Start with the curriculum
If your stay is temporary or your children are mid-way through a British, American, French, German or IB programme, keep the same system.
International schools in Madrid
Choosing a school in Madrid: a practical guide for international families
Madrid has more than fifty international and bilingual schools, most of them in two belts: the north (La Moraleja, Alcobendas, Conde de Orgaz, Montecarmelo) and the west (Pozuelo, Aravaca, Majadahonda). Choose the school first: it decides where the family should live.
Main international schools in the Madrid area
Curriculum and location as published by each school or by independent guides; always confirm places and fees directly with the school.
What it costs
Madrid is more expensive than Valencia: premium British and American schools charge up to twice as much.
On top of tuition: a one-off enrolment fee of €1,500–4,000 (up to €4,500–9,000 at premium schools); lunch €1,300–1,800 a year; bus €1,500–2,300 a year; IB Diploma exams €1,500–2,100.
Annual ranges published by iSchoolAdvisor for 2026; each school sets its own fees.
How to choose, and when to apply
Apply early
The main window runs from November to January, with assessments from February to April and place confirmation in May–June for September. Popular year groups have waiting lists.
Then choose the area
La Moraleja, Alcobendas, Sanchinarro and Conde de Orgaz for the northern schools; Pozuelo, Aravaca, Majadahonda and Las Rozas for the west. School bus routes also reach the centre.
Madrid neighbourhood guide →Visit with us
Amparo arranges visits to two or three shortlisted schools and follows up applications and enrolment.
Relocation in Madrid →Relocating an employee? Our HR guide to international schools in Madrid covers timing, school support in the package and who pays.
Need a school place in Madrid?
Tell us your children's ages and curriculum; we will suggest a shortlist and the right areas.