Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a vibrant city known for its high-quality education system and diverse population. While it may not have the vast number of international or bilingual schools found in some of the world's largest cities, there are still several reputable options for expat families and digital nomads to consider. Among the most popular are the Ann Arbor International School and the Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor, both of which offer international curricula and a multicultural environment for students from various backgrounds.

Ann Arbor International School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 8
Location(s): Ann Arbor
Website: www.annarborinternationalschool.org

The Ann Arbor International School offers a globally-focused curriculum designed to foster an understanding and appreciation of world cultures. With small class sizes and a personalized approach to education, the school emphasizes inquiry-based learning and critical thinking. The school's curriculum is inspired by international standards and includes language immersion programs, cultural studies, and a wide range of extracurricular activities to support students' diverse interests and talents.

Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Ann Arbor
Website: www.steinerschool.org

The Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor provides a Waldorf education that integrates academics with the arts, music, and movement. The school offers a bilingual curriculum in both English and German, with a strong emphasis on environmental education and sustainability. Students benefit from a holistic educational approach that nurtures their intellectual, emotional, and physical development, preparing them for a successful and balanced life.

International Academy

Grades: 9 through 12
Location(s): Bloomfield Hills, MI (within 40 minutes of Ann Arbor)
Website: www.iatoday.org

The International Academy is renowned for its rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program. As one of the top-ranked high schools in Michigan, it attracts students from across the region, including Ann Arbor. The school's multicultural environment and comprehensive IB curriculum prepare students for global citizenship and higher education. With a strong focus on academic excellence, the International Academy also offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service programs.

Greenhills School

Grades: 6 through 12
Location(s): Ann Arbor
Website: www.greenhillsschool.org

Greenhills School is an independent college preparatory school that offers a challenging academic program with a global perspective. While not exclusively an international school, Greenhills provides a diverse and inclusive community with a curriculum that encourages cross-cultural understanding. Advanced language courses, exchange programs, and international trips complement the school's commitment to developing global-minded students.

Detroit Country Day School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Beverly Hills, MI (within 40 minutes of Ann Arbor)
Website: www.dcds.edu

Detroit Country Day School offers a rigorous academic program with a strong emphasis on college preparation. While it is not a traditional international school, it has a diverse student body and offers advanced language programs, including French, Spanish, Mandarin, and Latin. The school's curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills, with a wide range of extracurricular activities, including arts, athletics, and community service.

Emerson School

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 8
Location(s): Ann Arbor
Website: www.emerson-school.org

Emerson School is an independent day school that serves gifted and academically talented students. While it does not offer a bilingual curriculum, it provides a rich, advanced educational experience with a focus on individualized instruction. The school's curriculum includes foreign language instruction from kindergarten through eighth grade, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).