Comparing 5 schools side by side in USD.
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.
ASB is organized into four divisions: Early Childhood (PK3–Kindergarten), Elementary School (1st–5th), Middle School (6th–8th), and High School (9th–12th).
The school is a non-profit international school located just outside Barcelona, Spain.
60 nationalities are represented among 970 students.
Spain
ASB provides transportation to Barcelona, Gavá, Castelldefels, Sitges, and Sant Cugat.
No boarding facilities are offered. Students must reside with at least one parent or legal guardian in the Barcelona area to attend ASB.
Uniforms are not required; there are dress code rules.
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.
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).
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.
8:1
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.
Approximately 30% of graduates enroll in Spanish universities, with others pursuing higher education at universities around the world.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Carrer de Lucà 8, 08022 Barcelona, Spain. The school is located halfway between the Pedralbes and Gràcia neighborhoods in Barcelona.
The school welcomes children from 15 months to 9 years, arranged across three classes; a primary class for ages 6–9 opened in September 2024.
Montessori school (French international) in Barcelona
France
Moderato International Barcelona welcomes children from 15 months to 9 years in a 500 m² space comprising 3 classrooms and a large tree-lined courtyard. A new primary class for 6- to 9-year-olds opened in September 2024. Designed for parents seeking a privileged learning environment based on alternative methods and multilingualism, the school, small in scale, provides attention and support to each child and their family. The instruction relies on key elements of the French education system and pedagogy adapted to each child's pace, enabling children to grow in an environment that fosters a desire to learn. Students are immersed in a multilingual environment with classes taught primarily in French but also in Spanish and English. Moderato International Barcelona is a school for children aged 15 months to 9 years, spread over 3 classrooms. Carrer de Lucà 8, 08022 Barcelona. The school is located halfway between the Pedralbes and Gràcia districts. Opened in 2018, Moderato Barcelona is founded on the experience of Moderato Pantin (near Paris), opened in 2012.
The school uses alternative methods and a multilingual approach, with instruction primarily in French and also in Spanish and English. It follows key elements of the French education system and pedagogy adapted to each child's pace. The environment is designed for parents seeking a privileged learning setting with individual attention and family-centered follow-up.
Moderato International Barcelona welcomes children from 15 months to 9 years in a 500 m2 space comprising 3 classrooms and a large tree-lined courtyard. A new primary class for 6- to 9-year-old children opened in September 2024. Designed for parents seeking to offer their child a privileged learning environment based on alternative methods and multilingualism, the school is small in size and provides dedicated attention and support to each child and their family. Teaching draws on key elements of the French education system and pedagogy adapted to the pace of each child, fostering a love of learning. Students are immersed in a multilingual environment with classes taught primarily in French but also in Spanish and English. Moderato International Barcelona opened in 2018 and is based on the Moderato Pantin experience near Paris, which opened in 2012.
MODALITIES OF ENROLLMENT AT MODERATO SCHOOL
Registrations take place in five steps:
1/ You pick up the enrollment file during Open House events (or you can request it in digital format if you have already visited the school).
2/ If you are interested, you return the PRE-enrollment file (without the attached documents) as soon as you receive it. The selection criteria relate to a balanced gender distribution and the homogeneity of age ranges within the same class (e.g., in the 3-6 year-old Children's House class, the group of 3-year-olds will not exceed 7–8 children).
3/ If your file is accepted, YOU RECEIVE A NOTIFICATION OF ACCEPTANCE OF YOUR REGISTRATION. You then have one week to return the definitive form (without the attached documents) plus pay the registration fee of €600. After this deadline your place is no longer guaranteed.
4/ Then you have one month to return the attached documents.
5/ Last step: you must pay a security deposit of €683 / €740, corresponding to one month of tuition depending on your child's level of schooling. (This deposit is a guarantee in case of non-payment; it is returned at the end of the child's schooling when the withdrawal notice is given within the 3 months preceding the end of schooling). (Payment is made at the beginning of July)
At the end of the process, the enrollment is definitive and you will receive a letter with the dates of our various appointments before the start of the school year.
View tuition fees.
