New York City is one of the most international places you could live, and it's no surprise that the city attracts people from all over the world, along with expat families looking for great schools that match their own cultural and academic expectations. To meet this demand, New York has built up an impressive range of international schools, many offering bilingual or multilingual programs and globally recognized qualifications. While some of these schools were originally founded to serve specific expatriate communities, they've become increasingly popular with local families who want their children to grow up with an international outlook or fluency in other languages. This guide will walk you through the international school landscape in New York, the types of schools available, and how to find the right fit for your family.
The school landscape in New York
Like the rest of the USA, New York's education system includes public, charter, and private schools. This can be confusing if you aren't familiar with the US education system, so it's good to have a general idea of the differences. Public schools are run by the New York City Department of Education, are free to attend, and follow the New York State curriculum. Students are generally assigned to schools based on geographic zones. A growing number of public schools do offer dual-language and bilingual programs.
Charter schools, which are publicly funded but independently operated, offer more flexibility and sometimes focus on language immersion or international studies. Charter schools are free to attend, but enrollment is competitive. Admission to a charter school is usually determined by a lottery system, since demand often exceeds available spaces. Charter schools are also not zoned like public schools.
The third type, private schools, are funded through tuition and private sources, and they are free to set their own admission standards and curricula. Many international schools are private (although a small number are charter schools). Most families seeking full international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British A-Levels, French Baccalauréat, German Abitur, or Japanese MEXT system, will find their best options in private international schools.
One of the earliest and most influential international schools in NYC was the United Nations International School (UNIS), founded in 1947 by a group of United Nations parents who wanted a school environment for their children that respected multiple languages and cultural backgrounds. The emergence of such schools has continued from there. The city itself is now home to 21 recognised international schools offering a range of curriculum options, and if you include the surrounding areas, the number is much higher.
What does an international school in New York offer?
International schools in New York cater to globally minded families who want their children to earn internationally recognized qualifications and become fluent in more than one language. These are often expat families, but can also be local families who share these values. These institutions are known for their academic rigour, multilingual environments, and emphasis on cultural understanding. Many schools host students from dozens of countries and encourage participation in arts, Model United Nations, and service-learning projects.
Schools such as the United Nations International School (UNIS) embody this global ethos, offering the IB curriculum from kindergarten through Grade 12 and enrolling students from over 120 nationalities. Others, such as the Lycée Français de New York, focus on bilingual education in French and English, while the British International School of New York combines the English National Curriculum with the IB Diploma Programme.
International schools also tend to come with a ready-made community. The small size of international schools, coupled with shared goals or cultural understanding, is an excellent recipe for creating strong bonds. Finding community at school is not just something students experience because at international schools, parents are generally more involved in the life of the school and participate in events and fundraising. For some expats, the school can be a great source of social connection as well, with other parents helping welcome and assist new families as they find their feet.
Most schools have a PTA (Parent Teacher Association), which parents can join to be more involved in school governance decisions.
Types of international curriculum
Depending on your child's age and educational goals, families in New York can choose from a wide range of international curricula, each offering distinct academic pathways and qualifications.
The International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is one of the most widely recognised academic programs. Originating in Switzerland, it centres on academic inquiry, critical thinking, and cultural awareness and understanding. The IB is offered from the Primary Years Programme to the Diploma Programme and is valued by universities worldwide for its academic rigour and emphasis on global citizenship.
The British Curriculum
The British curriculum, based on the UK education system, involves completing the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) followed by Advanced Levels (A-Levels), which prepare them for university study in the United Kingdom, the United States, and other global destinations.
The French Baccalauréat
The French Baccalaureat - or Le Bac - represents another long-standing academic tradition. It combines a broad liberal arts education with in-depth study in specific subject streams and is known for its focus on analytical thinking, literature, and philosophy. It is internationally respected and enables direct entry into universities in France and beyond.
The German Abitur
The German Abitur focuses on languages, sciences, and humanities. The qualification provides access to universities across Europe and is recognised globally for its high academic standards.
Other Asian and bilingual models
New York also has a growing number of schools following Asian and bilingual models. The Japanese curriculum, accredited by Japan's Ministry of Education (MEXT), ensures academic continuity for Japanese-speaking students, while Mandarin-English bilingual programs have become more popular.
Notable international schools in New York
New York has dozens of international schools across its five boroughs. Below is a small selection of the best-known institutions.
United Nations International School (UNIS)
Established in 1947 to serve the children of United Nations staff, UNIS remains one of the best-known and diverse schools in NYC, with students from over 120 nationalities. The school delivers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from kindergarten through Grade 12 and places a strong emphasis on languages and cross-cultural understanding. It has programs in diplomacy, Model United Nations, and the arts, as well as the standard subjects.
