Private Schools in Europe 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 Private Schools in Europe, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why families choose a Private school in Europe?
Choosing the right educational pathway for their children is one of the most important decisions parents can make. In Europe, a significant number of families opt for private schooling, drawn by several compelling advantages that these institutions offer. Understanding why can help parents make informed choices about their child’s educational future.
Academic Excellence
One of the primary reasons families gravitate towards private schools in Europe is the promise of academic excellence. These schools often feature a low student-to-teacher ratio, which means more individual attention and tailored instruction that can adapt to a child’s unique learning style. Furthermore, private schools frequently have access to advanced resources and offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, enhancing the learning experience and fostering a well-rounded education.
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
Europe is rich in cultural diversity, and private schools here mirror this variety. They attract students from across the globe, providing an environment where children can develop international mindedness and cultural sensitivity from an early age. This exposure is invaluable in our increasingly globalized world and can offer students unique advantages in higher education and beyond. Additionally, multilingual education is a staple in many European private schools, with languages often taught from a very young age, further enhancing cognitive development and future career opportunities.
Unique Educational Philosophies
Many European private schools are founded on distinct educational philosophies and pedagogies, such as Montessori, Steiner, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. These schools offer alternative learning environments that emphasize holistic education, critical thinking, and creativity, appealing to parents looking for options outside the traditional education model. Such philosophies often encourage a more engaged and active form of learning which can be particularly beneficial for students with diverse educational needs or those who thrive in less conventional settings.
Preparation for Higher Education
Private schools in Europe have a strong track record of preparing students for higher education, boasting high matriculation rates to prestigious universities worldwide. The rigorous academic preparation, coupled with dedicated college counseling, helps students navigate the complex process of university admissions. This comprehensive support system ensures that students are not only ready to take on higher education but also excel in it.
Networking and Alumni Connections
Attending a prestigious private school can also provide students with early networking opportunities. Alumni networks are often well-established and can be instrumental in opening doors for internships, mentorships, and careers post-graduation. These connections are built throughout a student’s time at school and can be a significant advantage in the highly competitive job market.
In conclusion, the choice of a private school in Europe is driven by a combination of superior academic standards, diverse environments that foster cultural and linguistic skills, unique educational approaches, thorough preparation for higher education, and valuable networking opportunities. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in why families decide to invest in a private education, hoping to provide their children with the best possible start in life.
How much does it cost to attend Private Schools in Europe?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $10,000 | $30,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $835 | $2,500 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,500 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $12,200 | $35,000 |
Top Private Schools Europe 2025
Discover top International Schools in Europe. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
TASIS The American School in Switzerland 
-
Ticino - Lugano
- Co-Education
- 3 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 30,000 - 105,000 usd
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1956
- Community: 765 students • 67 nationalities
- Examinations:AP, IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Breathtaking Swiss Alpine setting
- Renowned Arts and Humanities Program
- Immersive multilingual learning
Annual tuition fees at TASIS The American School in Switzerland range from 30,000 usd to 105,000 usd, depending on the student's grade level and program.
AMADEUS International School Vienna
-
Austria - Vienna
- Co-Education
- 3 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 13,200 - 52,000 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme
- Foundation:2012
- Community: 310 students • 50 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Unrivaled Music & Arts Academy
- Boarding in Historic Vienna
- Dual Diploma: IB & Austrian Matura
Annual tuition fees at AMADEUS International School Vienna range from 13,200 eur to 52,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Thames British School – Madrid
-
Spain - Madrid
- Co-Education
- 1 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 5,800 - 14,050 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2015
- Community: 350 students • 30 nationalities
- Examinations:A Level, IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:Bilingual, English, Spanish
- Immersive British curriculum in Spain
- Emphasis on multilingual fluency
- Rich blend of global cultures
Annual tuition fees at Thames British School – Madrid range from 5,800 eur to 14,050 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Sibling Discounts on Tuition Fees:· 10% for the 2nd child· 15% for the 3rd child· 20% for the 4th childPlease note: The final amounts may vary depending on the student’s...
International School of Zug and Luzern
-
Lucerne - Baar
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 16,650 - 39,200 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1961
- Community: 1179 students • 65 nationalities
- Examinations:AP, IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Emphasis on Outdoor Learning
- Robust Art and Music Programmes
- Engaging Service Learning Opportunities
Annual tuition fees at International School of Zug and Luzern range from 16,650 chf to 39,200 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
International School of Amsterdam
-
North Holland - Amsterdam
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 18,775 - 26,950 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1964
- Community: 1252 students • 66 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Globally recognized IB Programme.
- Multicultural environment, 70+ nations.
- Emphasis on creativity & critical thinking.
