Rome is a city where ancient history meets modern cosmopolitan life, making it a fascinating destination for expat families. If you are raising bilingual children or looking for an international education that preserves your home language while immersing them in Italian culture, Rome offers a number of excellent bilingual school options.
Why Choose a Bilingual School in Rome?
Bilingual education in Rome typically means instruction in both Italian and another language — most commonly English, French, or German. Research consistently shows that bilingual education strengthens cognitive flexibility, improves problem-solving skills, and gives children a significant advantage in a globalised workforce. In a city like Rome, where both local integration and international mobility matter, bilingual schooling is a natural choice for many families.
Types of Bilingual Schools Available
Rome's international school landscape includes fully bilingual schools where half the curriculum is taught in each language, as well as international schools that teach primarily in English while offering Italian language classes. Some follow globally recognised curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the Cambridge International framework, while others blend Italian Ministry of Education standards with international approaches.
Choosing the right type depends largely on how long you plan to stay in Italy, your child's current language skills, and whether you intend to continue in an international or local system after Rome.
Highlighted Bilingual Schools in Rome
Two schools that stand out for families seeking quality bilingual education in Rome are:
- Ambrit International School — a long-established school with a warm international community, offering an English-medium programme from nursery through middle school.
- The European International School College — offering a rigorous European curriculum with strong multilingual foundations for secondary-age students.
Enrolment and Admissions in Rome
Most bilingual international schools in Rome accept applications on a rolling basis, though many have limited spaces and recommend applying at least six months in advance. Documents typically required include school reports from the previous two years, a copy of the child's passport, vaccination records, and a placement assessment for older students. Some schools hold open days that are worth attending before submitting a formal application.
Life in Rome as an Expat Family
Rome's expat community is large, vibrant, and welcoming. The city has strong international school networks that organise activities outside school hours, helping new families settle in quickly. Public transport, green spaces, and the proximity of beaches and mountains also make it an excellent city for raising children.
Explore all bilingual and international schools in Rome to compare programmes, locations, and admission processes.