Understanding international school fees in Amsterdam is essential for expat families planning a move to the Netherlands, and it comes with a pleasant surprise: Amsterdam offers two very different cost tiers. Alongside fully private international schools, the Netherlands runs government-subsidised Dutch International Schools (DIS) with far lower fees. Knowing the difference can save families thousands of euros a year. This 2026 cost guide breaks down both options, what you will pay by stage, and how to budget with confidence.
Two cost tiers: subsidised vs private
The biggest decision affecting your budget is which type of international school you choose:
- Dutch International Schools (DIS): partly funded by the Dutch government and attached to the national system, these charge government-set fees of roughly €5,000–€6,500 per year. They follow international curricula such as the IB but keep costs low. Demand is high and places are limited.
- Fully private international schools: independent schools offering British, American or IB curricula, with fees typically €18,000–€30,000 per year. These offer more places, smaller classes and extensive facilities.
For many relocating families, a subsidised DIS is the first choice on cost grounds, with private schools providing flexibility when DIS places are full or a specific curriculum is required.
International school fees by stage in 2026
At fully private international schools in Amsterdam, expect approximate annual tuition of:
- Early Years / Primary: €16,000–€22,000 per year.
- Secondary / Middle Years: €20,000–€26,000 per year.
- IB Diploma / senior years: €24,000–€30,000 per year.
Subsidised DIS schools stay close to the €5,000–€6,500 band across all stages, which is why they are so sought after by internationally mobile families on local or modest packages.
The extra costs beyond tuition
Whichever tier you choose, budget for costs beyond the headline fee:
- Registration and application fees: a one-off charge, larger at private schools.
- Voluntary parental contributions: common at DIS schools to fund extras.
- Materials, trips and technology fees: several hundred euros a year.
- Lunch, after-school care and transport: these add up, especially for younger children.
- IB examination fees in the final two years.
Leading international schools in Amsterdam and what they offer
The schools below illustrate both tiers and several curricula. Visit each profile on International School Advisor to see current fees, reviews and admissions details.
The International School of Amsterdam
A long-established, fully private IB World School offering all three IB programmes, sitting toward the top of the fee range. See the International School of Amsterdam profile.
The British School of Amsterdam
Following the English National Curriculum from Early Years to senior school, a popular choice for British and globally mobile families. Review the British School of Amsterdam profile.
International French School of Amsterdam
Offering a French-curriculum education for Francophone and bilingual families. Explore the International French School of Amsterdam profile.
Optimist International School
A smaller international primary school with a child-centred approach, often a more affordable option. See the Optimist International School profile.
De Nieuwe Internationale School Esprit (DENISE)
A subsidised Dutch International School offering international education at government-set fees, with strong demand. Read the DENISE profile.
How to manage and reduce school costs in Amsterdam
- Apply early to subsidised DIS schools: they offer the best value but fill quickly, so register interest as soon as your move is confirmed.
- Negotiate fees into your relocation package: many employers cover private-school tuition.
- Ask about sibling discounts at private schools.
- Consider location: a school near home reduces transport costs and commuting time in a compact, bike-friendly city.
- Weigh value against fit: the cheapest option is not always the right one for your child's curriculum and needs.
Practical budgeting tips
Build a full year-one budget that includes one-off registration fees on top of tuition, since the first year is always the most expensive. Confirm exactly what each fee covers, because some schools bundle materials and trips while others charge separately. If a DIS place is your priority, have a private-school backup application running in parallel so you are not left without a place.
Compare the best international schools in the Netherlands
To weigh fees against quality, browse the ranking of the best schools in the Netherlands on International School Advisor, where you can filter by curriculum, location and budget and read independent parent reviews.
Frequently asked questions
How much are international school fees in Amsterdam in 2026?
Subsidised Dutch International Schools charge roughly €5,000–€6,500 per year, while fully private international schools range from about €16,000 to €30,000 per year depending on stage and curriculum.
What is a Dutch International School (DIS)?
A DIS is a government-subsidised school attached to the Dutch system that delivers an international curriculum, such as the IB, at low, government-set fees. Places are limited and in high demand.
What extra costs should I budget for?
Beyond tuition, expect registration fees, voluntary contributions at DIS schools, materials and trip charges, lunch, transport and, in the senior years, IB examination fees.