American School of Barcelona vs Benjamin Franklin International School

	A American School of Barcelona Barcelona, Spain	B Benjamin Franklin International School Barcelona, Spain
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €9,404 - 32,534	Fees / year €14,050 - 22,820
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme)	Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,000	Pupils 720
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 17
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Spanish
Opened	Opened 1962	Opened 1986
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The American School of Barcelona is located just outside Barcelona, in Esplugues de Llobregat. It is about 10 kilometers from Plaza Catalunya, the city center of Barcelona. The campus offers extensive indoor and outdoor spaces for sports, performing arts, and classroom learning.	Location BFIS Barcelona is located in Barcelona, Spain, at Martorell i Peña, 9, 08017 Barcelona. The school serves Nursery through Grade 12. It provides a comprehensive American curriculum complemented by the IB MYP and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). Over 63 nationalities are represented at BFIS.
Stages	Stages ASB is organized into four divisions: Early Childhood (PK3–Kindergarten), Elementary School (1st–5th), Middle School (6th–8th), and High School (9th–12th).	Stages Nursery through Grade 12 (PK-12)
School type	School type The school is a non-profit international school located just outside Barcelona, Spain.	School type non-profit International American school in Barcelona
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 60 nationalities are represented among 970 students.	Pupil nationality mix Over 63 nationalities represented.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support A learning support team helps students with mild to moderate learning differences. BML Specialists provide targeted English language instruction for bilingual/multilingual learners.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Spain	Country affiliation Spain
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details ASB provides transportation to Barcelona, Gavá, Castelldefels, Sitges, and Sant Cugat.	Bus service details Three private bus routes serve Primary and Secondary students: Route 1 Puerto Olímpico – Gràcia – Sarrià; Route 2 Plaça Universitat – Les Corts – Sarrià; Route 3 Sant Cugat – Sarrià.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application, Matriculation & Capital Levy Fees - Application fee (one-time, non-refundable): EUR 250 per new applicant. - Annual matriculation fee (one-time, non-refundable): EUR 975 (family rate) / EUR 1,170 (corporate rate). Due within one week of acceptance or before the student's first day of class. - Capital levy (one-time, non-refundable): EUR 3,000 (family) / EUR 3,450 (corporate) for PK3, PK4, K5; EUR 6,000 (family) / EUR 6,900 (corporate) for Grades 1–12. Due within four weeks of acceptance or before the student's first day of class. Annual Tuition Fees (by year group) - PK3 (Half-day): Annual tuition — EUR 9,404 (family) / EUR 11,630 (corporate). - Early Childhood (PK3, PK4, K5): Annual tuition — EUR 14,114 (family) / EUR 17,447 (corporate). - Elementary School (Grades 1–5): Annual tuition — EUR 19,407 (family) / EUR 23,327 (corporate). - Middle School (Grades 6–8): Annual tuition — EUR 22,237 (family) / EUR 26,766 (corporate). - High School (Grades 9–12): Annual tuition — EUR 27,062 (family) / EUR 32,534 (corporate). Per-term and monthly breakdown (calculated from the annual tuition to match the school's payment options) - Note: Semester and monthly figures below are calculated by dividing the stated annual tuition by 2 (semester) or 12 (monthly) to reflect the school's payment options; the annual amounts are listed above. These per-term and per-month figures are provided for billing clarity. Family rate (examples): - PK3 Half-day: Per semester EUR 4,702; Per month (12 installments) EUR 783.67. - Early Childhood (PK3–K5): Per semester EUR 7,057; Per month EUR 1,176.17. - Elementary (Grades 1–5): Per semester EUR 9,703.50; Per month EUR 1,617.25. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): Per semester EUR 11,118.50; Per month EUR 1,853.08. - High School (Grades 9–12): Per semester EUR 13,531; Per month EUR 2,255.17. Corporate rate (examples): - PK3 Half-day: Per semester EUR 5,815; Per month EUR 969.17. - Early Childhood (PK3–K5): Per semester EUR 8,723.50; Per month EUR 1,453.92. - Elementary (Grades 1–5): Per semester EUR 11,663.50; Per month EUR 1,943.92. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): Per semester EUR 13,383; Per month EUR 2,230.50. - High School (Grades 9–12): Per semester EUR 16,267; Per month EUR 2,711.17. Re-enrollment and other annual fees - Re-enrollment fee (paid annually) for each returning student: EUR 975 (family) / EUR 1,170 (corporate). Due January 20. If a family requests the school to hold the spot through May 31, the re-enrollment fee in that case is EUR 2,000 per student. All re-enrollment fees are non-refundable. Optional / Other Fees - Lunch: EUR 170 per month. - School bus (monthly): Barcelona round trip EUR 185 (one way EUR 135); Sant Cugat round trip EUR 195 (one way EUR 140); Sitges/Castelldefels round trip EUR 215 (one way EUR 160). - After-school activities and optional trips: fees vary by activity and are billed separately as applicable. - Uniforms: Not required; there is no compulsory uniform. Dress