Secondary Schools in Barcelona for Expat Families
Secondary school is where the big decisions are made. The curriculum chosen here largely determines the qualifications a student leaves with at 18 and the universities they can apply to. For expat families, moving a teenager also carries more friction than moving a young child, because exam timetables, curriculum alignment and friendship groups all matter more. This guide focuses on secondary schooling in Barcelona and the choices that come with it, building on our hub on Barcelona's international schools.
The structure of secondary in Barcelona
International secondary schooling in Barcelona generally follows one of two structures:
- The British model, with lower secondary leading to IGCSE examinations at around 16, then a two-year sixth form leading to A-Levels at 18.
- The American / international model, leading through middle and high school to the IB Diploma in the final two years, which several American-style schools have adopted as their senior qualification.
Some schools blend systems, offering the British curriculum lower down and the IB Diploma at the top, while others combine the British, Spanish and IB pathways.
The curriculum fork
This is the most consequential decision at secondary level.
| Pathway | Final qualification | Character | University fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| British | A-Levels (after IGCSE) | Specialised, typically 3–4 subjects | Maps directly onto UK UCAS; accepted globally |
| IB Diploma | IB Diploma | Broad, six subjects plus core | Keeps options open; valued worldwide |
| American + IB | IB Diploma (with US-style course credit) | Continuous assessment plus IB | Strong for US and international destinations |
There is no universally "better" route. A-Levels reward students who already know their direction and want to specialise. The IB suits students who want breadth and are not yet committed to a single field. The decision should follow the student and the likely university destinations, not the other way around. Our guides to GCSEs and A-Levels in Barcelona and IB schools in Barcelona go deeper on each.
Schools to consider
The following deliver well-regarded secondary provision. Confirm current curricula and availability directly.
- The British School of Barcelona offers IGCSE and A-Level, with a dedicated sixth-form provision for ages 16 to 18.
- Benjamin Franklin International School runs a US-style middle and high school culminating in the IB Diploma.
- American School of Barcelona leads to the IB Diploma and, from 2025, also offers the IB Career-related Programme.
- St. Peter's School is an IB World School offering the IB Diploma in English through to university entrance.
- Hamelin-Laie International School delivers an IB and bilingual route to 18.
- Kensington School takes students through IGCSE and A-Level.
Indicative secondary fees
Secondary, and especially the final two years, sits at the top of each school's fee range. As of 2026:
| School | Secondary / senior tuition (indicative) |
|---|---|
| Benjamin Franklin International School | ~€21,350 (middle) to ~€25,430 (high school) |
| American School of Barcelona | up to ~€27,000 in senior years |
| The British School of Barcelona | up to ~€17,700 (senior, Castelldefels) |
| Hamelin-Laie International School | ~€11,454–€15,490 across the school |
External examination entries for IGCSE, A-Level and IB are usually charged separately. See our fees guide.
Moving a teenager: what to weigh
- Exam timing. Avoid moving a student partway through a two-year IGCSE, A-Level or IB course where possible; mismatched syllabuses cause real disruption.
- Curriculum alignment. A student arriving from a different system may need bridging support.
- Language. Lessons are in English, but Spanish and Catalan are part of school life, and a willing teenager will adapt; see settling a child into school.
- University guidance. Check the strength of careers and UCAS support and recent destinations. Our university admissions guide covers fee-status pitfalls.
- Availability. Senior places can be tight; see waiting lists.
Planning the move
Because secondary choices lock in qualifications, families benefit from settling early and avoiding a forced mid-course move. That argues for choosing a stable school and a neighbourhood you can stay in, which links school choice to property. Explore the wider market on our Spain property hub.
How Global Investments Can Help
Moving a teenager well means getting the school, the timing and the home right in one coordinated decision. As the property division of Global Investments, we help families settle in the right place to support a stable secondary path, aligning school choice with the property search and the wider relocation and financial plan. Speak to our team early, especially if exam years are approaching.
Information only; fees, curricula and admissions details change every academic year. Verify all details directly with the schools and the relevant Spanish authorities before making decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main curriculum choice at secondary level in Barcelona?
The key fork is between the British route (IGCSE at 16, A-Levels at 18) and the IB route (often the IB Diploma in the final two years), with some American schools also leading to the IB Diploma. The choice shapes university applications.
How much does secondary international schooling cost?
As of 2026, secondary tuition typically rises into the €18,000 to €27,000 range at premium schools and the €13,000 to €18,000 range at British schools, plus separately charged external exam fees.
Can my teenager join an international school without fluent Spanish?
Yes. International schools teach in English and support new arrivals with language. However, a teenager joining mid-secondary should be assessed carefully, as curriculum alignment and exam timing matter more at this stage.
Which is better for university, A-Levels or the IB?
Both are well respected globally. A-Levels allow subject specialisation and map directly onto UCAS; the IB is broader and keeps more options open. The right choice depends on the student and intended destinations.
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Rules, fees and regulations change frequently; verify current requirements with a qualified adviser before acting.