How to Choose International Schools After an International Move
So here’s the thing—when you move to another country, life doesn’t just change, it flips. New roads, strange bus routes, stores that sell brands you’ve never seen, even the smell of the air is different. And if you’ve got kids? Oh, you feel the weight of one question every single day: where are they going to school? This isn’t a “we’ll figure it out later” kind of thing. It’s one of those decisions that sits in the pit of your stomach, because the school you pick will shape not just their education, but their friends, language skills, and honestly, how happy they’ll be in this whole new chapter of life.
Location is More Than Just a Map Pin
Sure, Google Maps will tell you the distance. But living abroad means distance works differently—traffic might be chaos, public transport could be a maze, and weather… well, tropical rain or heavy snow changes the game. A school that’s “20 minutes away” could turn into a 90-minute journey on a bad day. And that’s a lot for a kid before their first class even starts. So, think about how the commute will feel every day, not just the day you do your school tour.
Curriculum Can Be a Dealbreaker
This is where it gets tricky. You might see British, American, IB (International Baccalaureate), Montessori, even local systems. Each has its policy and style – and the right fit depends on if the stay is just for a couple of years or staying for good. If your kids might go back home, a curriculum that matches your home country helps them re-adjust later. If they’ll stay, maybe a local program gives them a better chance to integrate.
And don’t just read the glossy brochure. Sit in on a class if they’ll let you. Watch how teachers talk to students, how students talk to each other, how much of the day is lecture versus hands-on.
Facilities: More Than Fancy Buildings
A school does look great with big buildings and swimming pools, but what matters is what your child really needs. A child who loves science needs good labs, not just a few computers. An artist will do better with a proper art room, not just a small table with crayons. And remember, kids need open space to play and move around.
Teachers and School Culture
This is the heartbeat of any school. Good teachers can turn an average curriculum into an amazing experience. So, ask about teacher qualifications, yes—but also ask how long they’ve been there. A revolving door of teachers usually means something’s not right.
Culture matters too. Some schools are super competitive, others are more relaxed. Some encourage independence, others are all about structure. You know your child best—pick the one where they’ll feel they belong.
Community Support Makes a Difference
When you’re in a foreign country, a strong parent and expat community can be a lifeline. Schools that welcome parents, organize events, and encourage involvement make it so much easier for you to settle in too. You’ll get advice on everything—from where to find the best groceries to how to handle the local bureaucracy.
Tuition Fees and What’s Really Included
You need to know your budget before you search because many international schools cost a lot, and the fees might not be within your budget. You can ask if the price includes meals, uniforms, and school trips, or if those come with extra charges. It’s better to know upfront than be surprised with more bills during the year.
Visit Before You Choose
You need to read about the school since it does help but you would also do well if you see it in person. You’ll notice things the websites won’t show—like, how teachers greet students, how kids behave during breaks, and how safe the place feels. If possible, bring your child along. They might feel right away if it’s the school for them.
Moving to another country is a big change, and picking the right school is a big part of it. No school is perfect, but there’s one that will fit your child—a place where they can learn, grow, and feel at home even if they’re far away. Once you find it, the move becomes a lot easier.
If you want more help connecting with resources for expats and international families, check out students.
