School Options for Expat Children Abroad

A Parent’s Guide to International, Local, and Homeschooling Options

For families living abroad, navigating school options for expat children can feel overwhelming. With so many choices – from public and private schools to international programs, homeschooling, and online learning – finding the right environment for your child is crucial. After all, the decision shapes not only their academic success but also their social development, confidence, and adaptability.

To help you plan your child’s education abroad, this article offers practical advice and insights to support informed decisions and ensure they thrive overseas.

Understanding School Options for Expat Children

Expat children have access to a host of experiential learning opportunities in their new home country. But finding the right education abroad can be tricky.

There are numerous things to consider for expat parents whose children are studying abroad. These can include school types, costs, curricula, future plans, and social integration. Below is a breakdown of education options abroad.

International Schools

Many relocating families choose international schools for their children, and for good reason. These institutions are specifically designed with the children of expats in mind.

They usually offer a high-quality, transferable education and a global environment that helps students cultivate a worldly mindset.

In most cases, these schools follow the British or American curricula, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and use English as the main language of instruction.

However, some international schools follow the curriculum of their home country and offer bilingual or native-language streams. For example, French schools may offer bilingual English-French programs and the Baccalauréat.

Most international schools are located in areas with larger populations of expat or digital nomad families. This includes Southeast Asia (Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia), the Middle East (Dubai and Doha), and parts of Europe (Switzerland, France, Spain).

They are among the most popular school options for expat children and have grown increasingly in demand as more families have relocated to these regions.

Over the last decade, the number of international schools worldwide has risen by 45%, from 10,255 to 14,833, while the foreign student population has grown by 49%, reaching 7.4 million.

The benefits of international schools abroad include: 

• Global recognition
• Multicultural environment and community
• A familiar educational framework and curriculum that can follow students if they move again 
• Proficiency in multiple languages
• Good facilities
• More options for extracurricular activities

However, they also come with some challenges, including: 

• High tuition fees 
• Additional costs, potentially including uniforms, enrolment, and school trips
• Limited exposure to local language and culture 
• Rigorous academics and often, a competitive environment
• Variable quality, even with accreditations

Local Foreign Schools

When looking at schools abroad, local institutions are an option for some relocating families. While they offer benefits, they can also pose many challenges.

In most countries, there are two types of local schools: public and private. But both usually offer a deep dive into a new culture for international students, offering immediate integration into the local culture and language through daily social and academic interaction.

However, in some cases, expat parents and students can struggle with this, especially if the language and culture are very different from their own. 

Public schools are usually tax-funded and free or low-cost, making them accessible to expat parents on a budget. However, the quality of these schools can vary greatly.

International students may also struggle with the local language without any support. Private schools charge tuition, but it is usually more affordable than that of international schools.

These often follow the local curriculum but may offer better facilities, smaller class sizes, and, in some cases, bilingual instruction. 

Accessibility is a major concern for expat students hoping to study abroad in a local school. Some countries freely allow foreign residents to enrol in their public schools. This includes Spain, France, Germany, the U.S., Canada, and Japan.

Others, like Singapore, require potential foreign students to pass stringent entry requirements and exams. However, a handful of countries generally don’t allow expat students to attend local schools. These include the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.  

Boarding and Home Country Schools Abroad

Education abroad may not always involve attending a local school. For some families, traditional institutions aren’t practical, and they need to explore other school options for expat children.

These can include homeschooling, online programs, or finishing their education in their home country.

In these cases, expat parents may choose homeschooling or boarding school to reduce any potential academic friction and ensure these international students are academically on track for the future. 

Some expat parents, especially those who only plan to live abroad temporarily, prefer to send their children to boarding schools. This provides a stable, high-quality education for parents who frequently relocate.

While boarding schools can be expensive and involve familial separation, they offer consistency, a social circle, and a strong foundation for higher education.

Homeschooling and Online Learning

Homeschooling abroad can be an attractive option for some expats, especially digital nomad families. Many distance-learning schools and accredited homeschooling programs follow popular curricula, including British, American, and Australian systems.

These programs offer full-time, teacher-led education aligned with national standards, allowing students to move seamlessly between countries.

Umbrella schools may also be useful in these cases, offering official oversight, including transcripts, grading, and diplomas, for homeschooled expat students. 

Legalities are a consideration for homeschooling abroad. Several countries, including the U.K. and Portugal, offer clear frameworks, while others, such as the Netherlands and Germany, do not allow it.

Some countries, including Spain and Hong Kong, operate in a grey area where expat parents must prove they are homeschooling with an accredited international online program.

The biggest advantage of homeschooling is the ability to personalize the pace. Students can move as quickly or slowly as they need, zipping through areas of strength and spending extra time on challenging subjects.

Students also have time for hands-on experiential learning in their host country when they’re not pursuing traditional studies. 

