Miami, or the Magic City, is one of the most exciting cities in America. Shaped by its Latin American, Caribbean, and European communities, the city's diversity is also reflected in its international schools, which cater to the city's sizeable expatriate population. Miami's role as a gateway between North, Central, and South America has made it home to a thriving network of schools offering bilingual and international curricula. Whether you're moving to Miami for work or lifestyle reasons, understanding your schooling options will help ensure a smooth transition for your family.
The school landscape in Miami
Before choosing an international school in Miami, it's helpful to understand the broader US education system. As in most states, schools in Florida fall into three main categories: public, charter, and private.
Public schools are free and funded mainly by the state government and local taxes. They serve students according to geographic zones, so your child will generally attend the school nearest to your house. These schools follow curriculum standards set by the Florida Department of Education.
Charter schools are also publicly funded, but they operate independently. They are free to attend and have greater flexibility in their teaching approach and curriculum. Some can focus on bilingual or international education models.
Private schools, on the other hand, are funded through tuition fees and private donations. They are free to set their own admissions criteria and curricula, and most of Miami's international schools fall into this category.
Miami's international education landscape reflects its global connections. Families can choose between IB World Schools, bilingual charter schools, and private institutions that emphasize internationalism through language immersion, multicultural studies, and globally recognized qualifications. The city's most prominent examples include Gulliver Preparatory School, Miami Beach Senior High, The Biltmore School, Miami Country Day School, and Mater Academy of International Studies.
Types of international curricula in Miami
Choosing an international school also means selecting the curriculum framework and the final qualifications your child will emerge with. This can affect university admissions later, so it's not a decision to take lightly. Miami offers a range of international or globally recognized programs, including:
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB Programme is a well-known international qualification focusing on academic rigor, inquiry-based learning, and global citizenship. It is offered at several Miami-area schools, including Gulliver Preparatory School, Miami Beach Senior High School, and The Biltmore School. The IB Diploma Programme, taught in the final two years of high school, is recognized by universities worldwide.
Bilingual and multilingual curricula
Many Miami schools offer dual-language programs. English and Spanish are naturally the most popular, given Miami's cultural makeup, but English and French or English and German are also available. The Mater Academy of International Studies, a public charter school, offers a bilingual, multicultural curriculum designed to prepare students for a globalized world, though it is not technically an international school. Sunset Elementary School, part of Miami-Dade Public Schools, runs internationally recognized foreign-language programs in French, German, and Spanish. Again, these schools are not international in the private-school sense but provide internationally oriented education within the state system.
US schools with a global outlook
Several private schools in Miami follow the US curriculum while integrating international studies, bilingual learning, and strong world-language departments. Miami Country Day School, for example, offers Spanish and Mandarin language tracks.
Why you should opt for an international school in Miami
International schools are known for their academic focus, fostering students with intellectual curiosity and confidence. They offer an international outlook and cultural diversity. Most programs focus on bilingual or trilingual learning.
At international schools, students typically benefit from small class sizes, internationally trained teachers, and qualifications that transfer easily between countries and can open up doors for your children overseas. Beyond academics, international schools foster adaptability, critical thinking, and global awareness.
Socially, these schools nurture inclusive and close-knit communities that celebrate cultural diversity, helping both students and parents integrate into Miami's cosmopolitan life.
International and bilingual schools in Miami
Gulliver Preparatory School
Gulliver Prep is an accredited IB World School offering the IB Diploma Programme for grades 11 to 12 (this corresponds to the final two years of high school). The school combines a US college-preparatory curriculum with world-language offerings and international university pathways.
Miami Beach Senior High School
Miami Beach Senior High School is a public high school offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme as part of Miami-Dade County Public Schools. It allows students to pursue an IB qualification within the free public education system.
The Biltmore School
The Biltmore School is a private institution in Miami that has been an authorized IB World School since 2012. It is not a high school but caters to children through to the end of middle school. It offers the Primary Years Programme and Middle Years Programme with bilingual English–Spanish instruction.
Miami Country Day School
Miami Country Day School is a well-established private school in Miami Shores offering an international-focused curriculum, with strong language immersion in Spanish and Mandarin, international student exchange programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. AP refers to the offering of university-level courses in high school.
Mater Academy of International Studies
Mater Academy of International Studies is a tuition-free public charter school with a bilingual and multicultural curriculum, preparing students for international higher education.
Sunset Elementary School
Sunset Elementary School is a public school in the Miami-Dade district offering international studies programs in French, German, and Spanish.
Admissions and entry requirements in Miami schools
Each school has its own admissions process. Generally, you will need to submit an application form, recent academic transcripts, proof of residence or visa, and possibly a language assessment. Private schools may request interviews or entrance tests, while charter programs often use lotteries for admission if demand exceeds capacity. Because many programs, especially IB and bilingual ones, are in high demand, it is wise to apply early, ideally six to twelve months in advance.
Tuition and finances in Miami
Tuition varies widely across Miami's schools. Private international schools such as Gulliver Prep and The Biltmore School charge between 15,000 and 40,000 USD per year, depending on grade level. Charter and public schools like Mater Academy and Miami Beach Senior High are tuition-free, though they may have limited space and specific eligibility criteria. Some private schools offer scholarships or financial aid based on academic merit or financial need. Additional costs such as uniforms, technology, and extracurricular activities may apply.
Useful links:
International Baccalaureate Organization
Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS)
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