Site de Pedralbes, Bosch i Gimpera 6-10, 08034 Barcelona; Maternelle campus Munner 5, 08022 Barcelona. es](https://www.lfb.es/en/about-us/))
Preschool through high school (maternelle to lycée). es](https://www.lfb.es/en/about-us/))
French international school operated by the AEFE; education provided is the French national curriculum; includes Spanish language and Catalan studies as part of the program. es](https://www.lfb.es/en/about-us/))
More than 73 different nationalities are represented. es](https://www.lfb.es/en/))
Health services support students with chronic health conditions and learning difficulties; team includes a school doctor, two nurses, a psychologist and an assistant. es](https://www.lfb.es/es/servicio-de-salud/?utm_source=openai))
France (AEFE-affiliated; French education network). gouv.fr](https://www.aefe.gouv.fr/index.php/fr/etablissements/lycee-francais-de-barcelone?utm_source=openai))
Secular (non-denominational). es](https://www.lfb.es/en/about-us/))
School day starts around 8:30–8:40 with a morning block until 13:40; lunch break; afternoon blocks run from 13:45 to 18:40; main gate opens at 8:00 and doors open at 8:50. es](https://www.lfb.es/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Horaires-english.pdf))
Bus transport in Barcelona and nearby areas, plus the Pedralbes–Munner shuttle; operated by Autocares Congosto. For details, contact 93 321 02 50. es](https://www.lfb.es/transports-scolaires/))
The school offers a voluntary catering service for students from kindergarten through lycée; meals are prepared by Sodexo, the external provider, and supervised during lunch. Menus are designed by nutritionists, rotate on a six-week cycle, and accommodate special diets including allergies and intolerances; vegetarian options are available. The school uses more than 50% organic ingredients and prioritizes local and seasonal products; hygiene is monitored with monthly audits, and a student cafeteria opens at 8:00 for breakfast offering a variety of items.
The LFB is managed directly by the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE). AEFE guarantees the provision of French public education for French children living abroad, fosters the French language and culture, and supports cooperation between French and foreign education systems while helping families through scholarships for French students. The school is part of the AEFE global network.
Follows the French National Curriculum. The school teaches four languages: French, Spanish, Catalan, and English. English instruction begins in first grade; Spanish and Catalan are taught in addition to French, and non-French-speaking students receive an adapted language program. In the lycée, language-focused tracks include the BFI (Bac Français International) and the European sections SEA (Section Européenne Anglais) and SEE (Section Européenne Espagnol). The BFI is an internationally recognized option, available as a trilanguage (French + Spanish + English) or quadrilingual (French + Spanish + English + Catalan) track with extra BFI subjects; the BFI aims to strengthen multilingual competence and facilitate university study. The lycée offers 27 classes between Seconde and Terminale and provides individualized orientation and support to prepare for higher education worldwide.
BAC results 2025: 100% pass rate; 241 candidates.
Provides worldwide access to universities and colleges and offers individualized orientation for higher education, including Parcoursup dossiers and guidance for universities in France, Spain or internationally.
Admission criteria. En Toute Petite Section (TPS): the child must be 2 years old by September 1, 2026. Priority goes to children born between January 1, 2024 and August 31, 2024. Children born between September and December 2024 will be on the waiting list; if a place is available, entry is possible on the child's second birthday (for example, a child born November 7, 2024 could enter on November 7, 2026). En Petite Section (PS): places are secured if registration is completed between December 1, 2025 and January 31, 2026 for a child who already has a sibling enrolled or for a child of French nationality. For remaining places, admission proceeds as dossiers are completed and signed. De la Moyenne Section to Terminale: priority is given to (1) a child of French nationality enrolled in the French system (in France or abroad) whose two parents or at least one parent are relocated by their employer; and (2) a child of another nationality enrolled in the French system (in France or abroad) whose two parents or at least one parent are relocated by their employer. Protocol: the enrollment procedure must be completed by the parents or legal guardian named on the form; enrollment becomes effective only after definitive validation notified by the Lycée Français de Barcelone; level assignment depends on the student's evaluation and orientation procedures; admission implies adherence to the principles of French education abroad in pedagogy, language and culture; official French regulations or bilateral agreements prevail; adherence to the internal rules and financial regulations is a prerequisite to continuing the enrollment process; admission is subject to payment of the first registration fees, which remain with the establishment in case of withdrawal; non-payment cancels the application; if the student is not present at LFB by October 1, 2026, the place may be lost if there are waiting lists; information about students and families is stored in the school's data system and processed in compliance with EU regulations and Law 15/1999 on personal data; the school may share documents related to schooling with educational authorities for evaluation, orientation or placement; any request for access or rectification can be addressed by email to the Lycée Français de Barcelone. Lycée Français de Barcelone, Site de Pedralbes, Bosch i Gimpera 6-10, 08034 Barcelona, Tel +34 93 203 79 50.
