International Schools in New York City

New arrivals to the Big Apple will find a strong presence of top international schools in New York. There are many curriculum options to choose from, the most popular being the International Baccalaureate (IB). There are also international schools offering the well-respected British curriculum, including the Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels. The national curricula of France, Germany, Japan and others are also represented in New York.

Attending an international school in New York, particularly one with a curriculum from home, can be a comfort to expat children in new surroundings. Getting to know fellow students from all over the world and being exposed to many different cultures are also invaluable experiences for children. These schools also generally offer top-tier facilities such as STEM labs and modern classrooms with ergonomic furniture. International schools typically provide a more comprehensive range of extra-curricular activities, such as swimming, fencing, music, art and technology-related clubs. 

Expat parents looking for access to the greatest number of international schools within their neighbourhood should consider moving to the areas and suburbs in the Bronx, Manhattan and Brooklyn boroughs. These areas are home to some of New York's top public, private as well as international schools. 

Parents moving to New York needn't worry as the city boasts a comprehensive and efficient public transport system, making for easy commutes. Still, it remains worthwhile to consider proximity to one's place of work and residence when choosing an international school in New York. 

School admissions generally operate on a rolling basis. Places in New York's best international schools can be limited, though, so it's well worth applying for a spot as early as possible.

Below is a list of the best international schools in New York City.

International schools in New York

British International School of New York

This top international school offers a well-rounded British education in the heart of New York City. The school's picturesque campus overlooks the East River and is replete with facilities, including a swimming pool, a secure playground and a gymnasium. All classrooms are equipped with Smart Boards, making it a top choice for expat families looking to raise savvy global citizens. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels) and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18

Dwight School New York

A prestigious international school with close to 150 years of history, Dwight School New York has a bustling student population of 954. Class sizes are nevertheless kept small, with an average class size of 15 to 18 students. Dwight School is a proud IB World School that offers the Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 2 to 18

EF Academy New York

Set in the leafy suburbs of Thornwood in New York, EF Academy New York offers a comprehensive and well-rounded international education. Students can graduate with either the International Baccalaureate Diploma or the American High School Diploma. The school grounds are immaculate and include top-class boarding facilities as part of their offering. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 13 to 18

Keio Academy of New York

The only overseas organisation affiliated with the prestigious Keio University, Keio Academy of New York provides an individualised bilingual education. The student population is kept to around 353, allowing small classes with an average of 20 pupils and a student-teacher ratio of 9:1. Keio Academy of New York remains one of the best international schools in New York City offering the Japanese curriculum. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Japanese
Ages: 14 to 18

United Nations International School

Initially established by United Nations parents in the 1940s, the United Nations International School has a thriving multicultural population made up of international students from all over the globe. The school offers the International Baccalaureate infused with UN principles and values, and its students benefit from several UN-related events, talks and excursions around New York City. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 4 to 18

Whitby School

For 60 years, Whitby's revolutionary child-centric approach to education has inspired children to understand themselves and the world around them better. Whitby's inquiry-based learning style cultivates students' curiosities and turns new knowledge into new passions. As one of New York's top international schools, Whitby places an emphasis on academic excellence and equipping its students to be tomorrow's leaders. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and Montessori
Ages: 1.5 to 14

Map of International Schools in NYC