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Marbella International Colleges List & Details 2025/2026
Marbella, the dazzling crown of Spain’s Costa del Sol, is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle—think golden beaches, sprawling villas, and a jet-set ambiance.
Yet, beneath this opulent surface lies a less-celebrated treasure: a collection of international private colleges that redefine educational excellence.
These Marbella International Colleges guide cater to discerning families seeking a world-class education that prepares their children for global success, blending prestigious curriculums, state-of-the-art facilities, and exclusive extracurriculars.
List of Best Marbella International Colleges Updated 2025
- Aloha College Marbella
- Swans International School
- English International College (EIC)
- Colegio San José (Guadalmina)
- Laude San Pedro International College
- Colegio Alborán (Holistic Education)
- Les Roches Marbella (Higher Education)
- Deutsche Schule Málaga – Juan Hoffman (Higher Education)
- Marbella International University Centre (MIUC) (Higher Education)
- The American College in Spain (ACS) (Higher Education)
- Schellhammer Business School (Higher Education)
From British traditions to multilingual innovation, this ultimate guide to Marbella International Colleges unveils the finest options, including a nod to specialized institutions like Les Roches Marbella and other top-tier schools.
Whether you’re an expatriate or a local elite, discover the pinnacle of luxury education in Marbella.
Aloha College Marbella: A Legacy of British Brilliance
Nestled in the lush hills of Nueva Andalucía, Aloha College Marbella has been a cornerstone of international education since 1982.
Under the visionary leadership of Headteacher Francisco Escobar, this non-profit foundation welcomes over 900 students aged 3-18 from more than 50 nationalities.
The college masterfully integrates the British curriculum—culminating in IGCSEs and A-Levels—with the globally revered International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, ensuring graduates secure spots at elite universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Stanford.
Its state-of-the-art campus, spanning 30,000 square meters, features a FIFA-approved sports pitch, cutting-edge science laboratories, and a professional-grade theater, reflecting its commitment to both academics and the arts.
Bilingual education in English and Spanish fosters cultural fluency, while extracurriculars like golf, equestrian training, and a vibrant music program cultivate well-rounded leaders.
Aloha’s small class sizes and exceptional pastoral care ensure personalized attention, making it a top pick for families seeking a luxury education in Marbella.
Its consistent reinvestment into facilities underscores its dedication to excellence, evident in its stellar academic results.
- Director: Francisco Escobar
- Link: https://www.aloha-college.com/
- Address: Urbanización El Ángel, s/n, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
- Phone: +34952 81 41 33
We recommend that you apply early and allow enough time for the admissions procedure. Places are limited and waiting lists will be in place whenever a year group is full. Most new students will start in September with the start of the school year, however, we will consider admissions during the year, as long as we are sure the students will be able to access the curriculum and adapt to the new school with ease.
Mercedes Colmenar
Head of Admissions
Swans International School Marbella: Timeless Elegance, Global Vision
With a heritage spanning over five decades, Swans International School radiates educational sophistication across its dual campuses: primary in the chic El Capricho on the Golden Mile, and secondary in the exclusive Sierra Blanca.
Led by Principal Sean Skehan, Swans educates students aged 3-18, seamlessly blending the British curriculum with the IB Diploma and Singapore-inspired teaching methodologies known for their academic rigor.
Its multilingual program is a standout, offering English, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and French, preparing students for a globalized future.
The facilities—pristine sports fields, dedicated art studios, and modern classrooms—rival those of private clubs, while the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award fosters leadership and resilience.
Swans’ intimate student-to-teacher ratio ensures tailored support, and its picturesque Sierra Blanca campus, nestled among luxury villas, mirrors Marbella’s elite lifestyle.
Known for exceptional IGCSE and A-Level results, Swans consistently sends graduates to top universities, cementing its status as a jewel in Marbella’s international education scene.
- Director: Sean Skehan
- Link: https://www.swansschoolinternational.es/
- Address: C. Lago de los Cisnes, s/n, Nagüeles, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
- Phone: +34952 90 27 55
Swans Frequently Asked Questions
What curriculum does Swans follow?
We follow the British educational system, meaning that in Years 10 and 11, students at Swans undertake GCSE or IGCSE courses. The three examination boards used at Swans are Cambridge (CIE), AQA and Edexcel.
