NIE
Key Document
Padrón
Proof of Address
March – May
Enrolment Window
Solicitud de plaza
Application Form
Documents You Need to Enrol
To apply for a school place in Spain, you typically visit the school in person with the following documents. Requirements vary slightly by school and region, so always confirm with the school directly.
- Passport or national ID (parent and child) — original and copy
- Child's birth certificate — translated and apostilled if issued abroad
- Padrón municipal — certificate of registration at your local town hall
- NIE or TIE residency card of the parent
- Child's vaccination record — up to date, some schools require it stamped
- Previous school records — translated into Spanish if needed
The Application Process Step by Step
Spanish school enrolment follows a clear process, especially for public and concertado schools.
- 1. Get your NIE and register on the padrón at your town hall
- 2. Gather and translate the required documents
- 3. Identify schools in your catchment area (public schools prioritise local pupils)
- 4. Visit the school in person during the enrolment window (usually March–May)
- 5. Submit the solicitud de plaza (application form) and keep a stamped copy
- 6. If no place is available, join the waiting list and apply to alternatives
Key Deadlines & Late Arrivals
Timing matters — but late arrivals are still accommodated.
- Main enrolment window: March–May for the following September
- Places are allocated by points (proximity, siblings, family income)
- If you arrive mid-year, contact the school or regional education department (Consejería de Educación)
- Concertado and private schools often have rolling admissions
- Always submit more than one school preference
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to apply for a school in Spain?
You generally need: your passport or ID, your child's birth certificate (translated and apostilled if from abroad), your padrón certificate, your NIE or TIE, your child's vaccination record, and previous school records translated into Spanish.
Do I need a NIE to enrol my child in a Spanish school?
Yes. The parent's NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) or TIE residency card is required as part of the enrolment paperwork, along with proof of address (the padrón).
When can I apply for a school place in Spain?
The main enrolment window for public and concertado schools is typically March to May for a September start. Private and international schools often accept applications year-round, subject to availability.
Can my child start school mid-year if we arrive in Spain later?
Yes. If you arrive after the enrolment window, contact the school directly or your regional education department (Consejería de Educación), who will help find an available place, often at a nearby school.
Is the vaccination record mandatory for school enrolment?
An up-to-date vaccination record is usually requested. Some schools require it officially stamped by a Spanish doctor. Requirements vary by school and region, so confirm with the school directly.