From Barcelona to the World: Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders
The American School of Barcelona is a non-profit international school located just outside of Barcelona, Spain.
With around 960 students from 60 countries, ASB stands apart for its truly multicultural environment and its commitment to developing well-rounded, globally minded graduates.
We offer a holistic American curriculum for students from preschool through High School, with multiple graduation pathways to meet the goals and aspirations of every student. These include the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP), the International Baccalaureate Career-related Program (IBCP), and the US High School Diploma.
Beyond academics, students have comprehensive opportunities in sports, performing and fine arts, public speaking, and leadership.
As an accredited international school, ASB upholds the highest standards of academic excellence and continuous improvement. Our experienced faculty are dedicated to inspiring future leaders and change-makers, united by a shared commitment to innovation and lifelong learning.
We take pride in our warm and welcoming community of students, staff, and parents. Our alumni form lifelong connections with their peers and teachers, and know that they always have a home at ASB.
Accreditations and Memberships
ASB is a member of and collaborates with various academic, athletic, and networking associations.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower pre-school through 12th grade students to become global citizens with the critical thinking skills and the self-confidence to maximize their potential.
Our Vision
The American School of Barcelona inspires students to lead with integrity, to be open-minded, and to make the world a better place.
Building a Legacy of Excellence: ASB Through the Decades
The American School of Barcelona was founded in 1962 by Dr. José María Poal, a Barcelona-born physician who, after spending numerous years practicing medicine in the United States, was inspired by the educational experience of his own children. His vision was to create an English-language American school in Barcelona.
ASB opened its doors in October 1962 in the Pedralbes neighborhood with 100 students from Kindergarten through Grade 5. It marked the beginning of a journey that would evolve into the internationally recognized school we know today.
As enrollment continued to grow, ASB sought a new location to accommodate its expanding student body and programs. Early in the decade, the school rented a second building in Pedralbes on La Font del Lleó Street to provide additional space. However, the goal was to unite all students - nearly 450 by the end of the 1970s - on one campus. A new site was secured in Esplugues de Llobregat, and construction began on what would become ASB's permanent home.
By the end of the following decade, all students previously spread across two campuses were reunited under one roof.
The 1980s marked a period of expansion in academic and extracurricular programming. New initiatives, including service trips and international conferences, helped students develop global awareness and intercultural skills. ASB's Model United Nations club, founded during this decade, embodied the school's mission to prepare students to thoughtfully engage with the wider world.
With enrollment again on the rise, ASB expanded its facilities with a major addition to the original Esplugues building, and the new cafeteria quickly became the heart of school life.
The decade also marked an important milestone in ASB's development. The school earned its first accreditation from the Middle States Association in the United States and received official recognition from the Generalitat of Catalunya. These achievements solidified ASB's reputation as a school of academic rigor and international standing.
The new millennium ushered in a renewed sense of global awareness and community spirit at ASB. Students and staff came together to create a colorful mosaic at the school's entrance, symbolizing ASB's values of creativity, collaboration, and international-mindedness.
In 2007, ASB took a major step forward in academic excellence and global education by becoming an authorized school of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.
ASB celebrated its 50th anniversary and entered a new era of growth. Construction began on a state-of-the-art Early Childhood Center and Elementary School building, followed by a new Middle School, gymnasium-auditorium, and an outdoor amphitheater for performances and community gatherings. These additions reflected ASB’s commitment to creating inspiring learning spaces for every student.
Sixty years after its founding, ASB marked this milestone with a joyful celebration that brought students, faculty, alumni, and families from around the world. The event honored the decades of shared memories and achievements while looking ahead to the school's bright future.
Today, at nearly 1000 students strong, ASB continues to expand and innovate, with new construction plans underway to meet the evolving needs of a community that remains at the forefront of international education.
Values That Define Us
Joyful
Joyful
We celebrate the joy of learning, fostering a positive environment where curiosity, enthusiasm, and achievements are shared and cherished.
Resilient
Resilient
We build perseverance and a growth mindset, empowering our students to face challenges with determination and emerge stronger.
Rigorous
Rigorous
We are committed to high standards of learning, challenging ourselves to grow intellectually, and striving for excellence in all we do.
Innovative
Innovative
We embrace creativity and forward-thinking, encouraging students and staff to explore new ideas, solve problems, and adapt to a changing world.
Caring
Caring
We foster a supportive and inclusive community where empathy, kindness, and respect guide our interactions and relationships.
Learn More About ASB
Admissions Process
Rigorous Academics
Inclusive Community
