Schools in Andorra: Andorran, French, Spanish and private systems
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The short answer
Andorra offers several school pathways: the Andorran system, the French system (including the Lycée Comte de Foix), the Spanish system and private schools. The choice depends on language, the child's background and the family's plans.
Comparing the pathways
| Pathway | Main language | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Andorran system | Catalan | Families settling long term who want to integrate into the country |
| French system | French | Families who want continuity of the French curriculum |
| Spanish system | Spanish | Spanish-speaking families |
| Private schools | Depends on the school | Specific needs, international programmes |
How to choose
- The child's age: language bridges are easier at a young age.
- Long-term plans: higher education in France, Spain or Andorra?
- Place of living: the school influences the parish. See which parish to choose.
- Timing: plan the enrolment at the same time as the residency application.
Three public systems coexist
The Andorran education system, the French system and the Spanish system make up the country's school network. The Andorran school depends on the Ministry of Education and follows Andorran curricula, with Catalan as the main language, Spanish and French also being languages of instruction. The French system follows the curricula of the Ministry of National Education and teaches in French. The Spanish system includes Spanish schools and government-funded religious-order schools that come academically under the Spanish system.
Compulsory schooling
Education is free and compulsory from 6 yearsverified on 12/10/2026 to 16 yearsverified on 12/10/2026. In the Andorran school, nursery education takes children aged 3 to 6, primary education runs from 6 to 12 and secondary education from 12 to 16. The law organising the education system dates from 2018 (Llei 17/2018).
How to choose
| Criterion | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Length of stay | Are you staying long? The Andorran school eases local integration and learning Catalan |
| Return to France | The French system ensures continuity of the curriculum and qualifications |
| Language | Does the child speak French, Spanish, Catalan? |
| Age | Language bridges are easier for the youngest |
The steps
Enrol the child before the move as soon as the residency status is known, and check with the school the available places and the documents to provide (health record, school reports, residence permit). See moving as a family and family reunification.
To be confirmed
The ages and structure come from public texts and guides: confirm them with the Ministry of Education and the school.
Work out your own case
Free simulators, built on the official values of this page.
Frequently asked questions
Can French children follow the French curriculum?
Yes: a French school pathway exists in Andorra. Admission conditions and capacity should be checked with the schools.
What language will be taught?
In the Andorran system, Catalan is the main language alongside Spanish, French and English. The French system teaches in French, with Catalan as a modern language.
When should children be enrolled?
As soon as possible, as places are limited at some levels. Enrolment often depends on residency status.
Do private schools charge fees?
Yes. Ask each school for its fee schedule.
Going further
Official sources
This information is general and is not personalised legal, tax or financial advice. It is verified as of the date shown and may change.