Relocating abroad for the first time is thrilling—but choosing the right school can feel overwhelming. One of the first (and most important) decisions you’ll make is which international curriculum suits your child’s needs best. Should you choose the globally recognized IB? The structured, exam-focused British curriculum? Or the broad and flexible American system?
This guide breaks it down for you—clearly, simply, and with real school examples.
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An international school typically:
Teaches in English or another major global language
Offers a globally recognized curriculum (not the host country’s national curriculum)
Serves expat and internationally mobile families
Promotes multiculturalism and global citizenship
These schools prioritize adaptability and global readiness—two things many expat parents value deeply.
The curriculum shapes your child’s day-to-day experience and long-term opportunities. Consider:
Smooth transitions if your family relocates again
Learning style fit for academic and emotional success
University goals, especially if you’re eyeing schools in a specific country
Consistency across countries for long-term educational planning
Overview:
A holistic, inquiry-based curriculum focused on global awareness, critical thinking, and personal development.
Programmes:
PYP (Primary Years Programme): Ages 3–12
MYP (Middle Years Programme): Ages 11–16
DP (Diploma Programme): Ages 16–19
CP (Career-related Programme): Ages 16–19
Strengths:
Globally consistent and highly respected
Multilingual emphasis (minimum two languages)
Prepares students for rigorous academic pathways and global careers
Considerations:
Demanding workload in DP years
Schools must invest in IB-certified teachers
Assessments blend internal coursework with final exams
International School of Ulaanbaatar, an IB School in Mongolia
💡 Real school example: International School of Boston (USA)
Offers bilingual IB and French Baccalaureate tracks with additional languages from Grade 2 onward.
Overview:
Structured and academically focused, this curriculum breaks learning into clear Key Stages.
Key Exams:
IGCSE/GCSE: Around age 16
A-Levels: Age 18; students specialize in 3–4 subjects
Strengths:
Logical, linear progression
Highly regarded by universities worldwide
Encourages both academic depth and extracurricular breadth
Considerations:
Best suited for families from or returning to the UK
Early specialization in A-Levels may not suit all learners
💡 Real school example: The British International School of Phnom Penh (Cambodia)
Follows the full National Curriculum for England from Early Years to A-Levels.
Overview:
Flexible, GPA-based, and rooted in U.S. educational standards.
Core Features:
Credit system for graduation and GPA tracking
Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer college-level study
Emphasis on continuous assessment and extracurriculars
Strengths:
Broad subject exposure before specialization
Adaptable for mobile students
Strong preparation for U.S. college admissions
Considerations:
Standards and quality can vary between schools
Better suited for families moving to or from the U.S.
💡 Real school example: International School of Islamabad (Pakistan)
Offers AP courses and a U.S.-aligned curriculum from early years to high school.
Choosing a curriculum isn’t just about academics—it’s about what fits your child and your journey. Here are some practical tips:
Do they prefer structure or flexibility?
Do they thrive with depth (A-Levels) or breadth (IB/AP)?
Where might you move next?
What universities or countries are you aiming for?
Look into school accreditation and reputation
Read reviews from other expat families
Visit the school if possible, or ask Doris to help you compare options
Will your child need English support?
Does the school embrace diversity and cultural integration?
What are they excited or nervous about?
Involving them helps them feel in control and confident.
There’s no “best” curriculum—only what’s best for your family.
IB: Best for globally mobile families who value independent thinking
British: Great for academically structured learners, especially with UK ties
American: Ideal for broad interests, holistic development, and flexibility
Whatever you choose, Doris can help you compare schools, understand the tradeoffs, and make a decision that feels right—not just on paper, but in real life.