sports facilities, how the Arts Center is equipped, whether there are e-learning opportunities. An added bonus is having personal development programs that will help students get the most out of their time at school and succeed.

 British School of Barcelona

Esteemed as one of the finest private schools in both Barcelona and Spain, the British School of Barcelona educates children aged three to eighteen. Instruction is primarily in English, supplemented with Spanish, Catalan, and other European languages. The curriculum adheres to the British educational system. Students graduating from this institution receive both a British certificate and the Spanish Bachillerato. In high school, alongside IGCSE exams, pupils also take the Selectividad exams, essential for further studies in Spanish universities. Graduates of this school are known for their exceptional academic achievements, successfully clearing final exams and gaining admission into some of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Kensington School

Renowned as one of the most respected private English schools in Barcelona, Kensington School resides in the upscale Pedralbes district. Established in 1966 by a Cambridge University alumnus, it stands as one of Spain's oldest British schools. Catering to students from three to eighteen years old, the school boasts high success rates in final exams and is an accredited examination center for Edexcel International. Significantly, its new building was inaugurated by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, underscoring its prestige.

Oak House School

Opened in 1968, Oak House School is a renowned private English college in Barcelona. Officially recognized by the Spanish government and accredited by British inspectors, the school follows the British educational system up to age twelve, and then transitions to the Spanish system. English is the primary language of instruction, with Spanish introduced at age six and Catalan at eight. By graduation, students are proficient in three languages. Notably, 90% of the school's students are Spanish, reflecting its strong appeal within the local community.

To ensure successful enrollment of an international student in one of Barcelona's private schools, the following documents are required:

• Completed Online Application for Admission: This is the initial step in the enrollment process.

• Passport Copies: Copies of the first page of both the student's and their parents' passports are needed.

• Birth Certificate Copy: A copy of the student's birth certificate must be provided.

• Compulsory Health Insurance Policy: A copy of the student's valid health insurance policy is essential.

• Medical Insurance: Proof of medical insurance is required.

• Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photos, conforming to passport specifications, are necessary.

• Current Academic Performance Statement: A statement from the student's current school, detailing their academic performance, translated into English or Spanish and notarized, is required.

As instruction in these top private schools in Barcelona is predominantly in English, the student must possess a proficient level of English language skills, at least at an intermediate level. Additionally, the school may opt to invite the student and their parents for an interview. This step, however, is discretionary and determined by the school’s administration on a case-by-case basis.

When compared to other parts of Europe, particularly Britain, education costs in Barcelona are relatively more affordable. Tuition fees for elementary grades at private schools in Barcelona range from €3,000 to €7,000 per year, while middle and high school fees vary from €8,000 to €20,000 annually.

Spain offers more than just competitive secondary education; it boasts a delightful climate, healthy environment, and a rich cultural heritage. Living and studying in this country can positively impact your child's health and broaden their world view. Additionally, it's worth noting that Spain is home to some of the world's finest youth tennis and football academies. Achievements in these sports are highly regarded in both British and American higher education institutions, adding an extra dimension to the educational experience in Barcelona.

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