Annual tuition fees at International School of Amsterdam range from 18,775 eur to 26,950 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
St. Peter’s School Barcelona
-
Catalunya - Barcelona
- Co-Education
- 1 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 9,800 - 17,289 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1964
- Community: 600 students • 42 nationalities
- Language:English, Spanish
- Embraces Bilingualism with English and Spanish
- Cultivates Tech-Savvy Confident Learners
- Fosters Global Citizenship and Awareness
Annual tuition fees at St. Peter’s School Barcelona range from 9,800 eur to 17,289 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
International Bilingual School of Provence
-
Aix-en-Provence - Luynes
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 12,300 - 36,600 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, French Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1984
- Community: 950 students • 75 nationalities
- Examinations:Cambridge, French Baccalaureate, IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Bilingualism with French Immersion
- Rural Provençal Setting
- Individualized IB Diplomas
Annual tuition fees at International Bilingual School of Provence range from 12,300 eur to 36,600 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Copperfield International School Verbier
-
Valais - Verbier
- Co-Education
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 34,000 - 116,500 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2020
- Community: 50 students • 18 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English, French
- Skiing program incorporated into curriculum
- Bespoke learning with a 1:3 staff ratio
- 360° mountain views foster inspiration
Annual tuition fees at Copperfield International School Verbier range from 34,000 chf to 116,500 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
The school offers a variety of individual support programmes to support the students on their individual educational path, such as tuition in specific subjects (most often languages), learning support, executive...From 96,500 to 116,500 CHF
American International School Vienna
-
Austria - Vienna
- Co-Education
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 12,000 - 23,000 eur
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1959
- Community: 800 students • 60 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, AP, IB Diploma
- Language:English
- IB Program with 98% Diploma Success
- Unique Student Support Services
- 60+ Nationalities for Global Exposure
Annual tuition fees at American International School Vienna range from 12,000 eur to 23,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Prime School International
-
Lisbon - Cascais
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 9,900 - 33,900 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum
- Foundation:2006
- Community: 450 students • 40 nationalities
- Examinations:A Level, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Trilingual curriculum for global citizens
- Personalized learning via tech tools
- Emphasis on entrepreneurship skills
Annual tuition fees at Prime School International range from 9,900 eur to 33,900 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
American School of The Hague
-
South Holland - The Hague
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 14,650 - 22,890 eur
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1953
- Community: 1200 students • 80 nationalities
- Language:English
- Diverse, Globally-minded Curriculum
- Exceptional Support for Transitions
- Rooted in Sustainability Practices
Annual tuition fees at American School of The Hague range from 14,650 eur to 22,890 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
ISR International School on the Rhine
-
Dusseldorf - Neuss
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 13,000 - 20,000 eur
- Curriculum:Cambridge Curriculum
- Foundation:2003
- Community: 1200 students • 60 nationalities
- Examinations:Cambridge, DELF, IB Diploma, IGCSE, PSAT, SAT, TOEFL
- Language:English
Annual tuition fees at ISR International School on the Rhine range from 13,000 eur to 20,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Barcelona High School
-
Catalunya - Barcelona
- Co-Education
- 3 to 19 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 11,610 - 17,910 eur
- Curriculum:American Curriculum
- Foundation:2020
- Community: 500 students • 35 nationalities
- Examinations:AP
- Language:Bilingual, Catalan, English, Spanish
- Bilingual Program in English & Catalan
- Innovative Tech-Focused Curriculum
- Partnership with Renowned Museums
Annual tuition fees at Barcelona High School range from 11,610 eur to 17,910 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Annual Matriculation Fee 1000€ One-Time Entrance Fee 2 500€ Meal Plan Preschool & Elementary - Free 215€ / month Student Visa - Mobility Program(If Applicable)500€ - administrative fees Application Fee...
Saint-Charles International School
-
Jura - Porrentruy
- Co-Education
- 8 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 7,900 - 89,500 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1897
- Community: 180 students • 50 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, Swiss Matura
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Swiss Alps' pristine setting
- Bilingual learning environment
- Boarding with 30 nationalities
Annual tuition fees at Saint-Charles International School range from 7,900 chf to 89,500 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Total fee includes tuition and the additional annual fee. The additional annual fee is intended to cover all costs other than school fees - textbooks, school supplies, school outings, ski...Total fee includes tuition, full boarding and accommodation, weekend activities, three extended weekend trips, residence permit fee, books and school supplies, supervised homework, sport uniform, day trips, on premises school...
The British International School Bratislava
-
Slovakia - Bratislava
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 11,620 - 25,300 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1997
- Community: 810 students • 45 nationalities
- Examinations:Cambridge, IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Global Campus nurtures worldly learners.
- STEAM program collaboration with MIT.
- Juilliard-curated performing arts study.
