One of the first questions for families considering relocating to Andorra is how their children will be educated. The good news is that Andorra has one of the most unique and comprehensive education systems in Europe: three parallel school systems operating simultaneously across the country, all of high quality and entirely free for residents of the Principality. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the best school for your children.
The Three School Systems in Andorra
Andorra is unique in Europe: it offers three school systems operating side by side across the entire territory, each with its own programmes, qualifications and languages of instruction. Families can freely choose the system best suited to their children, and switching systems is possible during the school years.
1. The Andorran System
The Andorran system is run by the Ministeri d’Educació d’Andorra. Teaching is in Catalan (Andorra’s official language), with French and Spanish as compulsory languages from primary school, and English from secondary level. Students sit the Batxillerat Andorrà at the end of secondary, a diploma recognised by universities across Europe. This system is ideal for families seeking maximum integration into Andorran society and full mastery of Catalan.
2. The French System (CAEE)
The French system is managed by the French Consulate and follows exactly the same curriculum as the French national education system. Teaching is in French, with Spanish and Catalan as compulsory languages. Students sit the French Brevet and Baccalauréat, recognised worldwide. This is the most popular choice for French expat families as it ensures perfect continuity with the French school system. Class sizes are typically 15-20 students, significantly smaller than in metropolitan France.
3. The Spanish System (SECE)
The Spanish system is run by the Spanish Ministry of Education and follows the Spanish national curriculum, teaching in Spanish with Catalan as a compulsory language. Students sit the Spanish Selectividad (university entrance exam), opening doors to Spanish and Latin American universities. Ideal for Spanish-speaking families or those whose children plan to study in Spain or Latin America.
Education from Nursery to University
Early Years (Ages 0-3)
Andorran nurseries (llar d’infants) are government-subsidised. Monthly fees range from €150 to €400 depending on income. Enrolment for public nurseries is handled directly through the Ministeri d’Educació.
Primary Education (Ages 3-12)
School is compulsory from age 6, with nursery from age 3. All three systems offer 6-year primary programmes covering languages, maths, science, arts and physical education. Transitions between systems at this level are relatively straightforward.
Secondary Education (Ages 12-18)
Secondary lasts 6 years across all three systems. Students graduating from Andorran secondary typically master 4 languages (Catalan, French, Spanish, English) — a remarkable competitive advantage in the global job market. Small class sizes and high teaching standards make Andorran secondary education genuinely exceptional.
Higher Education
Andorra has its own university: the Universitat d’Andorra (UdA), offering programmes in health sciences, management, IT and law. Most students pursue specialised higher education at French universities (Toulouse, Perpignan, Montpellier), Spanish universities (Barcelona, Lleida) or internationally, with their Andorran secondary diplomas fully recognised across Europe under the Bologna Process.
Practical Information for School Enrolment
- Which system to choose: French system for French families wanting educational continuity; Andorran system for maximum local integration; Spanish system for Spanish-speaking families.
- Enrolment timeline: Applications typically open between March and May for the September intake. Contact the school as soon as your residency permit is obtained.
- Documents required: family record book, vaccination booklet, last school reports, parents’ Andorran residence permit, passport photos.
- School transport: Free or heavily subsidised school buses serve all parishes. The network is well-organised and reliable.
- School meals: Available at all schools, with quality meals at a modest cost (approximately €5-8 per meal).
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning to relocate to Andorra with your family? Discover our complete guide to Andorra residency and our personalised expatriation support services.