A Region That Attracts International Families
The Costa del Sol has long been known for its sunshine, beaches, and lifestyle, but over the past two decades it has also become one of Spain’s most important hubs for international education. Families relocating from the UK, Scandinavia, Germany, the Middle East, and increasingly from the United States are not only looking for climate and quality of life, but also for strong academic options for their children.
From Málaga to Marbella and Estepona, the region offers a wide range of private and international schools following British, Spanish, International Baccalaureate (IB), and other global curricula. While public schools in Spain can be strong, most expatriate families choose private institutions due to language preferences and curriculum continuity.
This guide focuses on some of the most recognized and established private and international schools in the Costa del Sol as of 2026, including academic quality, reputation, approximate pricing, and distinguishing characteristics.
Aloha College Marbella
Located in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella, Aloha College is one of the most established international schools on the Costa del Sol. Founded in 1982, it follows the British curriculum and also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
Aloha College consistently ranks among the top-performing international schools in southern Spain. IB Diploma results frequently exceed the global average, and graduates regularly move on to universities in the UK, Spain, Europe, and North America. The school has a strong academic reputation and a diverse student body representing over 50 nationalities.
Facilities include modern science labs, sports courts, music and art studios, and a large campus environment. Extracurricular activities are extensive, ranging from debate and robotics to football and performing arts.
Annual tuition fees in 2026 range approximately from €8,000 in early years to around €18,000–€20,000 for secondary and IB levels, depending on year group. Additional costs apply for registration, materials, meals, and transport.
Aloha College is widely regarded as academically rigorous, internationally focused, and socially inclusive, making it one of the strongest premium options in the Marbella area.
The British School of Málaga
The British School of Málaga, located in Cerrado de Calderón in Málaga city, offers a traditional British education from early years through to A-Levels. Established in 2000, it has built a strong academic reputation in the region.
The school follows the English National Curriculum, preparing students for GCSE and A-Level examinations. Results are consistently solid, with high percentages of A*-B grades and strong university placement records, particularly in the UK and Spain.
The atmosphere is described as academically focused but nurturing. Class sizes are relatively moderate compared to larger international schools, which appeals to families seeking a structured but supportive environment.
Fees in 2026 range roughly between €6,000 and €15,000 per year depending on age group. Compared to Marbella-based international schools, it can be slightly more affordable while still offering strong academic standards.
For families based in Málaga city who want a British curriculum with a proven academic track record, this school remains one of the most respected choices.
Marbella International University Centre (MIUC)
Although technically a university rather than a primary or secondary school, Marbella International University Centre deserves mention due to its growing reputation among international families with older children.
MIUC offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees taught entirely in English, with programs in business, international relations, marketing, and politics. The university emphasizes small class sizes, international faculty, and personalized academic guidance.
Tuition fees in 2026 range approximately from €18,000 to €24,000 per year depending on the program. While it is not a school for younger students, it forms part of the broader educational ecosystem of the Costa del Sol and reflects the region’s growing international academic appeal.
The British International School of Marbella (BISM)
Often referred to simply as the British International School of Marbella, this institution has gained attention for its modern facilities and British curriculum combined with a global perspective.
The school follows the English National Curriculum and prepares students for IGCSE and A-Level qualifications. Facilities are contemporary, and the campus environment is sleek and purpose-built.
Fees in 2026 generally range from €10,000 to €18,000 per year. The school positions itself as academically ambitious with a focus on future-oriented education, including technology integration and leadership development.
It is considered a strong alternative to Aloha College for families prioritizing modern infrastructure and structured British academic pathways.
Las Chapas School (Colegio Las Chapas)
Located in Marbella East, Colegio Las Chapas is one of the oldest private schools in the area. Founded in 1982, it offers Spanish and bilingual education from early years through Bachillerato.
Unlike strictly British schools, Las Chapas follows the Spanish national curriculum but incorporates strong English language instruction. It is particularly popular among Spanish and bilingual families seeking a private education within the Spanish system.
Academic results in the Spanish university entrance exams are generally solid, and the school emphasizes values-based education, discipline, and community.
Fees in 2026 range roughly from €5,000 to €9,000 per year, making it more affordable than many fully international institutions.
Las Chapas appeals to families who want integration into Spanish academic life while maintaining a private-school structure.
ECOS School (Escuela Concertada Bilingüe Ecos)
ECOS is a bilingual private school in Marbella that follows the Spanish curriculum with a strong English component. It is known for a family-oriented environment and smaller class sizes.