Our Sixth Form students undertake the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. We opted for this course over other further education qualifications (such as UK A-levels) due to its international outlook and the fact that it is now widely regarded as the most respected qualification by top universities, as well as the best preparation for future life.
Are the teachers native English speakers?
Yes, all teachers for our core subjects are native English speakers.
However, our Spanish department is staffed entirely by native, bilingual Spanish teachers and each of our modern languages has a teacher of the corresponding nationality.
Do the children also study Spanish?
Yes, all children study the subjects required by the Ministry of Education of the Junta de Andalucía for the teaching of Spanish Language and Culture.
In order to accommodate the different levels of Spanish of our students, we offer three possibilities:
- Primaria (for students with a native level)
- Primaria Adaptada (for students with a high level of Spanish but who need to improve their understanding and expression, whilst adapting to the Spanish work and evaluation system)
- SFL (for students who need to acquire basic knowledge of the language).
Experience the magic for yourself.
We warmly invite prospective families for personalised tours of Swans School. Please simply contact the admissions department to book a suitable time. Read our testimonials.
Why Swans?
We have now celebrated our 50th anniversary.
Over the years, our school has flourished with continual improvements and additions to our facilities. Our teachers are trained in the latest international educational techniques and our exam results compete with the world’s best.
Whilst our aim has always been to provide an excellent learning environment, we also place great importance on the emotional support that is equally essential if our children are to be successful in their life beyond education.
Click to learn more.
What time does school start/ finish?
Our primary school children are expected to be in their classrooms at 9:00am. The gates open at 8:40am. The school day finishes at 4:00pm. Our secondary school students are expected to be in registration at 8:45am and the school day finishes at 04:10pm. Extracurricular activities run from 4:15pm until 5:00pm.
Are there extracurricular activities?
The school offers a range of after-school activities which generally run for forty five minutes (from 4.15pm to 5.00pm), between October and June each year. Activities may include sports, drama, arts and study support. Click for more information on our enrichment activities
How many hours of Spanish study are there per week?
Our Early Years classes have 5 hours of Spanish lessons allocated in their timetable. From Reception onwards there are approximately 7 hours of Spanish classes each week, varying slightly in the secondary school depending upon the student’s level.
From Year 1 there are also individual Spanish reading times.
Each Early Years and Reception class also has a spanish teaching assistant who encourages more exposure to the Spanish language throughout the day.
How are parents involved with the school?
We organise many celebratory and cultural events throughout the year so parents can enjoy the achievements of their children and their peers.
We like to work in partnership with our parents to ensure that our children have consistent expectations and rewards. We suggest that parents help to support our learning environment by adhering to a routine in the home, reinforcing the value of a smart appearance, encouraging reading in the home and monitoring the use of social media.
What is the food policy/ lunchtime catering?
We have a strict healthy eating policy.
All food provided is freshly prepared in the on-site school kitchen. A vegetarian alternative is always available. Students with specific dietary requirements or food allergies are also always catered for and our menu is nut free. Fresh milk or filtered water is available to drink.
Students are expected to demonstrate good table manners, using their cutlery in an appropriate way and clearing their own place at the end of each meal.
English International College Marbella (EIC): Pioneering Modernity
In the tranquil Elviria district, the English International College (EIC), established in 1982, thrives under the guidance of Headteacher Lindsay Walker.
Serving approximately 450 students aged 3-18, EIC follows the British National Curriculum, enriched with cutting-edge innovations like virtual reality, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence in its classrooms.
The campus boasts an Olympic-sized pool, professional-grade sports facilities, and expansive green spaces, ensuring students excel both academically and physically.
The curriculum includes English, Spanish, and Mandarin, reflecting a forward-thinking global perspective, while a maximum of 20 students per class guarantees individualized attention.
EIC’s graduates frequently secure places at Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard, a testament to its rigorous preparation for GCSE and A-Level exams.
Beyond academics, EIC emphasizes cultural enrichment through music, drama, and international trips, fostering inquisitive, confident learners in a nurturing environment—a perfect fit for tech-savvy families seeking a luxury education in Marbella.
