International school admissions in Amsterdam come with a twist that surprises many newly arrived families: the city has two quite different types of international school, and the route you take depends on which one you choose. Alongside fully private international schools, the Netherlands runs government-subsidised international streams that are far more affordable but apply eligibility rules. This 2026 guide explains how admissions work for both, the timeline to follow, the documents you will need and the language support on offer.
Two routes into international education in Amsterdam
The first route is the Dutch International School stream, partly funded by the Dutch government. These schools charge much lower fees but are generally intended for families with an international background, such as those on a temporary posting or holding a foreign passport, and places can be limited. The second route is the fully private international school, open to a broader range of families, offering programmes like the IB with higher fees and often more extensive facilities. Knowing which stream fits your situation is the first admissions decision to make.
The Amsterdam admissions timeline
Most international schools in Amsterdam follow an August or September start. Popular schools and the subsidised streams can have waiting lists, so apply as early as your relocation allows, ideally several months ahead. Because Amsterdam attracts year-round corporate and institutional relocations, mid-year entry is often possible where places exist, but it is never guaranteed for the most in-demand year groups.
Curricula you will be choosing between
The International Baccalaureate is widely available and recognised worldwide. British-style provision leading to IGCSE and A-Levels suits UK-linked families, and several schools offer the IB Middle Years and Diploma programmes. The subsidised Dutch international streams typically follow the IB framework in English. Confirm the exact qualifications offered at the upper levels before applying.
Leading international schools in Amsterdam
The schools below are well known in the Amsterdam area. Contact each directly to confirm eligibility, availability and current fees, and visit where you can.
The International School of Amsterdam
One of the world's longest-running IB schools, offering the full continuum from early years to the Diploma in a diverse community. See The International School of Amsterdam on ISchoolAdvisor.
The British School of Amsterdam
A British-curriculum school delivering the English National Curriculum and a familiar route for UK-connected families. View The British School of Amsterdam.
De Nieuwe Internationale School Esprit (DENISE)
A subsidised international school offering an inclusive, English-medium education with strong support for newcomers. View DENISE on ISchoolAdvisor.
Florencius International School
A smaller private international school offering a personalised English-medium pathway for younger learners. See Florencius International School.
Documents you will need to apply
Requirements vary, but a typical Amsterdam application asks for the following:
- Completed application form and any application fee.
- The two most recent school reports, translated into English where needed.
- The child's passport and proof of registration with the municipality once you arrive.
- For the subsidised streams, evidence of eligibility such as an employment contract or proof of international background.
- A reference from the current school, sometimes sent school to school.
- Immunisation or health records.
Assessments and language support
Younger children are usually assessed informally, while older students may sit a short English and maths assessment and have a conversation with staff. Many Amsterdam international schools, especially the subsidised streams, are well set up to welcome children with limited English and provide English as an Additional Language support. If your child also needs to learn Dutch, ask how that is built into the timetable, as approaches differ between schools.
Practical admissions tips
Check eligibility first. Before falling in love with a subsidised school, confirm your family qualifies, as the rules are specific.
Apply to more than one school. With waiting lists common, keep two or three options open until a place is confirmed.
Register with the municipality promptly. Many steps, including some school enrolments, depend on your local registration once you arrive.
To compare schools, read profiles and check indicative prices, browse the ranking of the best international schools in the Netherlands on ISchoolAdvisor as you build your shortlist.
Frequently asked questions
Are international schools in Amsterdam free or subsidised?
Some are partly subsidised by the Dutch government and charge much lower fees, though these streams usually require an international background or temporary-posting status. Fully private international schools are open more broadly but charge higher fees.
When should I apply to international schools in Amsterdam?
Apply as early as possible, ideally several months before the August or September start, because popular schools and subsidised streams keep waiting lists. Mid-year places can open where availability exists.
Does my child need to speak Dutch or English to be admitted?
For international schools, English is the main language, and many offer English as an Additional Language support for newcomers. Dutch is not usually required for entry, though some schools teach it alongside the main programme.