1. How does the school system in Spain work?
Spain has three main types of schools:
- Public (públicos): Free, funded by the government, and taught mainly in Spanish (or regional language).
- Charter (concertados): Semi-private, partly funded by the state, with moderate fees (€150–€400/month).
- Private / International: Fully private, often bilingual or English-speaking, with higher fees (€800–€1,500/month).
We help families evaluate which model best fits their children’s age, language level, and long-term plans.
2. When does the school year start and how early should we apply?
The academic year runs from early September to late June. For public and charter schools, applications usually open between April and June through the regional online system (e.g., GVA Telematrícula in Valencia). We guide families in gathering documents, completing registration, and meeting each region’s deadlines.
3. What documents are needed to enroll a child in a Spanish school?
Requirements vary slightly by region, but typically include:
- Child’s passport and birth certificate (apostilled if non-EU)
- Parent’s residence card (TIE) or NIE
- Lease contract or property deed (to prove address in the catchment area)
- Empadronamiento certificate (city registration)
- Vaccination record and health certificate
We prepare a clear checklist and coordinate translations or sworn certifications when necessary.
4. Can I enroll my children if my visa or TIE is still in process?
Yes. Many schools accept enrollment if your visa approval or NIE application is underway, provided you can show proof of residence and start your immigration process officially. We work with schools and local administrations to ensure enrollment isn’t delayed.
5. How do I register for public or charter schools?
Enrollment is done through an online platform managed by your regional education authority (for example, GVA Telematrícula in the Valencian Community).
You’ll submit your preferences for schools, upload documents, and later confirm your child’s placement. We assist step-by-step — from school selection and form submission to final registration.
6. What is the difference between public, charter, and private schools in daily life?
- Public schools: Free, Spanish curriculum, local integration, and regional language are often included.
- Charter schools: Blend of public funding and private management, bilingual programs, structured environment.
- Private/International: English or IB curriculum, smaller class sizes, higher tuition.
We help parents compare pedagogy, cost, language, and cultural environment before deciding.
7. Are schools bilingual in Spain?
Many schools now offer bilingual programs — especially charter and international ones — where classes are taught in both Spanish and English. In regions like Valencia, Catalonia, or Galicia, local languages (Valenciano, Catalan, Gallego) may also be part of the curriculum.
8. How are catchment areas (zonas escolares) determined?
Your official address (empadronamiento) determines priority access to nearby public and charter schools. Each city or town has specific school zones. When we assist families with housing, we consider school zoning to increase admission chances at preferred schools.
9. What if my children don’t speak Spanish yet?
Spanish schools regularly welcome international students. Most provide language support or adaptation programs during the first year. Younger children learn quickly through immersion, while older students often receive targeted help in Spanish as a Second Language (Español como Lengua Extranjera).
10. What are school hours like in Spain?
Most schools run from 9:00 to 14:00 or 14:30, with optional afternoon activities. Some schools offer a split schedule (morning and afternoon sessions) or extended hours for working parents. Lunch (comedor) is provided in most schools for an additional monthly fee (€80–€150).
11. Are school meals healthy and safe for kids with allergies?
Yes. School canteens follow balanced Mediterranean menus approved by nutritionists. Parents can notify allergies or dietary restrictions during enrollment. Menus are typically adapted for vegetarian, celiac, or allergy-friendly needs.
12. How do international schools differ from local ones?
International schools usually teach in English, follow the British, American, or IB curriculum, and focus on multilingualism. They’re ideal for families who may relocate again or wish to maintain an international academic pathway. Local schools offer deeper cultural and linguistic integration.
13. What are typical annual costs for schooling in Spain?
Approximate yearly costs:
- Public schools: free, aside from books (€150–€400/year) and activities.
- Charter schools: €2,000–€4,000/year.
- Private/International schools: €8,000–€18,000/year depending on location and curriculum.
We help parents budget realistically based on schooling preferences and region.
14. Can we change schools after our first year in Spain?
Yes, but it depends on availability. Transfers between schools are allowed during the official enrollment period or for valid reasons (relocation, logistics, special needs). We assist families with transfer requests and updated documentation.
15. Do Spanish schools accept homeschool or hybrid programs?
Homeschooling is not formally recognized in Spain, though some families combine private schooling with extracurricular education or international online programs. We guide families to compliant schooling options that fit their educational philosophy.
16. How is special educational support managed in Spain?
Public and charter schools provide special educational support (NEE) for children with learning differences, disabilities, or giftedness. Assessments are carried out by school psychologists. We help families communicate with school authorities and access available resources.
17. What if we arrive in Spain mid-school year?
Late enrollment is accepted when families relocate. Your child will be assigned to a school with available places. We manage mid-year enrollment and coordinate with schools that welcome new international students.
18. How does Livin’España assist with school enrollment?
We provide complete coordination of your child’s enrollment, including:
- Tailored advice on school options (public, charter, private)
- Guidance through online enrollment platforms
- Assistance with documentation, translations, and sworn certifications
- Coordination with schools and local education offices
We ensure your children are legally registered and placed in suitable schools aligned with your visa and housing timeline.
19. What if I haven’t yet chosen an area to live in?
We help families combine school choice and housing search. By identifying top school zones first, we focus your home search in neighborhoods with availability, good connectivity, and family-friendly amenities.
20. When should I start preparing for school enrollment if I plan to move next year?
Ideally 3–6 months before relocation. This allows time to prepare documents, secure housing, and align visa and school deadlines. The earlier we begin, the smoother your transition will be — especially for families arriving between April and September.