Secondary education in Barcelona 2025

Barcelona, known for its lively atmosphere and historical significance, stands out for providing high standards of secondary education. This guide aims to clarify the nuances and distinct features of secondary schooling in Barcelona, especially for international students.

Schools in Barcelona are becoming increasingly favored by foreign students. Although the educational system may seem challenging initially, it is structured to support a varied range of learners. In this overview, we delve into the specifics of secondary education in both Barcelona and Spain, providing a comprehensive list of the leading institutions within the city.

Many students worldwide are drawn to Barcelona for its educational benefits, which include:

• A focus on personal development: Schools in Barcelona prioritize the individual growth of each student.
• Individual attention: Educational staff in Barcelona emphasize personalized learning experiences.
• Career preparation: The educational system in Barcelona aids students in choosing their future professions or university specializations.
• Language Learning in Barcelona's Middle Schools
• A significant feature of schools in Barcelona is the early introduction and emphasis on foreign language studies. This approach benefits international students, offering them a supportive environment to enhance their language skills.

Our experts have compiled a list of the best educational institutions in Barcelona that welcome international students. This list provides a comprehensive view of each school, including their unique features and educational philosophies.

The Spanish education system, especially in Barcelona, is structured into three distinct stages, catering to the needs of international students. This structure ensures a comprehensive educational journey from childhood to adolescence.

Primary School: The Beginning of the Educational Journey

The first stage in the Spanish education system is the primary school. International children begin their education at the age of six in primary classes. This foundational stage in schools in Barcelona lasts for six years, where students develop basic academic and social skills.

Middle Schools in Barcelona: Continuing the Educational Path

After completing primary school, students progress to middle schools in Barcelona at the age of 12. This crucial phase lasts four years and is designed to build upon the knowledge and skills acquired in primary school. Middle schools in Barcelona play a pivotal role in preparing students for the challenges of high school.

High School in Barcelona: The Final Stage Before Higher Education

The final stage of secondary education in Barcelona is the high school, known as Bachillerato. Contrary to its literal translation as "bachelor's degree," Bachillerato is not related to higher education but is rather a stage of secondary education. Upon completing this stage, international students in Barcelona have two main options:

• Pursue a full secondary education in high school (Bachillerato), after which they can enter a higher education institution. This path is ideal for those aiming for academic and professional careers requiring university degrees.
• Opt for vocational education (Formación Profesional), which focuses on practical training and skills development for specific trades or professions.

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 makes Spanish schools special among all schools in the world? Why do parents choose primary and secondary schools in Spain?

There are many reasons. This is a complete immersion in the Spanish language and culture, in the family environment, the strategic position of the country in the south of Europe. Outstanding, rankings educational institutions - well, a rich historical and artistic heritage, warm and hospitable people, colorful holidays, bright cities, unforgettable traditions and folklore!

In Barcelona, Spain, the secondary education system encompasses a comprehensive eight-year study period. International students typically begin this educational journey at the age of 6 and complete it by the age of 14. This stage is compulsory, and upon completion, students are awarded a certificate of full secondary education.

The initial five years of this period constitute the primary school phase, known as Educación Primaria. During this stage, students are usually taught all subjects by a single teacher.

The curriculum at primary schools in Barcelona includes essential subjects such as:

• Spanish language
• Mathematics
• Literature
• Natural science and the outside world
• Physical training
• Music art

A key highlight of primary education in Barcelona is the early introduction of foreign language learning, typically starting at the age of 8. English is often the primary foreign language taught, and the instructors are frequently native speakers, often brought in from abroad.

As students progress to the second stage, they enter the actual middle school level, referred to as Educación Secundaria. This phase introduces students to a variety of new subjects and a different teaching approach, where each subject is taught by specialized teachers. Additional subjects introduced at this stage include:

• Basics of computer science
• Drawing
• Physics
• Biology, among others

This well-rounded approach in the middle schools of Barcelona ensures that students receive a diverse and thorough education, preparing them for future academic pursuits.

