Españaula Blog: Your Guide to Schools & Education in Málaga & the Costa del Sol

One of the most common points of confusion for families relocating to Spain is when and how to apply to school—especially when comparing public, concertado, and private options.

While the academic year begins in September, enrollment timelines of course start much earlier—and the steps you’ll need to take depend on the type of school you’re applying to. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

Public and Concertado Schools: One Central Timeline (March–May)

Public and concertado schools follow the same regional admissions process—in Andalucía, this typically takes place from early March to mid-May. It’s a standardized application system run by the Junta de Andalucía.

Key steps include:

• Submitting your school preferences list in March
• Providing proof of your home address (padrón) to determine your catchment zone
• Waiting for provisional and final placement results (during April and May)

📌 Important note:
To complete this application, you must be registered on the padrón (local census register) or at the very least, provide proof that you’ve submitted your padrón paperwork.
Many schools will accept your application as long as you’ve started the padrón process—receipt of submission often works, though this isn’t universal, and for highly sought-after schools that have more applicants that spots, you may not receive points for the zone until you have the actual padrón.

Private Schools: Flexible, Independent Admissions

Private schools operate outside the public timeline. Each school manages its own admissions and may accept applications on a rolling basis, starting as early as January or even the previous fall.

Things to know:

• You don’t need to be registered on the padrón to apply
• You can typically apply before arriving in Spain, making this a practical choice for families still abroad
• Many schools require an interview, and possibly a trial visit or assessment
• Spaces may fill quickly—especially in popular international or bilingual schools

While private schools are more flexible, they do not guarantee placement in the same way the public system does—so it’s important to start early and stay in close contact with admissions staff.

Applying Outside the Standard Timeline: What to Expect

Not all families land in Spain with perfect timing—and that’s okay. If you’re relocating after the March–May enrollment period, or still finalizing your documents in the summer, here’s what you need to know.

After the main public/concertado application window closes in mid-May, any new applications are considered “escolarización extraordinaria.” This means:

• You’ll apply through the local education delegation office (Delegación Territorial de Educación), though some schools will work directly with families if they have openings.
• Placement depends on available space first, though if there are multiple options, then preference is taken into account.
• It can take weeks to receive a response, especially in July and September.

August: Expect a Full Pause

August is a dead month for school administration, and most everything, in Spain. If you arrive during the summer, expect:

• No communication or updates until September.
• Potential delays in confirming placement or completing registration.

🎯 Pro tip: If you’re still waiting on housing paperwork (like a rental contract for your padrón) be prepared to wait until the first Monday in September to begin the enrollment process.

Waiting on Housing or a Long-Term Rental?

Many families can’t register on the padrón—or apply for public schools—until they’ve secured a long-term lease. If this is your situation:

• Private schools will still accept your application while you’re in temporary housing or abroad
• Concertado/public schools will ask for proof you’ve at least started the padrón process, so book your appointment and gather paperwork early
• If you’re still looking for housing in summer, expect slower responses from landlords and limited availability

Which Should You Apply to First?

If you’re still weighing options or don’t have your residency paperwork complete yet, some families who want to end up in public school choose to:

• Start by applying to private schools for peace of mind and flexibility.
• Then submit a public/concertado application once their padrón and paperwork are in order.

This dual-track approach gives you a backup plan and more control over your child’s school placement.

Need Help Navigating the Process?

At Españaula, we help families understand school options, prepare paperwork, and submit on time—whether you’re applying from abroad or already in Spain.

Join our Facebook group to connect with other families and ask questions, or contact us directly for one-on-one support.