Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Chicago

Chicago, a vibrant city known for its diverse culture and bustling urban life, offers a variety of educational options for expat families and digital nomads with children. While the city isn't overflowing with international or bilingual schools, there are several reputable institutions that cater to the needs of international students. Among the most popular are the British School of Chicago, the French International School of Chicago, and the Chicago International Charter School. These schools offer internationally recognized curricula and a multicultural environment that can be crucial for children in their formative years.

British School of Chicago, South Loop

Grades: Nursery through Year 13
Location(s): 161 W. 9th Street, Chicago
Website: www.nordangliaeducation.com/our-schools/chicago/south-loop

The British School of Chicago, South Loop, is part of the Nord Anglia Education family of schools. It offers the English National Curriculum, culminating in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exams and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for students aged 16-18. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body representing over 30 nationalities.

French International School of Chicago (Lycée Français de Chicago)

Grades: Pre-K through 12th Grade
Location(s): 1929 W Wilson Ave, Chicago
Website: www.lyceechicago.org

The French International School of Chicago, also known as Lycée Français de Chicago, offers a bilingual French-English education. The school follows the French National Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. With a commitment to fostering a multicultural perspective, the Lycée Français de Chicago provides a rigorous academic environment alongside a wealth of cultural and extracurricular opportunities.

Chicago International Charter School (CICS)

Grades: K through 12th Grade
Location(s): Multiple campuses across Chicago
Website: www.chicagointl.org

Chicago International Charter School is a network of charter schools that offers a high-quality, college-preparatory education. While not a traditional international school, CICS serves a diverse student population and aims to provide a global perspective within its curriculum. The school emphasizes rigorous academics, character development, and the skills necessary for success in a global society.

German International School Chicago (GISC)

Grades: Preschool through 8th Grade
Location(s): 1726 W Berteau Ave, Chicago
Website: www.germanschoolchicago.com

German International School Chicago offers a bilingual German-English education with an emphasis on inquiry-based learning and intercultural understanding. GISC is an IB World School, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and preparing students for the Middle Years Programme (MYP). The school's curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and a love for learning in a multicultural environment.

Chicago Japanese School (CJS)

Grades: Pre-K through 12th Grade
Location(s): 2550 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL
Website: www.chicagojs.org

Located in the suburb of Arlington Heights, the Chicago Japanese School is a Saturday school that serves the Japanese community in the Chicago area. It provides education in the Japanese language and culture, following the curriculum guidelines of the Japanese Ministry of Education. While primarily meeting on Saturdays, CJS is an essential resource for Japanese expat families seeking to maintain their children's proficiency in their native language and culture.

Science Academy of Chicago (SAC)

Grades: Pre-K through 8th Grade
Location(s): 8350 N Greenwood Ave, Niles, IL
Website: www.saoc.org

The Science Academy of Chicago, located in the nearby suburb of Niles, is a private school with a strong emphasis on math, science, and technology. While not exclusively an international school, SAC offers a diverse and inclusive environment with a curriculum designed to prepare students for the globalized world. The school prides itself on small class sizes and personalized attention to foster student success.

Global Citizenship Experience Lab School (GCE Lab School)

Grades: 9th through 12th Grade
Location(s): 9 W Washington St, Chicago
Website: gcelabschool.org

GCE Lab School provides a unique high school education centered around global citizenship and experiential learning. The curriculum is project-based and integrates real-world experiences with classroom learning. Students at GCE Lab School engage with the local and global community, preparing them for college, careers, and civic life in an interconnected world.