San Francisco is famous for its cosmopolitan mixture of tech, finance and creative industries, which attract families from all over the world. This has fostered a strong community of international schools in the city, which cater to expat families as well as locals who want to foster an international outlook, encourage second language learning, or pursue international qualifications. There are a variety of options available in the city, including schools with Italian, German and French curricula, as well as private high schools with a range of language options and curricula.
San Francisco's international school landscape
Before you choose your international school, you need to understand the general schooling landscape in America. In the US, there are three main types of schools: public, charter, and private.
Public schools are tuition-free and based on geographic zones, making them accessible to most families. Charter schools, also tuition-free, operate independently and sometimes offer international curricula or innovative teaching models. Many international schools in San Francisco fall into the private category; they set their own admissions, curriculum, and fees, and typically feature bilingual or multilingual teaching staff.
Types of international curricula in San Francisco
International schools in SF offer a range of programs, each leading to distinct qualifications for their students.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is widely available in San Francisco's top schools, including the International High School of San Francisco and La Scuola International School. The IB curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary studies, and a global perspective, and is recognized by universities worldwide
National Curricula
This refers to schools that follow the academic standards and cultural practices of their home countries, so you essentially graduate with the same qualifications you would if you had remained in your country of origin. There include:
- French Baccalaureate programs, notably at the French American International School, which caters to francophone families and those valuing French academic rigor.
- German curriculum is an option at the East Bay German International School (Emeryville), reachable from San Francisco.
- The La Scuola International School offers Italian immersion while following the International Baccalaureate framework.
American schools with an international focus
Some US-based private schools offer a US high school diploma but with strong global emphasis, language immersion, and international university placement support; while not technically an international school in the true sense of the name, they may provide a great compromise.
What can an international school in San Francisco offer?
San Francisco's international schools offer more than just language immersion, although that is a key attraction, and they are an excellent way to become truly bilingual or multilingual. International schools can also help to foster a global perspective and create well-rounded learners who consider themselves to be citizens of the world. Students often learn alongside peers from a range of nationalities, and faculty are recruited internationally. Schools emphasize academic rigor, creativity, and research, with small class sizes that encourage learning and close-knit communities. International credentials such as the IB or French Bac are looked on favorably by university admissions in both the U.S. and overseas.
Notable international schools in San Francisco
The International School of San Francisco is the city's most well-known bilingual institution, offering both the IB and French Baccalaureate programs in a multicultural setting.
La Scuola International School is San Francisco's only IB World School, providing preschool through middle school with Italian immersion.
The Lycée Français de San Francisco serves French-speaking families across multiple campuses, offering the IB track and a full French curriculum.
The San Francisco International High School specializes in educating recent immigrants and newcomers, with a focus on English language acquisition and multicultural integration.
Other options in the wider Bay Area include Silicon Valley International School and East Bay German International School.
Admissions in international schools in San Francisco
Entry requirements vary from school to school but typically include an application, prior academic records, and proof of language proficiency (especially for older students). Some schools may also require interviews or placement tests, especially at the secondary level. Waitlists are common, particularly those offering IB or French programs, so early applications and proactive communication with admissions offices are advised.
Tuition and financial aid in San Francisco
Private international schools in San Francisco have tuition ranging from around $10,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on grade and program. Some charter or magnet schools may offer free tuition, but these are rare. Scholarships and bursaries are available based on need or merit, particularly at larger institutions. Be prepared for hefty price tags:
- La Scuola International School: $45,150–$48,150.
- Chinese American International School: $41,100–$44,300.
- French American International School & International High School: $39,180–$57,160.
Useful links:
International Baccalaureate Organization
California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS)
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