Discover our list of the world’s leading private schools, accompanied by firsthand accounts from parents and insights from educational experts. Whether you’re considering a local institution or exploring international options, this guide aims to provide the information and perspectives needed to make an informed choice that best suits your child’s needs and aspirations.
Top rated Private Schools in the World
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Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
Puxi, Shanghai •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - MandarinYearly fee: from 137,800 to 390,000 CNY
Foundation: 2016Nationalities: 30 different nationalitiesNr of students: 30 studentsExaminations: A Level - IB Diploma - IGCSE - SATAt Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi the curriculum is academically rigorous, yet the education of the whole child is seen as critical. The wellbeing programme and range of co-curricular opportunities available to all children encourages academic, physical, social and emotional growthDulwich College Shanghai Puxi educates children from age 2 to 18. The primary teaching language is English, with a Dual Language approach in Mandarin and English in DUCKS (Toddler to Year 2). Children up to age 5 follow the Early Years Foundation Stage, and from Year 1 to Year 9, follow the National Curriculum of England, which is enhanced to meet the needs of our international student body. In Year 10 they begin the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), a rigorous two-year course that requires students to take a broad range of subjects covering maths and sciences, English and foreign languages, and the humanities. The IGCSE culminates in exams at the end of Year 11, and prepares students well for the two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)...Annual tuition fees at Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi range from CNY 137,800 to CNY 390,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tuition Fees may be paid annually or by term. Tuition Fees paid annually enjoy favourable rates compared to fees paid by term. An Application Fee of 3,500 RMB is non-refundable and valid for the year ...Boarding tuition: -
Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
Pudong, Shanghai •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 266,000 to 390,000 CNY
Foundation: 21Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSE - PSAT - SATSince 2003, Dulwich Pudong has been a leading international school in Shanghai with a strong academic reputation.Annual tuition fees at Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong range from CNY 266,000 to CNY 390,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Examination Fees are included. Additional costs for items such as School Uniforms, Lunches, and Optional School Trips are excluded.Boarding tuition: -
Prisma
Orlando, Florida •Co-Education •- from 9
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Online School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - Montessori - Other - Project Based LearningLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 4,800 to 10,750 USD
Foundation: 2020Nationalities: 14 different nationalitiesNr of students: 14 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - AP - PSAT - SATVibrant virtual program where the flexibility to learn from anywhere doesn’t mean boring curriculum or an isolated learning experience. Join our community of families who are doing school differently.The goal of education should be to create lifelong learners and prepare them for the future, but traditional schools often turn learning into a chore that dampens kids' natural curiosity. That’s why we make learning ‘hard fun’—engaging, personalized, and challenging at the exact right level for your child.Beyond just covering the same academic concepts as peers in traditional schools, Prisma learners also develop real-world skills and create a robust portfolio of projects that showcase their deep learning. In traditional schools, learning is siloed into subjects and taught through lectures, worksheets, and memorization. But at Prisma, learners tackle interdisciplinary project-based themes that map to a comprehensive set of standards (drawn from best-in-class sources like Cambridge, Next Ge...Annual tuition fees at Prisma range from USD 4,800 to USD 10,750, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Institut Montana Switzerland
Baar, Zug •Co-Education •- from 6
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: Cambridge Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - Other - Swiss CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - GermanYearly fee: from 32,900 to 72,800 CHF
Foundation: 1926Nationalities: 55 different nationalitiesNr of students: 55 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IB Diploma Programme - IGCSE - Swiss MaturaInstitut Montana Switzerland is a fully accredited Swiss international day and boarding school, founded in 1926, and has been an official IB World School since 1987.Swiss Bilingual Primary School (grades 1-6) Cambridge Lower Secondary (grades 6-8) IGCSE (grades 9-10) IB Diploma Programme (grades 11-12) Swiss Bilingual Secondary School (grades 7-9) Swiss High School Matura, (grades 7-12) High School Diploma (grades 9-12)Annual tuition fees at Institut Montana Switzerland range from CHF 32,900 to CHF 72,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: Please check our page: https://www.montana-zug.ch/en/admissions/tuition-fees -
Brillantmont International School
Lausanne, Vaud •Co-Education •- from 13
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 34,000 to 111,000 CHF
Foundation: 1882Nationalities: 30 different nationalitiesNr of students: 30 studentsExaminations: A Level - AP - IGCSE - SATBrillantmont International School is one of the oldest schools in Switzerland. It was founded in 1882 and is still owned by the founding family.Brillantmont offers internationally recognised courses leading to British IGCSE and A Level examinations or a US High School Graduation Diploma with SAT. On completion of their studies, Brillantmont students enter universities all over the world. An average class size of 9 students ensures that students receive maximum teacher attention.Annual tuition fees at Brillantmont International School range from CHF 34,000 to CHF 111,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: We want our students to enjoy a full boarding and learning experience and take advantage of the numerous opportunities we offer beyond the classroom. For this reason, many things are included in our s... -
