Deciding how to choose an international school in Paris is one of the most important steps for families relocating to the French capital. Paris offers a rich choice of British, American, IB and bilingual French-English schools, each with a distinct character. This 2026 guide helps expat families weigh curriculum, language, location and fees so you can build a shortlist that fits your child and your circumstances.
Understand the curricula and languages
Paris international schools span several systems: the American high school diploma and Advanced Placement, the British curriculum (IGCSE and A Levels), the International Baccalaureate, and distinctive bilingual French-English programmes that many families choose specifically to integrate into French life. Your decision should reflect how long you plan to stay and where your child is likely to attend university. A strongly bilingual school suits families settling long-term, while an English-dominant school can ease a shorter posting.
Match the school to your family
Beyond curriculum, consider the practical fit. Paris and its surrounding Île-de-France region are large, so location and commute matter, and some of the best-known schools sit in the western suburbs. Look at class sizes, the strength of French-language support for newcomers, and the co-curricular offer. Visiting in person, where possible, reveals the atmosphere and community far better than a prospectus.
Leading international schools in Paris
The schools below have verified profiles on International School Advisor, with curriculum details, fees and reviews. Fee bands are indicative for 2025-2026 and should be confirmed with each school.
American School of Paris
A long-established school in the western suburbs offering a US-based curriculum with the high school diploma and the IB Diploma, well regarded for university preparation. See the American School of Paris profile.
Ecole Jeannine Manuel
A renowned bilingual French-English school offering an outstanding academic programme through to the IB Diploma, hugely popular with international and French families alike. Read more on the Ecole Jeannine Manuel page.
ICS Paris (International School of Paris)
A central-Paris IB World School offering the full IB continuum in a genuinely international setting. See the ICS Paris profile.
Ermitage International School
A bilingual school offering French and international pathways including the IB, set on a green campus outside central Paris. Details are on the Ermitage International School page.
Budget realistically for fees
International school fees in Paris generally range from around EUR 15,000 to EUR 30,000 per year, with the most established British, American and IB schools at the higher end and some bilingual schools offering slightly lower fees. On top of tuition, plan for enrolment and registration fees, a possible capital or building levy, lunch, and transport. Confirm the all-in annual figure before committing.
Plan the admissions timeline
The French academic year starts in September. The most popular schools maintain waiting lists, so begin your search six to twelve months ahead. Prepare recent school reports and be ready for an entry assessment or interview, which many schools use. Applying to more than one school gives you options if your first choice is full.
Make your final decision
Once you have visited your shortlist and understood the true cost, weigh curriculum, language provision, commute and school culture together rather than relying on reputation alone. To compare verified schools, fees and reviews side by side, explore the best international schools in France on International School Advisor.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an international school in Paris cost?
Fees generally range from around EUR 15,000 to EUR 30,000 per year, with the most established British, American and IB schools at the higher end, before extras such as enrolment fees and transport.
Are there bilingual French-English schools in Paris?
Yes. Paris is well known for excellent bilingual schools that integrate French and English throughout the day, which many families choose to help their children settle into French life.
When should I apply to schools in Paris?
Apply six to twelve months before your September start date. Popular schools keep waiting lists, so applying early and to more than one school improves your chances.