code rules apply. - Boarding: Not offered; boarding fees are not applicable. Billing schedule and payment terms - Matriculation fee: due within one week of acceptance or before the student's first day of class. Capital levy: due within four weeks of acceptance or before the student's first day of class. Both are non-refundable. - Payment options available: - Prepayment of the full year's tuition (by direct debit or bank transfer). - Prepayment of the semester's tuition (by direct debit or bank transfer); first semester payment due by July 1 and second semester payment due by January 1. Semester payments correspond to the proportional portion of the annual tuition. - Monthly tuition payments in 12 installments (July–June) by bank debit only (SEPA direct debit required). New students admitted after July 1 are billed in 10 monthly installments starting in September if choosing the monthly option. SEPA bank account details must be provided by the required deadline. - Payment methods accepted: direct debit (bank debit) and bank transfer. Cash, credit cards, and cryptocurrencies are not accepted. Discounts and sibling/alumni concessions - Prepayment discount: 3% discount on tuition for prepayment of the full year if paid by February 28. - Sibling discounts: 10% discount on tuition and capital levy for the third child (simultaneous enrollment); 20% discount on tuition and capital levy for each additional child beyond the third. Capital levy discount does not apply to Early Childhood enrollments. - Children of alumni: application fee waived and EUR 2,000 discount on the capital levy for children enrolling in Grades 1–12 (not applicable to Early Childhood). Refunds, early withdrawals and semester-only students - Once enrolled, tuition and all fees for the entire school year are due in full under the contractual payment terms chosen. Families must provide three months' written notice before a student's departure; tuition for those three months remains payable by the family. Matriculation fee and capital levy are always non-refundable. Written notification of withdrawal received by June 1 before the start of the school year qualifies for a full refund of any prepaid tuition or lunch fees. Notices received after June 1 incur a three-month tuition Early Departure Penalty. - Semester-only students: new students accepted for a single semester on or before June 30 are responsible for the full year's tuition; students accepted after June 30 pay proportional tuition for the semester attended (exceptions apply for current ASB secondary students on exchange). Contact timing and re-enrollment reminders - Re-enrollment fee due date (annual): January 20. SEPA enrollment and payment-option deadlines are specified in the payment terms.	Fee details Application & Enrollment Fees - Application fee (all grades): EUR 250 (non-refundable). - Matriculation (re-enrollment) fee (individual billing): EUR 1,100 for first child; EUR 1,000 for each additional child (each year; non-refundable). - Matriculation fee (corporate billing): EUR 1,300 for first child; EUR 1,200 for each additional child (each year; non-refundable). - Entrance fee (one-time, new students): Individual billing: EUR 6,000 (non-refundable). For Nursery entrants this Entrance Fee may be paid over two years (50% + 50%). Corporate billing: EUR 6,700 (non-refundable). Entrance Fee payment may be split 50% with Matriculation on acceptance and remaining 50% before the start of the school year. Tuition Fees — Annual and Per-Term (by year group) Note: Annual tuition rates are published below. Per-term amounts shown are calculated by dividing the published annual tuition by three (the school calendar for 2026–2027 indicates an academic year running from September to June with the school year arranged across three main parts); per-term figures are rounded to the nearest euro. - Individual billing — Annual / Per term: - Early Childhood (Nursery and Pre-K): Annual EUR 12,950 → Per term EUR 4,317. - Elementary School (Kinder–Grade 5): Annual EUR 17,000 → Per term EUR 5,667. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): Annual EUR 18,240 → Per term EUR 6,080. - High School (Grades 9–12): Annual EUR 21,720 → Per term EUR 7,240. - Corporate billing — Annual / Per term: - Early Childhood (Nursery and Pre-K): Annual EUR 16,400 → Per term EUR 5,467. - Elementary School (Kinder–Grade 5): Annual EUR 20,000 → Per term EUR 6,667. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): Annual EUR 21,350 → Per term EUR 7,117. - High School (Grades 9–12): Annual EUR 25,430 → Per term EUR 8,477. Optional Services and Other Fees - Lunch (optional): Full-year payment EUR 1,780; monthly payment EUR 188; single lunch ticket EUR 12. (These lunch amounts are listed on the fees information as the previous-year figures and the school indicates 2026–27 prices are to be confirmed.) - School bus (optional): Sample route pricing listed (2025–26 amounts shown; 2026–27 prices TBC): - Routes 1 & 2 Barcelona (round trip): EUR 2,200; one way EUR 1,350. - Route 3 Sant Cugat (round trip): EUR 2,650; one way EUR 1,600. - One-way ticket Barcelona: EUR 8.80; Sant Cugat: EUR 15.50. - IBDP diploma/course/subject fees: Billed directly to families of students enrolled in the IB Diploma Programme. Additional charges for field trips, optional parties, extra-curricular activities, tutoring, and special programs are billed as appropriate. - Tuition insurance (optional): An AXA-offered tuition insurance program is