IB schools in Sao Paulo are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best IB schools in Sao Paulo, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Top IB schools Sao Paulo 2026
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Beacon School
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 17 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - PortugueseYearly fee: from 85,000 to 153,000 BRL
Foundation: 2010Nationalities: 10 different nationalitiesNr of students: 10 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaBeacon is an IB Continuum School with an international program. We develop curious students with critical thinking skills, striving to create a more ethical and peaceful society for the 21st century.Beacon promotes rich learning experiences in Portuguese and English, thus recognizing both languages as a means of communication throughout the program.Through the International Baccalaureate Organization and its seal as an IB Continuum School, Beacon adopts the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Early Childhood and Elementary School, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Middle School and offers the Diploma Programme (DP) for High School students. These programs are aligned with our school's values and mission. We assist our students in their self-knowledge process, providing better resources for making conscious and autonomous choices in both career and higher education. The integration of the IB curriculum with the Brazilian curriculum offers Beacon students a rigorous academic program, re...Annual tuition fees at Beacon School range from BRL 85,000 to BRL 153,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: The monthly fees are paid in 13 installments, the first one concerning the reservation fee. Fees include the academic materiais for collective use, as well as snack and lunch, when applicable (High Sc...Boarding tuition: -
St. Nicholas School Pinheiros
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - MontessoriLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - PortugueseYearly fee: from 94,500 to 159,125 BRL
Foundation: 1980Nationalities: 21 different nationalitiesNr of students: 21 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSESt. Nicholas School serves the families of Sao Paulo seeking a personal and purposeful learning experience: a unique learning adventure following the programmes of the International Baccalaureate.Inquiry, principled action and critical reflection underpin the work at St. Nicholas School Throughout the curriculum the school offers a vibrant and innovative education which seeks to inspire and challenge our learners to develop a deep-seated love of learning. Emphasis is placed on the process of how students learn as much as what they are learning. We offer an inquiry-based curriculum which is both rigorous and relevant, grounded in the real-world. Learning at St. Nicholas focuses on higher-order thinking skills and multiple intelligences, alongside an integrated use of technology and multimedia. Our learners develop intercultural understandings, as they are key members of our international community. They learn that communicating in multiple ways in more than one language is critical ...Annual tuition fees at St. Nicholas School Pinheiros range from BRL 94,500 to BRL 159,125, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tiny Tots I, Tiny Tots II (08:00 - 12:00): R$ 7.560,00/month Nursery to Grade 5: R$ 10.320,00/month Grade 6 to Year 12: R$ 12.730,00/month Others Fees: Resource & Technology Fee (paid August and ...Boarding tuition: -
St. Nicholas School Alphaville
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 16 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - MontessoriLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - PortugueseYearly fee: from 94,500 to 159,125 BRL
Foundation: 2016Nationalities: 18 different nationalitiesNr of students: 18 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaSt. Nicholas Alphaville serves who live in Alphaville or Tamboré, seeking a personal and purposeful learning: a unique learning adventure with the programmes of the International Baccalaureate.Inquiry, principled action and critical reflection underpin the work at St. Nicholas School Throughout the curriculum the school offers a vibrant and innovative education which seeks to inspire and challenge our learners to develop a deep-seated love of learning. Emphasis is placed on the process of how students learn as much as what they are learning. We offer an inquiry-based curriculum which is both rigorous and relevant, grounded in the real-world. Learning at St. Nicholas focuses on higher-order thinking skills and multiple intelligences, alongside an integrated use of technology and multimedia. Our learners develop intercultural understandings, as they are key members of our international community. They learn that communicating in multiple ways in more than one language is critical ...Annual tuition fees at St. Nicholas School Alphaville range from BRL 94,500 to BRL 159,125, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tiny Tots I, Tiny Tots II & Nursery (08:00 - 12:00): R$ 7.070,00/month Kindergarten 1 to Grade 5: R$ 9.696,00/month Grade 6 to Year 12: R$ 12.020,00/month Others Fees: - Resource & Technology ...Boarding tuition: -
The British College of Brazil
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 90,000 to 129,000 EUR
Foundation: 2011Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - IB Diploma - IGCSEThe British College of Brazil, one of São Paulo’s most distinguished international schools, caters to students of 38 different nationalities.Along with the English National Curriculum, IGCSE and IB Diploma Program, our students learn Portuguese and Brazilian history, culture and geography. The British College of Brazil offers double certification. By obtaining the Brazilian diploma, students are allowed to continue their studies in Brazil, as the school is fully certified by the Ministry of Education. Small class sizes allow teachers to focus on the individual needs of each pupil. All teachers have outstanding professional credentials from the UK with relevant experience in delivering the English National Curriculum followed by the IGCSE in YEar 10 - 11 and the IB Diploma Program in Year 12. English speaking assistant teachers support all Primary classes. Top of the school’s priorities is the personal development of its student...Annual tuition fees at The British College of Brazil range from EUR 90,000 to EUR 129,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition:
Insights & Updates from IB schools
Expert Insights from IB schools in Sao Paulo
Why choose an IB school in Sao Paulo?
