Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Guadalajara

Guadalajara, is a vibrant city that offers a variety of educational options for expat families and digital nomads with children. While not as large as cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara still boasts a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to diverse needs. Among the most popular are the American School Foundation of Guadalajara and Thomas Jefferson Institute, both known for their high-quality education and international curricula. Here is a list of recommended schools within a short drive from Guadalajara, perfect for expat kids to continue their education in an international environment.

American School Foundation of Guadalajara (ASFG)

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Guadalajara, Jalisco
Website: www.asfg.mx

The American School Foundation of Guadalajara is a prestigious institution offering an American-style education with Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. The school is accredited by both Mexican and U.S. educational authorities, ensuring a seamless transition for students moving between countries. ASFG boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse international community.

Thomas Jefferson Institute

Grades: Preschool through High School
Location(s): Zapopan, Jalisco
Website: www.tj.edu.mx

Thomas Jefferson Institute provides a bilingual education with a focus on developing critical thinking and multicultural understanding. The school follows the SEP (Mexican Secretariat of Public Education) curriculum along with a strong English program. It offers excellent sports and arts programs, and its facilities include technology-equipped classrooms and modern sports areas.

Lincoln School

Grades: Preschool through High School
Location(s): Guadalajara, Jalisco
Website: www.lincolnschool.edu.mx

Lincoln School is known for its bilingual and bicultural education, with a curriculum that integrates both Mexican and American elements. The school emphasizes the importance of technology in education and offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural clubs.

John F. Kennedy School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Guadalajara, Jalisco
Website: www.jfk.edu.mx

John F. Kennedy School offers a trilingual education in English, Spanish, and French. It is known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) Program and its commitment to academic excellence. The school's facilities include science labs, art rooms, and sports fields, and it has a strong focus on community service and global citizenship.

Maple Bear Canadian School

Grades: Nursery through Elementary
Location(s): Guadalajara, Jalisco
Website: www.maplebear.mx

Maple Bear Canadian School brings a Canadian bilingual education to Guadalajara, focusing on a student-centered approach and inquiry-based learning. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a global environment while maintaining a strong foundation in the Spanish language and Mexican culture.

The International School (TIS)

Grates: Preschool through Grade 9 (expanding to Grade 12)
Location(s): Guadalajara, Jalisco
Website: www.tis.mx

The International School offers a multicultural learning environment with a curriculum that blends Mexican and international standards. TIS is known for its small class sizes, personalized attention, and a strong English language program. The school also emphasizes environmental awareness and social responsibility.

Montessori Institute of Guadalajara

Grades: Preschool through Elementary
Location(s): Guadalajara, Jalisco
Website: www.montessori-guadalajara.com

The Montessori Institute of Guadalajara adheres to the Montessori philosophy, offering a bilingual education that fosters independence, creativity, and critical thinking. The school provides a nurturing environment with a focus on hands-on learning and individualized instruction.