Choosing between the Andorran, Spanish and French systems is one of the most important decisions for families moving to the Principality. Schooling in Andorra: the Andorran, Spanish and French systems each provide a different language environment, curriculum and route to further education. Your choice may depend on your child’s age, current language skills, future university plans and the parish where you live.
How education is organised in Andorra
Education is compulsory during the main school years, and families can choose between three public education systems: Andorran, Spanish and French. There are also private and international options, subject to availability and their own admissions requirements. The Andorran system is managed by the Govern d’Andorra, while the Spanish and French systems are administered through their respective educational authorities.
State schools are generally the first option considered by resident families. Places are linked to the child’s age, the available capacity and, in some cases, the family’s address. Before signing a long-term rental contract in Escaldes-Engordany, Andorra la Vella, Encamp, Canillo, La Massana, Ordino, Sant Julià de Lòria or La Massana, check the likely school options and daily transport route.
The Andorran school system
Andorran schools use Catalan as the principal teaching language and place strong emphasis on the country’s culture, history and civic life. Students also study Spanish, French and English, although the balance varies by stage. This can be a good choice for families planning to remain in Andorra and integrate fully into local society.
The system includes early education, primary education and secondary education, followed by Andorran upper-secondary studies for students who want to continue towards higher education. Children who arrive with limited Catalan may need time and additional support, so ask the school or the education authorities how language integration is handled before enrolling.
The Spanish school system
Spanish schools teach mainly in Spanish and follow Spain’s educational structure. Catalan and other languages are also part of the curriculum, and students can progress through the Spanish secondary route towards Bachillerato and university applications in Spain or elsewhere.
This system may suit families coming from Spain or those who want continuity with a Spanish school record. It can also be practical for older children who already study in Spanish. Admission rules, documentation and available places should be confirmed directly with the relevant school or Spanish education office, particularly during the summer enrolment period.
The French school system
French education in Andorra follows the French national curriculum, with French as the principal language of instruction. Students normally progress through the French collège and lycée structure and can prepare for the French baccalauréat. It is often considered by French-speaking families or by parents planning future study in France.
French schooling can also be attractive for multilingual children, but families should assess whether the child can follow lessons in French from the beginning. Ask about admission year, language support, transport and the timetable before making a decision. The Lycée Comte de Foix is a well-known French educational institution in Andorra, but families should confirm current programmes and admissions directly.
Enrolment and documents to prepare
Start the process as soon as you know your likely home address. Contact the Govern d’Andorra education services and the school system you prefer, then ask the local comú about municipal procedures and practical information for your parish. Commonly requested documents can include:
- The child’s passport or identity document and birth certificate.
- Proof of residence and the family’s Andorran address.
- Previous school reports, certificates and vaccination or health records where requested.
- Residency documentation, especially if the family has recently arrived.
- Information about custody arrangements and authorised adults for collection.
Requirements can differ according to the child’s age and school system. Translate or legalise foreign documents only when the receiving authority asks for it, and keep digital and paper copies of every submission.
Budget, commuting and family administration
Public education may reduce tuition costs, but families should budget for transport, meals, materials, extracurricular activities and occasional trips. Compare the school journey with your work location: a home in Ordino or Canillo may offer a different daily commute from a home in Andorra la Vella or Sant Julià de Lòria, especially in winter.
New residents should also organise the wider household administration. Register with CASS for social security and healthcare arrangements, set up utilities with FEDA, and arrange internet and mobile services with Andorra Telecom or another provider. If you are moving under active residency, confirm that employment and residency paperwork is complete. Passive residency applicants should check how dependants and school-age children are documented. Ask an adviser about household costs and IGI, Andorra’s indirect tax, where it affects purchases and services.
Which system is best for your child?
Choose the Andorran system for local integration and Catalan-language continuity, the Spanish system for Spanish-language education and compatibility with Spain, or the French system for a French curriculum and the baccalauréat pathway. Visit schools where possible, ask about language support and compare the full journey rather than choosing solely by reputation.
For more practical relocation help, explore local businesses and services in the directory, including education support, property, transport, healthcare and family-focused providers across Andorra.