Annual tuition fees at The British International School Bratislava range from 11,620 eur to 25,300 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
At BISB, our tuition fees reflect the exceptional learning experiences we offer, as well as the outstanding academic success our students achieve. The British International School Bratislava fees include: Tuition...
The American School in London
-
England - London
- Co-Education
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 40,188 - 46,428 eur
- Curriculum:American Curriculum
- Foundation:1951
- Community: 70 students
- Examinations:American Diploma
- Language:English
- Promotes Global Citizenship Values
- Unique, Immersive London Experience
- Dedicated College Counseling Support
Annual tuition fees at The American School in London range from 40,188 eur to 46,428 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Fees are paid in two installments: Semester 1 fees are due in June and Semester 2 fees are due in November. Although paying for education is first and foremost the...
RGS Surrey Hills
-
Dorking - Mickleham
- Co-Education
- 11 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 27,162 - 76,753 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1959
- Community: 32 students
- Examinations:A Level, IB Diploma, IELTS, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Inclusive, holistic boarding culture
- Unique ‘Diamond Model’ education
- Global citizenship emphasis
Annual tuition fees at RGS Surrey Hills range from 27,162 eur to 76,753 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Please do head to our website to see the breakdown of fees.Please do head to our website to see the breakdown of fees.
Mirabal International School
-
Spain - Madrid
- Co-Education
- 1 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 3,900 - 7,500 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, Spanish Curriculum
- Foundation:1982
- Community: 1920 students
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:Spanish
- Bilingual learning from age 3.
- Cutting-edge tech in classrooms.
- Emphasis on ethical values.
Annual tuition fees at Mirabal International School range from 3,900 eur to 7,500 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
École Jeannine Manuel Paris
-
Ile-de-France - Paris
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 7,100 - 24,795 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1954
- Community: 2400 students • 80 nationalities
- Examinations:French Baccalaureate, IB Diploma
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Bilingual education from Pre-K
- Emphasis on scientific research
- Rich international exchange program
Annual tuition fees at École Jeannine Manuel Paris range from 7,100 eur to 24,795 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Fulham School
-
England - London
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 18,420 - 21,567 gbp
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1996
- Community: 700 students • 35 nationalities
- Language:English
- STEM-focused, bilingual curriculum
- Exemplary pastoral care program
- Noteworthy music and theatre emphasis
Annual tuition fees at Fulham School range from 18,420 gbp to 21,567 gbp, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Popular Private Schools Destinations in Europe
Parent and Student Reviews
- September, 2025I think it’s the best English School in Madrid. I love it, and I know my daughter is well while she’s there.
- March, 2025My children are flourishing at ICS. They’re doing well academically and they’re benefitting from making friends with children from different countries and cultures. The school really is a happy, safe space to learn and grow.
- March, 2025The first time I visited the school, I was amazed by the international atmosphere. I was also really impressed by how happy the children looked. At ICS, you feel at home no matter where you come from.
- March, 2025ICS is an amazing school with a friendly atmosphere. My children absolutely love studying here – the teachers, their friends, the fun and challenging lessons. The school teaches compassion, emphasises good values, and helps students to become leaders.
- February, 2023I highly recommend this school. Both of my children have studied here for around three years. The school provides for children the best quality knowledge, an amazing community of teachers that care about their students, awesome physical training, many different clubs that are favorable for your child’s choice and well-organized classes. My children loved BISB very much. Thanks to the knowledge that was provided by this school, my daughter without any struggles managed to get into a College in UK, and my son into a School in UK.
- February, 2023Dear principals and teachers of BISB, I am a parent in this school for 10 years. It is the first time I am experiencing a case like this (COVID-19 pandemic) and I had a looong letter for you all to express my feelings about how you are handling this hard period of time however considering how precious the time is for you, I chose to delete it and just say: THANK YOU all for your immense effort, continuous support, endless patience to make our kids continue to their education. It is highly appreciated how quickly and well-organized this system is working from the very first minute. Kids are excited, focused, interactive..It is just amazing.
- February, 2023We arrived in Schaffhausen from Mexico in 2016, where Magdalena completed grade 10 at a renowned private school in Colima. Our intention was for her to get assistance from an integration school to attend the local Kantonsschule. Because of the lack of French and limited German, the local school was a struggle, and we looked for alternatives. After visiting some International schools in the area, we decided on the International School of Schaffhausen. Magdalena liked the friendly environment and started to thrive. Although she attended an excellent school in Mexico, the quality of preparation for the future at ISSH is a lot higher. Despite having to work very hard to reach the desired results at grade 11, she enjoyed attending classes, especially because of the quality and professionalism of the teaching. Her favourite subject was Math due to the very clear and practical set-up of the classroom, and although Maths was never her strongest subject, Magdalena achieved well in this. Her main focus was biology because her dream is to study Marine Biology, and her biology teacher motivated her to progress and gathered an in-depth understanding of the topic. The school focuses on deep analysis and investigation, and the level of education is so much higher than in a Mexican school. After her graduation in 2020, Magdalena applied to universities worldwide, and all her applications were accepted. Currently, she is studying at a university in the UK and is getting excellent results due to her strong knowledge base. She even received a partial scholarship. Magdalena feels proud to be part of the ISSH community, and we can wholeheartedly recommend this school to any student from Mexico or around the world.
