Boarding Schools in Spain: What Every Family Should Know

Choosing a boarding school is one of the most important decisions a family can make — especially when moving to a new country. At Smooth Move – International Education Consultancy, we guide international families through every step of the process, ensuring their child finds not just a school, but a second home.

Below, we answer some of the most common questions parents ask when considering boarding schools in Spain.

What types of boarding schools are available in Spain?

Spain offers a wide range of boarding options, including British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) schools, as well as bilingual and Spanish curriculum schools. Each has its own strengths, and we help families identify the best match based on their child’s academic profile, personality, and long-term goals.

What age is best to start boarding?

Most students begin boarding between the ages of 12 and 16, though some schools offer junior boarding programs for younger children. The right time depends on your child’s maturity and readiness — something we explore together in our initial consultation.

How much do boarding schools in Spain cost?

Tuition and boarding fees generally range between €35,000 and €50,000 per year, depending on the school, location, and boarding facilities. We provide families with detailed, transparent comparisons so you can understand what’s included — from tuition and accommodation to meals, uniforms, and extracurriculars.

Can we visit schools before deciding?

Yes, and we highly recommend it. However, if your family cannot travel due to distance or scheduling, we visit the schools on your behalf. We provide comprehensive reports, photos, and personal impressions to help you make the best-informed decision.

How do we support families through the process?

We manage the entire journey — from understanding your child’s needs to shortlisting schools, handling applications, preparing for interviews, and coordinating visits. Even after placement, we remain available for ongoing support and communication with the school, ensuring your child’s well-being and your peace of mind.

When should families start the process?

We recommend starting 6–12 months before your desired enrolment date. This allows time to research, apply, and secure a place at your top-choice schools.

For non-EU families, additional time is needed for the student visa process. Once a school place is confirmed, you’ll need to submit your child’s acceptance letter, proof of financial means, health insurance, and other basic documents to the nearest Spanish consulate.

At Smooth Move - International Education Consultancy, we guide families through these legal steps and liaise directly with the school to ensure a smooth and compliant transition to life and study in Spain.

Why should my child choose Spain for a boarding experience?

Spain offers an exceptional balance of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and quality of life. Boarding students benefit from internationally recognized curricula — British, American, or IB — delivered in a safe and supportive environment.

Beyond academics, Spain provides a vibrant cultural setting, a mild Mediterranean climate, and a strong sense of community that helps international students feel at home from day one. It’s also an ideal opportunity for students to learn or improve their Spanish, one of the most widely spoken languages in the world — a lifelong skill that can open doors academically, professionally, and culturally.

In Spain, students don’t just attend school — they grow, explore, and build the confidence and independence to succeed anywhere in the world.