There are fewer international schools in Munich than in Berlin, so expats should apply as far ahead as possible to secure a place for their children.

International schools follow various globally recognised curricula like the British, US, and International Baccalaureate programmes. These schools also have special programmes to help students make a smooth transition into life in Munich. On the whole, international schools can be beneficial for the whole family, as parents and children can meet others who share similar experiences.

You should try to negotiate an educational allowance into their employment contract, as fees at German international schools are high and can easily exceed EUR 17,000 per year. On top of this, parents often have to pay for uniforms, stationery, school excursions and various extracurricular activities.

While international schools are pricey, they frequently offer a wide slate of extracurricular activities, small teacher-to-student ratios, and excellent facilities. Many expat parents find the cost well worth it.

Below are some of the top international schools in Munich.

International schools in Munich

Book pile and chalkboard

Obermenzinger Gymnasium

The Obermenzinger Gymnasium is a small secondary school area where each child is treated as an individual. The school follows the Bavarian curriculum and promotes and fosters the German language. Obermenzinger Gymnasium believes that small classes drive academic success and also employs a two-teacher strategy to create the optimal learning environment.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: Bavarian 
Ages: 10 to 19 
Website: www.obermenzinger.de

Bavarian International School

Home to students of more than 61 nationalities, Bavarian International School aims to cultivate a truly international school environment. The school offers the full International Baccalaureate programme, with a focus on nurturing students’ individuality.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 19 
Website: www.bis-school.com

Munich International School

Established in 1966, the Munich International School (MIS) is one of the oldest international schools in the city. The school prides itself on leveraging the latest pedagogical approaches to develop robust programmes that challenge its students and encourage mindfulness.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 4 to 18 
Website: www.mis-munich.de

St. George’s British International School Munich

St George’s British International School Munich goes beyond learning and aims to instil a love for lifelong learning in its students. The school creates a wide array of essential academic and extracurricular activities to ensure the holistic development of students.

Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and British (English National Curriculum and Cambridge IGCSE) 
Gender: Co-educational 
Ages: 2 to 18 
Website: www.stgeorgesschool.com/munich

What do expats say about schools in Munich?

"The school hours are very frustrating. Most schools start very early, at 8am (or sometimes even 7.30am) and then finish at midday, meaning if both parents work, you have to organise after school care (or hort, as it is called in German). Also in primary school there seems to be very strong focus on academic achievement with homework every day, even for six-year-olds."

Read more of New Zealander Phil's thoughts on life in Munich in our expat interview.

Further reading

►See Education and Schools in Munich for more on schooling in the city

Are you an expat living in Munich?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Munich. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.