Best International Schools in Brussels
Brussels serves as a center for outstanding international schools, providing expatriate families with premier education against the backdrop of European heritage and diverse culture.
These schools combine academic excellence with engaging extracurricular programs, accommodating students from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Many institutions offer English-medium education alongside opportunities to explore local languages and traditions, ensuring a well-rounded global learning experience.
Brussels' international schools deliver high-quality education through globally recognized curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE), and American educational frameworks. These programs prioritize not only academic achievement but also critical thinking, creativity, and holistic development.
This overview showcases a selection of Brussels' most renowned international schools. These institutions are celebrated for their commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and promoting intercultural understanding.
British International School of Brussels
The British International School of Brussels (BISB) provides an enriching education based on the English National Curriculum for children aged 3 to 11. Conveniently situated between NATO and the European Commission, BISB offers an inclusive, family-focused environment where academic excellence and personal growth thrive. With small class sizes averaging 22 students, the school fosters a nurturing atmosphere that encourages children to flourish socially, emotionally, and academically.
Specialist lessons in music, French, and physical education provide targeted learning experiences that promote cross-curricular exploration and foster creativity. Extracurricular activities, including arts, crafts, sports, music, and drama, offer students opportunities to explore interests, develop skills, and enjoy a well-rounded experience beyond the classroom.
BISB embraces children from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, offering tailored support for non-native English speakers through expert EAL programs. The school’s flexible admissions process accommodates families relocating throughout the year, ensuring a seamless transition. With a commitment to community, kindness, and inclusivity, BISB provides an environment where children build a solid foundation for lifelong learning.
ISF Waterloo International School
ISF (International School of Flanders) Waterloo International School provides a dynamic and inclusive international education for students aged 2.5 to 18. Located in Brussels’ southern suburbs, the school offers small class sizes, fostering personalized learning in a supportive environment. Students benefit from a robust curriculum, including the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for younger learners and Cambridge International examinations for older students. French is taught daily alongside English, ensuring multilingual proficiency.
The campus includes modern facilities such as a science lab, a multipurpose sports hall, digital learning tools, and creative spaces. ISF is renowned for its commitment to diversity, with students from over 40 nationalities and a philosophy grounded in kindness, respect, and collaboration.
Extracurricular activities, including arts, sports, and community service, enrich the learning experience, helping students develop well-rounded skills. Accredited by CIS, COBIS, and BSO, ISF ensures exceptional academic and safeguarding standards. With experienced educators and a focus on innovation, ISF empowers students to achieve academic excellence and become global citizens.
Brussels International Catholic School
The Brussels International Catholic School (BICS) offers a well-rounded education to students aged 2.5 to 18, combining a bilingual English-French foundation with globally respected curricula. Founded in 2004 as the successor to the Institute of Saints Peter and Paul, BICS was established to serve Brussels’ increasingly international community.
Located in Etterbeek, near the European institutions, the school spans three nearby campuses equipped with modern facilities. These include sports halls, libraries, and outdoor play areas. Each campus caters to pre-primary, primary, and secondary students. Pre-primary and primary programs follow a bilingual model, while secondary instruction is primarily in English, preparing students for IGCSE exams in Year 11 and International A Levels in Year 13.
Dedicated teachers emphasize academic excellence, moral values, and cultural understanding. Extracurricular activities in arts, sports, and music enrich the curriculum, encouraging personal growth. With a strong emphasis on nurturing leadership, BICS prepares students to become compassionate, globally minded citizens ready to excel in their chosen fields.
ACE of Brussels School
ACE of Brussels School, a registered Cambridge International School, provides a vibrant, inclusive education for students aged 3 to 19. Located in Brussels, the school blends traditional and modern teaching methods, including project-based learning and advanced technology, to meet the unique needs of its students. ACE’s curriculum follows the Cambridge framework, culminating in IGCSEs, AS, and A-Level qualifications.
The school is divided into key divisions: ACE Start for children aged 3–5, focusing on foundational skills; ACE Junior School for primary-aged students, offering the Cambridge Primary Curriculum; and ACE Senior School, where secondary students prepare for international examinations. Additionally, ACE Inclusion and ACE Connect provide specialist support for children with specific learning needs, ensuring a tailored approach in a nurturing environment.
ACE of Brussels integrates academic excellence with personal growth, fostering resilience, self-confidence, and an enduring curiosity. The school prepares students for success both in their education and future endeavors by cultivating critical skills and adaptability in a dynamic, ever-changing world.
The British School of Brussels
Established in 1969, the British School of Brussels (BSB) is a distinguished all-through international school located in Tervuren, Belgium. Serving 1,350 students from over 70 nationalities. The school offers education from early childhood to pre-university levels, blending British, European, and global perspectives.
BSB is unique in Belgium, providing three pre-university pathways: A Levels, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, and BTEC vocational qualifications in fields such as Business, Sports, and Hospitality. The school’s bespoke primary curriculum, inspired by the UK national framework, caters to its diverse student population. French-English bilingual classes are available from Reception to Year 9, alongside Dutch language lessons starting at age seven.
