Germany, a Western European country, presents a diverse landscape of forests, rivers, mountain ranges, and North Sea beaches, making it an ideal destination for boarding school students. The country offers a secure and stable environment with a high standard of living bolstered by its position as a founding member of the European Union, which has one of the world’s strongest economies. Germany is politically and economically stable, with a multicultural society that upholds religious and political liberties. Education is highly valued, and the job market is thriving, making it an excellent destination for students seeking higher education and work experience.
Top boarding schools Germany 2026
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BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School
Kleinmachnow, Berlin •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 14,500 to 23,650 EUR
Foundation: 1990Nationalities: 75 different nationalitiesNr of students: 75 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaWelcome to BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School, a place where students are empowered to reach their unique potential and thrive on a global stage.IB PYP, IB MYP, IB DPAnnual tuition fees at BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School range from EUR 14,500 to EUR 23,650, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: Annual Boarding Fees 2024-2025 Grade 9 - 12 24,400 Euro -
Cologne International School
Cologne, NRW •Co-Education •- from 6
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: German Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: English - GermanYearly fee: EUR
Foundation: 2007Nationalities: 53 different nationalitiesNr of students: 53 studentsExaminations: DELF - IB Diploma - IB MYPCOLOGNE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – a state-approved, IB World School – provides an excellent bilingual, international education from grade 1 through to the IB Diploma or the Abitur (German high school qualification).IB Diploma, IB MYP CertificateAnnual tuition fees at Cologne International School range from EUR to EUR , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
St. George's, The British International School, Cologne
Cologne, NRW •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 11,900 EUR
Foundation: 1985Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSESt George’s believes that school is a fundamental chapter in a lifetime of learning, and it’s their aim to make it an extraordinary one.The day school for pupils aged 3 - 18 follows the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework and the National Curriculum of England from Pre-Nursery to Year 9. They provide the opportunity to choose IGCSE studies at Key Stage 4, followed by the International Baccalaureate (IB) in the final two years before graduation. The St. George’s British International Schools are IB World Schools offering the IB Diploma Programme (DP) and the IB Career-related Programme (CP).Annual tuition fees at St. George’s, The British International School, Cologne range from EUR 11,900 to EUR , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Humboldt-Institut
Berlin, Germany •Co-Education, Girls Only •- from 10
- to 17 years old
School type: Boarding School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - German CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - GermanYearly fee: from 27,000 to 50,000 EUR
Foundation: 2010Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: A LevelThe Humboldt-Institut has more than 45 years of experience in teaching German and prepares young students from all over the world for a school and university career in Germany.Our counseling aims at Gymnasium attendance. From this school form, students graduate with the Abitur (A-levels, university entrance qualification), i.e., students qualify for higher education in Germany with the Abitur certificate. The German school system aims at a diversified basic education, i.e., subject-based specialization does not start until higher education.Annual tuition fees at Humboldt-Institut range from EUR 27,000 to EUR 50,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
International School of Bremen
Bremen, Lower Saxony •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: Cambridge Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - GermanYearly fee: from 11,800 to 18,000 EUR
Foundation: 1998Nationalities: 34 different nationalitiesNr of students: 34 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSEThe International School of Bremen (ISB) is a not for profit international school of 350+ students from over 50 nationalities in Bremen, Germany. We offer the Cambridge cirriculum including IGCSE, IB Diploma and the British A-Levels.Academic Excellence:At ISB, academic excellence is at the heart of everything we do. We follow a rigorous international curriculum designed to challenge and engage students at every level. Our programs include the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Through inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and creativity, we equip our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their future academic and professional endeavours.Annual tuition fees at International School of Bremen range from EUR 11,800 to EUR 18,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition:
Why choose to study in Germany as a boarding student
Germany, renowned for its rigorous academic standards and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique and compelling environment for boarding students. Choosing to study in Germany provides students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in a setting that is both historically rich and modern in its educational approach.
World-Class Education System
Germany’s education system is recognized globally for its excellence and rigorous standards. Boarding schools in Germany often boast state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a curriculum that prepares students for global challenges. The German Abitur, for instance, is a highly respected qualification that opens doors to top universities worldwide. This focus on high academic standards makes Germany an attractive destination for students aiming for a top-tier education.
Cultural Immersion and Language Acquisition
Living and studying in Germany is a cultural immersion experience like no other. Students are not only exposed to the German language but also have the opportunity to learn it in a natural setting. Proficiency in German, coupled with fluency in English, significantly enhances a student’s future career opportunities in the global market. Additionally, Germany’s central location in Europe offers easy access to travel and learn about neighboring countries, further enriching the educational experience.
Safe and Supportive Environment
Germany is known for its safety and high quality of life, which is crucial for parents considering sending their children abroad for education. Boarding schools in Germany are designed to provide a supportive community that helps students thrive academically and socially. The structured environment helps foster independence while ensuring safety, making it an ideal setting for young learners to grow.
Innovative Learning Opportunities
German boarding schools often incorporate cutting-edge technology and innovative teaching methods into their curriculum. This includes hands-on learning experiences, interdisciplinary projects, and exposure to industries through internships and partnerships with global companies. Such experiences prepare students not just academically but also for real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In conclusion, studying in Germany as a boarding student offers more than just an educational qualification; it’s an enriching experience that molds students into global citizens. With its combination of strict academic standards, rich cultural exposure, safety, and innovative learning environments, Germany stands out as a premier choice for quality education in a nurturing and dynamic setting.
How much does it cost to attend boarding schools in Germany?
The yearly tuition fees for boarding schools in Germany generally range from $20,000 to $40,000 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 $50,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $20,000 | $40,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,665 | $3,335 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $22,200 | $44,400 |
Summary
Choosing Germany for boarding education offers students a blend of rigorous academics, cultural immersion, and a safe, supportive environment. The country's boarding schools are celebrated for their global standards, innovative learning methods, and the unique opportunity to master the German language, enhancing future career prospects.