available for an annual premium; premium depends on number and ages of students covered. - Uniform: No school uniform is required. Billing Schedule & Payment Terms - Pre-payment required: Matriculation fees (annual) and Entrance Fees (one-time) must be prepaid for enrollment and re-enrollment; these fees are non-refundable. - Payment frequency: Tuition, lunch, and bus fees may be paid either annually (single payment) or monthly. Monthly payments are due on the 5th of each month. - Late payment handling: The school issues a written notice 30 calendar days after a missed due date; interest/service charges are applied beginning 60 days after the due date and every 30 days thereafter (service charge determined by Banco de España). The school may suspend the student for unpaid fees and may refer uncollected debt to legal counsel. Final confirmation of a space for the following year is subject to settlement of all outstanding financial obligations. Refunds, Penalties & Discounts - Non-refundable fees: Application fee, Matriculation fee, and Entrance fee are non-refundable. - Early departure penalty: Any change of enrollment/length of stay must be communicated in writing before June 1 for the next school year. Changes communicated after May 31 incur an Early Departure Penalty equal to three months' tuition. Matriculation and Entrance Fees remain non-refundable regardless of departure notification. - Discounts: - Early annual tuition payment: 1.5% discount on tuition when paid in full annually. - Sibling discounts on tuition: third child receives 10% reduction; fourth child and thereafter receive 20% reduction. - Entrance fee discounts: 50% for the fourth child and thereafter; 50% for children of BFIS graduates. Application fee discount: BFIS graduate's children receive 100% waiving of the application fee. Boarding - Boarding: BFIS does not operate boarding facilities; students must reside full-time with at least one parent or legal guardian while enrolled. Accepted Payment Methods & Practical Notes - Payment methods for Entrance Fee and first-time Matriculation Fee: online by credit or debit card, or by wire transfer. All other fees (including re-enrollment Matriculation Fee) require direct debit (SEPA). A SEPA direct-debit form is used for recurring payments. - Currency: All published fees are quoted in euros (EUR). (End of fee overview.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements No boarding facilities are offered. Students must reside with at least one parent or legal guardian in the Barcelona area to attend ASB.	Boarding arrangements No boarding facilities are available.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are not required; there are dress code rules.	Uniform requirement No uniform is required.
Food options	Food options Lunch is provided: Hot, healthy lunches are prepared daily in our kitchen by Hostesa in collaboration with Ametller Origen. Meals are served in the cafeteria; the health specialist supervises the lunch menu to ensure meals are healthy for students and staff.	Food options The school has a cafeteria, and dietary restrictions are monitored by the nurse and kitchen team.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ASB is a non-profit foundation, The American School of Barcelona, Fundación Privada. The Board of Trustees governs the school to support its long‑term sustainability. The Board is self‑perpetuating, with eight voting members plus the school director (non‑voting). Members serve three‑year terms (up to nine years) and include both parent and external members. The Board sets the vision and five‑year strategic plan, supervises the director, approves the annual budget and capital expenditures, and oversees legal, finance, and compensation matters; it does not directly manage the school staff or parent communication. Audited financial reports are published (e.g., 2023‑24, 2022‑23, 2021‑22).	Governance and ownership The school is governed by The Benjamin Franklin Foundation, a not-for-profit educational foundation.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details English is the language of instruction. Elementary School uses a progressive American, international standards-based curriculum. Middle School uses an American educational program. High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and the International Baccalaureate Career-related Program, with the IB Diploma Program also awarding a US High School Diploma. Cambridge Exams are offered through ASB's English Programs.	Curriculum details BFIS provides a comprehensive American curriculum from Nursery to Grade 12, complemented by the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10 and the Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11–12. The IBDP is a two-year program for Grades 11–12 that emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and intercultural understanding. Students in the IBDP select six courses from Groups 1–6, with at least three at Higher Level, and complete the DP Core (Creativity, Activity and Service; Theory of Knowledge; Extended Essay). BFIS offers college counseling to support local and international university applications. In 2025, IBDP results show 58 total graduates, 57 diploma candidates, a 98% pass rate, and an average score of 35 (highest 45). BFIS is IB-accredited and located in Barcelona (Martorell i Peña, 9, 08017 Barcelona).
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio 8:1	Student teacher ratio Class size is 20–22 students.
