International Schools in Sao Paulo are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best International Schools in Sao Paulo, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why choose an international school in Sao Paulo?
Opting for an international school in São Paulo offers numerous benefits that go beyond the traditional educational frameworks. São Paulo, a cosmopolitan hub, provides a unique environment where international schools flourish, creating an educational experience that is both globally oriented and culturally rich.
Global Curriculum and Academic Excellence
International schools in São Paulo typically offer globally recognized curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), the British GCSEs, or the American Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These programs are renowned for their rigorous academic standards and are designed to prepare students for universities worldwide. Furthermore, these schools often boast highly qualified teachers who bring diverse international experiences into their classrooms, enhancing the learning environment.
Cultural Diversity
One of the most compelling reasons to choose an international school in São Paulo is the cultural diversity that it offers. Students from all corners of the globe come together, bringing a rich mix of cultural perspectives that enrich the educational experience. This exposure to various cultures promotes openness, adaptability, and understanding among students, skills that are invaluable in today’s globalized world.
Language Development
International schools in São Paulo provide a multilingual education, where English often serves as the primary medium of instruction, with opportunities to learn Portuguese and other foreign languages. This linguistic immersion not only bolsters cognitive and academic development but also prepares students for future career opportunities in a global market.
Extracurricular Activities and Personal Development
Beyond academics, international schools in São Paulo offer a wide array of extracurricular activities that cater to a variety of interests, from sports and arts to technology and social service. These activities are not only fun but also play a crucial role in the holistic development of students, helping them to develop leadership skills, team spirit, and personal interests.
Networking and Community Connections
Studying in an international school environment allows students and families to build a global network. The community at these schools often includes business leaders, diplomats, and scholars, providing students with unique networking opportunities that can be beneficial in their future academic and professional endeavors.
In conclusion, choosing an international school in São Paulo means investing in a child’s future through comprehensive education that emphasizes academic excellence, cultural diversity, and personal growth. The city’s vibrant expatriate community and its status as a business and cultural hub further enhance this unique educational experience.
How much does it cost to attend International Schools in Sao Paulo?
The yearly tuition fees for International Schools in Sao Paulo generally range from $10,000 to $20,000 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 $25,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $10,000 | $20,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $835 | $1,670 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $300 | $600 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $11,000 | $22,000 |
Top International Schools Sao Paulo 2026
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Beacon School
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 17 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - PortugueseYearly fee: from 85,000 to 153,000 BRL
Foundation: 2010Nationalities: 10 different nationalitiesNr of students: 10 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaBeacon is an IB Continuum School with an international program. We develop curious students with critical thinking skills, striving to create a more ethical and peaceful society for the 21st century.Beacon promotes rich learning experiences in Portuguese and English, thus recognizing both languages as a means of communication throughout the program.Through the International Baccalaureate Organization and its seal as an IB Continuum School, Beacon adopts the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Early Childhood and Elementary School, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Middle School and offers the Diploma Programme (DP) for High School students. These programs are aligned with our school's values and mission. We assist our students in their self-knowledge process, providing better resources for making conscious and autonomous choices in both career and higher education. The integration of the IB curriculum with the Brazilian curriculum offers Beacon students a rigorous academic program, re...Annual tuition fees at Beacon School range from BRL 85,000 to BRL 153,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: The monthly fees are paid in 13 installments, the first one concerning the reservation fee. Fees include the academic materiais for collective use, as well as snack and lunch, when applicable (High Sc...Boarding tuition: -
St. Nicholas School Pinheiros
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - MontessoriLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - PortugueseYearly fee: from 94,500 to 159,125 BRL