The British School of Córdoba
Cordoba, Andalusia •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - SpanishYearly fee: from 10,265 to 32,300 EUR
Foundation: 1998Nationalities: 12 different nationalitiesNr of students: 12 studentsExaminations: A Level - A Levels - Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSEMore than a school, BSC is your home in Spain. Enjoy a flexible, English-led education in historic Córdoba. Join our supportive international family and prepare for a future with the world at your feet.Awakening Curiosity: Nursery & Primary In our Foundation Stage, we turn play into the building blocks of literacy and numeracy. As students move into Primary, they transition seamlessly from discovery to formal inquiry. Following the British National Curriculum, we empower every child from Year 1 to 6 to become an independent learner, ensuring they reach their full potential through personalized support. Developing Independence: Key Stage 3 Ages 11 to 14 are all about intellectual growth. Our students follow a dual curriculum that blends British excellence with Spanish Language and Culture. Beyond the classroom, we nurture the "whole child" by integrating Arts, Drama, and a vibrant sports programme, fostering creative thinkers who value a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Global Qualificati...Annual tuition fees at The British School of Córdoba range from EUR 10,265 to EUR 32,300, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: School Fees & Financial Overview The British School of Córdoba offers a transparent fee structure designed to support a high-quality international education. Our fees ensure continuous investment ...Boarding tuition: 🎓 Academic Excellence: Full tuition, including all books, digital resources, and specialized equipment. 🏠 Home-Stay Experience: High-quality host family accommodation for deep cultural immersion. 🍎... -
Fulham Prep School
London, England •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 12 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 21,960 to 25,443 GBP
Foundation: 1996Nationalities: 35 different nationalitiesNr of students: 35 studentsFulham Prep, founded in 1996 by Jane Emmett, is independent and co-educational.National Curriculum of England & Wales to GCSE, International Baccalaureate (IB) Fulham School supports the highest of academic high-flyers to achieve the scholarships and university places that will challenge them most alongside pupils whose chief passions and interests are expressed in practice and rehearsal rooms, on the sports field, or among friends. All pupils are encouraged to make contributions where their strengths lie and recognise the contributions of others. As a school we believe in genuine personal recognition, expressing the pride we feel in every single one of our pupils.Annual tuition fees at Fulham Prep School range from GBP 21,960 to GBP 25,443, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
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 14,900 to 24,399 EUR
Foundation: 1990Nationalities: 70 different nationalitiesNr of students: 70 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IB Diploma Programme - IB MYP - MYPWelcome 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 14,900 to EUR 24,399, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: Annual Boarding Fees 2025-2026 Grade 9 - 12 25,100 Euro -
Hangzhou International School (HIS)
Hangzhou, Zhejiang •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: CNY
Foundation: 2002Nationalities: 50 different nationalitiesNr of students: 50 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IB MYP - MYP - PSAT - SATHIS is the Only Non-Profit, International Accredited (WASC), IB World School in Zhejiang Province.As an IB World School, we provide a rigorous, high-caliber academic program for all ages of students. While HIS already has a highly reputed International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB DP) for Grades 11 - 12, we are also authorized with the full IB Continuum of study, which includes delivering the Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) for Grades EY - 5 and the Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) for Grades 6 - 10.Annual tuition fees at Hangzhou International School (HIS) range from CNY to CNY , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
St George's International School, Luxembourg
Luxembourg, Europe •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 19 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - BTEC Curriculum - Project Based Learning - Special Educational NeedsLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 14,750 to 19,550 EUR
Foundation: 1990Nationalities: 73 different nationalitiesNr of students: 73 studentsExaminations: A Levels - BTEC - Cambridge - IGCSE - Pearson EdexcelSt George’s fosters an environment where our children flourish, developing the values, knowledge and skills to thrive in a complex world, where we are ready to make a difference, where we celebrate where we come from and where we may go.St George’s follows the structure of the English and Welsh National Curriculum, leading to IGCSEs (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), A (Advanced) levels and BTECs (Business and Technology Education Council). These qualifications allow entry to universities worldwide, while the BTEC qualifications are highly regarded by universities and employers for their real-world application. St George's courses are challenging and offer opportunities to develop higher-level academic skills and competencies as required by providers of higher education. St George's students take a variety of IGCSEs during Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11). A range of A levels is offered during Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13). Level 2 BTECs can be taken in Key Stage 4, while Level 3 BTECs are an option ...Annual tuition fees at St George’s International School, Luxembourg range from EUR 14,750 to EUR 19,550, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: The Annual School Fees include three items: 1. Tuition Fees – specific to each year group 2. Building Fund – €1,500 will be billed once per year per student, with a maximum of two payments per family....Boarding tuition: -