- February, 2023My name is Maira, I’m 18 and have been living in the boarding house for 2 years. I was looking for an international school in Switzerland and saw ISSH on a website reviewing Swiss private schools. The reason why I chose it was because it offered an opportunity to ‘win’ a full scholarship.
Even though my parents are not very familiar with the international educational system/IB, they expected from the school to understand and respect the cultural differences of the students. As for me, I wanted to have a good experience in an international school that will help to get into a university. Since there were quite a few newbies in my class, making friends was super easy (and people were really nice). Regarding the activities- I’m not sure how to answer this one. There was not a lot of clubs that the school offered, and they were mostly for middle school students. That’s understandable, since we, as the DP students, had to dedicate the majority of our time to school. But I wish there had been more interesting activities for us. My time at the boarding house was fun. I’m glad that Mr Russell considered our ages, subject choices and interests before moving us. I guess there was no particular thing I liked about the boarding house. It all depended on the supervisor, the day of the week,etc. But I definitely enjoyed it when we had our meetings with all the borders together because it also helped me to get over my homesickness. My English has definitely improved thanks to the balance between academic/formal language spoken at school and more ‘everyday’ English in the boarding house. Lastly, I would definitely recommend boarding ISSH to people who want to experience a different kind of boarding life! ISSH boarding is not like other boarding schools, it has a special family-like atmosphere. People are very supportive. Caretakers were on the same wave with us! - February, 2023My name is Veronika and I’m from Russia. I have been at ISSH for only 2 years, but it was enough time for me to feel there like home, and make lifelong friends. I have relatives in Schaffhausen and they told me about ISSH. I have always wanted to study abroad, and when I found out about the school I knew from the start it would be the place where I could fulfill my potential and get new experience. My goal was to get a better education and improve my English, which I have accomplished by being at ISSH and the Boarding house. As it is an international school English is a primary language both at school and at the boarding, which gives everyone an opportunity to learn and/or improve their language skills with support of staff and other students. Being miles away from home for such a long period of time can be a bit difficult sometimes, but all the staff members are trying their best to make all students feel comfortable and provide whatever support and help they might need. Living at the boarding house is an unusual experience that teaches you to be more responsible and independent. But the main thing that I have learnt, from living with other students all from different countries, is to be understanding and accepting towards each other. It gives an opportunity to learn from others and become more open and social with people. When I was there we had several events, like an “open house party” which included dinner. We have sent invitations to our neighbors and school friends, so they can come over to the house and see how it’s like to live there. Also, we had an interesting trip to Geneva organised by the head of the boarding, Mr.Russell. We had a tour at the Swiss chocolate factory and the well known collider. Besides that, with other boarding house students we spent a lot of time together, either baking desserts after dinner or by organizing movie nights. Boarding house in general has a very friendly environment, and it is an experience worth getting.
- February, 2023When it comes to academics, Noah has enjoyed seeing his two younger brothers thrive in the French section at Ermitage (2nde OIB and CM2 50/50), meanwhile, he has found his place in the IB program. His favorite classes are Physics and Math, which he has always loved for their objective and scientific approach to the world, and he is now enjoying even more thanks to the IB approach. In his own words, Noah believes the IB was the right choice for him because it is “personalizable, and the content is taught more intuitively from experience.”
- February, 2023Today, it is clear that one’s capacity to gain new knowledge and adapt to a fast-paced and ever-changing landscape is of the utmost importance for success. The rapid technological and ecological transformations we are experiencing are giving way to a world with fewer borders and more possibilities for exchanging with others, while also presenting new challenges. This is the setting for our children’s future and is a source of new opportunities, ready to be seized. In this context, we provide an international education in line with the world of tomorrow. We offer our students the keys to unlock a bright and promising future in the university, career, and country of their choosing. I look forward to welcoming you to our school!
- February, 2023As much as I have enjoyed the academic sphere at Ermitage, so too have I relished the student life experience. I would define it as an immense source of knowledge and open-mindedness that accepts and embraces everyone regardless of how different they are from you. Diversity and respect are what creates the Ermitage student community. It’s such a welcoming and unique experience for every student.
Summary
Parents choose private schools in Europe for their academic excellence, diverse cultural environments, and unique educational philosophies. These institutions not only prepare students for prestigious universities but also provide valuable networking opportunities, setting a solid foundation for personal and professional success.