Some international students, including those in digital nomad families, take this opportunity to opt for blended learning or “worldschooling.

This involves combining a structured online program, such as Wolsey Hall Oxford, with hands-on local learning experiences.

For example, the student might learn about marine biology through their online portal in the morning, then visit a local reef in the afternoon for a real-life experience.

The Difference Between International and Local Foreign Schools

For expat parents, choosing between international schools and local schools can be difficult. There are many things to consider, including the family’s budget, the student’s preferences and strengths, and cultural concerns.

The choice is a thoroughly individual one for foreign students. Even within a family, one sibling may thrive in an international school while another may prefer a local school. 

How to Decide Which Option Is Best

For relocating families, the choice between local and international schools is pivotal and requires balancing academic and cultural factors.

International schools have traditionally been more popular, thanks to standardized, higher-level academics and better-quality facilities.

In fact, the number of students attending these institutions has increased 49% over the last decade, from 5 million to 7.4 million.

However, an increasing cohort of intrepid expat parents is choosing to enroll their children in local schools, as much for their affordability as for their cultural immersion.

Key Factors to Consider

Here are a few things to think about if you’re weighing up the choice: 

• Curriculum: International schools often use portable educational frameworks such as the IB or the British Cambridge program, which are popular and available in many countries. Local schools will use the national curriculum, which may not suit foreign students, especially if they move frequently or will attend university in another country.
• Cultural integration: International schools offer a global environment with students from diverse backgrounds; local schools are usually heavily anchored in local culture, which may not be easy for all foreign students to assimilate into. 
• Language: Local schools will allow expat students to pick up the local language quickly through integration, but international schools will offer fluency in English, and sometimes another language.
• Costs: Local schools are often free or low-cost, while international schools can be very expensive.

While weighing options, it’s also important to consider whether the school offers student support and social opportunities, and whether it aligns with the family’s and the student’s long-term goals. Look at: 

• Whether the school offers buddy systems for new arrivals
• If the school offers language support or immersion for students who don’t speak the language of instruction 
• How open the school is to parental involvement 
• Whether the school has a good program of extracurricular activities
• Whether you’ll be moving soon or will be at the school long-term
• If your home-country schools or universities will recognize the curriculum

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a School Abroad

There are numerous factors to consider when studying abroad, from the quality of the education to cultural exposure and extra-curricular activities.

Here are some of the most important considerations when choosing between overseas schools.

Curriculum and Transferability

A key consideration for evaluating schools for international students is curriculum compatibility.

Choosing a curriculum aligned with that of your home country or global standards ensures students won’t lose academic progress in future relocations or be disadvantaged in university applications.

For example, IB schools abroad offer the globally-recognized International Baccalaureate program. Others offer the appropriate national curriculum, such as the British, Australian, or French.

Also, verify that the school’s accreditation allows credit transfer for standardized test scores (such as the SAT, AP, and GCSEs) or certified transcripts.

Language of Instruction

Those considering school options for expat children also need to consider the language of instruction at the foreign schools. These can be a significant factor in an international student’s social and academic success.

Most international schools use English, which can be useful for most students. However, some expat parents prefer a bilingual program, such as French-English or German-English, to ensure their children speak two languages fluently.

Additionally, families who want their children to be fluent in the local language may opt for local schools abroad to achieve native-level proficiency. Schools offering language support can also help bridge the gap.

Accreditation and Quality

When considering school options for expat children, quality is essential, as it can vary widely from school to school. That’s why it’s important to ensure the school you choose is accredited.

It ensures your child receives a high-quality education that is recognized by schools and universities worldwide.

Look for certifications from the main three bodies: Council of International Schools (CIS), WASC/NEASC (the Western or New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and Council of British International Schools (COBIS).

Also, beware of any schools abroad that have these red flags: 

• Lack of transparency: Schools that don’t specifically list their accreditations 
• High teacher turnover: This often signals low-quality environments and poor management
• Vague curriculum: This might not align with a specific model
• No clear university results: Good schools openly share average results and university destinations
• Overcrowded classrooms: This can lower the quality of the learning environment
• Weak student support: This can mean that students aren’t adequately cared for
• Safeguarding policies: Look for anti-bullying systems, staff background checks, and break-time supervision
• Financial instability: Warning signs may include ownership changes, delayed salaries, constant fundraising, and abrupt fee increases

Teaching Staff and Learning Environment

Quality learning overseas requires good teaching staff and a quality environment. When considering a school, check whether there are well-qualified teachers with recognized credentials and relevant experience.

You can also ask about staff stability and ongoing professional development. Class size can be important too, as smaller classes allow teachers to offer more individual attention to each student.

Additionally, strong student support services, such as learning support, language assistance, or counseling, can help international students thrive. 

