International American schools are gaining popularity in the last few years, as parents around the globe seek out a unique educational experience for their children. These schools strive to provide an exceptional learning environment that prepares students for life beyond high school graduation. Discover in this article the best american schools worldwide as well as some advantages of attending an international American school:
Top rated American Schools in the World
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Eastwood Montreux
Montreux, Vaud •Co-Education •- from 14
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 42,000 to 92,000 CHF
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: American Diploma - Cambridge - IB Diploma - IB Diploma Programme - IGCSE - Pearson EdexcelA modern Swiss boarding school in Montreux blending IB excellence with real-world impact — enriched by mentorship from the 53 Leaders. Students grow confident, capable, and future-ready.Eastwood Global delivers the IB or American Diploma with an average score of 39, placing us among Switzerland’s highest-performing schools. Students learn from specialist teachers around the world in small classes, supported daily by on-site academic coaches. This model gives them more attention, more subject choice, and more personalised guidance than any traditional timetable allows. It produces excellent results while freeing time for meaningful projects and growth.Annual tuition fees at Eastwood Montreux range from CHF 42,000 to CHF 92,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: What the Tuition Includes (For Full Boarding, 5-Day Boarding, and Day Students) Academic Programme •Full IB Diploma or American High School Diploma delivered via Eastwood Global •All academic classes ...Boarding tuition: -
Notre Dame International High School
Paris, Ile-de-France •Co-Education •- from 15
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 21,020 to 21,619 EUR
Foundation: 2010Nationalities: 20 different nationalitiesNr of students: 20 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - APNotre Dame International High School is an American school in Greater Paris, France. The school provides international students with a U.S. high school curriculum taught in English, leading to an American High School Diploma.The American curriculum is taught entirely in English, and leads to an American High School Diploma. Core Academic Subjects include - English Language Arts (English Language and Literature, AP English Literature and Composition, Literature and Performance to develop writing and communication skills) - Mathematics (Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and AP Calculus AB for advanced students) - Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and AP Biology to ensure a solid scientific culture) - Social Studies (U.S. History, World History, Ethnic Studies, Business, Economics, US Government, and AP Human Geography to develop a global perspective.) - World Languages (French courses (beginner to AP French) to help students integrate into French society.) Advanced Placement (AP) Courses The school offers AP courses ...Annual tuition fees at Notre Dame International High School range from EUR 21,020 to EUR 21,619, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: Board and School Breaks - Day Student (5-Day, Half Board: Lunch included on weekdays.) - Weekly Boarding (5-Day, Full Board: Includes breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner on weekdays except Friday even... -
Haut-Lac International Bilingual School
Lausanne, Vaud •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - FrenchYearly fee: from 21,800 to 40,600 CHF
Foundation: 1993Nationalities: 60 different nationalitiesNr of students: 60 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - IB DiplomaHaut-Lac International Bilingual School, an independent day and boarding school with a sport programme, opened in 1993 with thirteen students and continues to grow and develop.Theme-based Infant/Primary Programme, IBMYP, IBDP, IBCP, Swiss Bilingual Cycle = IBMYP with extended maths French and German, US High School DiplomaAnnual tuition fees at Haut-Lac International Bilingual School range from CHF 21,800 to CHF 40,600, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: Our annual Boarding feed range from CHF 86’000 to CHF 88’000 for boarding students. -
TASIS The American School in Switzerland
Lugano, Ticino •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 30,000 to 105,000 USD
Foundation: 1956Nationalities: 67 different nationalitiesNr of students: 67 studentsExaminations: AP - IB DiplomaFounded by international education pioneer M. Crist Fleming in 1956, TASIS The American School in Switzerland is a day and boarding school committed to creating global citizens through education, travel, and service.Any student graduating from TASIS The American School in Switzerland has earned, at a minimum, a standard US-accredited High School Diploma and can expect to gain admission to quality universities, particularly in the United States. Students who are driven to find a home at one of the world’s most selective universities can do so by pursuing an International Baccalaureate Diploma or by taking a number of Advanced Placement courses and scoring highly on the corresponding exams. Students may further bolster their candidacy by performing well on standardized tests, writing excellent personal statements, securing strong reference letters, and exhibiting an impressive commitment to some combination of the arts, athletics, local and global service, and leadership positions on or off campus. In s...Annual tuition fees at TASIS The American School in Switzerland range from USD 30,000 to USD 105,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
