The Best International Schools in London

Overview of the School System in London

London offers a wide range of schooling options. Firstly, there are well-established international schools offering the International Baccalaureate, IGCSE, A-Levels, American High School Diplomas, and other global programmes. This range of options makes London particularly attractive to internationally mobile families, as well as those planning a longer stay in the UK. However, the variety of pathways, admissions criteria, and waiting lists can make the system feel complicated at first.

State schools, on the other hand, can offer strong academic standards and deeper integration into the local community. Private independent schools blend British tradition, academic rigour, and strong extracurricular programmes. With uniforms and clear behaviour codes rooted in British school culture, they suit families who value structure, though they may not fit every family’s educational approach. Families can choose from state schools following the National Curriculum, as well as grammar schools, academies and free schools, which are non-profit, state-funded schools in England, independent of local authority control. 

Students move from primary to secondary school, sit GCSEs at the end of Year 11, and then progress to Sixth Form for A Levels or vocational pathways. For expat families planning a long term stay, the British system can be appealing, though teacher shortages and staff turnover can sometimes affect staffing continuity.

With different entry requirements, assessment systems, and timelines, choosing the right school depends very much on your child’s needs, your future plans, and how long you expect to remain in London.

Let’s take a closer look at the options.

Types of Schools in London

International Schools in London

As you might expect from a global capital, London offers a wide range of international schools. These schools typically teach in English and offer globally recognised programmes such as the IB, IGCSEs, A-Levels or the American High School Diploma. For families relocating from abroad, international schools can provide continuity and a smoother transition. However, demand is strong, so applying early is advisable.

Grammar and Selective Schools in London

In certain parts of London and surrounding areas, grammar schools offer academically selective education. Entry is based on passing an entrance exam at age 11. These schools can achieve strong academic results, but places are limited and competition is high. Preparation often begins well in advance, so families considering this route should research early, and have a back up plan in case they are not selected by the first choice school.

Private Schools in London

London has a long and respected tradition of independent schools, actually called “Public Schools” in the UK, many of which are highly established and known for their strong academic standards. These fee-paying schools typically offer smaller class sizes, allowing for more individual attention, alongside extensive extracurricular opportunities and well-structured pastoral support. Some also provide both boarding and day options, offering flexibility for families. As fees can be substantial, it is important to plan carefully and factor in tuition as well as any additional costs.

State Schools in London

In London’s public system, schooling is divided into primary (Reception to Year 6) and secondary (Year 7 to Year 11), followed by post-16 education in Sixth Form or college. The government funds state schools and follows the National Curriculum for England. Admission is usually based on catchment area, sibling priority, or faith criteria for religious schools. If living close to a particular school is essential to you, the location of your housing will significantly influence your options.

Best International Schools in London

If you are not sure how long your family will be based in the UK. Or if you are relocating with older children who need continuity in English-language education without switching into the GCSE system mid-cycle, then international schools may be your best option.

Below are some of the best known options frequently considered by expatriate families.

TASIS The American School in England

Located in the Surrey commuter belt within easy reach of West London, TASIS offers a US curriculum alongside IB options and Advanced Placement courses.

The school places a strong emphasis on global citizenship and nurturing an international community. Its arts programmes and summer courses are particularly well regarded. As a boarding school, it also offers students the opportunity to benefit from a fully immersive academic and residential experience.

Families who value a diverse and multicultural campus with American academic continuity often consider TASIS England as an alternative to central London schools. Located in a peaceful rural setting in Surrey, the school offers spacious grounds along with excellent facilities, including science labs, arts spaces, sports fields, and boarding houses.

ACS International Schools 

ACS operates several campuses in and around London, including Cobham and Egham in Surrey as well as Hillingdon.

The Cobham campus, in particular, offers a broad international pathway including the IB Diploma Programme, the American High School Diploma and Advanced Placement courses. Boarding is also available, which can appeal to families who travel frequently or prefer a residential option.

With spacious grounds and extensive sports facilities, ACS schools are often considered by families seeking a blend of American-style education and international flexibility.

Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle de Londres

The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle is the oldest and most established French school in London, located in South Kensington. As the main French lycée in central London, it offers the French national curriculum from primary through to the French Baccalauréat, serving a large French expatriate community. In addition to the main campus, several affiliated French primary schools operate in West London, providing continuity within the French system before students progress to secondary level.

Southbank International School

Southbank International School operates three centrally located campuses across London, making it one of the most accessible IB schools for families living in central neighbourhoods. The school offers the full International Baccalaureate continuum (PYP, MYP and DP) and is known for its international student body and urban campus setting.

International School of London (ISL)

Located in West London, the International School of London is an independent, not-for-profit school with a strong focus on intercultural understanding and multilingualism. It offers the full IB programme from early years through to the Diploma and is known for its inclusive ethos and emphasis on global citizenship.

International Community School (ICS) London

Situated in central London, International Community School London offers an American-international curriculum pathway and the IB Diploma Programme. The school is part of the Globeducate group, providing access to a wider international network while maintaining a close-knit community feel in the capital.