Boston School International
Panama, Panama City •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 7,180 to 13,690 USD
Foundation: 2012Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IB MYPBoston School International (BSI), established in 2012 and located in Costa del Este, Panama, is a leading international school recognized for its academic excellence and global outlook. From its foundation, BSI has been committed to educating well-rounded learners in a supportive, high-expectations environment where students are encouraged to think critically, act with integrity, and develop […]
Boston School International is an authorized school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) and Middle Years Program (MYP) and Diploma Program (DP). IB World Schools share a common philosophy—a commitment to improving the teaching and learning of a diverse and inclusive community of students by delivering challenging, high-quality programs of international education that share a powerful vision. IB Early Learning Program (PK) At Boston School International, we believe that in early childhood, “playing is child’s work,” and playing is essential for brain building. We cultivate curiosity, creativity, and promote learning through play. As an IB World School accredited to offer the Primary Years Program (PYP), we foster independent learning and critical thinking th...Annual tuition fees at Boston School International range from USD 7,180 to USD 13,690, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Branksome Hall Asia
Seogwipo City, Jeju Island •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 41,547,200 to 50,823,200 KRW
Foundation: 2012Nationalities: 20 different nationalitiesNr of students: 20 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaSouth Korea’s leading independent, full-continuum IB World School offering students academic excellence in tandem with unmatched commitments to global engagement and well-being.Full-continuum International Baccalaureate ProgramAnnual tuition fees at Branksome Hall Asia range from KRW 41,547,200 to KRW 50,823,200, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: All tuition is paid in both currencies, Korean won and US dollars.Boarding tuition: Please note: transportation, uniforms, meals (including boarding), trips, and optional activities are not included in tuition. -
International School of Brussels
Brussels, Belgium •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - British Curriculum - BTEC Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - Other - Special Educational NeedsLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - FrenchYearly fee: from 22,590 to 49,714 EUR
Foundation: 1951Nationalities: 60 different nationalitiesNr of students: 60 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - AP - BTEC - IB Diploma - IB Diploma ProgrammeOur educational programme is as diverse as our student demographics and is carefully tailored to develop independent learners and international citizens in an environment where all students are included, challenged, and successful.Our academic programmes empower students to become innovative problem-solvers and creative thinkers. By fostering adaptability and curiosity, our curriculum equips them to tackle unfamiliar challenges and thrive as forward-thinking global citizens. Regularly reviewed for excellence and informed by international research, it offers a personalised, global academic experience that prepares every student for success.Annual tuition fees at International School of Brussels range from EUR 22,590 to EUR 49,714, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Ecole Des Roches
Verneuil sur Avre, Normandy •Co-Education •- from 11
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: French Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - OtherLanguage of instruction: English - FrenchYearly fee: from 40,720 to 57,420 EUR
Foundation: 1899Nationalities: 50 different nationalitiesNr of students: 50 studentsExaminations: Baccalauréat - Cambridge - DELF - French Baccalaureate - French National Brevet Diploma - IB Diploma - IB Diploma ProgrammeÉcole des Roches is an international boarding school for 11-18 years old students. It combines tradition with innovation to deliver a world-class boarding school experience.Ecole des Roches welcomes students from 11 to 18 years old. We offer 3 different programmes : - French national curriculum (middle and high school) - International Baccalaureate IBDP - French as a Foreign LanguageAnnual tuition fees at Ecole Des Roches range from EUR 40,720 to EUR 57,420, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: French Bilingual Track Middle School (Collège) 5-day boarding: €30,820 7-day boarding: €40,720 Upper School (Lycée) 5-day boarding: €35,640 7-day boarding: €45,540 International Bac... -
American International School Vienna
Vienna, Austria •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 15,325 to 28,028 EUR
Foundation: 1959Nationalities: 80 different nationalitiesNr of students: 80 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - AP - IB DiplomaSet within the rich cultural context of Austria and the beauty of the Vienna woods, the American International School Vienna is one of the top international schools in the country.International Baccalaureate, American Curriculum, OthersIn the Elementary and Middle Schools, the curriculum ensures that all students learn a coherent and unified body of knowledge and academic skills.High School students follow a challenging college-preparatory curriculum that leads to a US High School Diploma, with the option of pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma. All AIS Vienna students receive individual academic advice and help, and High School students receive extensive college counseling in their Junior and Senior years.Annual tuition fees at American International School Vienna range from EUR 15,325 to EUR 28,028, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Cambridge School of Bucharest
Bucharest, Romania •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 12,900 to 21,397 EUR
Foundation: 1994Nationalities: 47 different nationalitiesNr of students: 47 studentsExaminations: A Level - IB Diploma - IGCSECambridge School of Bucharest proudly stands as an accredited British School Overseas (BSO) and a distinguished member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). We are also certified by the Romanian Agency for Quality Assurance in Pre-University Education (ARACIP) as a recognised international school, ensuring that our school leavers’ diploma holds equivalence to the […]
