Why Choose ASB?

We believe in your uniqueness

At ASB, every student is known personally, supported academically, and prepared for an international future. As the only IB Continuum school in Northern Spain with over a decade of Diploma Programme excellence, we provide a personalized environment where diversity is embraced, and critical thinking is nurtured.

PRIMARY YEARS

Curiosity starts here

  • Inquiry-led learning: Nurturing natural curiosity from age 2.
  • Strong foundations: A focus on English fluency and emotional wellbeing.
  • Safe & Nurturing: A diverse environment where every child reaches their potential.

MIDDLE YEARS

Learning that connects to life

  • Critical thinking: Moving beyond textbooks to solve real-world challenges.
  • Academic excellence: Clear pathways in English and international languages.
  • Core skills: Building confidence, communication, and collaboration.

DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

Prepared for what comes next

  • Proven expertise: 10+ years of successful IB Diploma delivery.
  • Global reach: Rigorous preparation for top universities worldwide.
  • Future-ready: Developing independent, resilient, and open-minded leaders.

Discover whether ASB is the right school for your child

Choosing a school is an important decision. Our Admissions Team will support you every step of the way so you can make it with confidence.

    Interested School Year*:

    Relevant Information

    Educational Offer

    The American School of Bilbao is the only school in Northern Spain offering the full International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum, from Early Years to Grade 12. With over a decade of experience delivering the IB Diploma Programme, ASB provides a stable and well-established academic pathway recognized by universities worldwide.
    Our Academic Pathway
    • Early Years (from age 2)
       A nurturing introduction to inquiry-based learning in a safe and supportive environment.
    • Primary Years Programme (PYP | Ages 3–11)
       Focused on developing the whole child and fostering a lifelong love of learning.
    • Middle Years Programme (MYP | Ages 11–16)
       A challenging framework that connects classroom learning with real-world contexts and develops critical thinking skills.
    • Diploma Programme (DP | Ages 16–18)
       A rigorous pre-university programme with proven results, preparing students for higher education in Spain and internationally.
    The school follows an academic calendar aligned with international standards and local holidays. Daily schedules vary by division and are shared with families prior to the start of the academic year. 
    For further details on subjects and curriculum, please visit the Academics section of our website.

    School Services

    Transportation
    The American School of Bilbao offers a school transportation service covering key areas of Bilbao and the surrounding region. Routes and stops are reviewed annually based on demand.
     Availability and routes are subject to minimum numbers and will be confirmed prior to the start of the academic year. 
    Dining Service
    The school provides a daily on-campus dining service, with meals cooked each day at the school using fresh ingredients. Menus follow nutritional guidelines and are tailored to different age groups.
     Special dietary requirements and food allergies are accommodated upon request and coordinated directly with families.
    Menu January 2026
    After School Activities
    ASB offers a range of optional after-school activities, including sports, arts, and enrichment programmes. Activities vary by age group and term and are designed to complement the academic experience.
    Language Support
    English is the main language of instruction at ASB. In Middle School, language learning is differentiated through Language Acquisition and Language and Literature courses, allowing students to follow an appropriate pathway based on their level of English.
     Language development is supported through differentiated classroom instruction within the regular academic programme.
    University Guidance
    ASB supports students in their transition to higher education through structured university guidance. Graduates pursue higher education in Spain and internationally, supported by academic advising during the final years of schooling. Links to University Acceptances and College Counseling
    Communication with Families
    The school maintains regular communication with families through official school platforms, meetings, and periodic reports. Families are encouraged to engage actively with the school community.

    Admissions Criteria & Policy

    ASB evaluates applicants holistically, considering academic background, English proficiency, and overall readiness to thrive in an international learning environment.
    • Early Years (Ages 2–5)
      No formal testing. Admission is based on a suitability assessment.
    • Primary School (Grades 1–5)
      Evaluation is based on previous school reports and internal assessments in English and Mathematics.
    • Upper School (Grades 6–10)
      Students are expected to demonstrate a solid academic foundation and readiness for an English-language curriculum.
    • IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12)
      Admission is based on academic performance, English proficiency, and commitment to the demands of the programme.
    ASB maintains capped class sizes to ensure personalized attention and a strong sense of community. Class sizes are carefully managed across all divisions to support effective teaching and meaningful teacher-student interaction.
    Subject to availability, priority may be given to siblings of current students, returning ASB families, students from IB or international schools, and children of alumni.
    More details in our Admissions Policy.

    Anual fees

    You can download the fees for the 2025-2026 academic year at this link. We will soon update this section with the new fees for 2026-2027.
    Logo pdf Fees_English 2025-26