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 31,500 to 103,500 CHF
Foundation: 1882Nationalities: 30 different nationalitiesNr of students: 30 studentsExaminations: A Level - AP - AS - 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, AS 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 31,500 to CHF 103,500, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: At Brillantmont, we welcome a small group of day students, who live with their parents in the local area. Day students are fully integrated into the school and are encouraged to take full advantage of...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... -
Barcelona High School
Barcelona, Catalunya •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 19 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - Catalan - English - SpanishYearly fee: from 11,610 to 17,910 EUR
Foundation: 2020Nationalities: 35 different nationalitiesNr of students: 35 studentsExaminations: APFounded in 2020, Barcelona High School (BHS) is a non-traditional, dynamic and diverse international American school start-up, perfectly located in the center of Barcelona Spain, in Gracia.The academics consist of accredited US curriculum courses taught in native English. AP courses are also available, if students want courses similar to International Baccalaureate (IB) or A levels, although AP courses are not mandatory. University Counseling & Placement Services.Annual tuition fees at Barcelona High School range from EUR 11,610 to EUR 17,910, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: 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 App...Boarding tuition: -
The American School in London
London, England •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 40,188 to 46,428 EUR
Foundation: 1951Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: American DiplomaThe American School in London is an independent, college-preparatory, preK-12 day school, providing an exceptional American education to an international student body in the heart of London. We celebrate innovation and individuality, and applaud academic success. Students thrive amid high expectations and the joy of authentic learning experiences. Committed to creating courageous global citizens, we […]
The ASL curriculum: - Provides a broad and balanced education for all students that is coherently planned, sequenced and aligned to American and international content standards for English, mathematics, social studies, science, world languages, technology and media literacy, physical education, and visual and performing arts. - Develops intellectual and personal engagement for students through critical thinking, experiential learning, curiosity, collaboration, innovation and breadth of opportunity. - Enables students to develop their understanding, knowledge and skills to be able to apply their learning in novel and relevant situations or to teach what they have learned to others. - Provides the challenge, inspiration and engagement that nurture “lifelong learners.” - Promotes confidence, ...Annual tuition fees at The American School in London range from EUR 40,188 to EUR 46,428, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: 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 responsibility of a family, we devot...Boarding tuition: -
Yew Chung International School of Shanghai
Shanghai, China •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - British Curriculum - Cambridge Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - Chinese - English - SpanishYearly fee: from 163,600 to 359,100 CNY
Foundation: 1993Nationalities: 50 different nationalitiesNr of students: 50 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSE - SATYCIS Shanghai marks our first footprint in the Chinese mainland. Over the past 30 years, the school has expanded with six campuses across Puxi, Pudong and Lingang, offering a unique education pathway and competitive international curriculum for expatriate children aged 2 – 18.The Yew Chung International Curriculum (based on internationally recognized learning standards from the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, integrated within Yew Chung’s own framework, which incorporates the best educational practices and extends its focus to include Chinese language, global citizenship, international-mindedness, character education, and the arts), IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme), HKDSE (Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education), as well as a comprehensive and unique Chinese language and culture program.Annual tuition fees at Yew Chung International School of Shanghai range from CNY 163,600 to CNY 359,100, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
International School of Beijing
Beijing, China •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 232,800 to 333,300 CNY
Foundation: 1980Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - SATWith a non-profit model, research-based approach to education, and world-class facilities on our beautiful campus, ISB ensures our students can achieve impressive outcomes and discover their passions.At ISB, we strive to make learning challenging and joyful for our students and of most benefit to them when they graduate into our fast-changing world. A lot of schools choose to follow a set curriculum that has been tried and tested by other schools and that will remain in place for a long time. We take another approach.ISB is not tied to any one curriculum and therefore we are free to cherry-pick the best standards from around the world and design our own courses. We are committed to keeping up with research and best practice in education. As expert educators, what we know now about how best to teach is very different to what teachers in the previous generation knew. This means that good teaching today is far removed from what the parents of our students would have experienced at school....Annual tuition fees at International School of Beijing range from CNY 232,800 to CNY 333,300, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Zurich International School