Scholarships are awarded based on the family's financial situation to students from kindergarten through high school. Families wishing to file a scholarship application (first application or renewal) will find all information on the Consulate General of France in Barcelona's website (Your Social Affairs / Scholarships). Note: only children of French nationality registered with the Consulate can benefit from a scholarship.
Waiting lists exist for En Toute Petite Section: children born between September and December 2024 will be on the waiting list; entry to the program may occur on the child's second birthday if a place becomes available (e.g., born November 7, 2024 could enter November 7, 2026).
Located in Barcelona, Spain. The main site is at Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 707, 08013 Barcelona. An annex site operates at C/ Valencia 314 (Annexe).
Classes from Petite Section (early kindergarten) to CM2. The school comprises Maternelle and Élémentaire levels.
French international school in Barcelona, part of the AEFE network.
France (AEFE network).
Day structure (Annex site Valencia 314): Morning arrival 8:00–8:30 (paid); free morning care 8:35–8:45; classes begin at 8:50. Dismissal is 16:00 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; Wednesday releases are at 12:30 before lunch or 13:15 after lunch. After‑school care runs to 16:25; extracurricular activities end at 17:15 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and 16:30 on Wednesday.
The school has an on-site cantine with a chef who prepares each dish. Meals are healthy and balanced and use seasonal fruits and vegetables. The program emphasizes sustainable sourcing by working with local producers and prioritizes zero-distance (kilometer-zero) ingredients; menus can be adapted for allergies, and food safety standards are observed. Lunchtime supervision is provided by a team of monitors.
The school is part of AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad), linking 566 schools in 138 countries and guaranteeing education from kindergarten to the baccalaureate. The school is governed by a Comité de Gestion (Management Committee) and a Direction et Administration (Director and administration). The Comité de Gestion is chaired by Christophe Cortale and includes Jean Michel Lonjou, Julien Perrier, Jean Marc Andrieux, Carla Cortale, Bernadette Leconte and Thomas Duhart; the Direction et Administration includes Christelle Prévost as Directrice, Carmen Danon as Directrice du Service Administratif et financier, Catherine Diet as Responsable de l'Administration Scolaire, Eulàlia Corominas as Secrétaire de Direction, Ventura Fàbregas as Service Informatique, Joan Maurell as Service d'Intendance, and Montse Castaldi as Activités Extrascolaires.
The school's educational project rests on three axes and centers on student well-being and universal success. Axis 1 consolidates foundations of effective and practical learning, including DRAS (move, replace, add, delete); improving written production; handwriting; mathematical practice; programming and coding. Axis 2 provides oral and written instruction in four languages, with multilingualism, and includes language support for non-French speakers and for students who do not speak Spanish or Catalan; English is introduced from Moyenne Section. Axis 3 promotes cooperation and taking responsibility through communication and expression, belonging to the school community, cooperation, and non-violent conflict resolution. The school uses a dynamic, interactive pedagogy featuring ABP (project-based learning) and activities such as sport, music, and language learning. The library houses over 15,000 literary references in French, English, Spanish, and Catalan to support literacy and cultural exploration.
Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is offered for classes from Nursery (Petite Section) through CM2. Registrations are open from December 1, 2025. Online registration is available. For the current school year (2025-2026), enrollment is available. The school provides five pathways for excellence in education: Languages; Sport; Digital technology; Literature; Culture. Languages: Students receive a multilingual education in French, English, Spanish, and Catalan. Sport: A wide range of sports activities fosters self-knowledge and the development of the child. Digital technology: The school maintains a comprehensive and ambitious digital program throughout schooling. Literature: Reading is given significant emphasis to build a rich literary culture. Culture: A broad cultural offering serves the personal enrichment of each student.
