Madrid has quietly become one of Europe's strongest international school cities. With a dense concentration of British, American, French and IB schools, competitive fees compared to London or Paris, and increasingly attractive weather and lifestyle for families, it is a natural choice for expats relocating to Spain in 2026. This guide covers what is on offer and how to shortlist the right school.
Curricula available in Madrid
Madrid's international schools cluster around four curricula. British schools teach the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSE and A-Levels, and often the highest-profile option for relocating UK and Commonwealth families. American schools deliver the US high school diploma with Advanced Placement. International Baccalaureate schools run PYP, MYP and DP, with several offering a dual Spanish Bachillerato plus IB option. A strong French network (Lycée Français) serves Francophone families, and German, Swiss and Japanese schools also operate in or around the city.
Top international schools in Madrid
International College Spain
International College Spain (ICS) is an IB continuum school in La Moraleja, offering PYP, MYP and the IB Diploma with a diverse student body drawn from the wider international community.
Hastings School
Hastings School delivers the English National Curriculum across three Madrid campuses, leading to IGCSE and A-Levels. It is a strong choice for families who want continuity with the UK system.
SEK International School El Castillo
SEK International School El Castillo is part of the SEK Education Group and offers IB PYP, MYP and DP on a large campus north of Madrid, combining strong academics with extensive sports and music facilities.
Brains International School La Moraleja
Brains International School La Moraleja runs a bilingual Spanish-English curriculum leading to IB Diploma, and is a strong option for families who want their children to become fully bilingual within a Spanish cultural environment.
Laude Fontenebro School
Laude Fontenebro School offers a British-based curriculum with Spanish Bachillerato options in the upper years, sitting just outside Madrid in Moralzarzal and drawing families from north-western suburbs.
School fees in Madrid
Annual tuition at established international schools in Madrid typically ranges from EUR 9,000 in early years at smaller bilingual schools up to EUR 24,000 in senior years at premium British and IB schools. Enrolment fees are usually 5 to 10 percent of annual tuition and refundable deposits of one term are common. Most families budget an all-in figure of EUR 11,000 to 28,000 per child per year once uniform, lunch and trips are included.
Location and admissions tips
School choice in Madrid is heavily driven by where you live. Families in the north (Conde Orgaz, La Moraleja, Somosaguas) tend to access schools along the A-1 and M-40, while those in the centre or south lean towards schools inside the M-30. Check bus routes carefully and aim for a door-to-door commute below forty-five minutes, especially for under-10s.
The main academic year starts in early September. Most schools open applications in October for the following September, and places at selective schools often fill by February. Entry from Year 3 upwards typically involves a standardised assessment (CAT4, MAP or equivalent) plus an interview.
Compare all international schools in Madrid
For a full comparison of schools, fees and curricula, see the best international schools in Madrid ranking on International School Advisor.
Frequently asked questions
Is Spanish compulsory in Madrid international schools?
Yes. Spanish is taught from early years in all international schools, and for students in Spain on a local contract there are minimum Spanish language and cultural study requirements set by the Ministry of Education.
How early should I apply to Madrid international schools?
For the September intake, apply nine to twelve months ahead at selective schools, six months minimum elsewhere. Mid-year places depend on attrition and are best confirmed directly with the admissions office.
Do Madrid schools offer the IB Diploma?
Yes. Several schools offer the IB Diploma, and a smaller number offer dual Bachillerato-IB programmes that let students qualify for both Spanish and international universities.