Understanding the education system is important for expat families moving to Spain. This guide explains how schools operate, the different stages of education, and the application process.
Overview of the Spanish school system
School is compulsory for all children in Spain between the ages of six and sixteen. The local government manages the education systems in each region.
In Madrid, the school year starts in September and ends in June. The primary teaching language is Spanish.
However, many schools in Madrid participate in bilingual programs. These programs offer some subjects in English.
Types of schools in Spain
You can choose from four main types of schools for your child in Madrid. Each type has different costs and registration rules.
Public schools are fully funded by the government. The Spanish term is colegio público (public school).
Semi-private schools are subsidized by the government but managed privately. The Spanish term is colegio concertado (semi-private school).
Private schools are fully fee-paying and independent. The Spanish term is colegio privado (private school).
International schools follow foreign curricula, such as British or American systems, and teach primarily in English.
The stages of Spanish education
The Spanish education system is divided into four main stages. Compulsory education starts at age six.
The first stage is primary education. The Spanish term is Educación Primaria (primary education). This stage is for children aged six to twelve.
The second stage is compulsory secondary education. The Spanish term is Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (compulsory secondary education). It is commonly called ESO and is for children aged twelve to sixteen.
The third stage is non-compulsory high school. The Spanish term is Bachillerato (non-compulsory high school education). It is for students aged sixteen to eighteen who plan to attend university.
Students can also choose vocational training instead of high school. The Spanish term is Formación Profesional (vocational training).
The admissions point system (Baremo)
Applications for public and semi-private schools are managed by the regional government. A points system is used to distribute limited spaces.
The Spanish term for this points system is baremo (points system). Points are awarded based on your home address.
You get the highest points if you live in the school’s designated zone. Having siblings in the same school also adds significant points.
The application period is short. It usually opens for two weeks in April or May for the following September.
School costs and lunches
Public schools have no tuition fees. However, you must pay for school lunches and textbooks.
The fee for the school dining hall is called the comedor (dining hall fee). In Madrid, this fee is around 96 euros per month.
Textbooks are called libros de texto (textbooks). Parents must purchase these books, which can cost 100 to 300 euros per year.
Semi-private schools are technically free for tuition. However, most require a voluntary monthly donation of 100 to 200 euros.
Private and international schools charge monthly fees ranging from 500 to 1,500 euros.
School comparison
This table compares public, semi-private, and private schools in Madrid.
| Feature | Public (Público) | Semi-private (Concertado) | Private / International |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition cost | Free of charge | Free (voluntary donation) | €500 to €1,500 per month |
| Admissions | Points-based system | Points-based system | Direct enrollment |
| Language | Spanish (some bilingual) | Spanish (some bilingual) | English or foreign |
| Uniforms | Usually no | Yes | Yes |
Public and semi-private schools use the same regional points system. Private schools decide their own admission rules.
Step-by-step: How to apply for a school in Madrid
Follow these steps to apply for a public or semi-private school spot.
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Research local schools and attend their open days in late winter.
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Check the official point criteria to estimate your score.
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Complete the application form online and select up to eight schools in order of preference.
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Submit your application during the official registration window in April.
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Check the provisional lists in May to verify your assigned points.
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Submit a claim if your points were calculated incorrectly.
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Check the final list in June to confirm your assigned school.
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Visit the school within the enrollment deadline to complete registration.
Checklist: What you need to apply
Prepare these documents before you submit your application:
- NIE or TIE card : Your Spanish identification number is required.
- Passport : Valid passport copies for parents and the child.
- Padrón certificate : To prove you live in the school zone.
- Birth certificate : Official copy to prove parentage.
- Academic transcripts : Required for students entering secondary school.
- Vaccination card : Showing your child’s medical immunization record.
You must get a sworn translation for any academic documents from your home country.
Secondary school transcripts might require official recognition. The Spanish term is homologación (official recognition).
Questions and answers
What is a concertado school?
A semi-private school. It receives government subsidies but is managed privately, often by religious organizations. They usually charge voluntary monthly fees.
Is school compulsory in Spain?
Yes, from age 6 to 16. Education during this decade is mandatory. Parents can face legal action if their child does not attend.
Do public schools have uniforms?
Usually no. Public primary and secondary schools do not require uniforms. Most semi-private and private schools do require them.
What is the ATAL program?
A language support program. It helps non-Spanish speaking children integrate into public schools by providing extra Spanish classes.
Are textbooks free in Madrid?
Only for low-income families. Most parents must purchase textbooks. Some schools organize book sharing schemes to reduce costs.
What is the Bachillerato?
A two-year pre-university stage. It is voluntary for students aged 16 to 18. It prepares them for the university entrance exams.
How long is the school day in Spain?
Usually 9:00 to 14:00 or 16:30. Some schools have a split shift with a long lunch break. Others have a continuous schedule.
Do I need to translate foreign school reports?
Yes. You must provide sworn translations for any school reports or certificates when applying.
