Amsterdam consistently ranks among the top European cities for expat quality of life, and its international school landscape is a big reason why. For families relocating in 2026, understanding international school fees in Amsterdam is the first step to planning a realistic education budget.
Unlike other European capitals, the Netherlands has a dual system of fully private international schools and subsidised Dutch International Schools. That difference alone can mean the gap between paying 5,000 euros and 30,000 euros per year. This guide breaks down exactly what to expect.
Two types of international schools in Amsterdam
Private international schools operate entirely on tuition fees, typically 20,000 to 30,000 euros per year, and follow curricula like the International Baccalaureate, British Cambridge, French or American systems. No government subsidy is applied.
Dutch International Schools (DIS) are partly funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education and charge a subsidised annual fee of around 5,500 to 6,500 euros. Places are reserved for children whose parents are international professionals temporarily working in the Netherlands.
Tuition fee ranges for 2026
- Early years (ages 3 to 5): 4,500 to 18,000 euros per year
- Primary (ages 6 to 11): 5,500 to 22,000 euros per year
- Secondary (ages 12 to 16): 6,500 to 26,000 euros per year
- IB Diploma or A Levels (ages 17 to 18): 7,500 to 32,000 euros per year
Fees quoted are tuition only. Additional costs typically add 10 to 15 percent to the total.
Additional costs beyond tuition
- Application and registration: 250 to 750 euros (often non-refundable)
- Enrolment deposit: 1,000 to 3,000 euros (usually offset against first tuition invoice)
- Capital development fee: one-off 2,000 to 5,000 euros at some private schools
- Lunch programme: 1,200 to 2,000 euros per year if opted in
- School bus: 1,500 to 2,800 euros per year depending on zone
- Uniform and sports kit: 300 to 500 euros per year
- Learning trips and expeditions: 500 to 2,500 euros per year for older students
Top international schools in Amsterdam
The British School of Amsterdam
The British School of Amsterdam follows the English National Curriculum from Early Years through Sixth Form, culminating in IGCSEs and A Levels. It is one of the longest-established private international schools in the city and a go-to for British expat families.
The International School of Amsterdam
The International School of Amsterdam was the first IB World School in Europe, offering the full IB continuum from Primary Years to Diploma. Located in Amstelveen, it draws families who want a rigorous IB education with a strong university-placement track record.
Amsterdam International Community School
Amsterdam International Community School is a Dutch International School, meaning families benefit from subsidised tuition of roughly 5,500 euros per year for primary and secondary. It offers the IB PYP, MYP and DP and is a strong option for mobile international professionals.
International French School of Amsterdam
International French School of Amsterdam delivers the French Education Nationale curriculum fully accredited by the AEFE. It is the first choice for French-speaking families and for those planning to return to France or a Francophone country.
Optimist International School
Optimist International School focuses on primary-age students and offers a modern, inquiry-based approach. It is a popular choice for young expat families who value smaller class sizes and flexibility.
Eligibility for subsidised Dutch International Schools
To qualify for the subsidised rate at a DIS, at least one of these must apply:
- The child holds a non-Dutch passport and the parent works temporarily in the Netherlands
- The family has lived abroad for the past two years and will return within six years
- The child's mother tongue or prior school language was not Dutch
Schools verify eligibility at admission. Families who fail to qualify must pay the full private tariff, which can be significantly higher.
Tax deductions and employer support
Dutch tax law allows certain education expenses to be reimbursed tax-free under the 30 percent ruling for eligible expatriates. Many multinationals operating in Amsterdam (think Booking.com, Shell, ING, Philips) include international school fee reimbursement as part of their expat packages. Always negotiate this point explicitly in your assignment letter.
How to reduce your total cost
- Apply to a Dutch International School if eligible. The savings can exceed 15,000 euros per child per year.
- Consider the West and South areas. Commuting costs drop substantially when you live within cycling distance of the school.
- Book early. Sibling discounts of 5 to 10 percent apply at several Amsterdam private schools but require simultaneous applications.
- Ask about corporate rates. Some schools have reduced fees for specific companies with block enrolments.
- Check for scholarship programmes. ISA and other schools offer merit-based scholarships at Year 7 and Sixth Form entry.
Where to compare schools side by side
To see verified rankings, curriculum details and fee bands for all international schools in the Netherlands, visit the full ISA ranking of top international schools in the Netherlands.
Frequently asked questions
How much do international schools in Amsterdam cost in 2026?
Private international schools in Amsterdam charge 20,000 to 30,000 euros per year. Subsidised Dutch International Schools charge 5,500 to 6,500 euros per year for eligible expat families.
Who qualifies for the subsidised DIS tuition rate?
Families with at least one non-Dutch parent working temporarily in the Netherlands, or children who have lived abroad for the last two years and whose mother tongue is not Dutch.
Are international school fees tax-deductible in the Netherlands?
Under the 30 percent ruling for eligible expatriates, education expenses can be reimbursed tax-free by employers. Direct personal tax deductions are limited, so employer reimbursement is the main route.