Relocating abroad comes with big decisions—especially when it comes to your child’s education. Touring international schools is an exciting step, but it’s also one of the most important. The right questions can help you go beyond brochures and see whether a school is truly a good fit.
Relocating abroad comes with big decisions—especially when it comes to your child’s education. Touring international schools is an exciting step, but it’s also one of the most important. The right questions can help you go beyond brochures and see whether a school is truly a good fit.
This guide breaks down the top questions to ask, grouped by topic, so you can tour with clarity and confidence. Whether you're focused on curriculum, cost, emotional support, or long-term goals, these categories will help you evaluate every key aspect of school life.
👉 Need help narrowing down your options? Start chatting with doris 👵🏻 for free personalized recommendations.
International schools:
Teach in English or another major global language
Follow global curricula (IB, British, American, etc.)
Cater to expat families and globally mobile students
Offer multicultural environments and international qualifications
📚 Want more background? Read: The Benefits of an International School Education
American School of The Hague (Netherlands), an international school following an American curriculum
Ask about:
What curriculum the school follows (IB, British, American, etc.)
How it supports students transitioning from other systems
Language options, bilingual programs, and global exam pathways
Support for struggling learners and enrichment for advanced students
Professional development for teachers
💬 Why it matters: The curriculum shapes daily learning and future university paths. Make sure it aligns with your child’s needs and your long-term goals.
Read more about the different Curriculum Types
Ask about:
Entry requirements and any exams
Application timelines and documentation
Mid-year admission options
Waitlist policies
💬 Why it matters: Timelines vary widely, and popular schools may fill up quickly. Clear info avoids last-minute stress.
Ask about:
Average class sizes by age group
Teacher-student ratios
Classroom support (assistants, SEN teachers)
Variation across grade levels
💬 Why it matters: Smaller class sizes often mean more personalized learning, which can ease the transition into a new school system.
The Greenhouse, Dulwich College Singapore’s (Singapore) net-zero building
Ask about:
Academic facilities (labs, libraries, tech)
Extracurricular and arts/sports spaces
STEAM and innovation labs
Maintenance and accessibility of facilities
💬 Why it matters: Facilities reflect how a school invests in student development. But more important than “flash” is how they’re actually used.
Ask about:
Primary language of instruction
Language support programs
Celebration of cultural events
Support for integration into local society
💬 Why it matters: Moving countries can be linguistically and culturally jarring. Strong support helps your child thrive socially and emotionally.
Pupils from International School of Dublin (Ireland) on a field trip
Ask about:
Clubs, sports, music, drama, etc.
Competitive and performance opportunities
Integration with the school day
Special focuses or standout programs
💬 Why it matters: A robust ECA offering supports well-rounded development and helps students find community in a new environment.
Ask about:
PTA presence and activity
Parent-teacher communication
Volunteer opportunities
Events and community-building initiatives
💬 Why it matters: An engaged parent community is a huge plus when you’re new to a city or country—it helps parents and kids settle in.
Ask about:
Annual tuition
Application, registration, or building fees
What's included (transport, meals, ECAs)
Scholarships or sibling discounts
Payment plans
💬 Why it matters: International school fees can be substantial. Clear cost breakdowns help you plan realistically and avoid surprises.
📚 For a detailed breakdown, read: The Cost of International Schools: What You Need to Know
Ask about:
SEN services
Counseling or pastoral care
Mental wellbeing policies
DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) programs
Support for gifted learners
💬 Why it matters: Transitioning students may need extra academic or emotional support. A school’s ethos here matters hugely.
Ask about:
University placements and stats
College and career counseling
Internships or mentorship programs
Standardized test prep (SAT, ACT, IELTS)
Entrepreneurial and real-world learning opportunities
💬 Why it matters: A school isn’t just a place for the present—it’s a launchpad for your child’s future.
Use this guide to build your own priority list. Focus on what you care about—whether it’s strong SEN support, community feel, or future university success.
And remember: school visits are just the start of the conversation. You’re not committing on the spot. Ask, reflect, and trust your instincts.
👉 Need help evaluating schools? Start chatting with doris now. 👵🏻
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