Going to school in Spain: Things you need to know as a resident on the Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida, and Costa del Sol

When moving to Spain as a family and buying a home by CasaLasDunas, one of the first questions that comes up is: what does the education system look like for my children in Spain? For many families, this is often one of the most important considerations when taking the step toward a new life under the Spanish sun.

In this blog, you will discover everything about the Spanish school system, the enrollment process, costs and subsidies, and the differences between regions such as Costa Blanca North and South, Costa Cálida, and the Costa del Sol. This way, you will be fully prepared to make the right school choice for your children.

1. The Spanish Education System

Education in Spain is regulated by the LOMLOE, which applies nationwide. Schooling is compulsory from ages 6 to 16 and is largely free in public schools.

Education levels in Spain

• Educación Infantil (ages 3–6) – comparable to kindergarten, not compulsory but highly recommended.
• Educación Primaria (ages 6–12) – primary education, compulsory, with subjects such as Spanish, mathematics, social studies, natural sciences, and English.
• Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (ESO, ages 12–16) – compulsory secondary education. After completion, students can continue to upper secondary education (Bachillerato) or vocational training (Formación Profesional).
• Bachillerato (ages 16–18) – preparation for university.
• Formación Profesional – practice-oriented vocational education.

2. Enrolling in a School in Spain

To enroll your children in a Spanish school, the following steps are important: registration at the local town hall of your residence, NIE number, identification documents, school records, vaccination certificates, application with the Consejería de Educación.

3. Education by Region: Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida, and Costa del Sol

Costa Blanca North & South (Alicante and Valencia)

• Bilingual education: teaching in both Spanish and Valencian, with English as an additional language.
• International schools: a wide range of British and international schools in places such as Alicante, Torrevieja, Jávea, and Benidorm.

Costa Cálida (Region of Murcia)

• Free schoolbooks: starting from the 2025–2026 school year, the Murcia region will provide free books for all students in compulsory education levels.
• Room for innovation: in certain municipalities, the first years of secondary education are integrated into primary schools to make transitions easier.
• More than 300 schools across the region, including several international options in Cartagena and Murcia city.

Costa del Sol (Region of Andalusia)

• Highest concentration of international schools in Spain, especially around Marbella, Estepona, and Málaga.
• Large expat community: resulting in many facilities for Dutch- and English-speaking families.
• New regional programs: Andalusia has recently adapted its curricula according to the LOMLOE, with a focus on digitalization and languages.

4. Costs of Education in Spain

• Public schools: free of charge, except for additional costs such as books, materials, and excursions.
• Concertados: semi-private schools with a monthly contribution of approximately €100–€400.
• International schools: range between €4,000 and €12,000 per year, depending on the school and curriculum.

Conclusion

Going to school in Spain offers countless opportunities for Englisch families: from free public education to high-quality international schools. Depending on your region — Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida, or Costa del Sol — you will always find a suitable school for your children.

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