BSB - Pre-University Experience - British School of Barcelona

Sixth Form at The British School of Barcelona

The ideal bridge between school and university

The British School of Barcelona offers a pre-university programme that provides an excellent educational pathway for students to obtain the qualifications required to access the world’s leading universities. Without doubt, it is an outstanding option for studying Sixth Form in English at our campuses in Barcelona or Castelldefels.

Our international British curriculum combines academic excellence with strong personal development. We support each student so that they may discover their talent, take on new challenges and progress with confidence, preparing them to achieve exceptional outcomes and to successfully pursue any path they choose to follow.

Fill in the form and come to visit BSB to discover how our students are prepared for success at university and in life. We look forward to welcoming you!

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The Nexus Baccalaureate Experience

BSB Nexus offers a pre-university experience in which students learn to manage their time effectively, take responsibility, and initiate projects for the benefit of the entire community.

We offer two pathways to university: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and A Levels (supplemented, if necessary, with Spanish qualifications). Both are internationally recognised and respected by leading universities worldwide, yet they are very different. By offering both systems, students can choose the pathway that best suits their needs.

Baccalaureate Programme at BSB

At The British School of Barcelona, we offer two world-class qualifications that enable students to gain access to the world’s leading universities.

British Baccalaureate A Levels

On entering Year 12, BSB students can choose to follow the A level pathway.

In the majority of cases, these students will take 3 A level subjects from a choice of 16 and they will also take Spanish as a fourth A level subject.

A level students are also offered the opportunity to undertake the Extended Project Qualification, which is highly regarded by many universities.

International Baccalaureate IB Diploma

As an alternative to A Levels, BSB Pre-University students can choose to undertake the IB Diploma programme. The IB Diploma is offered at both BSB Nexus in Castelldefels and BSB City in Barcelona. Both campuses are authorised IB World Schools for the Diploma Programme. IB World Schools share a common philosophy — a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education — that we believe is important for our students.

This requires all students to do 6 different subjects, including the obligatory study of maths, two languages and a minimum of one of the sciences.

All students will complete an extended essay and they must take part in the IB Creativity, Activity, Service programme (CAS).

What can you expect to find at BSB Nexus?

Spanish Qualifications

IB and A level qualifications give our students access to Spanish universities. However, if they wish to attempt to gain up 4 extra points and, therefore, access to the very top courses in Spain, we offer specifically tailored lessons in Spanish subjects after school.

Character Development

Whether students choose the A Level or IB pathway, all lessons and activities in Nexus are designed to do more than simply provide academic excellence. Whether encouraging curiosity, developing empathy, celebrating individuality or building resilience, Nexus is all about character development in the widest possible sense.

Leadership Programme

The BSB Nexus Student Leadership programme is a key element of our wider Nexus provision and is central to our commitment to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world. Every year, students are able to apply for a place on the course, which is run by an inspirational external provider, and which focuses on giving students the confidence to lead, manage and communicate the success of their own individual projects, all of which are designed to benefit the wider community.

CAS

The Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) programme is a central element of the IB Diploma course. All students must fulfil their CAS commitment in order to be awarded a diploma and we facilitate this through a specially developed offer of activities, several of which are organised to take place in school time. CAS activities include our students helping out as language assistants in local schools or being members of our “Green Team” driving environmental awareness projects in school.

A wide range of extracurricular activities

Nexus has a fully-developed Societies programme, with students enjoying a wide range of activities from Public Speaking Skills to Magazine writing and Model United Nations.

Amongst the many other extracurricular opportunities available to them, students also have the chance to play sport for the school, including taking part in sports tours, appear in drama productions and music concerts and complete the International Award.

‘I think it is a school where we found everything we were looking for for our son's complete education. Values, academic level, a great community and concern for making a better world in every sense by instilling it in children.’

– Year 12 mother, Voice of Parent survey 2025

Outstanding achievement

Academic performance at BSB Nexus is excellent. Whether studying for A levels or the IB Diploma, results are significantly above national averages at IB and A level. In 2022 one of our students achieved full marks in the IB diploma.

Additionally, every year we have BSB students who receive certificates of Outstanding Achievement from the exam boards because they have either secured the highest mark for a certain subject across the whole of Spain or, in some cases, the whole of Europe.

Facilities & Location

BSB City Lucà Campus

From Early Years to Pre-University (3 to 18 years)

BSB Nexus

Pre-University (16 to 18 years)

FAQs

What is the difference between the International Baccalaureate and other baccalaureate programmes?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) focuses on critical thinking, global perspectives and interdisciplinary learning, while other baccalaureate programmes tend to follow a national curriculum with more defined academic pathways. At The British School of Barcelona we offer two routes for university entrance qualifications: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDO) and A Levels (supplemented with Spanish qualifications if applicable). Both are internationally recognised and respected by major universities, but differ in structure and focus. The IBDP is a holistic curriculum that encourages students to develop a wide range of skills. By offering both, students can choose the route that best suits their learning style and individual goals.

What are the main advantages of the Pre-University programme offered by BSB?

The Pre-University programme at The British School of Barcelona focuses on academic excellence while preparing students for the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. We emphasise essential skills like creativity, collaboration, and resilience to ensure students are ready for the future world of work. Offering two university entry routes—International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and A Levels (with Spanish qualifications where necessary)—both internationally recognised, we give students the flexibility to choose the path that suits them best. Our long history and progressive approach ensure that BSB offers the most ambitious and forward-thinking Pre-University programme in Barcelona, preparing students for success at school, university, and beyond.

What are the academic requirements for entry to the Pre-University programme?

To enrol in the Pre-University programme, candidates must provide evidence of having achieved five 9-4 GCSEs (or equivalent) from their previous school. Students are also required to submit past school reports and an academic reference. Additionally, candidates will need to complete an English language and Maths assessment to ensure they have the necessary skills to succeed in the Pre-University curriculum. Depending on the subject areas they wish to study, candidates may also be asked to take subject-specific exams appropriate to their year group.

Can students who complete the Pre-University at BSB gain access to international universities?

Yes, both A Levels and IB students at BSB have access to international universities, as both pathways are globally recognised and respected by leading universities worldwide. With a 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma, BSB students have gone on to study at prestigious universities in the UK, Spain, Netherlands, US, Ireland, and beyond. Last year, Pre-University students were accepted into universities such as Cambridge, Imperial College London, ESADE, UB, Complutense Madrid, Boston, and Trinity College, among others. Regular careers guidance and access to our BSB Alumni community help students make informed decisions about their future.