The education system in Andorra is an example of a multilingual and multicultural approach, combining tradition and modern international standards. Learn about the structure of education in Andorra, costs, recent reforms in the field and the benefits of studying in Andorra for international students

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The Principality of Andorra, a small but dynamic country located between France and Spain in the Pyrenees, boasts a unique and diverse education system. Despite its small size, Andorra offers a high-quality, multilingual educational structure that reflects its cultural ties with both neighboring countries. As of 2025, the education system in Andorra continues to evolve to meet international standards while preserving local traditions. Foreign students travel to Andorra to study from various countries, including this destination that is popular with representatives of Pakistan, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Algeria, and Peru.

A detailed guide to studying in Andorra in this article.

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Structure of the Andorran education system

The Andorran education system is distinguished by the fact that it operates three parallel models of education:

- The Andorran system (in Catalan).

- The French system (in French).

- The Spanish system (in Spanish).

Families are free to choose which system their children will attend, which provides flexibility and respect for the country's trilingual heritage. Catalan remains the official language of Andorra and is actively promoted in all forms of education.

The French education system, from kindergarten to secondary school in Andorra, is an integral part of the country's history.

The general structure of school education in Andorra consists of the following stages

The Andorran education system covers children and adolescents from kindergarten to undergraduate and university.

Preschool education (Educació Maternal / Educación Infantil / École Maternelle)

- Age: 3 to 6 years

- Main focus: Early childhood development, socialization and basic communication skills.

There is at least one kindergarten in each parish: Canillo, Encamp, Ordino, La Massana, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julia de Lòria, Escaldes-Engordany.

Primary Education (Educació Primària / Educación Primaria / École Élémentaire)

- Age: 6 to 12 years

- Subjects: Language and literature, mathematics, science, art and physical education.

The primary education sector (Primera enseynça) is the first stage of compulsory schooling and admits students from the age of 6.

In the French system, this stage lasts five years, and in the Spanish and Andorran systems, it lasts six years. After completing this training, students in the Andorran system receive a certificate of education.

The number of educational centers that teach this level is 25, distributed between the three education systems.

Secondary Education (Educació Secundària Obligatòria - ESO / Educación Secundaria Obligatoria / Collège et Lycée)

- Age: 12 to 16 years

Students receive a broader academic training, often in preparation for higher education or vocational training.

The second stage completes compulsory education up to the age of 16 (15 years in the case of French education). In the case of the Andorran system, the duration is four years. In the case of the Spanish system, it consists of a four-year cycle (ESO - Educación Secundaria Obligatoria) followed by a two-year cycle (optional education - Batxillerat).

For schools operating under the French system, the "collège" lasts from 11 to 14 years. In all education systems, after completing these 4 years, students receive a certificate. For most students, if they decide to stay at school, they will study under the two-year Baxillerat (baccalauréat) system to prepare for university entrance.

Four schools offer second-cycle education: one under the Andorran system, one under the French system and two under the Spanish system.

Post-compulsory secondary education (Batxillerat / Bachillerato / Lycée Terminale)

- Age: 16 to 18

Optional, but necessary for those planning to enter university. Includes specializations in the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences and arts.

The Batxillerat is a section of formal education that prepares students for university or higher professional levels. It is open to all students who have completed the previous cycles and begins at the age of 15 or 16 (depending on the education system). In Andorra, the Baccalaureate is taught in only four schools: the Andorran School, the French Lycée, the Spanish Institute and the Sant Ermengol Secondary School.

Public Schools in Andorra

There are two public schools in Andorra where education is conducted in English. The main difference is that the English-speaking country recognizes the validation of their educational programs.

- Agora International School Andorra, located in La Massana, offers a double diploma: the Spanish Baccalaureate and the American Baccalaureate.

- The British School of Andorra is located in Andorra la Vella: the educational program is based on the British National Curriculum.

Secondary schools are located in the major cities.

After completing secondary school, the Baccalaureate (or selectividad in Spain) obtained in Andorra allows students to continue their studies at universities in France, Spain and Europe. The French School in Andorra is part of the Montpellier Academy.

Multilingual and multicultural education

In Andorra, multilingualism is a key educational goal. Students are generally fluent in Catalan, French, Spanish and often English by the time they graduate from secondary school. English language teaching has been strengthened in recent years to better prepare students for a global academic and professional environment.

The government places particular emphasis on cultural education, ensuring that students understand Andorra's history, traditions and civic responsibilities.

Higher education in Andorra

The University of Andorra (UdA) is the country's main public higher education institution. Founded in 1997, it offers bachelor's, master's and professional training programmes. As of 2025, the UdA has expanded its academic offerings, including in the following areas:

- Medicine (medical practice, telemedicine).

- Computer science and digital technologies.

- Educational sciences.

- Business administration and management.

The UdA operates within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) within the framework of the Bologna Process, ensuring the recognition of diplomas throughout Europe.

Most courses at the UdA are taught in Catalan, but many programmes include modules or electives in Spanish, French and English to meet the needs of international students.

In addition to the UdA, Andorran students often pursue higher education abroad in Spain, France or other European countries, supported by the state scholarship system.

Tuition fees at universities in Andorra

Tuition fees at the University of Andorra depend on the programme and its duration.

On average, international students must pay between 750 and 1,800 euros per semester for undergraduate programmes. Postgraduate programmes cost between 1,800 and 3,700 euros per semester.

For more detailed information on individual courses for which fees apply, please contact the relevant faculties.

Vocational education

Vocational training is highly valued in Andorra. The Centre de Formació Professional d’Aixovall provides technical and vocational education, offering diplomas in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, commerce and healthcare – sectors that are vital to the Andorran economy.

The vocational certificates comply with the European framework, making Andorran vocational qualifications valid across the continent.

Recent changes in the Andorran education system

- Digital transformation: schools have widely adopted digital learning platforms. Laptops and tablets are common, starting from lower secondary education.

- Education for sustainable development: environmental education is integrated into school curricula as Andorra strives to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

- Inclusive education: policies that promote the inclusion of students with disabilities and ensure accessibility and individual support have been strengthened.

- International cooperation: Andorra continues to build academic partnerships with institutions in Spain, France and other countries, expanding opportunities for exchange programs and joint degrees.

Why consider studying in Andorra?

1. International students will have the opportunity to become multilingual, with Catalan being the official language and commonly spoken, as well as French, Spanish and Portuguese.

2. The cost of living and university tuition fees are relatively low.

3. The triple education system offers international students the choice between the French, Spanish or Andorran education systems.

4. English-speaking students will not feel uncomfortable, as many speak English.

Andorra’s education system in 2025 is a model of multilingual, multicultural education adapted to modern needs. Whether through its strong public education capabilities, expanding university programs, or vocational training pathways, Andorra is investing significantly in the intellectual and social development of its youth, preparing them not only for local contributions but also for a globalized world.

Contact an education lawyer to get help at various stages of studying abroad, from finding the best programs to helping you prepare a complete package of documents for university admission and obtaining a visa, qualified specialists of Visit World will solve any of your questions!

Just a reminder! Studying in Europe is a great opportunity for students looking to gain a world-class education and immerse themselves in a new culture. We’ve already covered how to choose a country and program to study in, visa requirements, available scholarships and funding opportunities, living costs, and job prospects after graduating from the EU.

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