The British College of Gavà is located in Gavà, Catalonia, Spain. The campus sits among pine trees in lush gardens with modern, spacious premises about 20 minutes from Barcelona city. The school's address is Carrer de Josep Lluís Sert, 32, 08850 Gavà, Barcelona. The campus is completely enclosed for safety, and car drop-off happens on site.
Early Years Foundation Stage; Primary; Secondary; IB Diploma Programme (IBDP); IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).
British international school offering IGCSE and IB programmes.
United Kingdom
BCG offers a daily bus transport service to and from the school, organized around families' needs. Modern buses are used and comply with safety rules, with a monitor supervising the route. Car drop-off can be completed within school premises.
BCG has a school uniform that all students wear daily, except those in Year 12 and Year 13. The uniform varies slightly by academic level, and there is a separate sports uniform for Physical Education.
Lunch is freshly prepared on-site daily and served in multiple shifts from 12:00 to 14:00. Menus are designed to align with nutritional guidelines and the Mediterranean diet, and accommodate dietary needs including allergies, intolerances or health requirements.
The school uses a house system with four houses: Red, Green, Blue, Yellow. Each pupil is allocated to a house; house points are awarded for altruistic acts, participation and academic success; the houses compete for the House Cup at the end of the academic year.
The British College of Gavà operates as part of Education in Excellence, SL, and is a member of Inspired Education Group.
IB Diploma Programme is offered for students aged 16–18 and includes six subject groups (Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals & Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, The Arts) with a core comprising Theory of Knowledge, Creativity, Activity and Service, and the Extended Essay. The Diploma Programme develops reflective, independent, globally minded learners and includes an Education for Sustainable Development project as part of CAS. The school also offers the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP), a vocational pathway with partner organisations in Performing Arts, Innovation in Sports and Entrepreneurship. In Secondary, the curriculum runs English National Curriculum up to GCSE (Year 11) before students move into the IB Diploma Programme in Years 12 and 13. Primary (Year 2–6) delivers English-language learning with EAL support; French begins in Year 3; Spanish and Catalan are taught as foreign languages, with emphasis on multilingual development and cultural understanding. Education for Sustainable Development is a fundamental thread throughout the school.
The Diploma Programme is respected by leading universities worldwide and provides a rigorous pre-university pathway; The Career-related Programme equips students with a vocational pathway and partnerships with external organisations; DP/CP graduates typically progress to higher education at universities worldwide.
Daily PSHE sessions address social and emotional development; regular wellness sessions support mental health for students and staff; an extensive pastoral network includes tutors, pastoral leads, listening mentors and a peer-support programme.
Two SEND Coordinators, Laia Boix (EYFS & Primary) and Alba Rosas (Secondary & IB); two SEND Teaching Assistants; Wave-based provision (Wave 1: quality-first teaching; Wave 2: targeted small-group/individual interventions; Wave 3: personalised long-term support); inclusive access arrangements for assessments in line with JCQ and IB; an intervention teacher in the primary school coordinates Wave 2 with support from the secondary librarian; Parent involvement through IEPs and reviews.
The school recognises that English as an Additional Language learners may show learning difficulties not related to SEND; a careful assessment approach distinguishes EAL-related language needs from SEND, with a graduated approach to language and learning support across the curriculum.
Well-being is integrated with safeguarding. Daily PSHE sessions support social and emotional development; regular wellness sessions are available for students and staff; a comprehensive pastoral network provides mental health and wellbeing support.
The school has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSL. The DSL coordinates safeguarding and wellbeing, manages referrals to local authorities and relevant agencies; staff receive safeguarding and anti-discrimination training; online safety policies and procedures are in place.
Submit an Inquiry: Complete the form at the bottom of the page so our admissions team can contact you. Schedule a Visit or Call: Book a visit to our campus or schedule a call with our team to learn more about our school and get your questions answered. Assessment and Requirements: Students from Year 4 onwards will be invited to English and CAT4 assessment at BCG; a non-refundable €30 admissions assessment fee applies. Secondary students will also need a reference letter from their current/previous school. Admission Confirmation: If the results are what is expected, your child's place will be reserved upon payment of the admission and matriculation fees. Enrollment Process: We will send further instructions to start submitting all required documents and complete the enrolment process.
Waiting List: If no place is available, parents may place their child's name on the waiting list for the school. The school cannot guarantee when a place may become available. There is no appeal process for admission to the school. The decision of the principal is final.