Wadenswil, Zurich •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB Curriculum - Swiss CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - GermanYearly fee: from 16,300 to 36,600 CHF
Foundation: 1963Nationalities: 70 different nationalitiesNr of students: 70 studentsExaminations: AP - IB Diploma - SATZurich International School: A leading non-profit day school for local & expat children aged 3-18 in Switzerland. Instruction in English; additional bilingual English/German pathway for children 3-9.ZIS provides the challenge and support to ensure that every student becomes their best self and reaches their potential, whatever their interest or passion. Our Preschool to Grade 12 curriculum is shaped and guided by our Learning Principles. Learning outcomes build logically through each grade, preparing students for the next academic challenge. We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and Advanced Placement courses.We offer a Bilingual Pathway for students aged 3 – 9. The program will grow in the coming years up to Grade 9.Annual tuition fees at Zurich International School range from CHF 16,300 to CHF 36,600, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: CHF 26,300 - CHF 37,900Boarding tuition: -
International School of Los Angeles
Burbank, Los Angeles •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - French Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - FrenchYearly fee: from 19,995 to 24,900 USD
Foundation: 1978Nationalities: 65 different nationalitiesNr of students: 65 studentsExaminations: French Baccalaureate - IB DiplomaThe International School of Los Angeles (LILA) is a non-profit, independent, international school committed to bilingual education and academic excellence in a nurturing environment.Preschool (Harmonized Bilingual Program), Middle School (Bilingual Program), High School (Baccalauréat Français or International Baccalaureate Diploma)Annual tuition fees at International School of Los Angeles range from USD 19,995 to USD 24,900, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Fairfax Christian School
Sterling, Virginia •Co-Education •- from 5
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 30,000 to 47,800 USD
Foundation: 1961Nationalities: 30 different nationalitiesNr of students: 30 studentsThe Fairfax Christian School is the first K–12 school to receive the Presidential E–Award from the U.Traditional US University Prepartory Curriculum, AP and Dual Enrollment ProgramsAnnual tuition fees at Fairfax Christian School range from USD 30,000 to USD 47,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
American School of The Hague
The Hague, South Holland •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 14,650 to 22,890 EUR
Foundation: 1953Nationalities: 80 different nationalitiesNr of students: 80 studentsAmerican School of The Hague (ASH) is an international school located in Wassenaar, the Netherlands.American, International Baccalaureate, Advanced PlacementAnnual tuition fees at American School of The Hague range from EUR 14,650 to EUR 22,890, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
International School of Brussels
Brussels, Belgium •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - FrenchYearly fee: from 18,825 to 40,625 EUR
Foundation: 1951Nationalities: 70 different nationalitiesNr of students: 70 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - IB DiplomaSince 1951, the International School of Brussels (ISB) has delivered high quality education to students from countries around the world.The schoolwide curriculum is designed to prepare students to follow the IBDP which is offered in the last two years. We also offer the IBCP and a US High School diploma.Annual tuition fees at International School of Brussels range from EUR 18,825 to EUR 40,625, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Georgia School Ningbo (GSN)
Ningbo, Zhejiang •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 115,000 to 155,000 CNY
Foundation: 2014Nationalities: 20 different nationalitiesNr of students: 20 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - AP - PSAT - SATGeorgia School Ningbo (GSN), is licensed by the Zhejiang Province Ministry of Education and is the first licensed independent school for international families in the Ningbo region.At Georgia School Ningbo (GSN), we pride ourselves on delivering a research-based, college-preparatory curriculumdesigned to prepare students for a global future. Our academic program is grounded in the AERO (American Education Reaches Out) Framework, the cutting-edge Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and the prestigious College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Program. In addition, students are equipped for success with access to SAT/PSAT examinations and ongoing assessment through MAP (Measures of Academic Growth Progress), ensuring a comprehensive and personalized learning journey that meets international benchmarks.Annual tuition fees at Georgia School Ningbo (GSN) range from CNY 115,000 to CNY 155,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Keystone Academy
Beijing, China •Co-Education •- from 5
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 250,000 to 387,500 CNY
