Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Cebu City
Summary: If you're moving to Cebu City with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Cebu City
As a bustling urban center and a popular destination for expatriates, Cebu City offers a variety of international and bilingual schools catering to the diverse educational needs of expat children. While the city isn't as large as global metropolises like London or New York, it still boasts a respectable selection of institutions that provide quality education with an international perspective. Among the most popular are the Cebu International School and the Singapore School Cebu, both known for their rigorous academic programs and multicultural environments.
Cebu International School (CIS)
Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Pit-os, Talamban, Cebu City
Website: www.cis.edu.ph
Cebu International School is a private secular institution offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students from nursery to grade 12. With a campus situated in the northern part of Cebu City, CIS provides a globally recognized curriculum and boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, a library, sports fields, and a swimming pool. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from arts and music to various sports and clubs.
Singapore School Cebu (SSC)
Grades: Pre-Nursery through Grade 10
Location(s): Mandaue City, Metro Cebu
Website: www.singaporeschoolcebu.com
Singapore School Cebu provides a Singaporean-based curriculum with an emphasis on English, Mathematics, and Science. Located in Mandaue City, a short drive from Cebu City, SSC is known for its strong academic program and bilingual instruction in English and Mandarin. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, a computer lab, and a library. SSC also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including performing arts, sports, and robotics.
Woodridge International School (WIS)
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Banilad, Mandaue City
Website: www.woodridgeinternationalschool.com
Woodridge International School offers a curriculum that integrates the Philippine Department of Education's K-12 program with international standards. Located in Mandaue City, WIS provides a comprehensive education with a focus on holistic development. The school's facilities include science and computer laboratories, a library, and sports amenities. WIS also emphasizes extracurricular activities, including cultural clubs, sports teams, and academic organizations.
Bright Academy
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Banilad, Cebu City
Website: www.brightacademy.edu.ph
Bright Academy is known for its strong academic program that prepares students for both local and international higher education opportunities. The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and emphasizes English proficiency. Facilities at Bright Academy include well-equipped classrooms, a science lab, and a computer center. The school also provides a range of extracurricular activities, from sports to debate and drama clubs.
Harvest Christian School International (HCSI)
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Mandaue City, Metro Cebu
Website: www.hcsinternational.org
Harvest Christian School International offers a Christian-based education with a curriculum that integrates the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) system with the Philippine educational system. HCSI provides a personalized learning experience with a focus on character development. The school's facilities include a library, computer lab, and music room. Extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and arts are also available to students.
Marie Ernestine School
Grades: Nursery through Grade 10
Location(s): North Campus: Talamban, Cebu City; South Campus: Bulacao, Talisay City
Marie Ernestine School offers a bilingual education in English and Filipino, with a curriculum that emphasizes science and mathematics. The school has two campuses, one in Talamban and another in Talisay City, both within a reasonable driving distance from Cebu City. The school is equipped with science laboratories, computer rooms, and libraries. Marie Ernestine School also encourages student participation in various clubs and sports activities.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Philippines Guide
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- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Philippines
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- Pros & Cons of Living in Philippines
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- 2025 Guide to Living in Philippines
- Pros and Cons of Living in Philippines 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Philippines