Moving to Spain: Finding a School

Public: These schools are publicly owned and run by the different Autonomous Communities. They are free.

State-subsidised private: Private schools that are subsidised by the Autonomous Communities to provide compulsory education free of charge. Some charge small amounts for teaching materials, clothing, etc.

Private: Privately-owned establishments whose cost depends on many factors, such as the enrolment fee, whether services are included, or not, eg. transport, school meals, special classes, sports, facilities, etc. The minimum cost is around €200 per month, while the maximum depends on the services agreed and the type of school, and may total more than €500.

Timetables

These may be full or part-time, depending on the educational level studied and the school chosen. A continuous day of teaching, without any breaks, usually runs from 9.00 to 14.00, leaving the afternoons free. If the day is split, the classes end at lunch time, for example from 9.00 to 12:30 and then from 15.00 to 17.00. Most primary education establishments split their teaching day, with small time variations, while secondary schools usually teach over a continuous day.

Enrolment period

Applications for compulsory schooling open in the months of March and April. There is a special period in September. However, applications for compulsory education are accepted throughout the school year if there is a good reason for changing schools.

School calendar

There may be variations between the different Autonomous Communities, but starting dates are in mid-September and finishing dates are in June, with holidays at Christmas, Easter and in the summer.

Last updated 02/08

Source: European Union
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Reproduction is authorised.