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). You’ll also find 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. Your children will meet classmates from around the world and experience different cultures first-hand, which makes for a rich and lasting education. You’ll usually find excellent facilities, from STEM labs to modern classrooms designed for comfort. International schools in New York also run a wide selection of activities, including swimming, fencing, music, art and technology clubs.

Expat parents looking for access to the greatest number of international schools within their neighbourhood should consider moving to the neighbourhoods in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and to a lesser extent, Queens. Some families also look at Westchester County, just north of the city. These areas are home to some of New York’s top public, private, and international schools.

Parents moving to New York needn’t worry, as the city boasts a reliable and efficient public transport system, making for easy commutes. Still, it remains worthwhile to consider proximity to your 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, 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 (Middle Years Programme)
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 large student body, yet classes are kept small, typically around 15 to 18 students. Dwight School is a proud IB World School offering 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, EF Academy New York offers international education with pathways to graduate with either the International Baccalaureate Diploma or the American High School Diploma. The school grounds are well maintained and include top-class boarding facilities. Read more

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: American and International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 14 to 19

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 at around 350, allowing smaller classes with an average of 20 pupils and a student-teacher ratio of 9:1. Keio Academy remains one of the top schools in the city that offers 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 international student body 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

Based in Greenwich, Connecticut, about 30 miles (48km) from Midtown Manhattan, Whitby’s child-centric approach has inspired students to understand themselves and the world around them better for the last 60 years. Whitby's inquiry-based learning style cultivates students' curiosities and turns new knowledge into lasting 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