Schools & Education

Marbella offers one of Europe's best international educational environments. For many families, the range of schools is the main reason for choosing Marbella over other destinations.

The Three Types of Schools

1. Private International Schools: Usually follow the British curriculum (IGCSE/A-Levels) or the International Baccalaureate (IB). English is the main language, but Spanish is taught daily.

- Notable examples: Aloha College (Nueva Andalucía), Swans International (Sierra Blanca), Laude (San Pedro).

2. Concertados (Semi-private): State-subsidized but privately owned. Follow the Spanish curriculum but often have an international feel. Significantly lower fees, but spots are limited.

3. Publicos (Public Spanish Schools): Completely free and follow the 100% Spanish curriculum. This is the fastest way for children to become fluent, but can be a challenge for older children (12+) moving mid-term.

Application Deadlines

The 'Golden Rule' is to start looking for a school in January or February for a September start. The most popular schools often have waiting lists for certain year groups. If you're still deciding where to live, see our Marbella area guide or rental area selection.

Checklist for application:

- Fees: Be prepared for a 'Registration Fee' (approx. €1,500 – €3,000) upon enrollment, plus monthly fees paid over 10 months.

- Transport: Schools like Aloha and Swans have their own buses that pick up children along the coast.

Talk to experts who have helped hundreds of Scandinavian families find the right school for their specific needs.