Exam results	Exam results Average IB score is 35 (2025). SAT results show 34 of 97 graduates took the SAT with an average total score of 1320 (652 reading and writing; 668 math). ASB is recognized by Education Advisers as a Top 10 IB School in Spain and Top 50 in Europe. Approximately 30% of graduates enroll in Spanish universities, with others attending universities around the world.	Exam results 2025 IBDP results: 58 total graduates; 57 diploma candidates; 98% pass rate; 81% world pass rate; average DP score 35; highest score 45.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Approximately 30% of graduates enroll in Spanish universities, with others pursuing higher education at universities around the world.	Higher education progression University acceptances for 2025 include institutions across the United States, United Kingdom, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy, Ireland, and beyond, with examples such as American University, Boston University, Columbia University, Georgetown University, Loyola Marymount University, Northeastern University, Tufts University, University of Pennsylvania, University of San Diego, Villanova University, Virginia Tech, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, University of Sussex, Imperial College London, University College London, IE University, ESADE, Universidad de Barcelona, Leiden University, Maastricht University, and many others.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school uses the Second Step Social Emotional Learning (SEL) program to teach children important skills for getting along with others, problem solving, and managing emotions, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment. In K5, a Second Step Child Protection Unit is delivered by school counselors to strengthen safety awareness. Students learn Personal Safety, including safety around sharp tools, fire, and transportation. They learn Touching Safety, including safe, unsafe, and unwanted touches and how to respond. They learn Assertiveness, including asking a grown-up for help and speaking up in unsafe situations. The program also fosters respect for diverse family structures.	Social & emotional learning BFIS has Social Emotional Counselors who support students in developing self-awareness, child protection, self-advocacy, self-regulation, communication and conflict resolution. They work with students individually and in small groups and teach age-appropriate SEL and comprehensive sexuality health and wellbeing content. Students are connected with an Advisor or Teacher they meet with daily to support their overall wellbeing. The school runs initiatives such as Child Protection Training, a Peer Mediation Program, a Transitions Program, and Healthy Choices Awareness for Grades 6-12. The Camino mental health walking route and events like Kindness Week, R U OK? Day, Pink Shirt Day, and Mental Health Awareness Month support mental wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support (LS) teachers and counselors provide support for struggling students across ECC, Elementary, and Middle School. They evaluate needs and coordinate appropriate supports, and an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) may be established for a student with classroom modifications or pull-out/in-class supports. When necessary, parents may provide intervention services from outside providers (psychologists, speech-language pathologists, learning specialists, occupational therapists) at their own expense; ASB can assist in locating services but does not guarantee provider credentials or outcomes. English Language Learners (ELL) and Spanish Language Learners (SLL) receive language support across ECC, Elementary, Middle, and High School. The Learning Support Team collaborates with families to tailor instruction to each student's strengths and needs. Students with learning differences or emotional challenges may require specialized learning support to meet academic demands; a paraprofessional or shadow can be arranged if necessary.	Special educational needs (SEN) BFIS is an inclusive school that values diversity and positive responses to every student's learning needs. Learning support helps students with mild to moderate learning differences thrive by providing strategies and extra help. Specialists join classes to assist individual students and small groups and work with teachers to set learning goals. If more specialized assistance is needed, BFIS connects families with outside experts.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language ASB's English Language Center (ELC) has offered English language instruction for over 35 years, with programs emphasizing creativity, active participation, and real-world learning. The ELC provides programs for all ages and proficiency levels and connects participants with ASB campus resources for engaging language practice. English Language Learners (ELL) and Spanish Language Learners (SLL) receive language support across ECC, Elementary, Middle, and High School. The ELC offers Summer, Weekday, and Saturday English Programs and Cambridge exam preparation. Cambridge exam prep is available through the Cambridge track.	English as an additional language The language of instruction is English. Other language courses are offered, including Spanish, Catalan, and French. BFIS provides targeted English language instruction for students learning English, with BML Specialists co-planning lessons with teachers and providing materials and data-driven support to help learners reach their language goals.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Second Step SEL supports emotional management and social skills. What matters most to ASB are student performance, growth and achievement: academically, socially and personally. Wellbeing is central to ASB's approach to education, with the learning framework recognizing and supporting social and personal growth alongside academics. Belonging at ASB emphasizes a safe, inclusive environment where diversity is valued and respected. The school hosts events and initiatives that focus on literacy and wellbeing as part of its broader educational program.	Mental wellbeing BFIS supports mental wellbeing through a dedicated counseling program that provides SEL/CSHW education and personal support. The counseling team offers individual and group support to promote resilience and coping skills. BFIS Camino provides a walking route for mindfulness and reflection. School-wide initiatives such as Kindness Week, R U OK? Day, Pink Shirt Day, and Mental Health Awareness Month promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding ASB delivers safeguarding through the K5 Second Step program and a dedicated Second Step Child Protection Unit taught by school counselors to strengthen safety awareness. Students learn Personal Safety, Touching Safety, and Assertiveness to stay safe from dangerous or abusive situations. The program teaches children to tell a grown-up if something unsafe occurs and to seek help when needed; it also covers diverse family structures with respect. A whistleblowing channel is available for reporting safeguarding concerns.	