Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Colombo

Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, is a hub for expatriates and digital nomads from around the world. Catering to the diverse community, Colombo offers a variety of international and bilingual schools, providing high-quality education for expat children. Among the most popular are the British School in Colombo and the Overseas School of Colombo, both known for their excellent curricula and international standards. With a range of options available, parents can choose from schools offering different educational systems such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), the British curriculum, or the American curriculum, ensuring a smooth transition for their children. Here are some of the top international and bilingual schools within a 40-minute drive from Colombo:

The British School in Colombo

Grades: Nursery to Year 13
Location(s): Elvitigala Mawatha, Colombo 08
Website: www.britishschool.lk

The British School in Colombo is a co-educational day school that follows the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A Levels. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, a theatre, and sports complexes, the school provides a well-rounded education. Extracurricular activities range from sports to music and drama, catering to a wide array of interests. The school boasts a diverse student body, representing over 40 nationalities.

Overseas School of Colombo

Grades: Preschool to Grade 12
Location(s): Pelawatte, Battaramulla
Website: www.osc.lk

The Overseas School of Colombo is the oldest international school in Sri Lanka and offers the IB program from primary years to the diploma level. Known for its inclusive and multicultural environment, OSC emphasizes academic excellence alongside personal growth. Facilities include a library, science and computer labs, and sports fields. The school is committed to community service and encourages students to engage with local and global issues.

Elizabeth Moir School

Grades: Junior School (Age 2-7), Senior School (Age 8-18)
Location(s): Colombo 07 and Colombo 05
Website: www.elizabethmoirschool.com

Elizabeth Moir School is one of Sri Lanka's leading private international schools, offering a British-style education with classes leading to IGCSE and A Level qualifications. The school prides itself on its academic excellence and small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention. With a broad range of extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to develop their talents in various fields beyond academics.

Colombo International School (CIS)

Grades: Kindergarten to Year 13
Location(s): Colombo 03 and Kandy
Website: www.cis.lk

Colombo International School has a reputation for providing a high-quality education with a focus on individual student development. Following the British curriculum, CIS offers IGCSE and A Level programs. The school's facilities include science and IT labs, a swimming pool, and sports courts. CIS is known for its strong emphasis on discipline and character building, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.

Gateway College Colombo

Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 13
Location(s): Rajagiriya
Website: www.gatewaycollege.lk

Gateway College provides a comprehensive education from kindergarten to advanced level, following the British curriculum and offering Edexcel IGCSE and A Level qualifications. The school is equipped with modern facilities, including a performing arts center, science and computer labs, and sports facilities. Gateway College is known for its innovative teaching methods and commitment to nurturing global citizens.

Lyceum International School

Grades: Nursery to Grade 13
Location(s): Nugegoda and other branches around Colombo
Website: www.lyceum.lk

Lyceum International School offers a curriculum that leads to the Cambridge IGCSE and A Level examinations. With a vision to foster creativity and critical thinking, Lyceum provides a supportive learning environment. The school's facilities support a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, ensuring a holistic education for its students.

Asian International School

Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 13
Location(s): Colombo 05
Website: www.ais.lk

Asian International School is a well-established institution offering a blend of the local curriculum and the Cambridge examination system. AIS is known for its academic rigor and a strong focus on extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The school's multicultural environment is ideal for expat children, fostering respect and understanding among its diverse student population.