Cairo has one of the largest international school markets in the region, which is good news for choice and challenging for decision-making. Choosing an international school in Cairo means weighing curriculum, the part of the city you will live in, fees and the school's track record all at once. This 2026 guide explains how to choose an international school in Cairo, the curricula available, the leading schools and realistic costs in Egyptian pounds.
Curricula available in Cairo
Cairo offers an unusually broad range of curricula:
- British curriculum: IGCSE and A-Levels, one of the most common pathways in the city.
- American curriculum: US-style schooling with a high school diploma and Advanced Placement.
- International Baccalaureate (IB): the PYP, MYP and Diploma Programme at a number of schools, valued for global recognition.
- Canadian, French, German and other national curricula: serving specific communities.
Decide which curriculum suits your child's stage and your likely next move before comparing individual schools.
Where to live and the commute
Location is one of the biggest practical factors in Cairo. Many newer international schools sit in New Cairo and the Fifth Settlement to the east, and in Sheikh Zayed and 6th of October City to the west, while long-established schools are found in districts such as Maadi and Zamalek. Cairo traffic is heavy and distances are large, so a school close to where you will live, or with a reliable bus service, can save your child a long daily commute. Match the school to your neighbourhood as seriously as you match it to the curriculum.
Leading international schools in Cairo
The British School in Cairo
A well-established British-curriculum school leading to IGCSE and A-Level, popular with English-speaking expatriate families. See the profile, reviews and prices for The British School in Cairo.
Canadian International School of Egypt
Offers a Canadian curriculum with international recognition, a strong choice for families seeking a North American framework. Review the details for Canadian International School of Egypt.
Repton Cairo
Part of a respected international group offering a British-style education with modern facilities in New Cairo. Explore Repton Cairo.
Kent College West Cairo
A British-curriculum school on the west side of the city, serving families in the Sheikh Zayed and 6th of October areas. See Kent College West Cairo.
International school fees in Cairo (2026)
Fees are charged in Egyptian pounds (EGP) and vary widely with curriculum and school. As an approximate annual guide:
- Early years / kindergarten: roughly EGP 100,000 to 250,000 per year.
- Primary: roughly EGP 150,000 to 350,000 per year.
- Secondary and senior school: roughly EGP 250,000 to 600,000 or more per year at the leading British, American and IB schools.
Some premium schools also quote certain fees in foreign currency, so check the basis of each figure. Budget separately for registration fees, transport, uniforms, books and external examination fees. Fees are reviewed annually, so confirm current figures with each school.
Language support for new arrivals
International schools in Cairo teach in English and provide English as an Additional Language support where needed. Arabic is taught as a subject, and is a requirement for Egyptian nationals. Ask each school how EAL is delivered, how Arabic is handled for non-native speakers, and whether either carries an additional charge.
How to choose: key questions to ask
- Which curriculum suits my child now and travels well if we relocate again?
- Which part of Cairo will we live in, and which schools are realistically commutable?
- What are the total annual costs once registration, transport and exams are included?
- How established is the school, and what are its examination and university outcomes?
- What support is provided for children joining partway through the year?
Find the right international school in Cairo
Comparing curricula, fees and locations side by side makes the decision far easier. Browse independent profiles, reviews and prices on International School Advisor to build your shortlist.
Frequently asked questions
What curricula do international schools in Cairo offer?
The main options are the British (IGCSE and A-Level), American, and IB pathways, alongside Canadian, French and German curricula at schools serving specific communities.
Which areas of Cairo have the most international schools?
New Cairo and the Fifth Settlement to the east, and Sheikh Zayed and 6th of October City to the west, have many newer schools, while established schools sit in districts such as Maadi and Zamalek.
How much do international schools in Cairo cost in 2026?
Annual tuition typically ranges from about EGP 100,000 in early years to EGP 600,000 or more in senior years at the leading schools, plus extras such as registration, transport and exams.