Barcelona offers three distinct types of secondary education:

Public Schools (Colegios Públicos): These schools are free for Spanish citizens. However, they do have some limitations, including:

• Less advanced technical facilities and equipment compared to private schools.
• Larger class sizes, which may limit personalized attention from teachers.
• A higher proportion of students from lower-income families, which can sometimes impact classroom discipline and overall academic performance.

Despite facing various obstacles, the educational quality in public schools is not necessarily inferior to other school types. It is crucial to understand that public schools mainly serve children of Spanish sitizens and residents holding a valid residency permit. Families considering a move to Spain may find that public schools aren't accessible until their residency is secured.

Parastatal Schools (Colegios Concertados): These institutions receive partial funding from either the Catholic Church or the government (through local entities). While many are connected to the Church, international students are not always required to participate in religious education. In comparison to public schools, parastatal schools typically prioritize foreign language acquisition more heavily.

Private Schools (Colegios Privados): These schools accept both Spanish and international students. Particularly notable in Barcelona are international private institutions that implement educational frameworks from countries such as the UK, USA, Germany, and France, while also integrating essential Spanish subjects. They provide programs such as A-Level and the International Baccalaureate (IB). Key advantages of private schools in Spain include:

• More affordable education compared to international standards, yet maintaining high quality.
• Instruction primarily in English, with compulsory Spanish subjects taught in Spanish.
• Smaller class sizes, allowing teachers to dedicate more time to each student. The faculty often comprises highly qualified teachers from around the globe.

Each school type in Barcelona presents unique benefits and meets various needs, offering families a range of options when determining the most suitable educational path for their children.

Regarding the examination process for high school in Barcelona, Spanish secondary institutions, including those situated in the city, incorporate rigorous testing and assessments as an integral element of education. From the initial stages of primary education, international students are required to take mini-exams in all core subjects at the end of each term. Furthermore, educators may administer tests and evaluations at their discretion to maintain student engagement and prevent stagnation.  The academic year culminates with comprehensive final exams covering both compulsory and elective subjects. The results of these tests are compiled, and a council of teachers convenes to decide on each student's promotion to the next grade, taking into account their overall performance.

After completing secondary education, students take final exams. If a student does not succeed, they may repeat the year up to two times, but this can only happen before the age of 16. Those who pass receive a certificate of compulsory secondary education, allowing them to proceed to Bachillerato, the high school education level.

The grading system in Spanish educational institutions is based on a 10-point scale:

• Below 5 points: Unsatisfactory (SS or D)
• 5 points: Satisfactory (S)
• 6 points: Good (BI)
• 7 to 8 points: Very Good (NT)
• 9 points: Excellent (SB)
• 10 points: Outstanding (MH)

This system ensures a clear and standardized assessment of student performance throughout their educational journey in Spain.

• Cultural diversity and cosmopolitan atmosphere,
• Exposure to various religions and traditions, fostering tolerance and respect,
• Wide selection of educational institutions,
• Internationally recognized programs,
• Top-quality teaching staff,
• Study of multiple foreign languages,
• Enriching academic experience,
• Development of independence, self-confidence, and responsibility,
• Pleasant Mediterranean climate with sunny weather almost year-round,
• Countless attractions and landmarks — one of Barcelona’s strongest features.

The average cost of secondary education in Barcelona ranges from €9,000 to €20,000 per year:

• Primary classes (English) — from €12,000 per year,
• Middle classes (English) — from €9,950 per year,
• Senior classes (English) — from €10,500 per year,
• IB — from €38,000 per year,
• A-Level — from €14,000 per year,
• GCSE — from €9,100 per year.

To enroll in schools in Barcelona, you need to provide:

• Copy of birth certificate/passport,
• Photos in the required format,
• Completed application form with personal details about the child,
• Grade transcript from the school report,
• Medical insurance,
• Certificate of foreign language proficiency,
• Motivation letter,
• Teacher recommendations.