Comparing 3 schools side by side in USD.
The school is located at Calle Valentín Robledo 2, 28224 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain.
Middle School (grades 6–8) and High School (grades 9–12) for ages 11–18.
Private, non-profit American school; independent, co-educational day school.
International student body with representation from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, Korea, Venezuela, Israel, Canada, France, Brazil, Iran, and Spain, among others.
Specialized learner support for dyslexia (dislexia), ADD/ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders; individualized programs and small class sizes.
United States
Classes run 9:30–15:30, Monday–Friday; students may arrive from 8:00 and stay after 15:30 for clubs and support (until 16:30).
The school is a day school with no boarding offered.
The Judy Sharp International School is governed by The Judy Sharp Foundation, a private, non-profit foundation. The Judy Sharp International School is a branch of the Judy Sharp Foundation. The Board of Trustees includes Honorary President Julia Sharp Cleveland; President Agustín Vergara Sharp; Vice President John Pinto; Secretary Viviana Waisman Frydman; Board Member Antonio Gil-Nagel Rein; Board Member Javier Serra López-Chicheri.
American-style education for grades 6–12 (ages 11–18) with an accredited American curriculum. The school is private, non-profit and bilingual, offering Personalized Bilingual Education for Grades 6–12 with a focus on supporting creative and capable students who find traditional classroom settings challenging. The average class ratio is four students per teacher, enabling individualized guidance. The Official Spanish Program provides bilingual proficiency development and enables graduation with an American High School Diploma while meeting the Spanish requirements for ESO and Bachillerato; it coordinates with Spanish authorities for homologación. AP courses are planned for the future.
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Graduates can pursue higher education at colleges and universities in the United States and around the world; the US High School Diploma is recognized by colleges and universities across the United States and worldwide.
Programs and support for gifted and talented students include a specialized curriculum for creative and capable learners and individualized programs to meet their needs.
Social-emotional learning is embedded across the curriculum, with access to a school counselor and specific time dedicated to SEL each week. This supports students' social and emotional development and resilience.
Specialized learning support includes ADHD – executive functioning routines; dyslexia – multisensory reading interventions, support teachers, and extra time on tasks; autism – social-emotional coaching, sensory accommodations, visual schedules, and communication scaffolds. All students receive an individualized learning plan (ILP) that is regularly reviewed with families. An SEN coordinator and a school psychologist are on staff, with access to bilingual specialists via referral.
It is a distinguished private, non-profit American school in Madrid serving English-speaking students aged 11–18. It offers a personalized bilingual education for grades 6–12.
Mental wellbeing is supported through social-emotional learning embedded in the curriculum, access to a school counselor, and dedicated SEL time each week. The school also emphasizes a safe, trusting environment and structured routines to help students who have struggled with anxiety or frustration rebuild confidence.
1. 2. The Google Form: You will receive an email with a Google Form requesting information about your child and their personal and academic background; provide clear details and upload documents such as report cards, transcripts, and other relevant tests. 3. Interview with the Director: After submitting the form, the director will contact you to schedule an in-person or virtual meeting to discuss the school, fees, and academic plans and to answer any remaining questions. 4. Testing: The school will coordinate placement tests to ensure the student receives the appropriate academic and emotional support; tests are not used to determine acceptance.
Financial aid is available based on demonstrated need; awards are reviewed annually to reflect changes in family circumstances; applying for aid does not affect admission.
Alcobendas, Madrid, Spain. Calle Salvia, 46, 28109 Alcobendas, Madrid. Located in Madrid's northern suburbs near La Moraleja, the campus is accessible by local transport.
Two-year A-Level program for Years 12 and 13 (ages 16–18).
Independent British Sixth Form school in Madrid specialising exclusively in the A-Level stage; day school.
Virtus provides highly personalised SEND provision. The SENCo produces an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) for students with diagnosed learning needs, with wrap-around support through academic teaching, mentoring and the wider curriculum.
Affiliated with The Schools Trust (UK-based) as a chartered partner; operates in Madrid, Spain.
School hours are 08:30–16:20, Monday to Friday.
A school bus service is available; routes include Pozuelo, Aravaca, Boadilla del Monte, Majadahonda and Las Rozas to Virtus College (La Moraleja).
