Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Austin

Austin, Texas, a vibrant city known for its live music, tech industry, and diverse culture, is also a hub for expats and digital nomads from around the world. While Austin is not as large as cities like New York or London, it does offer a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to the needs of expat families. Among the most popular are the Magellan International School and the Austin International School, both of which provide immersive bilingual education and international curricula. Here's a list of international and bilingual schools in and around Austin that are within a 40-minute drive, perfect for expat kids to receive a global education.

Magellan International School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 8
Location(s): Chimney Corners and Anderson Lane
Website: www.magellanschool.org

The Magellan International School offers a rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program for all students. With a focus on Spanish immersion, the school prepares students to become bilingual and biliterate. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and spaces for art, music, and physical education. Extracurricular activities range from robotics to soccer, fostering a well-rounded education.

Austin International School

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 8
Location(s): Greystone Drive
Website: www.austininternationalschool.org

Austin International School is a trilingual school offering instruction in English, French, and Spanish. It follows the French Ministry of Education and the IB Primary Years Programme curricula. The school boasts a multicultural environment with state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs and a sports field. Students can engage in various extracurriculars, such as chess, coding, and the performing arts.

International School of Texas

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 8
Location(s): Bee Cave
Website: www.istexas.org

Located just outside of Austin, the International School of Texas follows the IB curriculum and emphasizes inquiry-based learning. The school offers a globally-minded education with a focus on high academic standards and character development. Facilities include interactive whiteboards, a library, and outdoor learning spaces. Extracurricular options include sports, music, and language clubs.

Rawson Saunders School

Grades: 1 through 12
Location(s): Exposition Boulevard
Website: www.rawsonsaunders.org

Although not a traditional international school, Rawson Saunders School provides an exceptional education for students with dyslexia and includes a diverse community with various cultural backgrounds. The school offers individualized instruction with a low student-to-teacher ratio and integrates assistive technology to enhance learning. Extracurricular activities include drama, robotics, and athletics.

Sanchez Elementary School

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 5
Location(s): Salina Street
Website: www.austinisd.org/schools/sanchez

Sanchez Elementary School is part of the Austin Independent School District and offers a dual-language program in English and Spanish. The school aims to develop bilingualism and biliteracy skills from an early age. It provides a nurturing environment with a focus on cultural diversity and academic excellence. Students have access to technology, art, and music programs.

Harmony School of Science - Austin

Grades: K through 12
Location(s): South Austin
Website: hssaustin.harmonytx.org

Harmony School of Science is a public charter school that offers a high-quality STEM-focused education. While not exclusively an international school, it serves a diverse student body and provides a multicultural environment. The school features advanced science labs, computer rooms, and a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities, including academic competitions and community service projects.

Trinity Episcopal School

Grades: K through 8
Location(s): Westlake Drive
Website: www.austintrinity.org

Trinity Episcopal School is an independent school that, while not bilingual, offers a global curriculum with Spanish as a core subject. The school emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and ethical integrity. Facilities include a fine arts center, science and technology labs, and sports fields. Extracurricular activities cover a wide range, from robotics to performing arts.