Understanding international school fees in Lyon is essential for any family planning a move to France's second city, and in 2026 the cost picture is more varied than many expat parents expect. Lyon offers everything from fee-free state international sections to fully private bilingual schools, which means the right budget depends heavily on which route you choose. This guide breaks down the fee structures, the schools behind them, the extras that catch families out, and how to budget sensibly.
How international school costs work in Lyon
Lyon's international education splits into two broad models. The first is the public international section route, where international streams are attached to French state schools and tuition is effectively free, though places are selective and language requirements apply. The second is the private international school route, where families pay annual tuition that covers a full English-medium or bilingual programme. Knowing which model a school follows is the single biggest factor in your budget.
International school fees in Lyon: the ranges
As a rough 2026 guide, expect the following annual tuition:
Public international sections: tuition is free, though families pay modest administrative costs, materials and exam fees.
Private primary: roughly €8,000 to €15,000 per year.
Private secondary and IB: roughly €14,000 to €22,000 per year.
These are guide figures. Always request a current, written fee schedule from each school, because list prices change yearly and packages differ.
The schools and what they charge for
The shortlist below spans both the public-section and private models, so you can see the full range of options.
Cité Scolaire Internationale de Lyon
A state school with selective international sections leading to the French Baccalaureate with international option, meaning tuition is effectively free for admitted pupils. See the Cité Scolaire Internationale de Lyon profile for entry and programme detail.
International School of Lyon
A private, English-medium international school offering a full international programme, with fees that reflect its all-inclusive approach. Details and current pricing are on the International School of Lyon profile.
International School Ombrosa
A private bilingual school offering French and English pathways, popular with families wanting dual-language provision. Check the International School Ombrosa profile for the fee structure.
École Greenfield
A private bilingual primary school with an immersive English-French approach for younger children. The École Greenfield profile has further detail on costs.
Extra costs to budget for
Tuition is only part of the picture. Plan for a one-off registration or enrolment fee, an annual deposit at some private schools, plus lunches, uniform where required, transport, after-school activities and trips. International examinations, such as IB or IGCSE entry fees in the final years, are sometimes billed separately. For families on a corporate relocation package, check exactly which of these the package covers before you commit.
How to keep costs under control
If budget is a priority, the public international section route is by far the most cost-effective, provided your child meets the language and admissions criteria. For private schools, ask whether fees are billed annually or termly, whether sibling discounts apply, and whether there is a capital levy on top of tuition. Comparing two or three written fee schedules side by side almost always reveals meaningful differences.
Compare the best schools in France
Before you decide, compare schools and read parent reviews. Browse the ranking of the best schools in France on International School Advisor to build your shortlist.
Frequently asked questions
How much do international schools in Lyon cost in 2026?
Public international sections are effectively free aside from modest costs, while private schools range from about €8,000 in primary to €22,000 in the IB years, plus extras such as registration and transport.
Are there free international school options in Lyon?
Yes. Lyon's public international sections, attached to state schools, charge no tuition, though places are selective and language requirements apply.
What extra costs should I budget for beyond tuition?
Budget for registration or enrolment fees, deposits at some schools, lunches, uniform, transport, activities, trips and international exam fees in the final years.