Residential accommodation offers premium housing in Madrid, combining comfort, safety and support. Modern fully furnished studio apartments with private bathrooms are located close to the school. Dedicated residential coordinators provide ongoing support; residences are independently managed by partner providers and include security, gym facilities, and common areas to foster a sense of community.
Uniform is mandatory. Day uniform includes grey trousers for all students, a grey skirt for female students, a navy blue jumper, and a unisex polo shirt, with shoes that are dark in color and must maintain a smart-casual style. PE uniform is worn for PE classes and includes a hoodie, long trousers, shorts, and a technical T-shirt; these are worn during PE time with appropriate trainers; seasonal adjustments to summer and winter uniforms are provided.
Lunch is served daily for all students, with fresh fruit and yoghurt each morning. Lunch is prepared by a leading Madrid catering company, using 100% certified organic ingredients; meals are free of additives, pesticides, preservatives, colourants and saturated fats; lactose, flours and eggs are not present. Menus can be adjusted for intolerances or allergies.
Virtus College has four Houses: Attenborough, Austen, Hawking, and Seacole. Year 12 and Year 13 students are grouped together in these houses, promoting community and cross-year collaboration. The House System features inter-house competitions in drama and sports and a house points system to recognise contributions.
The school is an independent British school and a chartered partner of The Schools Trust, a UK-registered organisation supporting top-tier international schools.
International A-Levels are offered as a two-year programme for students aged 16 to 18. Virtus College provides 15 International A-Level subjects from which students select four with staff guidance. The A-Level programme is modular, with examinations taken across four series in Year 12 and Year 13 (January and May). The curriculum blends A-Levels with tailored enrichment courses as part of a bespoke roadmap for university entry. Classes are small, with teachers delivering instruction in groups of no more than 10 students. Each student is guided by a dedicated personal mentor throughout the two-year journey, providing one-to-one support across academics, careers, personal development and wellbeing.
Small classes of no more than 10 students.
A-Level results for the class of 2025 included 71% of students achieving at least one A/A, with 42% of all grades at A or A. The majority (64%) of students achieved A-B grades. Destinations for 2025 included the University of Cambridge (Engineering), the University of Bath (Business with work placements), King's College London (Culture, Media and Creative Industries), and Durham University (PPE/Finance), among others. UK applicants secured places at Russell Group universities, with 73% achieving offers.
Destinations in 2025 include Cambridge, Bath, Durham, King's College London, University College Dublin, IE University, Universidad Navarra, ESIC, and more. UK applicants continued to secure places at Russell Group universities, with 73% of UK applicants into Russell Group institutions.
From Year 12, students are placed on a ‘flight path' benchmark to set minimum expected A-Level outcomes, with progress tracked via a value-added system and ALPS benchmarking. The school provides an Enrichment Programme with Engineering, Humanities, Finance & Entrepreneurship and Medical tracks to extend learning beyond the core curriculum. A dedicated personal mentor supports academic challenge, career planning and wellbeing.
A dedicated Mentor is assigned to each student and weekly one-to-one sessions cover organisation, study techniques, personal wellbeing and university planning. The Mentor coordinates wrap-around support with teachers and the Careers Team, setting clear targets and reviewing data after each assessment. Mentors identify when extra stretch or targeted practice is required and organise clinics, workshops or targeted activities in clubs, Houses and the wider community. PSHE sessions address relationships, mental health, nutrition and digital citizenship as part of the pastoral approach. Life on Time is used to monitor wellbeing, and families are kept informed through regular, solution-focused communication.
Upon admission or when a SEND need is identified, there is a comprehensive assessment of strengths, weaknesses and learning styles, drawing information from teachers, parents and relevant professionals. The SENCo liaises with parents and educational psychologists to understand the needs of each student. The provision places the student at the centre and the school adapts accordingly to give the best chance of success. SEND provision is described and coordinated to support inclusive education and maximise student outcomes.
A-Level subjects include English Language and English Literature. IELTS (English language accreditation exam) is compulsory for every student to certify academic English for university applications. Virtus College offers a British curriculum and a two-year A-Level program designed to support university entry at leading institutions. The English Language subject is among the listed A-Level offerings. The program and language requirements are part of preparing students for international university applications.