- Director: Lindsay Walker
- Link: https://www.eicmarbella.org/
- Address: Carr. de Cadiz, Km. 189, 5 (A7, 29604 Málaga
- Phone: +34952 83 10 58
Admissions is now open for the 2025/2026 academic year. Please be aware that there can be a waiting period of up to 10 days for tour appointments.
We recognize the importance of choosing the right school for your family and we are here to help. Please take the time to read through the Admissions pages to familiarise yourself with the admissions process, but don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions.
Colegio San José (Guadalmina): Heritage Meets Innovation
Ranked among Spain’s top 50 private schools by Forbes, Colegio San José in Guadalmina is a bilingual powerhouse led by Director Jesús Torres.
Catering to students from infancy to 18, this institution blends Spanish and English education with a forward-looking STREAMING methodology (Science, Technology, Radio, Engineering, Arts, Maths), preparing students for the IB Diploma and Spanish Selectividad.
Its sprawling campus features an Olympic pool, tennis courts, a renowned football academy, and a Professional Conservatory of Music, showcasing its commitment to holistic development.
Additional languages like French and German enhance its global appeal, while extracurriculars such as robotics, chess, and theater cultivate creativity and critical thinking.
Located near Marbella’s luxury estates, San José combines nearly two centuries of educational tradition with modern innovation, appealing to families who value both heritage and progress.
Its serene setting and focus on human values make it a standout choice for a premier international college.
- Director: Jesús Torres
- Link: https://www.colegiosanjose.net/
- Address: Urbanización Guadalmina, S/N, 29678 San Pedro Alcántara, Málaga
- Phone: +34952 88 38 58
Laude San Pedro International College: A Multicultural Masterpiece
Situated in the vibrant San Pedro Alcántara, Laude San Pedro International College, led by Headteacher Tom Hollins, has been a beacon of bilingual education since 2004.
Serving students aged 3-18, it offers both the British curriculum (culminating in GCSEs and A-Levels) and the Spanish curriculum (ESO and Selectividad), providing flexibility for university pathways worldwide.
Its multilingual program at Marbella International Colleges includes English, Spanish, German, and Chinese, complemented by a robust music curriculum featuring violin and piano.
The campus boasts advanced laboratories, a theater, and expansive sports zones, fostering a holistic approach to learning.
As part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), Laude facilitates cultural exchanges, enriching students’ global perspectives.
Extracurriculars like robotics, cheerleading, and environmental clubs cater to diverse interests, while its above-average exam results highlight academic excellence.
Set near Puerto Banús, Laude is a magnet for cosmopolitan families seeking a luxury education in Marbella.
- Director: Tom Hollins
- Link: https://www.laudesanpedro.com/
- Address: Urbanización Nueva Alcántara, Av. de le Coruña, 2, 29670 San Pedro Alcántara, Málaga
- Phone: +34952799900
Colegio Alborán Marbella: Nature’s Classroom, Luxury’s Standard
In the peaceful Elviria hills, Colegio Alborán, under Director José Luis Domínguez, offers a bilingual education (Spanish-English) enveloped by nature.
Serving students from infancy to 18, its unique campus features equestrian stables, a swimming pool, and a farm-school, blending academic rigor with outdoor exploration.
The curriculum includes robotics, 3D design, and Cambridge English certifications, preparing students for a tech-driven future, while activities like paddle tennis and horseback riding enhance physical development.
Alborán’s serene setting, surrounded by greenery, provides a tranquil yet luxurious backdrop, appealing to families prioritizing a holistic education.
Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and its focus on emotional and intellectual growth produces well-rounded graduates.
With a strong community ethos, Alborán stands out as a premier international college that harmonizes nature and nurture in Marbella’s elite educational landscape.
- Director: José Luis Domínguez
- Link: https://colegioalboran.es/
- Address: Lugar Urbanización Ricmar, s/n, 29604 Marbella, Málaga
- Phone: +34952 83 96 45
Les Roches Marbella University: A Specialized Elite Institution
Unlike traditional K-12 schools, Les Roches Marbella is a world-renowned institution focused on hospitality management education, catering to post-secondary students aged 18 and up.
Under the leadership of CEO Carlos Díez de la Lastra, it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in luxury hospitality, blending practical training with academic excellence.
Located in Marbella, its campus mirrors a five-star hotel, featuring training kitchens, mock hotel rooms, and a business incubator—ideal for students eyeing careers in luxury tourism.
