Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Dushanbe
Summary: If you're moving to Dushanbe 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 Dushanbe
As the capital city of Tajikistan, Dushanbe is home to a growing expatriate community, which has led to the establishment of a few international and bilingual schools catering to the needs of expat children. While the number of international schools in Dushanbe is not as extensive as in larger global cities, there are still several reputable institutions offering quality education. Among the most popular are the QSI International School of Dushanbe and Dushanbe International School, which are known for their diverse student bodies and international curricula.
QSI International School of Dushanbe
Grades: Preschool through Secondary
Location(s): Dushanbe
Website: www.dushanbe.qsi.org
The QSI International School of Dushanbe is part of the Quality Schools International group and offers an American-style education with a focus on English language acquisition. The curriculum includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses for older students, and the school prides itself on its small class sizes and personalized attention. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, computer labs, and sports areas. Extracurricular activities range from sports to arts and community service programs.
Dushanbe International School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Dushanbe
Website: www.dis.tj
Dushanbe International School is a well-established institution offering the Cambridge International Curriculum, which leads to IGCSEs and A-Levels. The school boasts a multicultural environment with students from various countries. Facilities include science labs, art rooms, and a sports hall. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and various clubs and societies.
Hope Academy of Bishkek
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (within driving distance)
Website: www.hopeacademykg.com
Although located in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Hope Academy of Bishkek is within driving distance for those living near the border or willing to commute. This school offers an American-based curriculum and is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). It provides a comprehensive education with a Christian worldview, and its facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and a computer lab. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts.
International School of Tajikistan (IST)
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Dushanbe
The International School of Tajikistan (IST) is another option for expatriate families in Dushanbe. While it does not have an official website, IST is known to provide an international curriculum and boasts a diverse student body. The school offers a range of subjects and places an emphasis on fostering a global perspective among its students. Parents interested in IST typically contact the school directly for the most current information regarding admissions and programs.
French School of Dushanbe (École Française de Douchanbé)
Grades: Preschool through Secondary
Location(s): Dushanbe
Website: www.ef-douchanbe.org
The French School of Dushanbe offers a curriculum based on the French education system and is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. It caters to French-speaking expatriates and those seeking a French-language education. The school provides a rigorous academic program and includes cultural activities that promote the French language and culture. Facilities include classrooms equipped with modern teaching resources, a library, and a playground.
Tajik-Turkish International School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Dushanbe
The Tajik-Turkish International School is a well-regarded institution in Dushanbe that offers a bilingual education in Turkish and English. The school follows a curriculum that integrates both Turkish and international educational standards. Students benefit from a multicultural learning environment and a variety of extracurricular activities, including language clubs, sports, and cultural events. The school is equipped with modern facilities and emphasizes academic excellence and character development.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Tajikistan Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Tajikistan
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Tajikistan
- Best Places to Live in Tajikistan
- Guide to Real Estate in Tajikistan
- Pros & Cons of Living in Tajikistan
- Cost of Living in Tajikistan
- Pros and Cons of Living in Tajikistan 2025