Schools & Education in Germany for Expat Families

Expat families in Germany can choose between international schools like Berlin Brandenburg International School, International School of Berlin, Munich International School, and European School Munich. Alternatively, they can enroll their children in the state school system, where language support is provided for free. Adults can also access subsidized German language courses for a small fee, with those receiving financial support eligible for free classes.

Public vs. International Schools

	Public School	International School
Tuition fee	Free	€10,000–22,000/year
Language	German	English (usually)
Curriculum	National curriculum	IB / British / American
Availability	All cities	Major cities only
Waiting list	None	Often 1–2 years

Public school enrolment

Free ✓ German

Expat children must enrol in the local state school (Grundschule/Gymnasium) within the catchment area of their registered address (Anmeldung). Contact the Schulamt (school authority) in your district. Children may first attend a preparatory class (Vorbereitungsklasse / VKL) for language integration.

Adults can access subsidised German integration courses (Integrationskurs) via BAMF for €1.95/hour (waived for those receiving Bürgergeld). Children receive language support free within the state school system.

International Schools in Germany

School	City	Curriculum	Annual fee
Berlin Brandenburg International School (BBIS)	Berlin (Kleinmachnow)	IB (PYP, MYP, Diploma)	€17,000/yr
International School of Berlin (ISB)	Berlin	IB Diploma + US High School Diploma	€18,000/yr
Munich International School (MIS)	Munich (Starnberg)	IB (PYP, MYP, Diploma)	€20,000/yr
European School Munich	Munich	European Baccalaureate (EU institution staff priority; open places available)	Free (state-funded)