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Overview of the School System in Brussels

Brussels provides multiple schooling pathways shaped by its bilingual structure. The system is organised under two communities: the French-speaking and the Dutch-speaking, each responsible for its own curriculum, examinations, and school networks. Students move through pre-primary, primary, and secondary levels, earning nationally recognised qualifications such as the CESS in the French system or the equivalent Flemish diploma.

You can select from public state schools, private institutions (including religious networks), and established international schools. Public and most private schools teach in French or Dutch, while international schools mainly use English and offer IB, British, American, and other national programmes.

This variety attracts many international families, though it requires understanding different languages, admission processes, and educational philosophies. Some prioritise international schools for English-language learning and continuity if moving abroad regularly. Others prefer local schools for lower costs and deeper cultural integration.

Your decision should reflect your child’s profile, your language goals, and the length of time you expect to live in Belgium.

Let’s look more closely at your choices.

Types of Schools in Brussels

International Schools in Brussels

In Brussels, international schools mainly teach in English and offer globally recognised qualifications such as the IB, British, American, French, or German curricula. They are well suited to expatriate families seeking continuity between countries and typically provide strong support for non-native English speakers within diverse, multinational communities.

Private Schools in Brussels

Private schools in Brussels generally follow the French or Flemish national curriculum and may have a religious or specific pedagogical focus, with many Catholic institutions known for strong academic standards. They are often chosen by local Belgian families, expatriates planning long-term settlement, and parents looking for smaller class sizes. The language of instruction is typically French or Dutch.

Public Schools in Brussels

Public schools in Brussels are state-funded and generally free, aside from small administrative or material fees, and they follow either the French-speaking (Wallonia-Brussels Federation) curriculum or the Dutch-speaking (Flemish) curriculum. French-speaking public schools teach primarily in French and often provide integration classes to help newcomers adjust to the language and curriculum.

Dutch-speaking public schools follow the Flemish system, known for its structured approach and strong academic standards, with instruction in Dutch and early introduction of languages such as French and English. These schools are well suited to families planning a longer stay in Belgium and seeking deeper integration into local society, though students usually need to be fluent in or willing to learn French or Dutch.

Best International Schools in Brussels

If you are unsure how long your family will stay in Belgium, or you want your child to continue studying in English without switching into French or Dutch, then the international schools in Brussels may be the most practical choice.

Below are some of the best known options.

International School of Brussels (ISB)

Located in Waterloo, south of the city, ISB is one of the most established international schools in Belgium. It offers an American-style education alongside the full International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

The large green campus includes impressive sports facilities, performing arts spaces, modern science labs, and extensive extracurricular programmes. Families who go to ISB often live in Waterloo, Uccle, or the southern suburbs, commuting by car or school bus.

ISB suits families looking for a North American academic environment combined with strong arts and athletics.

British School of Brussels (BSB)

Based in Tervuren, east of Brussels, BSB follows the British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels) and also offers the IB Diploma as an alternative pathway.

The campus features advanced STEM laboratories, arts studios, indoor sports halls, and outdoor learning areas. Many families who go to BSB live in Tervuren, Wezembeek-Oppem, or Woluwe, with access typically by car or organised bus routes.

BSB is a strong option if your child may continue to UK universities or prefers the structured British system.

Bogaerts International School (BIS)

Bogaerts International School has two campuses: the South Campus in Uccle and the North Campus in Diegem, close to NATO and multinational companies.

The school offers the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP) and is known for its student-centred, project-based learning approach that encourages curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.

BIS creates a welcoming environment that emphasises strong community values and personal development.

St. John’s International School

Also located in Waterloo, St. John’s offers both the American curriculum and the IB Diploma Programme.

The school is often praised for its supportive community, personalised academic guidance, and strong arts focus. Families usually reside in Waterloo or Uccle, with manageable commuting distances.

St. John’s may appeal if you prefer a slightly smaller community feel with individual attention.

European School of Brussels (Various Campuses)

The European Schools in Uccle and Woluwe follow the European Schools curriculum and culminate in the European Baccalaureate.

These schools provide multilingual education with language sections including English, French, German, and others. They primarily serve children of EU institution staff, but other families may apply depending on availability.

They are well suited to multilingual households or families seeking a strong European-focused academic pathway.

Lycée Français Jean-Monnet (Uccle)

Part of the AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad) network, Lycée Français Jean-Monnet follows the official French national curriculum from early years through to the International French Baccalauréat. It serves a large international community, offering strong academic standards, multilingual learning, and preparation for French and global universities. It is particularly popular with French expatriate families and those seeking continuity with the French system.

Montgomery International School (MIS)

Located near Montgomery Squares, Montgomery International School’s central campus is easily accessible by metro, tram, and bus.