Safeguarding BFIS provides safeguarding through Child Protection Training for all students and staff. All students learn how to protect themselves from harm and how to report concerns, and staff are trained in child protection protocols to ensure safe reporting and response.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school is located just outside Barcelona in Esplugues de Llobregat and offers one of the largest campuses in the area for sport, performances, and learning in dedicated indoor and outdoor spaces. All facilities have been built from the ground up or fully renovated within the past ten years. The campus features air conditioning in every classroom, lots of natural light, and flexible furniture options. The campus houses a library with books for all levels, dedicated art classrooms with a kiln for firing pottery, dedicated music classrooms for group and private lessons, and five science laboratories. The auditorium seats more than 700 spectators and the Maker Lab includes 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, electric saws, and other tools for building prototypes. Expansive sports fields and a fitness center with cardio machines and weights support athletic programs.	Facilities overview BFIS is located in the Sarrià neighborhood of Barcelona and comprises an Elementary School building (inaugurated in 2016) and a Secondary School building (inaugurated in January 2021) that support a student-centered learning environment. In 2026 BFIS will open a new signature Center for Creativity and Innovation, a LEED-certified building that unites Creative Arts, Science, Design, Engineering and Sports. Among its spaces, the center will include a robotics studio, visual art and performance spaces (including a recording studio), an Olympic-sized gymnasium, an outdoor amphitheater, a dedicated playspace, and an additional outdoor court.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Expansive sports fields allow for girls' and boys' basketball, volleyball, soccer, and flag football teams to train on campus. The fitness center has cardio machines and weights for conditioning. On-site gym spaces support regular practices and athletic events. The facilities are designed to support a broad athletic program across multiple sports.	Sports facilities The new Center for Creativity and Innovation includes an Olympic-sized gymnasium, an outdoor amphitheater, a playspace, and an additional outdoor court to support athletic and outdoor activities. The Elementary School grounds feature a sports court for learning and play, complementing the campus's athletic facilities. A rooftop recreational area is part of the Secondary School building, expanding outdoor activity options for students.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Five science laboratories support science instruction and experiments. Dedicated art classrooms include a kiln for firing pottery. Dedicated music classrooms accommodate group and private lessons. A Maker Lab provides access to 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and other prototyping tools. The library holds books for all levels and classrooms enjoy air conditioning and ample natural light.	Academic facilities The Secondary School building (inaugurated January 2021) accommodates more than 440 students in Grades 6 to 12 and features 15 spacious classrooms, two fully-equipped science laboratories, a design lab and makerspace, and a large library media center. The Elementary School building (inaugurated 2016) has 12 classrooms, with the ground floor housing Early Childhood classrooms and the lower level housing the kitchen and cafeteria; it also includes a rooftop patio and three additional patio spaces adjacent to a sports court.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities ASB offers a diverse range of clubs and leadership opportunities across all grade levels. The program includes clubs such as Eco-School, Journalists Club, Ambassadors Club, and the Principal's Advisory Committee (PAC). Middle and high school students participate in Model United Nations (MUN) and the Speech, Debate, and Acting Club (NESDA), which compete in tournaments. Elementary students also participate in clubs such as the Journalists Club and Ambassadors Club, with leadership experiences through PAC. The Student Council (STUCO) and Link Crew Leaders provide student voice and mentoring roles.	Extra curricular facilities The Center for Creativity and Innovation provides spaces that support extracurricular activities, including a robotics studio and a recording studio within visual arts and performance spaces, as well as a design lab and makerspace. A rooftop recreational area, outdoor amphitheater, playspace, and library media center contribute to opportunities for arts, design, science, engineering and sports-related activities outside the classroom.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The American School of Barcelona was founded in 1962 by Dr. José María Poal, a Barcelona-born physician who wanted to create an English-language American school in Barcelona; it opened in October 1962 in the Pedralbes neighbourhood with 100 students (Kindergarten through Grade 5). In the 1970s, enrollment grew and the school moved to a second Pedralbes building and then consolidated on its Esplugues campus, reuniting all students on one campus by the end of the decade. The 1980s saw expansion in academics and extracurricular programming, including service trips and international conferences, and the Model United Nations club was founded. The 1990s brought a major Esplugues building addition, a new cafeteria, and accreditation from the Middle States Association plus recognition from the Generalitat de Catalunya. In the 2000s, ASB added a mosaic at the entrance and, in 2007, became an authorized IB Diploma Program school; the 2010s saw further expansion with a new Early Childhood Center and Elementary School, followed by a new Middle School, a gymnasium-auditorium, and an outdoor amphitheatre. In the 2020s ASB celebrated 60 years, growing to nearly 1,000 students, with new construction plans underway.	History BFIS originated in 1985 when ten Barcelona families envisioned an international American school. In September 1986, BFIS opened with 23 teachers and 150 students spanning PK–12. By 1991 enrollment growth led the Foundation Board to pursue larger facilities. In 2001, long-term Elementary and Middle School modules were added. The school introduced the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in 2011. The first purpose-built Elementary building opened in 2016, and BFIS reached a maximum capacity of 700 students in 2019. The Secondary building opened in 2021, and the Middle Years Programme was introduced in 2023. A rebranding occurred in 2025, and a New Center for Creativity and Innovation is planned for 2026.
