Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of educational options for expat families and digital nomads. While there are several international and bilingual schools in the city, some of the most popular ones include the American School of Rio de Janeiro (EARJ) and the British School of Rio de Janeiro. These schools are known for their high-quality education and international curricula, catering to the needs of expat children from various cultural backgrounds. Here is a list of recommended international and bilingual schools in and around Rio de Janeiro, all within a 40-minute drive from the city center.

American School of Rio de Janeiro (EARJ)

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Gavea, Barra da Tijuca, and Macae
Website: www.earj.com.br

The American School of Rio de Janeiro (EARJ) is one of South America's oldest and most prestigious American schools. It offers an American-style educational program from nursery through grade 12, serving both the international community and local students. EARJ provides the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports complexes, and encourages participation in a wide range of extracurricular activities.

The British School of Rio de Janeiro

Grades: Nursery through Year 13
Location(s): Botafogo, Urca, and Barra da Tijuca
Website: www.britishschool.g12.br

The British School of Rio de Janeiro offers a British-style education in Brazil and follows the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and the IB Diploma. With a diverse student body, the school provides a global perspective while maintaining a strong connection to British educational values. The school's facilities are designed to support a comprehensive education, including libraries, science labs, and sports fields. Extracurricular activities are abundant, with options ranging from music and drama to various sports and clubs.

Our Lady of Mercy School

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Botafogo
Website: www.olmrio.com

Our Lady of Mercy School is a private, co-educational, Catholic international school that offers an American-based curriculum with a strong emphasis on bilingual education. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and offers a variety of AP courses. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and a sports complex. The school also provides a range of extracurricular activities, including arts, sports, and community service programs.

Escola Eleva

Grades: Kindergarten through High School
Location(s): Botafogo and Barra da Tijuca
Website: www.escolaeleva.com.br

Escola Eleva is a Brazilian bilingual school that offers an innovative educational program with a global perspective. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for both the Brazilian national exams and international higher education. Escola Eleva provides a stimulating learning environment with a focus on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, laboratories, and sports areas, and it offers a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Deutsche Schule Rio de Janeiro (Escola Alemã Corcovado)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Botafogo
Website: www.eacorcovado.com.br

The Deutsche Schule Rio de Janeiro, also known as Escola Alemã Corcovado, provides a German-based education with a strong emphasis on multilingualism. The school follows the German curriculum and offers the German International Abitur as well as the Brazilian high school diploma. With excellent academic standards and a focus on intercultural competence, the school prepares students for a globalized world. Facilities include well-equipped classrooms, science labs, and sports areas, complemented by a variety of extracurricular activities.

Lycée Molière de Rio de Janeiro

Grades: Maternelle (Preschool) through Terminale (Senior Year)
Location(s): Laranjeiras
Website: www.lyceemoliere.com.br

Lycée Molière de Rio de Janeiro is a French international school that offers a curriculum based on the French education system. From preschool to senior year, students are immersed in a bilingual French-Portuguese environment, with the opportunity to learn English as well. The school is part of the AEFE network of French schools abroad and provides a rigorous academic program that leads to the French Baccalauréat. The school's facilities support a comprehensive educational experience, including cultural and artistic activities, as well as sports.