École Jeannine-Manuel London

École Jeannine-Manuel London is a bilingual French-English international school linked to its well-known Paris counterpart. It combines the French curriculum with strong English-language instruction and offers pathways leading to the French Baccalauréat and the International Baccalaureate Diploma, making it a popular choice for globally mobile and Franco-international families.

Curricula Offered by the International Schools in London

International Baccalaureate (IB)

British Curriculum (IGCSE / A-Levels)

French Curriculum

American Curriculum

Local or National Curriculum

How to Choose the Right International School in London

Choosing the right school in London is not simply about rankings, but about how well a school fits your child and your family’s plans. For internationally mobile families, continuity can be essential, and the international schools in London offer recognised pathways such as the IB, A-Levels, or the American curriculum that support smoother transitions. 

If you plan to stay in the UK in the long term, state or independent schools may provide deeper local integration and cultural immersion. You should also consider language support, class sizes, academic results and extracurricular opportunities, as these factors shape both progress and wellbeing. Visiting schools, attending open days, and applying early will help you make a confident and informed decision.

Admission Process and School Fees in London

Admissions at international schools in London usually begin with an online application form and a non-refundable registration fee. Families are typically asked to submit recent school reports and, in some cases, references from the child’s current school.

For certain year groups, particularly at secondary level, students may be invited to complete assessments in English and mathematics and, occasionally, to attend an interview. Some schools also meet with parents as part of the process. Offers are generally made several months before the start of the academic year in September. However, many international schools operate rolling admissions and may continue to accept applications later in the year if places remain available.

Once an offer is made, you confirm acceptance by signing an enrolment agreement and paying a deposit or enrolment fee to secure the place.

School fees in London vary considerably depending on whether the school is day or boarding. For a clearer picture of the costs involved, we recommend reviewing the detailed fee information on each individual school’s listing. In addition to tuition, families should budget for one-time and supplementary costs such as application and registration fees, capital or development contributions, uniforms, textbooks, school trips, and transport services.

For state schools, the application process depends mainly on residency and local authority procedures, and places are allocated based on published admissions criteria. While public education is free, families should still expect to cover costs such as uniforms, extracurricular activities, and school materials.

Pros and Cons of Studying at Schools in London

  Advantages

• Academic Depth and Choice
• Global University Access
• Cultural Exposure

Challenges

• Competitive Admissions
• High Cost of Private Education
• Early Specialisation (UK Pathway)

Best Tutors in London

Moving to a new home, school, or curriculum—especially one in a different language—can be a challenging transition for children of any age. Private tutoring offers a vital support system to smooth this process, whether it’s through targeted language acquisition, bridging academic gaps, or providing the personal encouragement a child needs to settle in confidently. 

TutorsPlus offers bespoke tutoring specifically for students in London’s international and private schools, providing expert guidance in IB subjects, IGCSE and A-Level courses, the American curriculum, and university admissions. Additionally, tutors can assist your child in mastering English language skills to help them better navigate daily life in London. With lessons available online, sessions can be easily integrated into your child’s existing school schedule.

Conclusion

Ultimately, selecting a school in London as an international family is about finding the setting where your child will feel secure, motivated and able to flourish both academically and personally. The city offers an exceptional breadth of choice, from well-performing state schools to established independent institutions and internationally recognised programmes. Rather than focusing solely on prestige, families should carefully consider the curriculum, language support, class sizes, pastoral systems and extracurricular opportunities, and reflect on how these factors connect with their child’s abilities, interests and the family’s short- and long-term plans in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What are the best international schools in London?
  • We recommend choosing the school that aligns most closely with your child’s strengths and long-term plans. Well-known options include ACS International Schools and TASIS in Surrey, alongside several established international schools within London itself.
• Are public schools in London free for international students?
  • State schools in London are free for residents, including many international families who hold the appropriate visa status. However, admissions are usually linked to catchment areas and residency requirements, and families may still need to cover costs such as uniforms, trips and extracurricular activities.
• How much do private schools in London cost?
  • Day school tuition at established private and international schools in London often ranges from approximately £15,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on age and grade level. Boarding options can exceed £50,000 annually.
• Is it difficult to get a place in a school in London?
  • It can be highly competitive to secure a place at a preferred school, particularly at highly regarded state or independent institutions. Early planning and timely applications are strongly recommended.
• What languages are taught in schools in London?
  • English is the core language of instruction across most schools in London.  In state schools French or Spanish is usually taught as the second language. On occasion German is offered. Some schools, particularly those in the independent sector, will offer Latin. International schools may also offer additional language support via mother tongue programmes, bilingual programmes and native language tuition or classes.
• Which curriculum is best for expat families in London?
  • The IB is generally considered a strong all-around choice for globally mobile families due to its international recognition and continuity. American, French and British curricula are excellent alternatives depending on future university goals and potential relocation plans.
• When should parents apply to schools in London?
  • Parents should ideally begin the application process at least one year before their child’s intended start date. Some schools operate rolling admissions if places remain available.

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