Hellow guys, Welcome to TigerJek, In this article we will take a look at the best international schools in Budapest that are best for your students in every way. We have compiled top 7 schools. Budapest has long been admired for its charm, culture, and history. But in recent years, the city has also become a hub for international families, professionals, and expatriates. With this shift comes a growing demand for quality education, and Budapest has risen to the occasion with a diverse range of excellent schools. From world-class international institutions to prestigious Hungarian gymnasiums, parents have more options than ever before.
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TigerJek takes a closer look at the Best International Schools in Budapest, exploring their curriculum, teaching approach, and what makes each of them stand out. Whether families are seeking the International Baccalaureate, a British or American system, or bilingual education rooted in Hungarian traditions, there’s a school here that meets the need.
Best International Schools in Budapest
What Makes a School the “Best” in Budapest?
Choosing a school is never just about academics. Parents often weigh several factors before making the decision:
- Curriculum – IB, British, American, French, German, Hungarian? The choice depends on long-term university goals and cultural preferences.
- Language of Instruction – Some families prefer full immersion in English, while others seek bilingual programs or native-language curricula.
- Academic Results – Pass rates, IB scores, or university placements matter for future opportunities.
- Class Sizes & Teacher Quality – Small classes and highly trained staff often define the quality of education.
- Facilities & Extracurriculars – Modern campuses, sports fields, robotics labs, and music programs enrich student life.
- Community Feel – International families often seek schools where their children can adapt quickly and thrive socially.
- Affordability – While international schools can be expensive, some Hungarian public and gymnasium options provide top-quality education at little or no cost.
Keeping these in mind, TigerJek presents a detailed list of the top schools in Budapest.
1. British International School Budapest (BISB)
The British International School Budapest (BISB) is one of Hungary’s most respected international schools and part of the prestigious Nord Anglia Education group. Known for academic rigor and global outlook, it attracts families who want their children to thrive in an international environment while still receiving the personal attention of a close-knit community.
Curriculum and Learning Approach
BISB follows the English National Curriculum through the primary and secondary years, preparing students for IGCSEs in Year 11. Older students then move into the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), which is highly regarded by universities worldwide. This blend gives students both structure and flexibility, allowing them to transition smoothly into higher education across Europe, the UK, or the US.
Academic Success
Results at BISB are consistently impressive. In 2022, the school celebrated a 100% IB pass rate with an average score of 35.8, significantly above the global average. Nearly one-third of graduates achieved 40 points or higher, a benchmark that places them among the top-performing IB students worldwide.
Campus and Opportunities
Set on a scenic hillside campus in Budapest, BISB offers modern classrooms, science labs, music and art studios, and excellent sports facilities. Students also benefit from Nord Anglia’s global partnerships with MIT, Juilliard, and UNICEF, which bring unique opportunities in science, the arts, and social responsibility.
Why Families Choose BISB
Parents often highlight the school’s strong academic foundation, international community, and supportive atmosphere. BISB combines excellence with opportunity, making it one of Budapest’s leading choices for families seeking world-class education.
2. American International School of Budapest (AISB)
The American International School of Budapest (AISB) is not only the largest international school in Hungary but also one of the most respected. Founded in 1973, it has grown into a vibrant community representing over 60 nationalities, offering students a truly global learning experience.
Curriculum and Pathways
AISB blends an American-style education with the internationally recognized IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). This dual pathway ensures flexibility—students can graduate with an American high school diploma, the IB diploma, or both. This makes AISB an excellent springboard for admission to universities worldwide, particularly in the US, UK, and across Europe.
Academic Achievement
The school is consistently ranked among the best-performing IB schools in the region. In recent years, AISB students have averaged an IB score of 37 points, well above the world average. Just as importantly, AISB maintains a 100% university acceptance rate, with graduates heading to prestigious institutions like Harvard, Oxford, and leading European universities.
Campus and Student Life
Set on a 33-acre green campus north of Budapest, AISB provides an inspiring, university-like setting. Facilities include modern science labs, a theatre, art studios, sports fields, gyms, and an innovation hub. Beyond academics, the school offers a wide variety of clubs, sports teams, and arts programs, encouraging students to explore passions and build leadership skills.
Why Families Choose AISB
Families often highlight AISB’s welcoming community, world-class academics, and holistic approach. For those seeking an American-style education enriched by international diversity, AISB is one of Budapest’s top choices.
