Schools and Education in Andorra: The Three School Systems Explained
Key Takeaways
- Andorra is the only country with three parallel free public systems: Andorran (~39%), French (~33%), Spanish (~28%).
- All public schools teach in Catalan, Spanish, English and French.
- Children commonly leave school fluent in two to four languages.
- Two fee-paying international schools: Agora (IB) and the British College of Andorra (IGCSE/A-levels).
- Younger children often thrive in a public system; older teenagers usually stay in their current curriculum.
Andorra is the only country in the world with three parallel free public school systems — Andorran, French and Spanish — and all of them teach in four languages: Catalan, Spanish, English and French. Children typically leave secondary school fluent in two to four. Families wanting an English-medium or international curriculum use one of two fee-paying schools: Agora International School and the British College of Andorra.
The three public systems
Reflecting Andorra’s position between Spain and France, the state funds three complete education systems, each free and open to residents. Roughly 39% of pupils are in the Andorran system, 33% in the French system and 28% in the Spanish system.
| System | Curriculum | Leads to |
|---|---|---|
| Andorran (Escola Andorrana) | Andorran national curriculum, Catalan-led, strongly multilingual | Andorran batxillerat; recognised for university entry in Spain, France and beyond |
| French | French national curriculum, run with the French education ministry | French baccalauréat |
| Spanish | Spanish national curriculum (secular and congregational schools) | Spanish bachillerato |
Whichever system you choose, the school teaches Catalan, Spanish, English and French; only the weighting differs. This is why children raised in Andorra are commonly trilingual or better by the time they finish school — one of the country’s genuine advantages for a relocating family.
The two international schools
- Agora International School Andorra — the oldest private school in the country. Offers the full International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP and Diploma), plus routes to the Spanish bachillerato and an American high-school diploma.
- British College of Andorra — follows the English system, preparing pupils for IGCSEs and A-levels.
Both are fee-paying. They suit families who want English as the language of instruction, a globally portable qualification, or continuity with a curriculum from home.
Choosing for a relocating family
- Younger children generally absorb the languages fast; many families put primary-age children into a public system and are glad they did.
- Older teenagers mid-way through GCSEs, the bac or the bachillerato usually do best continuing the same system — the French or Spanish public schools, or the relevant international route.
- University plans matter: the French system points naturally toward French universities, the Spanish system toward Spanish ones, the IB toward almost anywhere.
- Places in the most sought-after schools, public and private, can be tight — enquire early, ideally before you finalise which parish you live in.
Frequently asked questions
Are schools in Andorra free?
The three public systems — Andorran, French and Spanish — are free. The two international schools (Agora and the British College) charge fees.
What language are Andorran schools taught in?
All public schools teach in Catalan, Spanish, English and French, with the balance varying by system. Children typically become fluent in several languages.
Is there an English-language school in Andorra?
Yes — the British College of Andorra (IGCSE and A-levels) and Agora International School (International Baccalaureate), both fee-paying.
Which school system should an expat family choose?
It depends on the child’s age, the language you want as the medium of instruction, and university plans. Younger children often thrive in a public system; older teenagers usually stay in the curriculum they started.
Last reviewed: 3 September 2026. General information; school provision and admissions change. Speak to our team about relocating with children.
Suggested Reading
The Real Cost — and Reality — of Living in Andorra (2026)
The Best Parishes to Live in Andorra: A Guide to All Seven
Opening a Bank Account in Andorra: Requirements, Banks and Compliance
