Top International Schools on the Costa del Sol (Guide for Expat Families)

As a father of two with a third child on the way, I understand how frustrating and confusing it can be to move your children to a new country and have to choose a school.

When my family and I started considering life on the Costa del Sol, one of the first things we thought about was education. International schools here offer a variety of programmes, languages and learning styles. For parents, this can quickly become overwhelming.

That’s why I did my own research and decided to share it with you.

Bear in mind that: Schools regularly update their programmes, fees and admissions criteria. I recommend contacting the schools directly. I have included links to their websites, as well as their phone numbers and locations, so you can easily get in touch or visit them.

Furthermore, you can find a custom map listing all the schools here.

Below is a list of the 27 most well-known international schools on the Costa del Sol.

1. Prior Park School Gibraltar (Near Sotogrande)

• Website: https://www.priorparkgibraltar.com/
• Phone: +350 200 62006

Prior Park School follows the British education system, preparing students for GCSEs and A-Levels. The school is renowned for its strong academic results and structured learning environment.

The school places a strong emphasis on critical thinking, leadership and university preparation. Many graduates go on to study at universities in the UK and abroad.

Located in Gibraltar, the campus is a popular option for families living in Sotogrande, Estepona, and the western Costa del Sol.

Explore homes for sale near Prior Park School Gibraltar.

2. Sotogrande International School

Website: https://www.sis.ac
Phone: +34 956 79 59 02

Sotogrande International School is one of the most respected international schools in southern Spain. It offers the full International Baccalaureate program, from early years to the IB Diploma.

The IB approach focuses on global thinking, research skills, and independent learning. This program is especially attractive for families who move internationally or want access to universities worldwide.

The campus is modern and surrounded by nature. The Sotogrande area itself is quiet, safe, and popular with international families.

Browse properties close to Sotogrande International School.

3. Atlas American School of Málaga

Website: https://atlas-asm.es/
Phone: +34 952 938 155

Atlas American School offers an American-style education system, which is less common in Spain. Students follow the American curriculum and can later continue their studies at universities in the United States or internationally.

The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which allow students to earn university-level credits while still in high school.

Located near Málaga city, the campus is modern and designed with technology-focused classrooms and creative learning spaces.

For families living in Málaga, Torremolinos, or Benalmádena, this school is a convenient option.

Find available homes near Atlas American School of Málaga.

4. The International School Estepona

Website: https://www.marbellaschool.com
Phone: +34 952 88 69 26

The International School Estepona is a smaller, family-style school, which many parents prefer for younger children.

The school follows the British curriculum and focuses on early education and primary school development.

One of the advantages of this school is the small class sizes, which allows teachers to give more personal attention to each student.

The campus is located in a quiet residential area close to the beach, making it popular with families living in Estepona and the New Golden Mile.

Search for property near The International School Estepona.

5. Saint George’s School Marbella

Website: http://www.stgeorgesmarbella.es/
Phone: +34-952 786 606

Saint George’s School Marbella follows the British National Curriculum, preparing students for IGCSE and A-Levels.

The school focuses on academic development, language learning, and extracurricular activities such as sports and arts.

Marbella is one of the most international areas on the Costa del Sol. Because of that, the school attracts families from many different countries.

Students benefit from a multicultural environment while also learning Spanish as part of their education.

Discover homes close to Saint George’s School Marbella.

6. Laude San Pedro International College

Website: https://www.laudesanpedro.com
Phone: +34 952 799 900

Laude San Pedro International College offers a dual education pathway. Students can follow the British curriculum while also integrating Spanish education programs.

This approach allows students to graduate with either British qualifications or the Spanish Bachillerato, depending on their future plans.

The school is known for its strong language education. Students study English, Spanish, and often additional languages, helping international children adapt quickly.

Located in San Pedro de Alcántara, the school is convenient for families living in Marbella, Nueva Andalucía, Benahavís, and Estepona.

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7. The British International School of Marbella

Website: https://www.bsm.org.es/
Phone: +34 952 77 92 64

The British International School of Marbella is a modern school that follows the British National Curriculum from early years through secondary education.

Students prepare for IGCSE examinations and A-Levels, which are widely recognized by universities around the world.

