Choosing an international school in New York can feel overwhelming. The city hosts one of the world's densest concentrations of globally minded schools, from French and Japanese immersion academies to IB World Schools spread across Manhattan and Brooklyn. This guide helps expat families compare curricula, understand realistic fees and navigate admissions so you can shortlist with confidence for the 2026-27 school year.
Which Curricula Are Available in New York?
New York's international schools cover almost every major pathway. The International Baccalaureate (IB) is well represented from Primary Years through the Diploma Programme. French families (and many non-French ones) rely on the Ministry-accredited French curriculum, while bilingual immersion schools deliver dual-language programmes in French, Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese. Several schools combine an American college-preparatory core with international credentials, giving students flexibility for both US and overseas university applications.
When comparing options, think about your likely next destination. If your family may relocate again, an IB or French national curriculum transfers smoothly between countries. If you expect to stay in the US long term, an American diploma with AP or IB courses keeps every door open.
Top International Schools in New York
These schools are listed on International School Advisor with verified profiles, reviews and fee information.
Avenues New York
A flagship campus of the global Avenues network in Chelsea, Manhattan. Avenues offers a rigorous college-preparatory programme with Spanish and Mandarin immersion in the early years and a globally portable curriculum designed for internationally mobile families. See the full profile of Avenues New York.
United Nations International School (UNIS)
Founded in 1947 for the children of UN staff, UNIS is one of the world's original international schools. It teaches the IB from early childhood to the Diploma Programme and enrols students from more than 100 nationalities on its Manhattan waterfront campus. Explore UNIS on ISA.
Lycée Français de New York
The city's benchmark French school, accredited by the French Ministry of Education, prepares students for the Baccalauréat while delivering a genuinely bilingual French-English education on the Upper East Side. View the Lycée Français de New York profile.
LĂ©man Manhattan Preparatory School
Located in the Financial District, LĂ©man is an IB Diploma school with a strong boarding option, small classes and a notably international student body, making it a frequent choice for families arriving mid-career from abroad. Check LĂ©man Manhattan on ISA.
International School of Brooklyn
A popular option beyond Manhattan, ISB offers French and Spanish immersion in the early years and the IB Middle Years Programme, all within the family-friendly Carroll Gardens neighbourhood. Read more about the International School of Brooklyn.
What Do International Schools in New York Cost?
New York sits at the top of the global fee range. For 2026-27, expect annual tuition of roughly US$30,000 to $48,000 for bilingual and French-curriculum schools, and US$50,000 to $65,000 at premium independent schools such as Avenues or LĂ©man. Most schools add one-time enrolment fees ($2,000-$6,000), and extras such as lunch, buses and after-school programmes typically add $3,000-$8,000 per year. Financial aid exists but is competitive; corporate relocation packages often negotiate directly with schools.
Location and Admissions Tips
Commutes shape daily life in New York more than in most cities. Families settling in Brooklyn should weigh local options seriously before committing to a Manhattan school run. Admissions timelines matter too: top schools open applications in September-October for entry the following September, with assessments and interviews through winter. Mid-year entry is possible when relocation demands it, but places in Grades 6-10 are tight. Prepare two years of school records (translated into English), teacher recommendations and, for selective schools, ISEE or school-specific assessments. Non-native English speakers should ask about EAL support levels before applying.
Ready to compare all your options? Browse verified school profiles, reviews and fees on International School Advisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an international school in New York cost?
Annual tuition ranges from about US$30,000 at bilingual immersion schools to $65,000 at premium independent schools, plus enrolment fees and extras of $3,000-$8,000 per year.
Which international curricula are available in New York?
Families can choose among the IB (PYP to Diploma), the accredited French national curriculum, dual-language immersion programmes in Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese, and American college-preparatory tracks with international credentials.
When should I apply to international schools in New York?
Applications for September entry generally open the previous September-October and close between November and January. Mid-year entry is possible depending on seat availability, so contact admissions teams directly if relocating on short notice.