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3. International School of Budapest (ISB)
The International School of Budapest (ISB) stands out as one of Hungary’s leading bilingual institutions, offering a personalized approach that appeals to both expatriate and local families. It is unique in blending international standards with elements of the Hungarian system, creating a flexible learning environment where students can thrive academically and socially.
Curriculum and Approach
ISB follows the Cambridge International Programme, complemented by the Hungarian National Curriculum. This combination gives students the chance to benefit from internationally recognized qualifications while staying connected to local educational traditions. For senior students, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) opens doors to universities across Europe and beyond.
Academic Strengths
Small class sizes—typically 14 to 18 students—set ISB apart. Teachers are able to provide more individualized support, ensuring that each student progresses at their own pace. Parents frequently note that this environment nurtures not only academic success but also emotional growth and confidence.
Student Life and Community
The atmosphere at ISB is warm and inclusive. Students come from both Hungarian and international backgrounds, which creates a diverse community where cultural exchange is part of daily life. Extracurricular opportunities range from robotics and debate to music, arts, and sports, giving students a chance to explore interests beyond academics.
Why Families Choose ISB
Parents value ISB’s balance of strong academics and supportive environment. Its bilingual structure makes it an excellent choice for families planning to remain in Hungary long-term while keeping international higher education pathways open.
4. Britannica International School Budapest (BBIS)
The Britannica International School Budapest (BBIS) is one of the city’s leading British international schools, offering a rigorous education grounded in the UK National Curriculum. Opened in 1993, it has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, community spirit, and preparing students for top universities around the world.
Curriculum and Pathway
BBIS follows the UK National Curriculum, beginning with Early Years Foundation Stage and progressing through Key Stages. Students sit for IGCSEs in Year 11 and move on to A-Levels, qualifications highly respected by universities globally. This pathway makes BBIS particularly appealing for families aiming toward UK or Commonwealth higher education.
Academic Excellence
The school consistently delivers strong results. In recent years, over 50% of students achieved A or A* at IGCSE level, placing BBIS among the top-performing schools in Hungary. It has also been recognized by Cambridge International with awards for outstanding individual student performance, highlighting the school’s commitment to high standards.
Community and Student Life
Smaller in scale compared to AISB or BISB, BBIS fosters a close-knit environment where students know each other well. The school emphasizes holistic development, offering programs like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Model United Nations, and a wide range of sports and creative clubs.
Why Families Choose BBIS
Parents value the balance BBIS provides—rigorous academics in a supportive, community-oriented environment. For families seeking the British pathway without the size of larger international schools, BBIS is one of Budapest’s strongest options.
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5. Gustave Eiffel French School of Budapest
For families who value continuity in French education within an international setting, the Gustave Eiffel French School of Budapest (Lycée Français Gustave Eiffel de Budapest) stands as a trusted choice. This institution is fully accredited by the French Ministry of National Education, and it’s part of the AEFE network, offering schooling from early childhood through lycée.
Curriculum and Academic Framework
Students begin their journey in maternelle (starting around age 3) and progress seamlessly through primary, collège, and lycée, culminating in the French baccalauréat. The school also facilitates le brevet exam mid-cycle. Its focus on language support—especially for non-French speakers—ensures that newcomers can transition in after a couple of years thanks to specialized FLSCO (French as a Language of Schooling) support.
Campus and Community
Set in a lush, leafy part of Buda, the school’s campus offers ample space and light, designed for every age group: from dedicated play areas for little ones to science labs, auditoriums, and gymnasiums for older students. A vibrant mix of French, Hungarian, and other international families makes up the student body—students benefit from cultural breadth in the classroom and beyond.
Cultural and Educational Enrichment
The school is known for going beyond academics. It has strong partnerships with Budapest’s cultural institutions—like the Budapest Festival Orchestra—bringing music, theatre, and arts into school life. It actively involves parents through a governing council and hosts regular cultural outings and events.
Why Families Choose It
Parents often mention the nearly perfect success rate on the baccalauréat (often between 98%–100%) and appreciate how well both French and Hungarian students are supported. Gustave Eiffel fosters both academic excellence and cultural openness—making it the only school in Budapest offering full French immersion in a nurturing, internationally engaged environment.