The campus includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, and sports facilities. Learning often combines traditional teaching with project-based learning and technology integration.

Because of its location, the school is popular with families living in Marbella, Elviria, and the eastern Marbella area.

Find family homes near The British International School of Marbella.

8. The British School of Málaga

Website: https://www.britishschoolmalaga.com
Phone: +34 952 290 149

The British School of Málaga is one of the longest-established British schools on the Costa del Sol.

Students follow the British National Curriculum, progressing toward IGCSE and A-Level qualifications.

The school focuses strongly on academic development, language skills, and extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and arts.

Located in the eastern area of Málaga, the school is convenient for families living in Málaga city, Rincón de la Victoria, and nearby coastal areas.

See properties available near The British School of Málaga.

9. Aloha College Marbella

Website: https://www.aloha-college.com
Phone: +34 95 281 41 33

Aloha College is one of the most recognized international schools in Marbella and has students from over 50 nationalities.

The school follows the British curriculum in earlier years, leading to IGCSE exams. Students then continue with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

The IB program focuses on research, critical thinking, and global awareness, making it ideal for families who expect their children to study abroad.

The campus is located in Nueva Andalucía, a residential area known for golf courses, villas, and international residents.

Explore property options near Aloha College Marbella.

10. St. Anthony’s College

Website: http://www.stanthonyscollege.com/
Phone: +34 952 47 31 66

St. Anthony’s College is a well-established British international school located between Fuengirola and Mijas Costa. The school follows the British curriculum and prepares students for IGCSE and A-Level examinations.

Students come from many nationalities, creating a diverse international environment. Spanish language and culture are also integrated into the program.

The campus is close to several residential areas popular with international families along the coast.

Browse homes close to St. Anthony’s College.

11. The Ark Christian School

Website: https://thearkchristianschool.org/
Phone: +34 952 588 255

The Ark Christian School offers a faith-based international education. The curriculum combines academic learning with Christian values.

Students follow an international program in English while also learning Spanish. The school focuses on character development, community values, and personal responsibility.

Many families choose the school for its supportive environment and smaller class sizes.

Search for homes near The Ark Christian School.

12. The British College of Benalmádena

Website: http://www.thebritishcollege.com/
Phone: +34 952 56 10 11

The British College of Benalmádena follows the British National Curriculum from early years to secondary education.

Students prepare for internationally recognized qualifications that allow them to continue their studies in the UK or other countries.

The school is located in Benalmádena, a coastal town between Málaga and Fuengirola that is very popular with international residents.

Find properties available near The British College of Benalmádena.

13. Benalmádena International College

Website: https://www.benalmadenainternationalcollege.com/
Phone: +34 952 561 666

Benalmádena International College offers an international educational approach with a bilingual environment in English and Spanish.

The school focuses on academic development together with creativity, sports, and social skills.

Because of its central location on the Costa del Sol, the school attracts students from many different countries.

View homes for sale near Benalmádena International College.

14. Novaschool Benalmádena

Website: https://www.novaschool.es
Phone: +34 952 972 311

Novaschool Benalmádena is part of the Novaschool education group, which operates several bilingual schools in southern Spain.

The school follows the Spanish national curriculum while teaching many subjects in English.

This bilingual approach helps students integrate into Spanish education while maintaining strong English skills.

Discover properties close to Novaschool Benalmádena.

15. Torrequebrada International School

Website: https://www.colegiotorrequebrada.com/
Phone: +34 952 57 60 65

Torrequebrada International School provides a bilingual education combining international and Spanish learning approaches.

Students study in both English and Spanish and benefit from a multicultural learning environment.

The school is located near the Torrequebrada area of Benalmádena, close to residential neighborhoods and the coast.

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16. Norsk Skole Málaga

Website: https://www.dnsmalaga.com/
Phone: +34 952 577 380

Norsk Skole Málaga offers education following the Norwegian national curriculum.

The school mainly serves Norwegian families living on the Costa del Sol but also welcomes international students.

Students learn in Norwegian while also studying Spanish and English, helping them integrate into the local environment.

Browse property listings near Norsk Skole Málaga.

