Choosing an international school near Bilbao: IB or British curriculum

The choice between these schools is primarily a choice of curriculum and final qualification.

The American School of Bilbao, in Berango, teaches in English from preschool and offers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum: PYP, MYP and Diploma. Choose it if continuity in IB matters. Its 2026–27 table distinguishes pupils already at ASB from new pupils entering the Diploma, so use the correct senior fee.

St. George’s British International School, in Leioa, follows the English National Curriculum from age two, leading to IGCSEs and A Levels. Choose it if the child is continuing a British year-group pathway. An older page still described an expansion ending in 2025, while the current home page describes IGCSE and A Levels. Ask admissions to confirm the subjects and examination boards available to your child’s cohort.

Both are private day schools. Neither profile provides a boarding route.

Make the costs comparable

ASB publishes 2026–27 tuition and a one-time registration contribution. A new Diploma pupil is charged a higher tuition line than a current ASB pupil. Add the application and registration stages before comparing the first year with later years.

St. George’s says tuition is paid in ten instalments and lists separate compulsory charges, but its public page does not show euro amounts. Request a dated schedule that includes admission, reservation, meals, supplies, swimming, digital resources and examination fees. A hidden price cannot be compared with ASB’s published headline.

Test language and location

Both schools teach mainly in English, but a child living in Bizkaia also encounters Spanish and Basque outside school. Ask how those languages are taught and how the school supports a beginner. If the family expects to stay, compare an ikastola or another local school as a genuine option.

Berango and Leioa are different commutes. Test each from the proposed home at school times and include after-school collection.

The Bilbao hub, Spain guide and detailed profiles provide the official source links.

Friendly orientation, not formal admissions advice. Always confirm dates with the school.