MIS is known for its small class sizes and personalised learning approach, allowing teachers to closely support each student’s progress. Students can follow an English or advanced bilingual programme in a supportive and engaging academic environment.

Families often live in nearby areas such as Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, Ixelles, Kraainem, and Uccle. This school appeals to those seeking a close-knit international community with strong student–teacher relationships and a focus on holistic development.

Curricula Offered by the International Schools in Brussels

International Baccalaureate (IB)

British Curriculum (IGCSE / A-Levels)

French Curriculum

Dutch Curriculum

American Curriculum

Local or National Curriculum

How to Choose the Right International School in Brussels

Selecting a school in Brussels should focus on how well it suits your child and your family’s future plans, rather than reputation alone. If you anticipate moving between countries, you may prefer an international school offering recognised global qualifications that allow for easier transitions. If you are settling for the longer term, French- or Dutch-speaking schools can provide strong language development and closer integration into Belgian society. Your decision should reflect your child’s learning style, your language preferences, and the level of mobility you expect in the years ahead.

Admission Process and School Fees in Brussels

Admissions at international schools in Brussels usually begin with an online application and the payment of a non-refundable application fee. Parents are asked to submit recent school reports and other supporting documents as part of the process.

Depending on the age of your child, the school may organise an assessment or interview, particularly for older students or for programmes such as the IB. Offers are typically sent several months before the new academic year, although some schools continue to fill available places later in the spring and summer if vacancies remain. Once a place is offered, families confirm enrolment by signing a contract and paying a reservation or enrolment deposit.

International school fees in Brussels generally range between €15,000 and €40,000 per year, depending on the grade level. In addition to annual tuition, families should budget for one-time charges such as application and enrolment fees, as well as extras including transportation, lunch, and extracurricular activities.

Public schools in Brussels are state-funded and do not charge tuition. However, small contributions may be requested for materials, school trips, or specific activities.

Pros and Cons of Studying at Schools in Brussels

Advantages

International atmosphere
Compact and well connected
Central location in Europe

Challenges

Language challenges
Cost of education
Weather can be grey and rainy, which may affect daily life if you’re not used to it.

Best Tutors in Brussels

Relocating to a new city often involves the complex challenge of adjusting to a different home, a new school, and frequently an unfamiliar curriculum or language. For many children, whether young or teens, this transition can be a challenge. Private tutoring can offer vital support during this period by helping students strengthen their language skills, close academic gaps, and build the confidence necessary to thrive in their new environment.

TutorsPlus provides personalised tutoring specifically tailored to students attending international and private schools in Brussels. Tutors offer specialist support for IB subjects, IGCSE and A-Level programs, the American and French curricula, and university admissions. Tutors can also help students develop proficiency in French or Dutch, making it easier to participate fully in school and everyday life in Brussels. With flexible online lessons, sessions can be conveniently arranged to fit around your child’s existing school commitments.

Conclusion

When exploring schools in Brussels, the priority is finding a community where your child feels encouraged, understood, and challenged in the right way. With a variety of international and Belgian options available, consider the academic approach, language environment, class sizes, extracurricular opportunities, and how the school fits into your daily routine and future goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best international schools in Brussels?
- The best choice depends on your child’s learning style, language needs, and future university plans.
Are public schools in Brussels free for international students?
- Public schools in Brussels are state-funded and generally free for all students, including international families. However, parents may need to cover small costs such as materials, school trips, lunches, and extracurricular activities.
How much do private schools in Brussels cost?
- Tuition at established international schools in Brussels typically ranges from around €15,000 to €40,000 per year, depending on the child’s age and grade level.
Is it difficult to get a place in a school in Brussels?
- It can be competitive to secure a place, especially at popular international schools and certain bilingual public schools. While every child has access to compulsory education, families may not always receive their first choice, so early application is strongly recommended.
What languages are taught in schools in Brussels?
- In the local system, schools teach primarily in French or Dutch, depending on the community. International schools mainly offer English-language instruction, often alongside additional European languages such as German, French, or Spanish.
Which curriculum is best for expat families in Brussels
- The IB is often the most flexible option for internationally mobile families due to its global recognition and continuity across countries.
- British and American curricula are strong alternatives, particularly if your child may later apply to universities in the UK or the US.
- The French curriculum suits francophone families, while the Dutch (Flemish) curriculum can be a good choice for long-term residents seeking integration into the local system.
- Bilingual public programmes also appeal to families planning an extended stay and prioritising language development and cultural immersion.
When should parents apply to schools in Brussels?
- For international schools, families should ideally apply 6 to 12 months before the intended start date. Public school registration timelines vary by community, so it is advisable to check deadlines early and prepare documents in advance.

The Best International Schools in Brussels