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International Schools in Bilbao, Spain

Edited by · Chief Marketing Officer

About international schools in Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao’s international-school scene sits inside the bilingual Basque Country education ecosystem, so you will find a mix of Basque-medium “ikastola” schools alongside British, American, French and International Baccalaureate (IB) options that explicitly teach in English, Spanish or a combination of languages. Directory listings and school websites show that curricula on offer commonly include the Spanish national programme (often with strong Basque and English strands), the IB, English National/IGCSE routes and a smaller number of American and French programmes. Annual tuition reported by school directories for the area ranges broadly - roughly from around €3,000 at some local/traditional schools up to about €12,000 - €14,000 at higher-fee IB or American campuses - with extra costs for registration, transport and language support. Most schools operate to a September intake, and competitive year groups often fill many months in advance, so relocating families usually begin enquiries and registration six to twelve months before the planned start; when comparing schools check language of instruction, transport options, and whether qualifications are homologated for Spanish university entry.

Compare 5 international schools in Bilbao, Spain. Filter by curriculum, fees (average EUR 6,490), location, and more to find the right international school now.

At a glance 5 schools · avg fee EUR 8,113
Schools listed
5
Curricula
12
Average annual fee
EUR 8,113
Fee range
EUR 4,300 – 14,520
Most common curriculum
American Curriculum (2 schools)
Average school size
556 pupils
Largest by enrolment
Lycée Français de Bilbao
Oldest
Deutsche Schule Bilbao (1917)
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American (2) IB (1) British (1) French (1) German (1)
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FAQs for Spain

What curricula and qualifications are offered by international schools in Bilbao?
Schools in the Bilbao area typically offer a mix: the International Baccalaureate (PYP/MYP/DP) appears alongside British pathways (English National Curriculum, IGCSEs and A-levels), American-style programmes, the French curriculum and the Spanish national curriculum delivered in bilingual or trilingual models. Some local “ikastola” schools teach primarily through Basque while adding Spanish and English, and several schools advertise dual or bilingual diploma routes.
How much should we expect to pay for international schooling in Bilbao?
Published fee guides for Bilbao show a wide spread depending on curriculum, campus and age: directory estimates run from roughly €3,000 a year at some lower-fee local schools up to around €12,000 - €14,000 at established IB or American schools, with many schools in the mid range of about €4,000 - €10,000. Remember to budget separately for registration or enrolment fees, school meals, transport, uniforms and any extra-language classes.
When should we start the admissions process if we are relocating?
Most international and bilingual schools in Spain follow a September intake, and popular entry years (early years, the start of secondary and sixth form) commonly have waiting lists, so families often begin enquiries and registration six to twelve months before arrival. Admissions processes vary by school - some operate rolling admissions, others publish fixed application windows and may require assessments or interviews - so contact the admissions office early to request timelines and required documentation.
What languages will my child be taught in, and how quickly can they pick up Spanish or Basque?
Language of instruction depends on the school: many international schools teach primarily in English while offering Spanish (and sometimes Basque) lessons, whereas ikastolas use Basque as a primary medium and add Spanish and English as part of a trilingual programme. Schools commonly offer newcomer language support and immersion pathways to help pupils settle; ask each school for their approach to language acquisition and examples of support for non-Spanish or non-Basque speakers.
Will an IB or foreign diploma let my child access Spanish universities?
Some schools advertise IB or international diplomas that are homologated or convalidated for Spanish university entry, but procedures and outcomes depend on the specific qualification and whether the school handles the homologation process for each student. Families wanting Spanish university access should ask schools for written details about homologation/convalidation and check requirements with the Spanish Ministry of Education or the university admissions service before enrolment.