At Cambridge School of Bucharest (CSB), we provide a high-quality education that nurtures well-rounded individuals, developing the interests and talents of each student. Our aim is to create independent thinkers who are resilient, adaptable, and possess good manners. We empower our students to cope with life’s twists and turns, ensuring they have the skills necessary to take their thinking and skill sets to the next level. The British education system is divided into Early Years Foundation Stage, Primary Education, Secondary Education and Sixth Form. At CSB, we offer educational services from Early Years through to Sixth Form, preparing students for the challenges of both the academic world and beyond. As an IB World School, we also offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Progra...Annual tuition fees at Cambridge School of Bucharest range from EUR 12,900 to EUR 21,397, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Smiling International School
Ferrara, Emilia Romagna •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - Italian Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 6,980 to 19,600 EUR
Foundation: 1998Nationalities: 18 different nationalitiesNr of students: 18 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB DiplomaSmiling International School is accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education and it is also an International Baccalaureate® World School authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme.Smiling International School is a "Scuola Paritaria'' in Ferrara: we teach the Italian ministerial curriculum in English through modern, interdisciplinary teaching methods. Our teachers prepare students (6-18 years old) for CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Language) certification in English (Cambridge), Spanish (DELE) and Chinese (HSK) as an integral part of the various curricula. Smiling International School offers two Secondary School pathways: - the 4-year Linguistic High School, which combines language studies with topical subjects such as Business, Critical Thinking, Mathematics and Physics; - the 4-year High School of Technology, the new frontier for highly specialised studies in technology, computer science and STEM subjects Smiling International School also offers t...Annual tuition fees at Smiling International School range from EUR 6,980 to EUR 19,600, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: Boarding students applying for the IB Diploma Programme may be eligible for a partial scholarship covering up to 15% of the tuition fee. The scholarship is awarded on the basis of the student's motiva... -
The British International School Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 54,204 to 76,952 AED
Foundation: 2009Nationalities: 90 different nationalitiesNr of students: 90 studentsExaminations: BTEC - IB Diploma - IGCSEThe British International School Abu Dhabi The British International School Abu Dhabi is an outstanding-rated school for ages 3–18, offering English National Curriculum, IGCSE, IB Diploma, and BTEC pathways.English National Curriculum coupled with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and BTEC Diploma in Years 12 and 13Annual tuition fees at The British International School Abu Dhabi range from AED 54,204 to AED 76,952, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition:
Why Parents Choose Private Schools Over Public Schools
Choosing the right school is a pivotal decision that shapes a child’s academic journey and personal growth. Private schools offer a unique blend of rigorous academics, personalized attention, and enriched extracurricular programs. The smaller class sizes ensure that each student receives the support they need to thrive, while the diverse offerings in arts, sports, and leadership cultivate well-rounded individuals.
Moreover, the emphasis on values and community within private institutions resonates with families seeking an environment that aligns with their personal beliefs and expectations. The strong sense of community not only supports students during their school years but also provides a network that extends into their future endeavors.
Parents often seek the best for their children’s education, and private schools frequently emerge as a preferred choice for several compelling reasons:
- Individualized Attention: Private schools typically offer smaller class sizes, allowing for personalized instruction and stronger teacher-student relationships.
- Enhanced Academic Programs: Many private institutions provide rigorous curricula, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and specialized subject tracks.
- Extracurricular Opportunities: A wide array of extracurricular activities, from arts to athletics, enables holistic development beyond the classroom.
- Values-Based Education: Private schools often align with specific religious or philosophical values, offering families an education consistent with their beliefs.
- Community and Networking: The tight-knit communities within private schools foster strong peer relationships and networking opportunities that can benefit students long-term.
How much do Private Schools cost?
The yearly tuition fees for Private Schools in generally range from $20,000 to $50,000 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 $60,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $20,000 | $50,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,665 | $4,165 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,500 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $22,200 | $54,000 |
Summary
Private schools are chosen by families from all over the world for their impressive academic programs, international curricula, and options for bilingual education. Whether it’s the International Baccalaureate, British A-Levels, or U.S. diplomas, these educational paths open doors to prestigious universities worldwide. Parents appreciate the smaller class sizes and the personalized attention their children receive, along with a well-rounded experience that includes engaging extracurricular activities and state-of-the-art facilities. Plus, the diverse, international student body helps cultivate global awareness and fosters lasting friendships among kids.