Opting for an IB school in São Paulo offers more than just a prestigious educational pathway; it’s a decision that sets the stage for a comprehensive, internationally recognized academic experience. Parents and educators alike praise the International Baccalaureate (IB) for its rigorous and dynamic curriculum that not only challenges students intellectually but also encourages a broader, global perspective and a keen sense of social responsibility.
Global Recognition and Opportunities
The hallmark of an IB education is its universal recognition by universities and employers worldwide. This global acceptance makes it an invaluable asset for students in São Paulo, who are looking to pursue higher education or career opportunities both in Brazil and internationally. The IB diploma is renowned for its academic rigor and is often considered a sign of a well-rounded, thoughtful, and inquiry-driven student, traits that are highly valued in today’s competitive world.
Development of Critical Thinking and Creativity
A distinctive feature of the IB program is its emphasis on developing critical thinking and creativity. Through unique core components like the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), students are encouraged to explore the nature of knowledge and to reflect on the process of learning itself. The Extended Essay, another core component, requires students to undertake independent research, fostering an environment of academic curiosity and self-motivation. These aspects ensure that students from São Paulo’s IB schools are not just absorbing facts but are learning how to think and analyze critically.
Emphasis on a Holistic Education
IB schools in São Paulo do not solely focus on academic excellence but also strive to develop students as whole persons. This philosophy is embedded in the IB’s learner profile which aims to develop learners who are knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced, and reflective. This holistic approach is attractive to parents who wish for their children not only to succeed academically but to thrive as global citizens who are empathetic and engaged with the issues facing the world today.
A Diverse and Inclusive Environment
The international nature of the IB naturally cultivates a diverse school environment. Students interact with peers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a multicultural understanding and respect. This diversity prepares students from São Paulo to operate in a globalized world where cross-cultural communication and collaboration are key to personal and professional success.
Language Development
Another significant advantage of attending an IB school in São Paulo is the focus on multilingual education. Most IB schools offer programs in English, with additional languages also taught, which is a crucial skill in a globalized economy. Mastery of multiple languages enhances cognitive abilities and broadens career opportunities, equipping students to excel in any corner of the world.
In conclusion, choosing an IB school in São Paulo places students in a nurturing yet challenging environment that prepares them for global success. The blend of rigorous academics, a focus on the whole person, and an internationally minded community creates a unique educational experience that is both enriching and empowering.
How much does it cost to attend IB schools in Sao Paulo?
The yearly tuition fees for IB schools in Sao Paulo generally range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $35,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $15,000 | $30,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,250 | $2,500 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $1,000 | $2,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $1,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $17,700 | $34,400 |
Summary
Choosing an IB school in São Paulo offers a globally recognized education that promotes academic rigor, critical thinking, and a holistic development approach. Students benefit from a diverse, inclusive environment and a multilingual curriculum, preparing them for success in a globalized world.