International Schools in Bangalore: A Guide for Expat Families in 2026
Bangalore — officially Bengaluru — is India's technology capital and one of Asia's fastest-growing expat destinations. Home to the Indian operations of hundreds of global companies, the city attracts professionals from across the world, many of whom arrive with families. For parents, finding a good international school in Bangalore is one of the first and most important steps in the relocation process. This 2026 guide covers the curricula available, the leading schools, typical fees, and practical advice for newly arrived families.
International Curricula Available in Bangalore
Bangalore has a strong selection of international schools offering globally recognised curricula. The International Baccalaureate (IB) is available at multiple IB World Schools across the city, including the full PYP–MYP–DP continuum. The Cambridge International curriculum (IGCSE and A-Level) is also well represented. American curriculum schools offering the US High School Diploma and AP courses are increasingly common, particularly around the tech corridors of Whitefield and Electronic City. Some schools combine CBSE (the Indian national curriculum) with international programmes, which can offer more flexibility for families considering longer stays in India.
Top International Schools in Bangalore
Canadian International School
Canadian International School (CIS) Bangalore is one of the city's most prestigious international schools, offering the IB continuum from the Primary Years Programme through to the Diploma Programme. Located in Yelahanka in north Bangalore, CIS has a sprawling campus with excellent facilities including science labs, arts centres, and sports grounds. The school is accredited by the IB Organisation and is known for its diverse, genuinely international student body drawn from over 40 nationalities. University placement results are strong, with graduates accepted at leading universities in Canada, the UK, the US, and India. CIS is consistently ranked among India's top international schools.
Other notable international schools in Bangalore include Inventure Academy (IB continuum, Whitefield), Greenwood High (Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level, Bannerghatta Road), Stonehill International School (IB, Yelahanka), and The International School Bangalore — TISB (IB, Electronic City). Bangalore has one of the largest concentrations of IB schools in India, giving families excellent choice.
International School Fees in Bangalore
Bangalore's international schools are generally more affordable than equivalent schools in Singapore, Hong Kong, or London, but costs have risen substantially in recent years with the growth of the tech expat community. Annual tuition at top IB schools such as Canadian International School typically ranges from INR 600,000 to INR 1,400,000 per year (approximately USD 7,000–16,500 at current exchange rates), depending on the year group. Cambridge curriculum schools tend to be slightly less expensive at the higher year groups. Registration fees are typically INR 50,000–150,000, and one-time development fees or refundable deposits may also apply. Some schools require advance payment of fees for the full academic year.
Practical Tips for Families Moving to Bangalore
Bangalore is a large, sprawling city, and traffic can be challenging — school location relative to your home is therefore one of the most important factors in school selection. The main expat clusters are in the north (Yelahanka, Hebbal, Sahakarnagar — popular with families attending CIS and Stonehill) and in Whitefield to the east (closer to the tech parks and Inventure Academy). The Inner City areas of Indiranagar and Koramangala are popular for their lifestyle but involve longer commutes to most international schools.
Bangalore has two main international schools intake periods: June (the start of the Indian academic year) and January. Most international schools accept mid-year applications from families on corporate relocation, and dedicated admissions teams can often facilitate a smooth enrolment at short notice. Strong EAL (English as an Additional Language) support is standard at most international schools.
The city has an excellent quality of life for expat families, with a moderate climate year-round, good medical facilities, a buzzing food and café scene, and a very large English-speaking expat community. Major international companies typically provide relocation assistance that includes school fee support.
Find All International Schools in Bangalore
To compare the full ranking of international schools in India and Bangalore, read verified parent reviews, and send direct school enquiries, visit the ISA international school ranking for India.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best international school in Bangalore?
Canadian International School (CIS) is consistently rated among Bangalore's top international schools for its IB curriculum, campus facilities, and university placement results. Inventure Academy, Stonehill International School, and Greenwood High are also highly regarded. The best choice depends on your preferred curriculum, location, and budget.
How much do international schools in Bangalore cost?
Annual fees at top international schools in Bangalore range from approximately INR 600,000 to INR 1,400,000 (USD 7,000–16,500), making Bangalore considerably more affordable than Singapore or Hong Kong for international schooling.
Which areas of Bangalore are best for expat families?
North Bangalore (Yelahanka, Hebbal) is popular for families attending CIS and Stonehill. Whitefield in the east suits families working in the tech parks. Indiranagar and Koramangala offer a vibrant urban lifestyle but longer school commutes.