While it doesn’t fit the K-12 mold of the other colleges, its inclusion reflects Marbella’s broad spectrum of elite education, attracting an international cohort from over 60 countries.
Les Roches graduates join top brands like Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton, making it a standout for families considering specialized higher education within Marbella’s luxurious orbit.
- Director: Carlos Díez de la Lastra
- Link: https://lesroches.edu/campuses/marbella/
- Address: Carr. Istán, Km. 1, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
- Phone: +34952 76 41 45
Deutsche Schule Málaga – Juan Hoffman: German Excellence in Marbella
Situated in Elviria, the Deutsche Schule Málaga – Juan Hoffman brings German educational excellence to Marbella’s international scene.
Directed by Headteacher Wolfgang Gerlach (based on recent affiliations), this prestigious school serves students aged 3-18, following the German curriculum with qualifications like the Abitur, recognized globally for university entry.
Its multilingual approach includes German, Spanish, and English, ensuring cultural integration while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
The campus features modern classrooms, sports facilities, and science labs, fostering a balanced education.
Recognized as an “Excellent German School Abroad” in 2008, it emphasizes STEM and arts, with extracurriculars like orchestra and debate clubs.
Ideal for German-speaking families or those seeking a European alternative to British systems, it adds diversity to Marbella’s luxury education offerings.
- Director: Wolfgang Gerlach
- Link: https://www.dsmalaga.com/
- Address: Urbanización Elviria, C. Velazquez, 3, 29612 Ojén, Málaga
- Phone: +34951 04 15 20
High Schools & Universities in Marbella 2025
Below is a list of universities in Marbella, Spain, along with descriptions based on available information and general knowledge about educational institutions in the area. Note that Marbella is a relatively small city, and its higher education options are limited compared to larger cities like Madrid or Barcelona. The list focuses on prominent institutions explicitly associated with Marbella.
Marbella International University Centre (MIUC)
- Description: Located in the heart of Marbella on the Costa del Sol, MIUC is a private, international university offering English-taught programs accredited by both the Bologna system and the University of West London (UK).
Established following a public contest by the Marbella Council in November 2012, MIUC provides bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as international business, marketing, international relations, and media.
The university emphasizes a global perspective, small class sizes, and cutting-edge technology, including multimedia classrooms and access to over 7,000 scientific journals via its digital library. With 95% of its students being international (representing 45 nationalities), MIUC offers a vibrant, multicultural environment.
Its campus features modern facilities like a media lab, tennis court, and swimming pool, and it benefits from Marbella’s sunny climate (320 days of sunshine annually). Extracurricular activities, including sports and cultural outings, are facilitated through the MIUC Social Club. - Focus: Career-oriented education with a strong international outlook.
Les Roches Global Hospitality Education (Marbella Campus)
- Description: Les Roches is a world-renowned institution specializing in hospitality management, with its Marbella campus established as a hub for international students pursuing careers in this field.
Founded in Switzerland in 1954, the Marbella branch offers undergraduate and graduate programs in hospitality, tourism, and luxury management.
The campus is modern and spacious, featuring on-site student residences with options for single, double, or triple rooms, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms and study areas.
Students enjoy free access to the nearby Manolo Santana Racquets Club, which includes tennis courts, a gym, and a pool.
With over 80 nationalities represented, Les Roches Marbella fosters a diverse community and provides practical training alongside academic study. Its location allows students to engage with Marbella’s tourism-driven economy, offering real-world exposure to the hospitality industry.
- Focus: Hospitality and tourism management with a global reputation.
The American College in Spain (ACS)
- Description: The American College in Spain, based in Marbella since 2013, is the first institution in Andalusia to offer a U.S.-style education system.
ACS provides a high school program (grades 9–12) and the first two years of university-level studies, after which students can transfer to accredited American universities in the U.S. or elsewhere to complete their degrees.
The curriculum emphasizes small class sizes, fostering close student-teacher relationships and personalized learning. ACS caters primarily to students aiming to pursue higher education in the United States, offering a practical and flexible pathway.
The college highlights its location in Marbella as an added benefit, combining a high-quality education with a desirable lifestyle.
- Focus: American high school and early university education with transfer options.