Weekly mentoring supports personal wellbeing and academic planning. PSHE sessions address relationships, mental health, nutrition and digital citizenship. The pastoral model is proactive and relational, with mentors who know their students deeply and collaborate with teachers to anticipate needs. Life on Time is used to monitor wellbeing and keep track of student welfare. The community emphasises wellbeing through leadership roles and club activities that foster personal growth and resilience.
A safeguarding strategy is in place with an unequivocal commitment from Virtus College staff to protection and wellbeing. The support network enables effective communication among families, staff and partners to guarantee welfare. PSHE and mentoring address relationships, mental health and digital citizenship as part of safeguarding. Technology is regulated for safeguarding: devices are managed, phones are collected daily and iPads have safeguards. The safeguarding framework is underpinned by proactive pastoral care and regular, solution-focused family involvement.
Apply now through Virtus College's admissions process. The process consists of four steps. The admissions assessments are not exams to be prepared for and do not determine acceptance; they help understand each student's profile to tailor their educational journey. At the end, families receive a Vocational Profile report with an initial recommendation for A-Level choices. Step 1: Complete the application form via the online application. Step 2: Admissions Meeting — a chance to visit the school and confirm fit. Step 3: Student Interview and Tests — personal interview and tests conducted online and face-to-face. Step 4: Vocational Profile results and resolution of the admissions committee — guidance on how Virtus College can best support the student's goals. Entry requirements: At least 6 IGCSEs with a minimum grade of C (4) including Maths and English Language; a minimum grade of 6 (B) in the IGCSE subjects the student wishes to study as A-Levels; to study Mathematics and/or Science, at least a grade 7 (A) in the equivalent IGCSE; to study Further Mathematics, at least a grade 8-9 (A). For students currently studying in a system other than the British system (MYP, Spanish system, American system, French system, etc.), contact Admissions. Places are limited; the admissions process is open until March 31.
DRIVE scholarships reward both academic achievement and outstanding external achievements and reduce tuition by 15% over the two-year program; two students are awarded DRIVE scholarships at the start of Year 12. There is also a 5% discount for families with two or more children enrolled.
Madrid, Spain — El Viso district, 8 Castellón de la Plana St, central Madrid. Boarding facilities are a 10-minute walk from the campus.
Upper secondary (ages 15–18). Co-educational day and boarding.
International IB school with day and boarding; partnered with IE University.
Diverse and international student body.
Open outside class hours, including weekends, to provide comprehensive support for completing the IB Diploma.
The Global College is a co-educational day and boarding IB school for 15 to 18-year-olds in Madrid, offering an IB Diploma Programme; it has a central Madrid campus and a newly refurbished residence within walking distance of the college.
The Global College has a strategic alliance with IE University.
The Global College offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Students select six subjects from six groups: Group 1 Studies in Language and Literature; Group 2 Language Acquisition; Group 3 Individuals and Societies; Group 4 Sciences; Group 5 Mathematics; Group 6 The Arts. Current offerings include English Language A, Spanish Language A, French Language A, and related SL/HL options across Groups 1–6. English is the language of instruction. The IB Diploma Core includes the Extended Essay, Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS), and Theory of Knowledge (TOK). The program emphasizes language study, global understanding and independent inquiry to prepare for university study.
In 2025, IB exam results were strong: top score of the class 44, top third 40.1, and average 36.2. There were 125 IB diploma graduates. 85% of students accessed their priority university choice. The 2025 average points were 35, compared with the IB World Average of 30 and a top-third average of 39.
Graduates gained offers from a broad range of universities worldwide. Notable destinations include IE University; Imperial College London; University College London; King's College London; University of Warwick; University of Edinburgh; University of Oxford; University of Cambridge; University of Bristol; University of Bath; University of Toronto; McGill University; NYU; Northeastern University; Sciences Po; The New School; University of Navarra; Universidad Carlos III; Universidad Pontificia de Comillas; Leiden University; Maastricht University; UCLA; UC Berkeley; Georgetown University; Durham University; Delft University of Technology; Erasmus University Rotterdam; University of Miami.
Each student is assigned a Personal Mentor who provides ongoing guidance for academic progress and personal development. A dedicated Higher Education & Career Guidance team supports university applications worldwide and helps develop CVs, essays, presentations and interview skills through one-on-one and group sessions.
