Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Bilbao

Bilbao, Spain, is a vibrant city that has become increasingly attractive to expats and digital nomads, thanks to its rich culture, modern infrastructure, and beautiful landscapes. While not as large as cities like Madrid or Barcelona, Bilbao offers a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to the needs of expat families. Among the most popular are the American School of Bilbao and the British School of Bilbao, both known for their high-quality education and international curricula. Here is a list of international and bilingual schools in and around Bilbao that are within a 40-minute drive, providing a range of educational options for expat children.

American School of Bilbao

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Berango
Website: www.asob.es

The American School of Bilbao offers an American-style curriculum with English as the language of instruction. It serves the international community in the Greater Bilbao area, providing a comprehensive education from Pre-K through Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program for its high school students. With a wide range of extracurricular activities, state-of-the-art facilities, and a diverse student body, the American School of Bilbao is dedicated to fostering a global perspective among its students.

British School of Bilbao

Grades: Nursery through Year 13
Location(s): Laukariz
Website: www.britishschoolbilbao.com

The British School of Bilbao follows the English National Curriculum and offers education from the Nursery level up to Year 13. The school prepares students for the IGCSEs and A-Levels, which are recognized by universities worldwide. With a focus on personalized learning and a broad range of extracurricular activities, the British School of Bilbao aims to develop well-rounded individuals. The school's campus boasts modern facilities and a multicultural environment that promotes international-mindedness and academic excellence.

Deutsche Schule Bilbao (German School of Bilbao)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Zamudio
Website: www.ds-bilbao.org

The Deutsche Schule Bilbao provides a German-based education system with bilingual instruction in German and Spanish. It offers all educational stages from Kindergarten to Grade 12, culminating in the German Abitur, which allows access to universities in Germany and other countries. The school emphasizes a multicultural approach, with a variety of language courses and exchange programs. Facilities include modern classrooms, sports areas, and a library, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

French School of Bilbao (Lycée Français de Bilbao)

Grades: Maternelle (Preschool) through Terminale (Grade 12)
Location(s): Bilbao
Website: www.lfbilbao.com

The French School of Bilbao is part of the global network of French schools abroad and offers a curriculum based on the French education system. Instruction is primarily in French, with Spanish and English also part of the curriculum. The school caters to students from Maternelle to Terminale, preparing them for the French Baccalaureate. With a diverse student body and a commitment to academic rigor, the Lycée Français de Bilbao is an excellent choice for families seeking a French-language education.

Ayalde International School

Grades: Infant Education through High School
Location(s): Mungia
Website: www.ayalde.com

Ayalde International School offers a bilingual education in English and Spanish, with a Catholic ethos. The school provides a comprehensive education from Infant Education through High School, with a focus on personal development and academic excellence. Ayalde incorporates the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) and is working towards implementing the IB Diploma Programme. The school's facilities include sports fields, science labs, and art studios, supporting a broad educational experience.

Munabe International School

Grades: Infant Education through High School
Location(s): Loiu
Website: www.munabe.com

Munabe International School, a partner school to Ayalde, provides a bilingual education for boys, with a focus on personalized learning and character development. The school follows the Spanish curriculum with an enhanced English program and offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP). Munabe is equipped with modern facilities, including technology labs and sports areas, and encourages students to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities.