Oslo is one of Scandinavia's most vibrant capitals, and its compact size, spectacular natural surroundings and high standard of living make it an attractive destination for internationally mobile families. Whether you are relocating for work in energy, shipping, technology or finance, finding the right international school in Oslo will be near the top of your list. This guide covers the best international and multilingual schools in Oslo, with verified school profiles, fee information in Norwegian krone, and practical advice for families new to Norway.
Why Expat Families Move to Oslo
Norway's capital is a city that often surprises newcomers with how much it offers. The waterfront has been transformed over the past two decades, the cultural scene is strong, and the surrounding fjords, forests and mountains provide extraordinary outdoor opportunities for active families. Oslo is consistently ranked among the world's safest and most livable cities.
The Norwegian economy is underpinned by oil and gas, shipping, maritime technology and a growing technology sector. Many of the expats who settle in Oslo work in these industries or for international organisations and embassies. The city has a well-established international community, and English is widely spoken and understood, which eases the initial adjustment significantly.
International School Curricula in Oslo
Oslo's international school landscape reflects the city's European connections. English-medium schools following British or American curricula are available, as is a French-language school affiliated with the AEFE network, and a German-Norwegian school catering to the German-speaking community. Montessori programs are also available for families preferring an alternative pedagogical approach. Most schools integrate Norwegian language instruction in some form, which is valuable for children planning to stay for more than a year or two. The IB Diploma Programme is available through some Norwegian international schools for secondary students.
Top International Schools in Oslo
The schools below are drawn from the ISA Oslo school ranking, based on verified parent reviews and school data.
The British School of Oslo
The British School of Oslo is the largest English-medium international school in Norway and serves as the natural first port of call for British families and many others seeking a familiar, English-language environment. The school follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales from the early years through to GCSE and A Level, giving it a clear, well-recognised academic pathway to UK and international universities. The school has a strong pastoral care system and is experienced at welcoming students who are new to Oslo. British School families often remark on the school's warm community atmosphere and the ease of connecting with other expat families through its active parent network.
School fees: Approximately NOK 130,000–185,000 per year (roughly USD 12,000–17,000).
Lycée Français d'Oslo
Lycée Français d'Oslo is part of the AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad) network, delivering the full French national curriculum in Oslo from maternelle through to the baccalauréat. The school is the obvious choice for French-speaking families and those who want their children to complete their schooling within the French education system. It is also a popular option for francophone families from Belgium, Switzerland, North Africa and other regions where the French curriculum is well-regarded. Norwegian language instruction is incorporated into the program alongside French and English, preparing students for life in Norway. The school's baccalauréat qualifies graduates for university entry across Europe and beyond.
School fees: Approximately NOK 80,000–120,000 per year (roughly USD 7,500–11,000). Rates vary by year group and family circumstances.
Frogner International Pre-School
Frogner International Pre-School serves the youngest expat children in Oslo, providing a nurturing, English-speaking environment for toddlers and pre-schoolers in the Frogner district, one of Oslo's most popular neighbourhoods for expatriates. The school supports multilingual development and helps children build confidence and social skills in a warm, international setting before moving on to primary education. For families arriving with very young children, Frogner International Pre-School offers an invaluable bridge into Oslo life. The school's location in Frogner makes it accessible for families based in the western districts of the city.
School fees: Approximately NOK 75,000–95,000 per year (roughly USD 7,000–9,000).
International School Fees in Oslo
Oslo is an expensive city by global standards, and international school fees reflect this. Tuition at English-medium schools typically ranges from NOK 120,000 to NOK 200,000 per year (approximately USD 11,000 to USD 18,500). The Lycée Français operates on a lower-cost model as part of the AEFE network, and its fees can be more affordable, particularly for families receiving a posting allowance from a French government employer. Pre-school and kindergarten fees vary but generally fall in the NOK 70,000–100,000 range annually.
It is worth noting that Norway has a strong tradition of publicly funded kindergartens (barnehage), which some expat families use for younger children while older children attend international schools. Many companies operating in Norway include school fee contributions in their relocation and expatriate benefits packages.
Practical Admissions Tips for Oslo
Families relocating to Oslo will find that the international school admissions process is generally efficient and professional. Here are the key points to keep in mind:
Apply early for September entry. Oslo's most popular international schools, particularly The British School, can have waiting lists. Families moving for September should begin the admissions process as early as the preceding January if possible.
Document requirements. Norwegian schools typically require recent school reports, a copy of the child's passport, proof of address in Oslo, vaccination records, and a completed application. Some secondary schools may require an academic assessment.
Norwegian language support. Even families planning a short stay benefit from some Norwegian language exposure, particularly children who will be entering social activities, sports clubs and after-school programs alongside local children. Most international schools offer some Norwegian language instruction.
Neighbourhood choice matters. Oslo's most expat-friendly neighbourhoods — Frogner, Majorstuen, Vindern and Røa — tend to be in the western part of the city and are within a manageable commute of the main international schools. Choosing your home before selecting a school, or vice versa, is worth thinking through carefully.
Explore the Full Oslo School Ranking
For a broader comparison of international and multilingual schools in Oslo, including more parent reviews and fee data, visit the International School Advisor Oslo ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best international school in Oslo?
The best international school in Oslo depends on your family's language background and priorities. The British School of Oslo is the largest and most established English-medium school, offering GCSEs and A Levels. The Lycée Français d'Oslo is the top choice for French-speaking families. Frogner International Pre-School serves younger children in Oslo's western districts. Compare all options on the ISA Oslo ranking.
How much do international schools in Oslo cost?
International school fees in Oslo typically range from NOK 120,000 to NOK 200,000 per year (approximately USD 11,000 to USD 18,500) for English-medium programs. The Lycée Français d'Oslo offers more affordable tuition as part of the AEFE network. Many companies with operations in Norway include school fee support in their expatriate benefits packages.
Is English widely spoken in Oslo schools?
Yes. English is the primary language of instruction at The British School of Oslo and Frogner International Pre-School. The Lycée Français d'Oslo uses French as the primary language, with English and Norwegian integrated alongside. Almost all international schools in Oslo offer Norwegian language instruction in some form, which is valuable for children building social connections in the city.