What is a International Schools?
An international school offers an international curriculum and a globally minded, often multicultural community. In the US, these include schools serving expatriate and internationally mobile families, embassy/diplomatic communities, and families seeking a global education or a specific national curriculum. Common programs include the International Baccalaureate (IB), or American, British, French, German, Japanese, and other national curricula, frequently with strong language programs.
History & origins
International schools grew worldwide to serve diplomats, expatriates, and globally mobile families, and in the US they also serve communities wanting a particular national curriculum, bilingual education, or an internationally recognized program like the IB.
Philosophy & approach
International schools emphasize global-mindedness, multilingualism, intercultural understanding, and internationally portable credentials — preparing students to move between countries and to thrive in a connected world.
Curriculum & academics
Academics follow an international or specific national curriculum (IB, American, British/IGCSE/A-levels, French, and others), often with strong language instruction and bilingual programs, and credentials recognized internationally. Some blend curricula.
The classroom & school day
Communities are typically multicultural and multilingual, with students and staff from many countries, and a globally oriented culture and calendar.
Grade levels & structure
International schools span preschool through grade 12, day and (some) boarding.
Admissions & enrollment
Most are private, admitting by application; some serve specific national or expatriate communities. Tuition applies, sometimes with employer or embassy support for relocating families.
Costs & financial aid
International schools charge tuition, sometimes substantial, occasionally offset by employer relocation packages. Some public IB programs offer an international curriculum for free.
Accreditation & governance
Many hold international accreditation and/or offer accredited programs (e.g., IB). Look at the curriculum, languages, accreditation, community, and how credentials transfer to your next destination.
Is a International Schools right for your child?
An international school suits globally mobile or expatriate families, families wanting a specific national curriculum or bilingual education, or those seeking a globally minded, internationally recognized program (like the IB). It's especially valuable when a family may move between countries.
How it compares to other schools
International schools are defined by an international/national curriculum and global community. They overlap with IB schools and language-immersion schools, and differ from typical US schools by their global orientation and portable credentials.
Finding International Schools
Ready to explore specific schools? K12 Academics lists international, IB, and other schools across the country.
Key facts
- OffersInternational or specific national curriculum and a global community
- CurriculaIB, American, British, French, German, Japanese, and more
- ServesExpat, diplomatic, and globally minded families
- Often includesStrong language and bilingual programs
- CostTuition (some public IB is free)
Where to learn more
To learn more and find specific schools: