For families, the school often decides the neighbourhood, and sometimes the city. Start the search as soon as a move looks likely: the best-known international schools have waiting lists, and admissions can take weeks even when there is space.
The main options
- International Baccalaureate (IB). Offered from age 3 to 19 in three programmes (PYP, MYP and the Diploma), taught in English and sometimes bilingually. The IB Diploma is recognised by universities worldwide and is easy to continue if you move again.
- British curriculum. Early Years Foundation Stage, then the English National Curriculum to IGCSE at 16 and A levels at 18. Familiar to UK universities and widely accepted elsewhere.
- American curriculum. A US high school diploma, often with Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Suits families heading back to North America.
- French and German schools abroad. Networks of schools following their national systems, recognised by France and Germany. Good for families who speak the language at home, or who want their children to.
- Bilingual local schools. Private schools teaching the national curriculum in two languages, often cheaper than international schools.
- Local state schools. Free, and the fastest way for children to learn the language and make local friends. Younger children adapt quickly; teenagers in the last years before exams find it harder.
How to judge a school
Questions for each school
When to apply
Most schools admit for the start of the school year (September in most of Europe, mid-August in Switzerland) and accept mid-year arrivals when there is space. Apply nine to twelve months ahead for the main entry points, earlier for popular schools in Zürich, Geneva and Lisbon. Expect to send school reports, a reference from the current school, passports and sometimes assessments or interviews.
What it costs
Fees vary enormously. Bilingual private schools in southern Europe can cost a few thousand euros a year; the leading international schools in Switzerland cost far more. Zurich International School, for example, lists CHF 27,750–39,700 a year for 2026/27 from kindergarten up, plus a one-off infrastructure contribution. Ask each school for the full fee schedule, including one-off charges, and check whether your employer contributes.
Schools in our city guides
Each city guide lists international and bilingual schools we have checked on their official websites, with curriculum, ages and location:
- Monaco: the International School of Monaco, plus schools on the French Riviera
- Zürich: ZIS, ICS, SIS and bilingual Swiss schools
- Geneva: Ecolint, Collège du Léman and others, plus the French side
- Lisbon: the Cascais and Oeiras cluster and schools in the city
- Costa del Sol: the international schools along the coast
- Dubrovnik: limited options locally; what families do
Questions people ask
Is the IB better than A levels?
Neither is better in general. The IB is broader (six subjects plus core); A levels go deeper in three or four. Think about your child's strengths and where they may go to university.
Can my child join a local school without speaking the language?
Yes, especially young children, and many state systems offer welcome classes. Ask the town hall or education office how they support newcomers.
Should we choose the school or the home first?
The school, if you have children of school age. Then look for homes on its bus routes or within an easy commute.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change; check the details with a local professional before you sign or pay anything.