Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Santiago

Santiago de los Caballeros, commonly known as Santiago, is the second-largest city in the Dominican Republic and offers a variety of educational options for expat families. While not as extensive as those found in capital cities like Santo Domingo, Santiago still boasts a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to the needs of expatriate children. Among the most popular are Santiago Christian School and The Ashton School, which are known for their high-quality education and international curricula. Here is a list of recommended schools within a short drive from Santiago for expat families to consider.

Santiago Christian School (SCS)

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Carretera Luperón Km. 4.5, Santiago
Website: www.scs.edu.do

Santiago Christian School is a private, coeducational institution that offers an American-style education with a Christian worldview. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, sports fields, and technology centers, SCS provides a well-rounded education. Extracurricular activities range from athletics to fine arts, catering to a diverse set of interests.

The Ashton School

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Autopista Duarte Km. 4 1/2, Santiago
Website: www.ashtonschool.edu.do

The Ashton School is a bilingual institution offering a curriculum that blends Dominican and international educational standards. The school is known for its rigorous academic program, which prepares students for both the Dominican bachillerato and U.S. high school diploma. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, computer labs, and sports areas. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and various clubs.

New Horizons Bilingual School

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Calle 8, Reparto Imperial, Santiago
Website: www.colegionuevoshorizontes.edu.do

New Horizons Bilingual School in Santiago provides a bilingual education in English and Spanish, with a focus on developing global citizens. The school follows a curriculum that prepares students for both local and international university entrance, including the SAT and TOEFL exams. The campus boasts modern facilities, including science labs, art rooms, and sports courts. Students can also participate in a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs.

International School of Sosua

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): La Mulata I, Sosua, Puerto Plata (within driving distance from Santiago)
Website: www.issosua.com

Although located in Sosua, Puerto Plata, the International School of Sosua is within a reasonable driving distance from Santiago and serves a diverse international community. The school offers an international curriculum, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for high school students. With a focus on holistic education, ISS provides excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, sports fields, and technology-equipped classrooms. The school's extracurricular program is robust, featuring sports, arts, and community service opportunities.

La Escuela de Lancaster

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Calle 10, Jardines Metropolitanos, Santiago

La Escuela de Lancaster offers a bilingual education with an emphasis on English language proficiency. The school follows a curriculum that incorporates elements from both Dominican and international educational systems, preparing students for higher education opportunities both locally and abroad. The campus includes modern classrooms, a library, and sports facilities. La Escuela de Lancaster also provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams and cultural clubs.