Choosing an international school in Oxford means tapping into one of the most academically rich towns in the world, and in 2026 families relocating here have an impressive range of options. Beyond its famous university, Oxford is home to international schools, IB specialists and historic independent schools with boarding, all within a compact and well-connected city. This guide walks through the curricula available, the schools worth shortlisting, the fees to expect and how to approach admissions.
Why families choose Oxford
Oxford combines academic heritage, excellent transport to London and Heathrow, and a strong international community drawn by the university and the science and tech sector around it. For families, the appeal is the concentration of high-performing schools in a single, walkable city, with both day and boarding options. That density makes it realistic to find a school that fits a specific curriculum or learning style without a long commute.
Curricula available in Oxford
International Baccalaureate. Oxford is a notable IB hub, with schools offering the Diploma and a strongly international student body.
British curriculum. Several historic independent schools teach the English National Curriculum leading to GCSEs and A-Levels, often with boarding.
University preparation and English language. Some institutions specialise in preparing international students for UK university entry, including intensive English provision for those still building fluency.
Top schools in Oxford for international families
Use the shortlist below as a starting point. Visit each, and consider day versus boarding, curriculum and the academic intensity that suits your child.
St Clare's, Oxford
A specialist IB school with a long history and a genuinely international intake, offering both day and boarding places. See the St Clare's, Oxford profile for reviews, fees and admissions detail.
EF Academy Oxford
An international boarding school preparing students for university through the IB and other pathways, with strong support for students from abroad. Details are on the EF Academy Oxford profile.
St Edward's School
A historic independent school offering a British curriculum with boarding and day places, set in north Oxford. Check the St Edward's School profile for programme and entry information.
Headington School
A well-regarded independent school offering a British curriculum with boarding options, popular with families seeking a strong academic environment. The Headington School profile has further detail.
School fees in Oxford
Oxford's independent and international schools sit at the higher end of UK fees, especially where boarding is involved. As a rough 2026 guide:
Day places: roughly £18,000 to £30,000 per year.
Boarding places: roughly £40,000 to £55,000 per year.
Always request a current fee schedule. Boarding fees cover accommodation and meals, while day fees do not, and both may exclude registration, deposits, uniform, trips and exam entry. International families should also factor in guardianship arrangements where boarding is involved.
Practical admissions tips
Start early, particularly for boarding places and for entry at the main points such as Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12. Most schools ask for recent school reports, a passport, and often an assessment or interview, and selective schools may set entrance tests. If your child is still building English, look at schools with dedicated English support or a university-preparation focus. For boarding, ask about the guardianship requirement for international pupils and the pastoral structure, since these matter as much as the academics.
Compare the best schools in the United Kingdom
Before finalising your shortlist, compare schools and read parent reviews. Browse the ranking of the best schools in the United Kingdom on International School Advisor.
Frequently asked questions
Does Oxford have International Baccalaureate schools?
Yes. Oxford is a recognised IB hub, with specialist IB schools offering the Diploma to a strongly international student body, on both day and boarding bases.
How much do schools in Oxford cost in 2026?
Day places run roughly £18,000 to £30,000 per year, while boarding places range from about £40,000 to £55,000, plus registration, deposits and extras.
When should I apply to schools in Oxford?
Apply early, especially for boarding and for entry at Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12. Selective schools may set entrance tests, so allow time for assessments.