Top Recommended Schools in Berlin for International and Local Students
Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is known not only for its rich history and culture but also for its excellent educational opportunities. Whether you’re an expat family moving to the city or a local resident seeking quality education for your child, Berlin offers a wide variety of reputable schools. Here are some of the top recommended schools in Berlin across different types of education.
1. Berlin International School (BIS)
Location: Charlottenburg
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB) and American High School Diploma
Language: English
Berlin International School is one of the most popular choices for expat families. It offers a diverse and inclusive environment, welcoming students from over 60 nationalities. The school emphasizes critical thinking, global citizenship, and bilingualism. BIS is accredited by the Council of International Schools and offers the full IB program.
2. John F. Kennedy School (JFKS)
Location: Zehlendorf
Curriculum: Bilingual German-American
Language: English and German
Founded in 1960, the John F. Kennedy School is a unique public school jointly operated by the U.S. and German governments. It offers a rigorous bilingual curriculum and is ideal for families with strong ties to both cultures. Admission can be competitive, but it’s tuition-free for eligible students.
3. Berlin Brandenburg International School (BBIS)
Location: Kleinmachnow (just outside Berlin)
Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)
Language: English
BBIS is an independent international school offering a complete IB program from primary through to the diploma level. It is well-known for its high academic standards, extracurricular opportunities, and beautiful campus surrounded by nature. The school also provides boarding options for international students.
4. Nelson Mandela School
Location: Wilmersdorf
Curriculum: Bilingual (German-English), IB Diploma
Language: German and English
As a state-run international school, Nelson Mandela School offers a bilingual program in an inclusive, multicultural setting. It is tuition-free and offers the IB Diploma as well as the German Abitur, providing students with multiple pathways to university.
5. Freie Schule Anne-Sophie Berlin
Location: Mitte
Curriculum: German curriculum with international outlook
Language: German (with English emphasis)
Founded by the Schörghuber Foundation, this private school emphasizes individual learning and character development. It offers a modern approach to education that focuses on responsibility, communication, and real-world problem-solving. While the primary language is German, English is taught from an early age.