Community	Community ASB is a non-profit international school located just outside Barcelona, Spain, with over 975 students from 60 countries, creating a multicultural environment. The ASB community includes students, staff, parents, and alumni who form lifelong connections and consider ASB a home. The school community hosts events such as International Day and other cultural activities, and Community Events describe a range of events and volunteer opportunities organized by the Parents Association. There are Neighborhood and Interest Groups, including Grade/class WhatsApp groups, neighborhood meetups, and clubs for activities like biking, running, and book clubs, plus on-campus celebrations of student learning.	Community BFIS emphasizes a caring, interconnected community that includes families, faculty, and alumni. The school hosts a range of events and programs that bring the community together, including seasonal activities and the International Food Fair, as well as maintaining an Alumni network as part of school life.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association ASB has the ASB Parents Association (PA) representing all enrolled parents. The PA's mission is to bring joy to the school environment and foster close communication between ASB families and the school. All parents are represented by the PA when they enroll their children; the PA has an Executive Committee that organizes a number of memorable events, and leadership roles include Class Reps, Division Liaisons, and Welcome Ambassadors; all volunteer opportunities are communicated in The Lantern. The PA organizes events throughout the year, including Ice Cream Social, Fall Party (parents only), Halloween, Winter Bazaar, International Day, and Welcome Coffees for New Families. Neighborhood and Interest Groups include Grade and class-level WhatsApp groups, neighborhood meetups, and clubs for activities such as biking, running, and book clubs, plus Friday night soccer and coffee meetups at the ASB Café. Celebrations of Student Learning are supported by the PA, including end-of-unit celebrations, concerts and performances, sports games, and grade-level ceremonies.	Parent teacher association The BFIS Parent and Teacher Association (PTA) is primarily run by parents with input from the school leadership, faculty, and students. The PTA's vision is to create an interconnected community that fosters joy, excellence, lifelong learning, service and school spirit at BFIS. The core goals are to enrich the educational experience, create a welcoming environment for all families, and support BFIS staff. Involvement opportunities include Event Volunteer, Grade Representative, Committee Member, and Board Member. New Families are supported through a Welcome Program with Making Barcelona and BFIS Home seminars, PTA Welcome Coffee, Barcelona Tours, and New Families Whatsapp Chat, along with Country Representatives Chats. The PTA maintains a sample calendar of events, including the International Food Fair and various family activities throughout the year.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ASB offers a range of clubs that challenge students academically and foster intellectual growth. Model United Nations (MUN) engages 8th–12th graders in multiple conferences. Speech, Debate, and Acting Club (NESDA) competes in two tournaments each year, and Math Club trains for competitions such as Math Counts, Cangur, and ISMTF. Elementary Journalists Club and Ambassadors Club support student voice, while Middle/High School STUCO and Link Crew Leaders provide leadership and mentoring opportunities.	Academic & intellectual Coding & Robotics is offered as an Elementary School after-school activity. Middle School and High School include Robotics as part of their after-school offerings. Co-curricular activities include the High School First Robotics Competition and Middle School First Lego League. In High School, Start-Up Academy and AI & Machine Learning provide advanced opportunities in technology and entrepreneurship.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative ASB offers Theater, Music, and Visual Arts. Theater includes Musical Theater for 3rd–5th and 6th–12th grades, a Theater Elective for 6th–10th, and Theater Festivals. Music options include IB Music (11th–12th), Orchestra (4th–10th), Band (4th–10th), Music Festivals (6th–12th), Private Lessons, and Choir. Visual Arts includes PK3 to 8 curriculum with after-school art classes, and high school electives including IB Visual Art.	Arts & creative BFIS offers co-curricular arts after school, including Elementary Musical Theater and Middle School/High School Theater Production. Elementary School provides Performance Art and Musical Theater, while Middle and High School stage Theater Production. Instrumental music is offered after school with options such as piano, guitar, drums, and violin.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Model United Nations (MUN) conferences are hosted by ASB and open to 8th–12th graders. International Day celebrates school diversity with over 20 country tables and student performances. Ambassadors Club helps welcome new families; Journalists Club serves elementary students; Link Crew Leaders mentor incoming students; STUCO provides student leadership.	Cultural & language Model United Nations through BFISMUN is a student diplomacy program. BFISMUN holds annual conferences, including BFISMUN 2026. Committees include the Security Council, UNHRC, DISC, ECOSOC, with a middle school General Assembly committee. All committees are conducted in English.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies ASB provides social clubs and leadership opportunities, including Journalists Club, Ambassadors Club, and STUCO. Link Crew Leaders mentor incoming students. After-school activities also include arts and sports alongside academics.	Social & hobbies Elementary after-school activities include Cooking, Chess, and Little Makers, along with instrument lessons in Piano, Guitar, Drums, and Violin. Middle School adds Dungeons & Dragons, Fitness, Swimming, Fencing, and Cheer. High School includes Robotics, Musical Theater, Fencing, and instruments as after-school options.
