International School Admissions in Rotterdam: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Quick answer: How do international school admissions work in Rotterdam in 2026? Rotterdam has two subsidised Dutch international schools, Harbour International for primary and Rotterdam International Secondary School, with eligibility rules for internationally mobile families and lower fees, plus the private Nord Anglia school. Apply as soon as your move is confirmed with passports, school reports and proof of employment, then attend an intake meeting.

Last reviewed: September 2026 by Catherine from ISA. Fee ranges are indicative; always confirm with the school.

International school admissions in Rotterdam work differently from most cities, because the Netherlands has a network of Dutch International Schools that are partly funded by the government. They charge much lower fees than fully private schools but have eligibility criteria designed for internationally mobile families. Understanding which school you qualify for is the first step.

This guide explains the admissions process step by step, from eligibility and documents to deadlines and fees, and highlights the schools in Rotterdam with verified profiles on International School Advisor.

Step 1: understand the two types of international school

Dutch International Schools (DIS): government-subsidised schools that teach international programmes in English. In Rotterdam these are Harbour International for primary and Rotterdam International Secondary School for secondary. Fees are a fraction of private school fees.
Private international schools: fully fee-paying, such as Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam, open to any family that meets academic and language requirements.

Dutch International Schools generally admit children of families who are in the Netherlands temporarily for work, children of Dutch families returning from abroad, and children who have been in international education and are likely to move again. Each school applies the national guidelines in its own policy, so read it carefully.

A verifiable fact worth knowing: under the Dutch Compulsory Education Act (Leerplichtwet 1969), children must attend school from the first school day of the month after their fifth birthday. Most children in fact start at four, and international schools plan their intake around that.

Step 2: gather your documents

Passports of the child and parents, and residence permits if applicable.
Proof of employment or an employer letter showing the assignment in the Netherlands, which DIS schools use to check eligibility.
School reports for the last two years and any standardised test results.
Learning support reports, if your child has additional needs.
Proof of address or a rental contract once you have one, and your citizen service number (BSN) after municipal registration.

International schools in Rotterdam

These schools have verified profiles on International School Advisor with reviews and indicative prices.

Harbour International Primary School

The Dutch International School for primary in Rotterdam, teaching an international primary programme in English. It is subsidised, so fees are much lower than at private schools, and it applies DIS eligibility criteria.

Rotterdam International Secondary School

Known as RISS, it is the secondary Dutch International School in the city, part of the Wolfert van Borselen group. It offers the IB Middle Years Programme and the IB Diploma, and is the natural next step from Harbour International.

Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam

A private international school in Hillegersberg, formerly the American International School of Rotterdam, offering the IB from early years to the Diploma. It is open to families who do not meet DIS criteria or want a fully private school.

Step 3: intake meeting and placement

Most schools invite the family for an intake meeting with the admissions team and, for older children, an assessment of English and maths. The aim is placement, not selection: schools want to make sure your child is in the right year group and gets the support they need. Children with little English may be offered an English language support programme.

DIS schools may also ask more questions about your plans to confirm eligibility. Be ready to explain the length of your assignment and whether a further move is likely.

For students joining RISS in the IB Diploma years, the school will look closely at previous grades and subject choices, because the Diploma is demanding and some subject combinations are limited. If your child is coming from a very different system, ask whether a preparatory year or a different pre-university route would be a better fit.

Step 4: timing and waiting lists

The Dutch school year starts in late August. International schools accept applications all year and admit children mid-year when there is space, which suits relocating families. However, some year groups at the subsidised schools can have waiting lists, so apply as soon as your move is confirmed, even before you have found housing.

If there is no place straight away, ask whether a waiting list is kept by date of application or by eligibility priority, and consider a temporary place at a school in a nearby city such as Delft or The Hague.

Step 5: fees and costs

Indicative 2026 annual fees:

Dutch International Schools (primary and secondary): roughly €4,500 to €8,000 per year.
Private international schools: roughly €18,000 to €30,000 per year depending on grade.

Extras include a one-off enrolment fee at some schools, lunch or lunch supervision, school trips, IB exam fees and, at private schools, a capital or development levy. Many employers contribute to school fees, and at DIS schools the employer often pays part of the fee directly.

Families relying on the Dutch 30 percent ruling for skilled migrants should note that the government has legislated a reduction of the tax-free allowance to 27 percent from 2027, so check how this affects your budget if you plan to stay several years.

Practical tips for Rotterdam families

Register with the municipality early. You need your BSN for health insurance, banking and school records. Book the appointment at the Rotterdam city office as soon as you have an address.

Think about where you live. Harbour International and RISS are in the city, while Nord Anglia is in Hillegersberg in the north. Rotterdam is very cycle-friendly, and many older children cycle to school, which makes proximity even more important.

Consider local Dutch schools too. Younger children often adapt quickly to a Dutch primary school, and some cities offer newcomer classes. If you plan to stay long term, this can be a strong and free option.

Ask about transitions. If your child starts at Harbour International, check how the move to RISS works at age 11. Most children move smoothly, but places and timing should be confirmed.

See the ranking of schools in the Netherlands

Compare these schools with others across the country in the ranking of the best schools in the Netherlands.

More guides to schools in Rotterdam

Frequently asked questions

Who can attend a Dutch International School in Rotterdam?

Dutch International Schools mainly admit children of families living in the Netherlands temporarily for work, Dutch children returning from abroad and children with an international education history who are likely to move again. Each school publishes its own admissions policy based on national guidelines, so check it before applying.

How much do international schools in Rotterdam cost?

In 2026, the subsidised Dutch International Schools charge roughly €4,500 to €8,000 a year, while private international schools charge roughly €18,000 to €30,000. Add lunch, trips, IB exam fees and, at private schools, possible enrolment or development fees.

Can my child join an international school in Rotterdam mid-year?

Yes, international schools in Rotterdam admit children throughout the year when places are available. Some year groups at the subsidised schools have waiting lists, so apply as soon as your move is confirmed and ask how the list is managed.