March and April applications in Madrid and Málaga
On-Time Application
School applications in Madrid and Málaga look simple on paper.
In practice, there are points, deadlines and a series of announcements to keep track of, all in Spanish.
We help you choose the right schools for your child, arrange visits, complete and submit your application, and keep track of every date and announcement until you have a place.
This service is for families applying during the usual application period in March or April. If you’re applying outside those dates, the Late Lifeline is for you.
The On-Time Application package:
School search & selection
Paperwork and deadlines
Application on your behalf
We help you select the schools, complete and submit your application, then keep track of every date and announcement that follows.
What's included
- An initial meeting to learn more about you, your child’s needs and your priorities.
- The opportunity to ask questions about Madrid or Málaga and the schools there.
- Identifying public schools or concertados that suit your family along with any other schools of interest.
- Arranging visits to up to 6 schools on your behalf.
- Accompanying you on up to 2 open day visits or private tours.
- Supporting you through the school selection process.
- Completing the application on your behalf.
- Guiding you through every stage of the process after that. There are a lot of dates and announcements to keep track of, and we’ll make sure you don’t miss any.
Why Steps into Spain
I’m Sinéad Galvin, founder of Steps into Spain. I’ve lived in Spain for over 23 years, taught in Madrid’s public schools and been through the application process myself as a parent of three.
Since 2020, Steps into Spain has helped more than 500 families find the right school for their child.
In Málaga, families work with Nikko Hinderstein, our Málaga Partner.
Standard Pricing
950€ + IVA
(+ 100€ per additional sibling)
Not sure if this is the right service for your family? Book a free introductory call. It’s a chance for us to get to know your family and explain how we work.
This is perfect for...
- Families whose child is starting school in Spain next September.
- Families already living in Madrid or Málaga who want to change schools for next September.
- Families moving to Spain who will be here in time to apply during the usual application period.
What are the benefits of this package?
- A friendly and experienced education consultant, not a faceless form or bureaucratic site.
- Reassurance at every stage. Moving country and choosing a school is a lot, and you won’t be doing it alone.
- Clear, personalised guidance so you understand the process and avoid common mistakes.
- Honest insights on schools, based on real visits, not marketing materials.
- Support with the parts that matter most, from strategy to paperwork to keeping track of every deadline.
- Additional help with enrolment and school admin available, if you need it.
Optional Additional Support
Some families need a little more hands-on help after a school place has been offered.
200€ (second visit or extended session: 350€)
This includes:
- In person enrolment assistance – supporting you with the full enrolment process at the school (and yes, there’s a lot of paperwork).
- AMPA introduction – helping you connect with the school’s Parents Association and sign up for activities.
- Books, materials and uniforms – guidance on what to buy, where to find it, and how it all works.
Areas Supported
This service is available for families applying for a school place in Madrid or Málaga during the usual application period.
This isn’t just admin support. You’ll also have someone to lean on — I bring not only practical help, but personal insight from years of school visits and direct experience supporting families in exactly this situation.
Success Stories
You cant go wrong with Steps into Spain. Sinead is a pleasure to work with and is knowledgeable, helpful prompt and kind.
You cant go wrong with Steps into Spain. Sinead is a pleasure to work with and is knowledgeable, helpful prompt and kind.
Jocelyn Bauer
Jocelyn Bauer
Not sure where to start?
Find the best next step for your family based on where you are in the process.