Community & service	Community & service Service Learning is a core part of ASB life, integrating meaningful service projects to affect positive change in the community. Opportunities are embedded in the curriculum and offered through after-school programs, overnight, and extended trips to develop empathy and organizational and communication skills.	Community & service Eco School initiatives are led by the Going Green Club. The Going Green Club began in 2018 and has about 40 members, mainly from Middle and High School. BFIS earned the Green Flag award from Eco-Schools for environmental work and promotes sustainability through initiatives such as reducing single-use plastics, reducing cafeteria waste, creating rooftop gardens, and promoting recycling.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Student Council (STUCO) has middle school and high school bodies and serves as the student voice. Link Crew Leaders mentor incoming students, and Ambassadors Club fosters leadership and school involvement. The Elementary Principal's Advisory Committee (PAC) works with the elementary principal to plan assemblies and make recommendations for school improvement.	Leadership & professional Start-Up Academy and AI & Machine Learning are High School co-curricular options that develop technology and entrepreneurial skills.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Athletics program includes Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis, Cross Country, Cheerleading & Dance, Gym & Move, Flag Football, and Fitness, all aimed at developing teamwork and life-long fitness. The program emphasizes effort, self-discipline, and teamwork as key life-skills. After-school activities run Monday–Friday from 4:00 to 5:30 PM, with some Middle/High School sports training extending later and after-school buses available to central Barcelona.	Lifestyle & wellbeing BFIS offers team sports across Elementary, Middle School, and High School, including volleyball, basketball, and soccer/futsal. Interscholastic competition includes El Consell, Iberia League, and BISA League, with participation in local and international school leagues.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the main language of instruction and the vast majority of instruction and homework is conducted in English. Spanish is taught as part of the curriculum, beginning in Kindergarten. Catalan is included in the program as part of the International/American/Spanish/Catalan curriculum. Language learner classes are available in English, Spanish, and Catalan to provide guided practice.	Language provision English is the primary language of instruction; Spanish is taught as an additional language, and Hispanic Individuals and Societies is taught in Spanish; all other classes are taught in English. Spanish Language Acquisition Program (SLAC) supports non-native Spanish speakers, with placement based on an initial assessment. Spanish is mandatory for all students, with various levels for Spanish acquisition, and Catalan is offered as a native language but not mandatory for non-Spanish students.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching English is the main language of instruction. The vehicular language of instruction is English in ASB's English-based curriculum. Spanish instruction begins in Kindergarten, with language learner support in English, Spanish, and Catalan. A combined International/American/Spanish/Catalan program of study is offered.	Bilingual teaching English is the primary language of instruction; Spanish is taught as an additional language, and Hispanic Individuals and Societies is taught in Spanish; all other classes are taught in English.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards null	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations IB Organization, Middle States Association, Catalan Department of Education, Spanish Ministry of Education	Accreditations CIS-member; IB; GOA Proud Member; ECIS; MSA-CESS; Ministerio de Educación; Generalitat de Catalunya
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Complete the division-appropriate application form (PK3, Elementary, Middle School, or High School). The application is submitted via asb.openapply.com and a €250 fee is required; the fee is valid for up to two years for students in the waiting pool. After submission, the admissions team will contact you to arrange a time to meet your child. Supporting materials must be provided as specified for your division in the application guidelines. 2. Submit the required documents. Early Childhood requires the application, last year's report (in English; Spanish or Catalan allowed with originals), a confidential teacher questionnaire, and any relevant evaluations; passport copies are also requested. Elementary requires last two years' official report cards (in English; Spanish or Catalan allowed), confidential teacher and principal/guidance counselor questionnaires, and passport copies (standardized tests may be requested if available). Middle School requires the application, last two years' report cards, English and math teacher questionnaires, a principal or guidance counselor questionnaire, standardized tests in math and reading (if recent scores are unavailable, testing may be arranged), and passport copies (non-native English speakers may be asked for a writing assessment). High School requires the application, last three years' report cards (in English; translations needed for Grade 10+), English and math teacher questionnaires, a principal or guidance counselor questionnaire, standardized tests (MAP, PSAT, or other), and passport copies (an on-campus or remote writing assessment and/or interview may be requested). 