Foundation: 2014Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AKeystone Academy is an innovative and unique school in China and the world.The curriculum of Keystone Academy provides students with the opportunities to take risks, ask questions, explore ideas, and develop their imaginations while engaging them through active learning and rigorous study. The environment at Keystone is designed to promote a love of knowledge, appreciation of disciplinary expertise, and the motivation to reach high academic and personal objectives, all in a bilingual environment. In each division of the school, teachers build rich and inspiring learning experiences to help students participate in our changing world as highly competent and literate citizens.Keystone Academy offers a most unusual educational experience, weaving together the best of three educational traditions: Chinese, American, and International. A profound respect for education ...Annual tuition fees at Keystone Academy range from CNY 250,000 to CNY 387,500, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
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 12,000 to 23,000 EUR
Foundation: 1959Nationalities: 60 different nationalitiesNr of students: 60 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 12,000 to EUR 23,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Taejon Christian International School
Daejeon, South Korea •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 20,000 to 40,000 USD
Foundation: 1958Nationalities: 22 different nationalitiesNr of students: 22 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - IB DiplomaTaejon Christian International School was established in 1958.International Baccalaureate, American CurriculumAnnual tuition fees at Taejon Christian International School range from USD 20,000 to USD 40,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition:
Why families choose an American school?
When it comes to choosing a school for their children, many families gravitate towards American curriculum schools, drawn by their strong emphasis on holistic education, critical thinking, and preparation for global opportunities. These schools offer a unique blend of academic rigor and a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse student interests, fostering an environment where every child can thrive.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The American education system is renowned for its balanced approach, integrating both academics and personal development. This curriculum is designed to equip students with not only the necessary academic knowledge but also the critical life skills needed for success in a rapidly changing world. Subjects like communication, leadership, and problem-solving are interwoven with traditional academic learning, creating well-rounded individuals.
Flexibility and Choice
One of the hallmark features of American schools is the flexibility in course selection, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects before specializing in their areas of interest. This choice empowers students, giving them control over their educational journey and aligning their studies with their future career goals. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are often available, offering college-level coursework to high school students, which can lead to college credits.
Emphasis on Critical Thinking
American schools place a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking skills. Through various teaching methods and a student-centered learning approach, students are encouraged to question, analyze, and synthesize information. This focus on critical thinking helps students navigate the complexities of modern life and fosters innovative problem-solving skills.
Global Perspective
With an increasing need for global citizens, American curriculum schools often attract a diverse student body. This diversity provides a rich tapestry of cultural perspectives, enhancing the learning experience and preparing students for global challenges. The curriculum often includes global issues, foreign languages, and international relations, which are crucial in today’s interconnected world.
College Readiness
Preparation for higher education is a cornerstone of the American school system. These schools typically maintain strong ties with universities and often have dedicated counselors to help students navigate the college application process. The curriculum is aligned with the requirements of top universities worldwide, making students from American schools highly attractive to these institutions.
Community and Support
American schools are more than just educational institutions; they are vibrant communities that offer extensive support systems for students and families. From counseling services to parent-teacher associations, the network of support in American schools ensures that students’ academic and emotional needs are met, creating a nurturing environment that enhances learning.
In summary, the decision to enroll children in an American curriculum school is often driven by the comprehensive educational model that not only prepares students academically but also equips them with essential life skills. The blend of flexibility, critical thinking, global perspective, and college readiness makes these schools an attractive option for families looking towards the future.
How much do American Schools cost?
The yearly tuition fees for American Schools in generally range from $15,000 to $35,000 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 | $15,000 | $35,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,250 | $2,920 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $17,200 | $39,420 |
Summary
Families choose American curriculum schools for their balanced approach to education that emphasizes academic rigor, critical thinking, and holistic development. The flexibility in course selection, preparation for global citizenship, and strong college readiness programs are key factors that make these schools highly attractive to parents and students alike.