17. Sunny View School

Website: https://www.sunnyviewschool.com
Phone: +34 952 38 31 64

Sunny View School is a long-established international school in Torremolinos.

The school focuses on a balanced approach between academic learning, creativity, and extracurricular activities.

Students learn in English while also developing Spanish language skills.

Find homes close to Sunny View School.

18. Colegio Miramar

Website: https://colegiomiramar.com/
Phone: +34 952 38 43 47

Colegio Miramar is a bilingual private school located in Torremolinos.

The school follows the Spanish curriculum but offers a strong bilingual program in English.

Many international families choose this school because it offers good academic standards while also integrating children into Spanish culture.

Explore properties near Colegio Miramar.

19. El Romeral School

Website: https://attendis.com/colegios-malaga/el-romeral/
Phone: +34 952 07 03 70

El Romeral School is a bilingual school in Málaga offering the International Baccalaureate continuum together with the Spanish curriculum.

Students develop strong academic and language skills while preparing for international higher education.

The school offers education from early childhood through secondary school.

See available homes near El Romeral School.

20. El Pinar College

Website: https://www.colegioelpinar.com/
Phone: +34 952 413 731

El Pinar College offers a bilingual education combining the Spanish curriculum with international language programs.

Students learn Spanish and English from an early age, with additional foreign language options in later years.

The school focuses on academic development together with sports and cultural activities.

Browse homes for sale near El Pinar College.

21. The English International College

Website: https://www.eicmarbella.org
Phone: +34 952 831 058

The English International College in Marbella offers a British-style international curriculum for primary and secondary students.

Classes are taught in English while students also learn Spanish and other languages.

The school has a strong reputation among international families living in Marbella and nearby areas.

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22. Phoenix College Málaga

Website: https://phoenixcollegemalaga.com/
Phone: +34 952 220 275

Phoenix College Málaga specializes in A-Level education for students aged 16–18.

The college focuses on preparing students for UK universities and international higher education.

Students receive personalized academic support and university preparation guidance.

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23. Sunland International School

Website: https://sunland.novaschool.es/
Phone: +34 952 42 42 53

Sunland International School offers an international curriculum in a bilingual learning environment.

Students learn in English while developing Spanish language skills and cultural knowledge.

The school focuses on modern education methods, technology, and personal development.

Discover property options near Sunland International School.

24. Universidad Europea de Andalucía

Website: https://universidadeuropea.com
Phone: +34 952 00 68 01

Universidad Europea de Andalucía is a private university offering official Spanish and international degree programs.

The university focuses on areas such as business, health sciences, engineering, sports, and architecture. Many programs are available in English or bilingual formats.

Students benefit from a modern campus and practical education that includes internships and partnerships with international companies.

Because of its location in Málaga, the university attracts students from across Spain and internationally.

Explore homes near Universidad Europea de Andalucía.

25. Marbella International University Centre

Website: https://miuc.org
Phone: +34 952 860 000

Marbella International University Centre (MIUC) is a private English-speaking university located in Marbella.

The university offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees mainly in business, marketing, politics, and international relations.

Classes are small and taught in English, creating a highly international environment with students from many different countries.

The campus is located close to Marbella city and provides modern facilities with sea views.

Find properties close to Marbella International University Centre.

26. The American College in Spain

Website: https://www.americancollegespain.com/
Phone: +34 952 763 593

The American College in Spain follows the American education system and prepares students for universities in the United States.

Students can complete an American high school diploma and also begin university-level studies through transfer programs.

This approach allows students to start their higher education in Spain and later continue their degree at partner universities in the US.

The college is located in Marbella and attracts international students from many countries.

Search homes available near The American College in Spain.

27. Les Roches Marbella – Global Hospitality Education

Website: https://lesroches.edu
Phone: +34 952 764 145

Les Roches Marbella is one of the world’s most prestigious hospitality and hotel management schools.

The institution follows the Swiss hospitality education system, known for combining academic learning with practical industry training.

Students study hospitality management, luxury tourism, and international business while completing internships in leading hotels and resorts around the world.

Because of its strong reputation, graduates often work in global hotel groups, luxury brands, and international tourism companies.

Browse homes near Les Roches Marbella