Foundation: 1980Nationalities: 21 different nationalitiesNr of students: 21 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSESt. Nicholas School serves the families of Sao Paulo seeking a personal and purposeful learning experience: a unique learning adventure following the programmes of the International Baccalaureate.Inquiry, principled action and critical reflection underpin the work at St. Nicholas School Throughout the curriculum the school offers a vibrant and innovative education which seeks to inspire and challenge our learners to develop a deep-seated love of learning. Emphasis is placed on the process of how students learn as much as what they are learning. We offer an inquiry-based curriculum which is both rigorous and relevant, grounded in the real-world. Learning at St. Nicholas focuses on higher-order thinking skills and multiple intelligences, alongside an integrated use of technology and multimedia. Our learners develop intercultural understandings, as they are key members of our international community. They learn that communicating in multiple ways in more than one language is critical ...Annual tuition fees at St. Nicholas School Pinheiros range from BRL 94,500 to BRL 159,125, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tiny Tots I, Tiny Tots II (08:00 - 12:00): R$ 7.560,00/month Nursery to Grade 5: R$ 10.320,00/month Grade 6 to Year 12: R$ 12.730,00/month Others Fees: Resource & Technology Fee (paid August and ...Boarding tuition: -
St. Nicholas School Alphaville
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 16 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - MontessoriLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - PortugueseYearly fee: from 94,500 to 159,125 BRL
Foundation: 2016Nationalities: 18 different nationalitiesNr of students: 18 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaSt. Nicholas Alphaville serves who live in Alphaville or Tamboré, seeking a personal and purposeful learning: a unique learning adventure with the programmes of the International Baccalaureate.Inquiry, principled action and critical reflection underpin the work at St. Nicholas School Throughout the curriculum the school offers a vibrant and innovative education which seeks to inspire and challenge our learners to develop a deep-seated love of learning. Emphasis is placed on the process of how students learn as much as what they are learning. We offer an inquiry-based curriculum which is both rigorous and relevant, grounded in the real-world. Learning at St. Nicholas focuses on higher-order thinking skills and multiple intelligences, alongside an integrated use of technology and multimedia. Our learners develop intercultural understandings, as they are key members of our international community. They learn that communicating in multiple ways in more than one language is critical ...Annual tuition fees at St. Nicholas School Alphaville range from BRL 94,500 to BRL 159,125, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tiny Tots I, Tiny Tots II & Nursery (08:00 - 12:00): R$ 7.070,00/month Kindergarten 1 to Grade 5: R$ 9.696,00/month Grade 6 to Year 12: R$ 12.020,00/month Others Fees: - Resource & Technology ...Boarding tuition: -
Avenues São Paulo
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: English - PortugueseYearly fee: from 198,000 to 198,000 BRL
Foundation: 2018Nationalities: 40 different nationalitiesNr of students: 40 studentsExaminations: American DiplomaOpened in August 2018, Avenues São Paulo is the second global campus of Avenues: The World School, serving students from the age of 2 to 18.Avenues São Paulo takes both Brazilian and international educational standards seriously, offering an integrated Brazilian program that incorporates the national curriculum. From the very first year of school, students embark on a path to global citizenship. In the Primary Division, our youngest learners benefit from a full English immersion program, with the support of two teachers per classroom. For older students, the Secondary Division curriculum is designed to challenge and support their growth while broadening their global perspectives.Annual tuition fees at Avenues São Paulo range from BRL 198,000 to BRL 198,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
The British College of Brazil
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 90,000 to 129,000 EUR
Foundation: 2011Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - IB Diploma - IGCSEThe British College of Brazil, one of São Paulo’s most distinguished international schools, caters to students of 38 different nationalities.Along with the English National Curriculum, IGCSE and IB Diploma Program, our students learn Portuguese and Brazilian history, culture and geography. The British College of Brazil offers double certification. By obtaining the Brazilian diploma, students are allowed to continue their studies in Brazil, as the school is fully certified by the Ministry of Education. Small class sizes allow teachers to focus on the individual needs of each pupil. All teachers have outstanding professional credentials from the UK with relevant experience in delivering the English National Curriculum followed by the IGCSE in YEar 10 - 11 and the IB Diploma Program in Year 12. English speaking assistant teachers support all Primary classes. Top of the school’s priorities is the personal development of its student...Annual tuition fees at The British College of Brazil range from EUR 90,000 to EUR 129,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition:
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Summary
Choosing an international school in São Paulo offers a globally recognized curriculum, exposure to diverse cultures, and enhances language skills, preparing students for global opportunities. The rich mix of academic rigor, cultural diversity, and extensive extracurricular programs fosters not only educational excellence but also significant personal and professional growth.