3. Admissions review. All completed applications undergo a detailed review by the Admissions and Academic Teams, with consideration of English level, academic record, teacher references, and admissions assessments. For September admissions, completing the application by January 31 is strongly encouraged; the first round of admissions decisions is typically by mid-to-late February. Applications received after January 31 are reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions communicated by email within two to three weeks. Decisions include Place Offered (with payment deadlines), Waiting Pool (space permitting), or Not Accepted. 4. Offer/Enrollment. If a place is offered, the family has one week to pay the matriculation fee and four weeks to pay the capital levy to reserve the spot; both fees are non-refundable. If a place is not available, families may be placed in the Waiting Pool, from which space becomes available on a rolling basis and does not confer priority for the next school year.	Admissions BFIS has a flexible, rolling admissions process for students aged 3–17 (Early Childhood–IBDP), year-round; siblings are accommodated. The four-step process is: 1. Online Application; 2) Assessments; 3) Review of Application; 4) Enrollment. Step 1: Applications are submitted through OpenApply; a non-refundable 250 Euro fee applies; documents must be original copies with English translations in PDF. Step 1 documents depend on grade; typical items include the Application Form, Health Form, Vaccination Records, Student Passport, Parents' Passports, Student Photo, School Report Cards, and Teacher Questionnaires. Step 2: Assessments vary by grade: Early Childhood includes an in-person observation (30–40 minutes) or video samples; Elementary can include in-person observation or video/work samples; Middle/High requires MAP Math and English and a writing sample; ESL considerations may apply. Assessments do not guarantee a place. Step 3: Admissions decisions are communicated within two weeks after completion of Step 1–2; outcomes include Qualified - Acceptance (space offered on a rolling basis) and Qualified - Waiting List (space offered when available; waitlist positions change). Step 4: Enrollment occurs when space is available; enrollment paperwork includes Enrollment Contracts, SEPA Direct Debit, updated Vaccination/Immunization Records, Doctor Health Form, Parent Health Form, Data Protection Consent, and guardian documentation as required; documents must be PDFs. BFIS may require a legal guardian residing in Spain and related documents (powers of attorney, BFIS Legal Guardian Form).
Scholarships	Scholarships Little Lynx Scholarship: Long-term scholarships for local residents entering PK3 for the 2026-27 school year, providing 15%–35% off tuition for the full duration of attendance; renewal each year until the end of Grade 6, with updated financial information before Grade 7; PK3 students receive a 50% reduction on the capital levy. Eligibility includes being a resident of Spain, long-term tax resident status, preference for students fluent in English, Spanish, and Catalan, and demonstration of financial need; current ASB families are eligible. Applications use the standard online form and require daycare references, financial disclosure, and open house or information session participation is encouraged. Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, with decisions communicated after admission and financial documents are reviewed; renewal occurs automatically at January reenrollment unless extenuating circumstances apply. English Language Center Scholarship Program: Up to 10 scholarships covering 100% of Summer 2026 tuition for ASB's English Language Center Summer program; eligible students may reapply to continue in Weekday or Saturday classes for the 2026–27 school year on a full scholarship. Eligibility requires admission to grades 4 or higher, financial need (total family gross annual income under €50,000), residence in Barcelona metropolitan area, and completion of online application with supporting documents; current ELC students are eligible to apply. Selection includes financial need, academic potential, a letter of recommendation, language level testing, and an interview; applications require a €25 online application fee and must be submitted by May 15, 2026, with finalists contacted for testing and interviews; scholarship recipients are announced by mid-June.	Scholarships No scholarships or financial aid are offered at BFIS currently.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting Pool: The grade is filled, and families are contacted as space becomes available. Being in the waiting pool for the current year does not confer priority for the following school year.	Waitlist BFIS uses a waiting list when a grade is full. A prioritization sequence determines which qualified students on the waitlist are offered space, and a candidate's position on the waitlist changes as others are added. When a place becomes available, the Admissions Office contacts the family by email.
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