Lycée Français de New York
This bilingual French-English school offers a complete French curriculum accredited by the French Ministry of Education, as well as the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the upper years. It is respected for its academic excellence, cultural focus, and strong community spirit. The school combines traditional French academics with a strong creative focus and regularly hosts art exhibitions and theatre performances.
German International School New York (GISNY)
Located in White Plains, GISNY provides a bilingual education leading to both the German Abitur and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Students study in both German and English. The school places particular emphasis on science, languages, and environmental awareness.
British International School of New York
Combining the English National Curriculum with IGCSE and IB programs, this Manhattan-based school promotes creativity, inquiry, and personal development. Small class sizes, strong pastoral care, and a broad range of subjects, including performing arts, community service, and sports, help students develop academically and socially.
The Japanese School of New York
Based in Greenwich, Connecticut, this institution follows the curriculum of Japan's Ministry of Education (MEXT). Instruction is primarily in Japanese, with English-language support.
Avenues: The World School
Known for its innovative, globally connected approach, Avenues offers bilingual Mandarin-English tracks alongside a forward-thinking curriculum focused on entrepreneurship, sustainability, and social leadership. With sister campuses in São Paulo, Shenzhen, and other major cities, Avenues can also offer student exchanges.
Dwight School
Dwight School, located on Manhattan's Upper West Side, is one of New York's oldest international schools, offering the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum from preschool to Grade 12. Dwight is known for encouraging students to explore their individual passions while maintaining strong academic standards.
International School of Brooklyn (ISB)
At the International School of Brooklyn, students begin in French or Spanish immersion programs and continue into the IB curriculum. ISB is known for its inclusive, community-based environment and its commitment to developing open-minded, multilingual learners.
Choosing an international school in New York
Selecting the right international school in New York can feel overwhelming given the range of options, but most schools provide excellent support to help families make the right decision. Admissions teams at these schools are typically responsive and accustomed to working with relocating families, offering virtual consultations, campus tours, and information sessions throughout the year. Many schools also host online open days or Zoom Q&A sessions, allowing parents abroad to meet teachers and staff before moving.
When narrowing your choices, make sure to do your research. There are various online ranking systems for schools, like Niche and GreatSchools that may be useful. Consider factors such as curriculum type, language of instruction, location and commute, and university pathways. Class size, extracurricular opportunities, and community atmosphere are also very important to explore. Families relocating mid-year should look for schools that offer rolling admissions or short-term entry options.
It's a good idea to reach out directly to schools early in your planning process. Staff can provide advice on documentation requirements, testing procedures, and timelines, as well as connect you with parent ambassadors or relocation liaisons, which can help you make the right decision.
Admissions and academic year in New York
Admissions to international schools in New York can be really competitive, particularly for upper grades and well-known institutions. Most schools require an application form, academic transcripts, teacher references, and copies of the student's passport or visa.
Prospective students may also be asked to complete assessment exams in English, mathematics, or additional languages. For younger children, informal interviews or classroom observations are more common. Many schools now allow remote interviews and placement tests for families applying from overseas.
Proof of local residency, such as a lease or utility bill, is often required before enrolment. Admissions teams are generally experienced in working with expatriate families and can provide guidance on the necessary documentation.
Visas for the US https://www.expat.com/en/guide/north-america/usa/34436-types-of-visas-offered-by-the-us.html
The academic calendar typically runs from September to June, with two semesters or three trimesters, and holidays during winter and spring. Summer break lasts around two months. Some schools following European or Asian systems may have slightly different term dates. Early applications are recommended, as popular programs often have waitlists, though several schools offer rolling admissions for families relocating mid-year.
Tuition and financial aid for students in New York
Tuition fees for private international schools in New York are among the highest in the country, ranging from USD 30,000 to USD 55,000 per year, depending on grade level and program. Additional costs such as uniforms, after-school activities, transportation, and meals are typically not included.
Charter schools offering bilingual or IB programs are tuition-free, but spaces are extremely limited and allocated through lotteries. Some private schools offer financial aid or scholarships based on need or academic merit, though competition is strong. Families should review each school's financial aid deadlines and required documentation well in advance.
It's also worth noting that private international schools are not the only option for families seeking a globally oriented education. Several of New York's public and charter schools offer strong dual-language and immersion programs, for example, in Spanish, Mandarin, French, and Italian, also providing students with language proficiency without the associated private school costs. These can be excellent alternatives for families seeking quality international education on a more accessible budget. However, remember that for public schools, you must live in the zone that the school serves to be able to enroll your children.
Useful links:
United Nations International School (UNIS)
German International School New York
British International School of New York
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