- Link: https://www.americancollegespain.com/
- Address: Urb. la Alzambra, 1-1, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
- Phone: +34952 76 35 93
Schellhammer Business School (Formerly Marbella University)
- Description: Founded in 2009 as Marbella University, Schellhammer Business School is a private institution located in a privileged area of Marbella.
It offers programs in business and related fields, with a focus on preparing students for future challenges in the global economy.
The school provides a sophisticated curriculum that blends academic learning with practical skills, aiming to develop well-rounded professionals.
Programs include diplomas, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, often with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and leadership.
Schellhammer prides itself on its intimate learning environment and its location in southern Spain, which offers students a high quality of life alongside their studies.
- Focus: Business education with an emphasis on future-oriented skills.
- Link: https://www.schellhammerbusinessschool.com/
- Address: The San Roque Club, C. Mesilla del Diente, Centro Comercial, 11360 San Roque, Cádiz
- Phone: +34952 90 78 92
Additional Notes:
- Marbella Design Academy: While not a traditional university, this state-recognized academy offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in interior architecture, graphic design, and fashion design. It’s considered one of Europe’s leading design schools and attracts international students to Marbella, though it operates more as a specialized institute than a comprehensive university.
- Limited Scope: Marbella does not host large public universities like those in Málaga (e.g., University of Málaga), which is 60 km away. Most institutions in Marbella are private, internationally focused, and cater to specific fields like business, hospitality, or design.
Comparative Table: A Snapshot of Marbella Elite Education
MARBELLA EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
Premier Schools and Universities in Spain’s Mediterranean Paradise
Aloha College
Swans International
English International
Colegio San José
Laude San Pedro
Colegio Alborán
Les Roches Marbella
Deutsche Schule
Marbella International University Centre
The American College in Spain (ACS)
Schellhammer Business School
Video: International Colleges in Marbella 3D Tour
MARBELLA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGES
Addressing Parents’ Most Pressing Questions
Selecting the Right Curriculum
The British curriculum (Aloha, Swans, EIC, Laude) excels for anglophone universities, while the IB (Aloha, Swans, San José) offers global flexibility.
Spanish-English bilingual options (San José, Alborán, Laude) balance local and international paths, and the German Abitur (Deutsche Schule) suits European aspirations.
Language Focus
Exceptional language programs are a hallmark of Marbella’s international colleges. Most prioritize English and Spanish fluency, with additional offerings:
• Swans and Laude add Chinese and German
• EIC offers Mandarin programs
• San José includes French
• Deutsche Schule emphasizes German fluency
World-Class Facilities
Marbella’s international colleges boast resort-quality facilities including:
• FIFA-standard football pitches at Aloha
• Equestrian stables at Alborán
• Hotel-style training facilities at Les Roches
• Olympic swimming pools at EIC and San José
• Professional theaters and performance spaces
Extracurricular Excellence
Colleges offer robust extracurricular programs tailored to student interests:
• Golf programs integrated at Aloha
• Equestrian pursuits at Alborán
• Hospitality training at Les Roches
• Duke of Edinburgh Award at Swans
• Comprehensive arts, sports, and STEM activities
Admissions Process
The admissions process is selective and competitive, typically involving:
• Formal applications with family background information
• Student and parent interviews
• Academic assessments and placement tests
• Previous school records evaluation
Early contact is essential due to high demand and limited spots at most institutions.
Investment in Education
Annual fees reflect the premium educational experience offered:
• K-12 programs range from €8,000 to €20,000 annually
• Additional costs may include enrollment fees, materials, uniforms, and meal plans
• Les Roches’ higher education programs start higher, reflecting their specialized hospitality focus
A Legacy of Excellence to Marbella International Colleges
Marbella International Colleges are more than schools—they’re gateways to greatness, forging leaders in an environment of luxury and learning.
From Aloha’s British polish to Les Roches’ hospitality mastery and Deutsche Schule’s German rigor, each offers a unique path to success.
For families seeking the extraordinary, Marbella International Colleges delivers a world-class education wrapped in the elegance of the Costa del Sol.
Before making any purchase decisions, take a look at what makes Marbella luxury villas so sought-after.
I hope this article has been useful to you in providing a comprehensive overview of Marbella International Colleges.
While you think about your children’s college you could choose your Modern Villa in Marbella to life.
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