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Schools in Alicante for American families

American curriculum, IB and bilingual school options in Alicante — and how to think about timing, fees, AP/SAT pathways and admissions as a US family.

Children with backpacks walking into a Spanish school courtyard

International schools in and around Alicante teach the British, IB or American curriculum. For US families the most common picks are IB (International Baccalaureate) schools — globally recognised by US universities — and the handful of schools that teach a US-style curriculum with AP and SAT support.

Concertado schools are state-subsidised semi-private Spanish schools, often bilingual, and significantly cheaper than international schools. Many American families pick concertados once children are settled and Spanish has clicked.

Public Spanish schools are free and excellent for full integration — best for younger children who pick up Spanish quickly.

Admissions deadlines run earlier than in the US — typically March–April for September starts. Some international schools have rolling admissions, but the strongest cohorts fill early.

If your child is heading back to a US university, plan AP/SAT logistics now. Test centres exist in Alicante, Madrid and Valencia, but seats book up months ahead.

We build a school shortlist matched to your kids' ages, your area and your budget as part of the Family Relocation package.

Frequently asked questions

Are there American schools in Alicante?

There is no fully US-curriculum school inside Alicante city, but several international schools in the province offer AP courses and SAT prep alongside IB or British curricula, which is the typical pathway for US families.

When should I apply for schools in Alicante?

Apply between March and April for a September start. International schools sometimes have rolling admissions, but waiting lists for popular years fill quickly.

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