The school covers early years through secondary education. While it does not offer IB or A-Levels, it prepares students for Spanish Bachillerato and university entrance exams.
Fees are generally more moderate than fully international schools, averaging between €4,000 and €8,000 annually depending on the stage.
ECOS is often chosen by families who value a more intimate academic setting and Spanish integration while still prioritizing English language proficiency.
English International College (EIC), Elviria Marbella
English International College, commonly known as EIC, is located in Elviria, Marbella, and is one of the best-known British international schools on the Costa del Sol. It follows the English National Curriculum and typically prepares students for internationally recognised qualifications such as IGCSEs and A-Levels, making it a strong option for families who want continuity with the UK system while living in Spain.
EIC has built a reputation for a structured academic approach combined with strong pastoral care. Families often choose it for its supportive environment, clear educational pathway, and its location in Marbella East, which makes it convenient for families living in Elviria, Las Chapas, Cabopino, and the wider Marbella area. The school’s international community is another major draw, with students from many nationalities studying together in English while also having Spanish as part of school life, helping children integrate locally without losing academic consistency.
In terms of costs, EIC sits in the mid-to-premium range for the region. For 2026, families should expect annual fees broadly in the region of €8,000 to €18,000, depending on year group and additional services. As with most private schools, there are usually extra costs for registration, uniforms, transport, meals, and certain activities. Overall, EIC is a solid choice if you’re looking for a British-style education in Marbella, especially for families prioritising IGCSE and A-Level pathways and a well-established school community.
Colegio San José (Estepona and Guadalmina)
Colegio San José operates campuses in Estepona and Guadalmina (San Pedro/Marbella area). It is a bilingual private school following the Spanish curriculum with strong English instruction.
The school is part of the Atalaya group and is known for solid academic performance in Spain’s university entrance exams. It provides education from early years through Bachillerato and vocational pathways.
Fees are competitive relative to international schools, generally between €4,000 and €8,000 annually depending on level.
San José is a popular option among Spanish families and expatriates seeking bilingual immersion within the Spanish academic system.
Sotogrande International School
Although technically located just beyond the traditional Costa del Sol boundary in Cádiz province, Sotogrande International School attracts many families living in western Estepona and Manilva.
The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) from primary through Diploma Programme and has a strong global reputation. IB results frequently exceed world averages, and university placement is international in scope.
Boarding options are available, which distinguishes it from most Costa del Sol schools.
Tuition fees in 2026 range from approximately €10,000 to €23,000 per year, with boarding significantly higher.
For families seeking a full IB pathway and global academic recognition, Sotogrande International School is considered one of southern Spain’s top-tier institutions.
Quality, Ratings, and What Really Matters
While formal “ratings” in Spain differ from UK Ofsted-style inspections, most of the major international schools undergo accreditation by British or international bodies. Aloha College, for example, is accredited by the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS). IB schools are evaluated by the International Baccalaureate Organization.
Academic quality often correlates with university placement statistics and IB or A-Level results. However, parents relocating to the Costa del Sol frequently emphasize other factors as equally important: language integration, class size, community atmosphere, extracurricular opportunities, and commute time.
Pricing generally reflects curriculum type and facilities. Fully British or IB international schools typically range between €10,000 and €20,000 annually at secondary level. Spanish bilingual private schools are often between €4,000 and €9,000. Premium boarding or elite institutions can exceed €20,000.
Choosing the Right School on the Costa del Sol
Selecting a school on the Costa del Sol depends heavily on long-term family plans. Families intending to return to the UK often choose British curriculum schools for continuity. Those planning permanent residence in Spain may opt for bilingual Spanish institutions to facilitate integration and university access.
Location also matters significantly. Daily traffic between Estepona and Málaga can be substantial, so proximity should factor into decisions. Visiting campuses, meeting leadership teams, and speaking to other parents remain the most reliable ways to assess cultural fit.
Conclusion: A Strong Educational Landscape in Southern Spain
The Costa del Sol has evolved into a region with serious educational depth. From established British institutions like Aloha College and the British School of Málaga, to bilingual Spanish schools like Las Chapas, ECOS, and San José, families have access to diverse, high-quality options.
Academic standards are competitive by international comparison, facilities are modern, and the multicultural environment reflects the global nature of the region itself.
For families considering relocation, education is no longer a compromise when choosing the Costa del Sol. It has become one of the region’s strongest assets — combining international standards with Mediterranean quality of life.