6. Deutsche Schule Budapest – Thomas Mann Gymnasium
The Deutsche Schule Budapest, widely known as the Thomas Mann Gymnasium, is a German-Hungarian international school with a rich history—it was originally founded in 1908 and now serves a diverse student body of around 550 pupils, including expatriates, diplomats, and members of Hungary’s elite.
Curriculum and Academic Credentials
The school follows the German national curriculum, guiding students from Grade 1 through Grade 12 toward the German Abitur. In parallel, students in the Hungarian section also have the option to earn the Hungarian Érettségi, offering dual pathways into universities in both countries.
Academic Reputation
Thomas Mann Gymnasium is highly regarded for its academic excellence. It received Certificates of Excellence from the Central Agency for German Schools Abroad in both 2012 and 2020. In Hungary’s HVG 2024 rankings, it entered the national list of top gymnasiums at 53rd place overall and took a strong third place among private and foundation schools.
Why Families Choose It
Families drawn to German-language education find a reliable anchor here—especially since graduates gain recognition in both German and Hungarian systems. With strong academics, dual diplomas, and a mission to bridge cultures, the school stands out as a robust choice for students aiming for higher education both at home and abroad.
7. International Christian School of Budapest (ICSB)
The International Christian School of Budapest (ICSB), nestled in Diósd just outside Budapest, offers a warm, faith-based educational experience for students from kindergarten through Grade 12. Established in 1994, this co-educational school is fully accredited by both ACSI and MSA-CESS, and uniquely serves as Hungary’s only ACT testing center.
Curriculum and Academic Offerings
ICSB follows a US-based curriculum that emphasizes college preparatory rigor alongside Christian values. Upper-grade students can take Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like Biology, Calculus, English Literature, Physics, Psychology, Statistics, and more. The school hosts ACT testing on-site and supports students through structured academic counseling that begins in Grade 9, helping families with college planning, university visits, and fair events.
Community and Campus
With a student body of approximately 265–275 students hailing from more than 20 countries, ICSB prides itself on a tight-knit, inclusive environment. The campus, spanning over 5,000 m², includes well-equipped classrooms, science labs, art and music rooms, gymnasium, library, and advanced technology infrastructure—ideal for collaborative, modern learning.
Why Families Choose ICSB
Parents often point to the school’s nurturing sense of community, strong academic support, and values-centered education. One parent review said it best:
“We love ICSB…the teachers care deeply…the school atmosphere is fantastic”.
For families looking for a Christian, US-style education that’s small, personal, and academically sound, ICSB stands out in Budapest.
FAQs for Parents
Q: How much does tuition cost at Budapest’s international schools?
Tuition varies widely. Major schools like AISB and BISB charge between €15,000–€20,000 annually, while smaller schools may cost less. Hungarian gymnasiums are public and essentially free.
Q: Do these schools provide transport services?
Most international schools operate bus services that cover large parts of the city and suburbs, making daily commutes manageable.
Q: Are non-Hungarian students accepted in public gymnasiums?
Yes, though admission is highly competitive and often requires strong Hungarian language skills.
Q: Which school is best for bilingual education?
ISB stands out for offering bilingual opportunities (English/Hungarian), while other schools like Gustave Eiffel and Deutsche Schule focus on French or German immersion.
Final Thoughts from TigerJek
Education in Budapest reflects the city itself: a mix of rich tradition, cultural diversity, and international opportunity. Parents who prioritize global mobility and academic prestige will naturally lean toward schools like BISB, AISB, or BBIS, which prepare graduates for universities worldwide. Families who want their children to stay deeply connected to culture and heritage might gravitate toward the French, German, or Christian schools, each of which fosters strong values and traditions alongside academics.
For those with long-term plans in Hungary, the country’s public gymnasiums remain a benchmark of academic rigor, offering excellent preparation for higher education at a fraction of the cost. These schools are demanding and competitive, but for the right student, they can be incredibly rewarding.
Ultimately, the “best” school isn’t the same for every family. Some will prioritize academic results and global recognition, others will value community feel and smaller class sizes, and still others will seek language immersion and cultural continuity. The real strength of Budapest lies in its variety—there is truly something for every family’s vision of their child’s education. With so many outstanding choices, Budapest has become one of Central Europe’s most attractive destinations for families who want both quality schooling and an enriching cultural experience.