How to Enroll Your Children in School in Andorra

Enrolling your child in a public school in Andorra can be a complex process, especially for expats who are unfamiliar with the system. It requires a certain amount of paperwork and understanding of the local language, Catalan. However, with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a smooth and straightforward process. This guide will provide you with the necessary steps to enroll your child in a public school in Andorra, ensuring that you have all the necessary documents and information at hand.

1. Residency Status: Before you can enroll your child in a public school in Andorra, you need to establish your residency status. This involves obtaining a residency permit, which can be done through the Department of Immigration. You will need to provide proof of your address in Andorra, your passport, and other relevant documents.
2. Choose a School: Once your residency status is established, you can start looking for a suitable school for your child. Public schools in Andorra are free and are divided into three levels: infant education (ages 3-6), primary education (ages 6-12), and secondary education (ages 12-16). You can visit the schools in person or check their websites to get a feel for the environment and curriculum.
3. Application: After choosing a school, you will need to fill out an application form. This can usually be obtained from the school's administrative office or downloaded from their website. The form will ask for basic information about your child, such as their name, date of birth, and previous education.
4. Documents: Along with the application form, you will need to submit several documents. These include your child's birth certificate, your residency permit, a certificate of your child's previous education (if applicable), and a health certificate. All documents must be translated into Catalan or Spanish.
5. Submission: Once you have filled out the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit them to the school's administrative office. It's recommended to do this in person so you can ask any questions and make sure everything is in order.
6. Acceptance: After submitting your application, you will have to wait for the school to process it. This can take a few weeks. Once your child is accepted, you will receive a letter of acceptance from the school. This will include information about the start date, school hours, and any necessary supplies.
7. Registration: The final step is to register your child at the school. This involves going to the school in person and providing any additional information they may need. Once this is done, your child will be officially enrolled in the school and can start attending classes.