Renowned for its academic achievements, BSB consistently delivers excellent exam results, with students gaining entry to top universities worldwide. BSB’s state-of-the-art campus includes indoor sports facilities, a swimming pool, and vibrant learning spaces, fostering a dynamic environment where students thrive both academically and personally.
The British Junior Academy of Brussels
The British Junior Academy of Brussels (BJAB) offers a bespoke education in the heart of Brussels, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for children from diverse backgrounds. The school leverages the city’s cultural richness, incorporating visits to museums, art exhibitions, and historical landmarks to create immersive, real-world learning experiences.
Outdoor education, which includes termly forest trips, emphasizes the development of teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, residential trips starting from Year 3 foster independence and self-confidence, providing students with valuable growth opportunities outside the classroom. Plans for international journeys and subject-focused excursions aim to further expand students’ perspectives.
BJAB’s 21st-century curriculum integrates project-based learning, STEAM activities, and digital education, preparing pupils to think critically and adapt to a rapidly changing world. The school’s values-based approach nurtures qualities like kindness, honesty, and diligence, creating a strong foundation for personal growth and mutual respect. A vibrant extracurricular program, including creative clubs and individual music lessons, ensures a well-rounded and engaging educational experience.
Agnes School
Agnes School, established in 2002, is a private Catholic institution in Brussels committed to holistic education and personal excellence. Guided by the motto "Plus est en vous" ("There is more in you"), the school aims to nurture students into responsible, generous, and fulfilled adults capable of making a positive impact on the world.
With a focus on the Christian faith, multilingual immersion, and well-rounded development, the school harmoniously integrates intellectual growth with emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Classes are conducted in French, Dutch, and English, with a trilingual curriculum introduced at the secondary level. Students strive for human and academic excellence while engaging in enriching activities like reading rallies, T-Time sessions for soft skills, and modules for life skills.
Agnes School emphasizes parental involvement, recognizing families as primary educators. Its inclusive ethos welcomes students of all faiths, fostering values-based education, cultural richness, and a profound connection to faith.
Bogaerts International School - North Campus
Bogaerts International School (BIS) North Campus is situated near NATO and various multinational corporations in northern Brussels. The campus officially began operations in September 2022. Guided by a team of seasoned International Baccalaureate (IB) educators, the school emphasizes academic excellence and personal development through a curriculum rooted in concept-based and inquiry-driven learning.
BIS places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to think critically and engage in reflective practices. This approach fosters an environment where students feel empowered to take risks, forge meaningful connections, and cultivate their unique talents. Offering Early Years (ages 3-5), Primary (ages 6-10), and Secondary (ages 11-18) programs, the school embraces the IB philosophy of lifelong learning.
The school thrives on a sense of community, encouraging parental involvement and student-led initiatives like the council, which influences school identity and activities. BIS is dedicated to providing a holistic education, fostering both academic and social excellence among its students.
Montgomery International School
Montgomery International School (MIS) offers a comprehensive International Baccalaureate (IB) education for students aged 5.5 to 19. The school blends academic rigor with opportunities for personal growth, fostering an environment that inspires students to achieve their full potential. Centrally located in Brussels, near European institutions and NATO, MIS enhances its curriculum with cultural experiences, using the city's rich resources—such as museums, exhibitions, and landmarks—as an extended classroom.
MIS offers two educational tracks: a fully anglophone programme and a bilingual curriculum in English and French, promoting proficiency in both languages. Small class sizes enable personalized teaching, ensuring each student’s needs are met. This approach drives outstanding academic success, including a consistent 100% pass rate in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
Beyond academics, the school prioritizes extracurricular activities, including sports and community service, to cultivate teamwork and leadership skills. MIS’s advisory program fosters personal development and addresses age-appropriate challenges, ensuring students grow into resilient, empathetic, and globally-minded individuals prepared to make a positive impact.
European School of Brussels IV (Laeken)
The European School of Brussels IV (EEB4), located in Laeken, provides a multilingual and multicultural education to approximately 3,200 students from nursery to secondary levels. Established in 2007 in Berkendael and relocated to Laeken in 2012, the school offers instruction in eight language sections: Bulgarian, Dutch, English, Estonian, French, German, Italian, and Romanian.
EEB4 adheres to the European School system, offering language immersion and a curriculum standardized across all schools in the network. It fosters cultural identity and promotes tolerance among its students. Emphasizing cooperation within a diverse community, EEB4 aims to prepare students to become thoughtful and responsible individuals.
With a broad educational programme, students engage in rigorous academics, creative arts, and physical development, all rooted in values like respect, honesty, and generosity. Beyond academics, language certifications, cultural projects, and school trips enhance learning. As a public institution under EU governance, EEB4 exemplifies a commitment to unity and excellence in European education.
