International Education in Warsaw

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Since the 1990s, Poland has been making great strides in reforming pretty much every area of life, from economics to education and beyond. While the public education system in Poland is well regarded across Europe, many expat families choose an international school for their child instead. This is because while the standards are not necessarily bad, public schools in Poland teach through the Polish language.

For an expat family planning on moving on in a few years, it makes more sense to choose a school that teaches through English or another widely-spoken language and a curriculum that is transferable to another country. That way when their child moves on to their next school in their next home, they won’t be at a disadvantage.

Having said that, Polish is commonly offered as an additional language in Warsaw’s international schools. So should you decide to make your stay in the city more long-term, this option will come in very useful.

The standard of education on offer in Warsaw’s international schools is similar to international schools across Europe. The same can be said of the standard of facilities and extra curricular programs - they are all excellent.

Warsaw is very much a driving city with many areas linked by highways. Some of the city’s international schools offer bus services to and from expat neighbourhoods, but you will likely be reliant on your own transport for the school commute.

In the winter months especially, driving your little one to school is often a much better option than braving the icy footpaths. Carpooling between families is also common, and a great way to make friends with fellow expats.

International schools in Warsaw tend to have diverse student populations, so your child will be exposed to many new cultures. However the majority of schools also have a significant number of local students too.

Since Poland joined the EU in 2004, there has been a rise in local families wanting an internationally-recognised education for their children. In many of Warsaw’s international schools you’ll find a ratio of 50:50 local students to international students. In fact, Polish is the most common nationality in many schools.

The most common curricula on offer in Warsaw’s international schools are British, American and the International Baccalaureate. Most schools begin their day before 9am and finish up by 4pm. In some schools, the final hour is dedicated to extra curricular activities - particularly for younger students.

International schools in Warsaw are scattered across the city, but there are clusters of schools in certain areas like Lazienki Park, Wilano Niski and Praga Poludnie (to name just a few).

Below, we have compiled the top 10 international schools in Warsaw according to our users. However, there are another 10 schools to choose from in the city. You can find the best international school for your child by personalising your results. Just fill in your search criteria, and we will calculate a personal score for every international school in Warsaw based on your requirements.