The Global College supports social and emotional development through a student-centred, holistic approach. Each student is assigned a Personal Mentor who provides confidential guidance on personal and academic matters from the outset. The wellbeing program is led by the IE Center for Health, Wellbeing and Happiness under Dr. Mario Alonso Puig and focuses on body, mind and spirit to boost wellbeing and performance. Pastoral care and mentoring are integral to the school's approach, with boarding staff and counselors supporting students' emotional and physical wellbeing. Students participate in Extended Experiences (CAS) and receive university guidance to develop social, emotional and leadership capacities.
The Global College offers the IB Diploma Programme in English and is the only college in central Madrid to offer the IB in English. The school requires linguistic ability to complete the IB in English, and non-native speakers may need to provide English proficiency evidence (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, or Duolingo). The IB language groups include English Language A: Language and Literature, and English in Language Acquisition (Group 2) with HL/SL/Ab initio offerings; other languages are available under arrangement.
The Wellbeing program is overseen by the IE Center for Health, Wellbeing and Happiness, led by Dr. Mario Alonso Puig, and takes a holistic approach to enhancing performance and happiness. The program centers on three core areas—body, mind and spirit—through workshops and activities that promote healthy lifestyle choices, resilience and emotional balance. All students receive pastoral care and mentoring, with a personal mentor assigned to support their personal and academic development. Boarding students receive extra wellbeing support from a dedicated boarding team, including House Parents who live in the residence and can provide counseling or coordinate with local centers. University counseling and career guidance support students in building strong university applications and career plans.
The boarding life component demonstrates safeguarding in practice: the boarding community is supervised by the Vice Principal for Pastoral Care, House Master and House Parent. The House Parent is a trained psychologist and will be available for counseling, with partnerships with bilingual centers. Pastoral care and mentoring are central to safeguarding, with each student assigned a personal mentor to support their wellbeing and personal development. Boarding Life also notes that the residence is in Madrid and staff provide 24/7 support to students.
1. Inquiry. Families are encouraged to learn more about The Global College. Information sessions are offered virtually and in person, providing opportunities to visit the campus and meet the Headmaster, faculty, and the Admissions and Pastoral Team. This step helps determine fit and informs the next steps.
2) Online Application. Candidates submit information and documents covering Personal Information, Academic Profile, Languages and English level. Non-native speakers or those who have not studied in an English-speaking school for at least two complete academic years must provide an English certificate with minimum scores: TOEFL 90 (100 recommended), IELTS 7, Cambridge: C1 Advanced (A/B, or C with strong oral) or C2 Proficiency, or Duolingo English Test 120 (130 recommended). Additional materials include the candidate's interests and experiences outside the classroom, a letter of recommendation, and short answer questions plus a personal video. Completion of the application is not a commitment; the Admissions Committee reviews and decides whether the candidate moves to the next step.
3) Assessment. The Baseline Assessment evaluates core aptitudes including language and mathematics as part of a global benchmarking process and is proctored by the school. The interview is a conversation with faculty to learn about talents, motivations, and future ambitions. The Admissions Committee uses these results along with the application to decide whether to progress to the next stage.
4) Admissions Committee Resolution. The Committee reviews all applications, documents, and interview reports to identify students with potential, considering academics, initiative, and engagement in extracurricular activities. If a positive admissions decision is made, families receive enrollment information to continue their journey at The Global College. If there are no places available after the rounds, candidates may be wait-listed.
5) Deadlines for the 2026-2027 Academic Year. Boarding Students: Round 1 applications are due by November 14, 2025, with decisions communicated before the end of December. Round 2 applications are due by February 20, 2026, with decisions communicated by mid-March; after Round 2, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis if places remain, and candidates may be placed on a waitlist if places are not available. Day Students: The Day program closes for applications on January 31, 2026; admission decisions are issued in February. Exceptional applicants may be considered for early admissions, and extraordinary cases after January 31 are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and subject to availability.
6) Scholarships & Grants. Equal opportunities to access quality education are core values. The Global College offers financial support and scholarships for the best students.
The school offers financial support and scholarships for the best students. For more information contact scholarships@theglobalcollege.com
If there are no places available after the admissions rounds, candidates may be placed on a waitlist.