Lycée Français Jean-Monnet
The Lycée Français Jean-Monnet, established in 1907, is a prestigious educational institution in Brussels and part of the global French school network managed by the French Agency for French Education (AEFE). This extensive network enables students to continue their education seamlessly across the world and prepares them for official French exams, including the Brevet and Baccalaureate, recognized internationally.
Offering a bilingual and multicultural curriculum, the school emphasizes academic excellence, personal growth, and language proficiency from a young age. Students can choose between various educational tracks, including international sections in British, German, or Spanish, and specialized certifications such as the Bachibac or the International French Baccalaureate.
Incorporating arts, sports, and technology, the school fosters a holistic approach to learning. The Lycée Français Jean-Monnet offers tailored support for students with individual learning needs. The school focuses on nurturing global citizens who achieve academic excellence. It emphasizes fostering respect for diversity and encourages students to make positive contributions to society.
BEPS International School
BEPS International School is a vibrant learning community that prioritizes global citizenship, personalized education, and academic excellence. Serving students from early years to secondary school, BEPS delivers internationally recognized curricula, including the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. These programs are designed to support an international community of learners, making English the primary language of instruction while also emphasizing multilingualism, with French and other languages offered as part of the curriculum.
Small class sizes enable individualized attention, fostering intellectual growth and a passion for lifelong learning. Project-based activities enhance collaboration, resilience, and problem-solving, preparing students for complex challenges.
Beyond academics, BEPS offers state-of-the-art facilities and an extensive extracurricular program, including arts, sports, and service learning opportunities. Students benefit from innovative spaces and hands-on experiences that deepen their understanding and inspire creativity. A multicultural environment celebrates diversity, encouraging curiosity and mutual respect.
International Montessori Schools - Woluwe Saint Lambert
International Montessori Schools of Brussels – Woluwe Saint Lambert is a bilingual institution offering a dynamic educational experience from early childhood to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Both a Montessori and IB World School, the institution fosters an environment where language and culture flourish. Exploration and discovery are encouraged, promoting independence through student-centered learning. Creativity and critical thinking are emphasized to inspire a passion for lifelong learning.
International Montessori combines the Montessori philosophy with the rigorous IB framework, delivering personalized, student-centered education tailored to individual needs and interests. The school’s bilingual English-French approach enhances linguistic fluency and cultural understanding, preparing students for success in an interconnected world.
With thoughtfully designed classrooms, spacious outdoor areas, and a curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship, the school inspires students to achieve academic excellence and personal growth. Situated in Woluwe Saint Lambert, the International Montessori Schools of Brussels is committed to nurturing well-rounded, confident learners equipped for future challenges.
International School of Brussels
The International School of Brussels (ISB), founded in 1951, offers a premier educational experience for students from preschool to Grade 12. With a diverse student body representing numerous nationalities, ISB flourishes as a vibrant international community that values inclusivity and celebrates cultural diversity. The school is deeply rooted in its mission to nurture independent thinkers and international citizens who are equipped to succeed in an interconnected world.
Situated on a 40-acre campus adjacent to the scenic Forêt de Soignes, ISB combines cutting-edge facilities with natural surroundings to enhance learning. Students experience outdoor exploration, engage in sustainable initiatives, and thrive in a dynamic setting designed to nurture both academic achievements and personal development. The school’s curriculum emphasizes adaptive expertise, preparing students to navigate complex challenges and pursue lifelong learning.
Beyond academics, ISB promotes engagement in the arts, athletics, and co-curricular activities. These opportunities enhance students' experiences by fostering creativity, developing leadership skills, and instilling a strong sense of community responsibility.
Roots and Wings School
Roots and Wings School, situated in Brussels, offers a nurturing and inclusive educational environment from preschool through secondary levels. Founded in 2009, the school emphasizes personalized growth, allowing students to explore, create, and develop in a setting that values individuality.
With a curriculum grounded in project-based learning, the school combines academic rigor with emotional awareness, artistic expression, and a deep respect for nature. Young learners engage in activities such as storytelling, cooking, yoga, and nature walks, which foster creativity, critical thinking, and a lasting sense of wonder about the world. The educational approach emphasizes self-directed learning, collaboration, and environmental stewardship, nurturing each child's unique developmental journey.
In the secondary program, the focus shifts toward co-created projects that blend core academic subjects with practical applications. Roots and Wings emphasizes inclusivity, creativity, and global awareness, inspiring students to embrace diversity and develop critical thinking skills. This approach prepares learners to succeed academically and contribute compassionately to society.
Education Fees Planning
For British expats, planning education fees is a crucial part of relocating abroad, particularly when enrolling children in British international schools. These schools, while offering a high-quality education aligned with the British school system, often come with significant tuition fees. It's essential to account for costs such as registration, yearly tuition, uniforms, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, expats should explore employer subsidies, scholarships, and financial aid options.
Early planning, budgeting, and consulting with financial advisors can help families manage these expenses effectively, ensuring a smooth educational journey for their children.
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