Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, is a vibrant city that attracts expats and digital nomads from all over the world. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque canals, and a high quality of life. For families moving to Amsterdam, education is a top priority, and the city offers a variety of international and bilingual schools to cater to the diverse community. Among the most popular are the Amsterdam International Community School and the British School of Amsterdam, which are known for their excellent curricula and multicultural environments.

Amsterdam International Community School (AICS)

Grades: Primary to Secondary (up to DP)
Location(s): Main Campus in Amsterdam, Satellite Campus in Amstelveen
Website: www.aics.espritscholen.nl

The Amsterdam International Community School is a Dutch International Primary and Secondary School offering international education in English. AICS is part of the Esprit Schools and offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes. With state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities, AICS provides a well-rounded education for expat children. The school has a diverse student body representing over 50 nationalities, fostering a truly international atmosphere.

British School of Amsterdam

Grades: Early Years to Secondary
Location(s): Amsterdam
Website: www.britams.nl

The British School of Amsterdam is dedicated to providing a British education to children of all nationalities. The school follows the National Curriculum for England and offers IGCSEs and A-Levels. With excellent facilities, including science labs, art studios, and a theatre, the school is equipped to provide a comprehensive education. The British School of Amsterdam is known for its supportive community and commitment to academic excellence.

International School of Amsterdam (ISA)

Grades: Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12
Location(s): Amstelveen
Website: www.isa.nl

The International School of Amsterdam, located in the nearby town of Amstelveen, is a short drive from central Amsterdam. ISA was the first school in the world to offer all three International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes. The school boasts a diverse student body with over 60 nationalities and provides a wide array of extracurricular activities, including arts, athletics, and community service. ISA's campus features modern facilities and a commitment to sustainability.

Amity International School Amsterdam

Grades: Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 10 (expanding to DP)
Location(s): Amstelveen
Website: www.amityschool.nl

Amity International School Amsterdam is part of the global Amity Education Group and offers an international curriculum within a caring community. The school is an IB World School for the Primary Years Programme and is a candidate school for the Middle Years Programme. Amity's campus is located in a historic building surrounded by green spaces, and it provides a nurturing environment with a focus on holistic development.

The International School Haarlem

Grades: Primary and Secondary
Location(s): Haarlem
Website: www.internationalschoolhaarlem.nl

Located in the charming city of Haarlem, just a short commute from Amsterdam, The International School Haarlem offers an international education to students aged 4 to 18. The school follows the International Primary Curriculum and the Middle Years Programme, with plans to offer the Diploma Programme in the future. The school's approach is student-centered, focusing on inquiry-based learning and international-mindedness.

Gifted Minds International School

Grades: Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8
Location(s): Hoofddorp
Website: www.giftedmindsinternationalschool.nl

Gifted Minds International School caters to the needs of gifted and talented students as well as the international community in Hoofddorp, close to Amsterdam. The school offers a curriculum that is a blend of the International Primary Curriculum and the Common Core Standards. With a focus on personalized learning, the school aims to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in its students.

Optimist International School

Grades: Primary
Location(s): Hoofddorp
Website: www.optimist-international-school.nl

Optimist International School is a public primary school offering a happy learning environment for international children. Located in Hoofddorp, the school is easily accessible from Amsterdam and provides the International Primary Curriculum. The school is known for its inclusive approach and focus on developing a global mindset in its students.