Logistics and School Culture

For expat students considering studying abroad, a school’s logistics and culture are critical to ensuring satisfaction in their daily lives and in their education abroad.

Expat families often choose schools within a manageable commuting distance to reduce stress. Safety is important, too, so campus security and supervision policies are important.

Facilities can also go a long way toward successful overseas learning, so consider whether potential schools have libraries, science labs, technological resources, and sports amenities for a well-rounded experience.

The school’s culture can also make or break the learning experience. Look for something that’s inclusive, supportive, and offers strong extracurricular activities that help students develop confidence and skills and create strong friendships.

Costs and Financial Aid

Another consideration for those who study abroad is cost. After all, it’s essential to understand the full financial commitment of an education abroad.

International schools can be prohibitively expensive, with tuition fees costing anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 per year.

Expat parents will also need to budget for uniforms, resources, electronics, transportation, and extracurricular activities at these schools, which can push expenses much further out.

Some schools also charge application fees, debentures, or development costs, too. Local public schools are, of course, far cheaper (sometimes free), though local private schools can be cheaper as well.

Relocating families should also ask whether the schools they’re considering offer sibling discounts, scholarships, or financial aid.

Social Development and Extracurriculars

When considering schools abroad, parents should also assess whether potential schools offer strong opportunities for social development and extracurricular activities.

These are important for helping international students integrate, build friendships, and develop new skills.

Many activities also allow students room for personal development, whether that’s encouraging cooperation and confidence, or supporting creativity and self-expression.

Special Needs and Learning Support

While this won’t apply to all families looking at foreign schools, a school’s ability to cater to special educational needs or offer learning support can be important.

International students, for example, may require additional support to master a language that isn’t their mother tongue.

Other students may struggle with learning difficulties that require extra personalized attention, which not all schools are equipped to give.

How to Choose a School Abroad: The Process

If you’re considering education options abroad, this process will help you make an informed decision for your child.

Practical Checklist for Parents

Considering school options for expat children can feel overwhelming, but the key is to do your research and give yourself plenty of time.

Here’s a step-by-step process on how to pick the right schools abroad for your family:

1. Start early: Give yourself time to research, consider your options, and prepare applications well before the admissions deadlines.
2. Research and shortlist: Consult directories, parent communities, and school websites to create a shortlist of your top-choice schools overseas.
3. Visit schools: Arrange in-person visits to the schools on your shortlist to look at classrooms and facilities and meet staff. 
4. Evaluate additional services and support: Assess whether and how the school offers language programs, sports and arts, counseling, and extracurriculars.
5. Consider culture and curricula: Look at whether the school’s culture and offered curriculum are appropriate for your family and child(ren).
6. Compare costs: Evaluate the full cost implications of the school.
7. Talk to other parents and students: Get real-life insights from other expat parents and international students.
8. Plan transition and orientation: Ease the child into their new school gradually to help them succeed in studying abroad.

How to Involve Your Child in the Decision

Involving your child in choosing their school can help them feel more confident about the transition.

Start by explaining the move positively and discussing what they enjoy in their current school. Then invite them to help research potential schools and encourage them to ask questions.

Listening carefully can help to build trust in the decision, reduce anxiety, and give them a sense of ownership.

Preparing Your Child for a Smooth Transition

Part of a child’s academic success involves adequately preparing them for the transition. This can begin with age-appropriate discussions about their likes and dislikes with education, and involving them in school research.

Supporting their emotional and social readiness is also essential. Help them build resilience for the transition, raise their awareness of local culture and norms, and bolster their confidence for a successful adaptation.

Making the Right Choice for Your Child

An education abroad can be an exciting opportunity for expat families, offering children the chance to experience new cultures, meet diverse peers, and develop independence.

But to make the experience successful, it’s important to consider the student’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning preferences, alongside the family’s goals, budget, and any legal or visa requirements.

Thorough research and careful planning are essential to ensure students can thrive academically, socially, and personally while studying overseas.

With these preparations in place, students can focus on enjoying their learning experience abroad and making the most of their time in a new country.

Additional Resources for Parents

These resources can help you navigate school options for expat children and make informed choices for your child:

• International Schools Database: Search and compare international schools worldwide.
• International Schools Guide: Comprehensive information on curricula, fees, and locations.
• Council of International Schools (CIS): Accreditation and standards for high-quality international education.
• Cambridge International Schools: Schools offering the Cambridge curriculum globally.
• Council of British International Schools (COBIS): Directory of British-curriculum international schools.
• International Baccalaureate Schools: Find schools offering the globally recognized IB program.
• Wosley Hall Oxford: Accredited homeschooling and distance-learning programs.
• Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA): Guidance on homeschooling laws and compliance.
• EdGate International Curriculum Comparisons: Compare international curricula to help plan transitions between schools.

Frequently Asked Questions