So you’re thinking about joining the IB squad in the Netherlands? Smart move. The country’s packed with top IB schools that mix chill international vibes with serious academic power. From Amsterdam’s premium campuses to budget-friendly public internationals in Utrecht or Groningen, you’ve got a wild range of choices — and every one of them runs on the world-famous IB curriculum.
The best IB schools in the Netherlands don’t just prep you for exams; they teach you how to actually think (and survive adulthood while you’re at it).
You’ll find schools offering the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) everywhere — from high-end ones like ISA or BSN, to affordable legends like IS Utrecht or IS Hilversum.
Whether you’re hunting for a full continuum setup (PYP–MYP–DP) or just that final DP stretch, there’s something that fits every type of student (and wallet).
IB chaos hitting hard? Chill — our IB writing team can handle your essays, reflections, and all that brain-melting stuff.
In short: if you’re after an academic system that opens doors to unis across Europe, the US, and basically the entire planet, then the international schools Netherlands IB curriculum scene might just be your best bet.
The Best Netherlands IB Schools
Let’s break down the top IB schools in the Netherlands — the real ones worth checking out.
International School of Amsterdam (ISA) — Amstelveen
One of the original IB schools in the Netherlands, the International School of Amsterdam has the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP). It sits just outside Amsterdam (in Amstelveen) and has a really global student body. It’s got awesome facilities – labs, theatre, sports – and prides itself on preparing students for university-life worldwide.
Approximate cost: For 2025-26, tuition for Grade 11-12 is €31,495/yr.
Pros:
- Strong IB pedigree (long-standing, very experienced in IB)
- Massive range of subjects and co-curriculars thanks to its size and legacy
- Very good track record with university placement and global mobility
Cons:
- Fee is high, especially for families moving from cheaper schools
- Big school = you might feel like one in many; less intimate than smaller options
- Location just outside Amsterdam means commute or living cost may still be steep
The British School in The Netherlands (BSN) — The Hague/Voorschoten
BSN offers both British curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels) and IB Diploma/IB Career-related Programme for Years 12-13, making it flexible and among the “top IB schools in Netherlands”. It has multiple campuses (Junior & Senior) and draws a multi-national community.
Approximate cost: For Key Stage 5 (Years 12-13 → A-Level / IB) listed at €28,014/yr (2025-26).
Pros:
- Offers choice: IB or A-Levels/BTECs, so students can pick path that suits them
- Very international community (90+ nationalities) gives broad exposure
- Strong reputation & many alumni going to good unis
Cons:
- Price is also on the higher end
- With choice comes complexity: students must pick between IB vs A-Levels, which can be stressful
Large institution with many campuses = logistics (commute between campuses for some)
Amsterdam International Community School (AICS) — Amsterdam
AICS is one of the more affordable “international schools Netherlands IB curriculum” options. It covers IB from early years through secondary, and is located inside Amsterdam city, which is a plus for students who want urban life.
Approximate cost: For 4-year-old, annual tuition ~ €6,025/yr + one-time fees for first year.
Pros:
- Much more affordable compared to the top “premium” schools
- City-location: handy for families living in Amsterdam or want city life
- Full IB curriculum so you’re still in the “IB schools Netherlands” category
Cons:
- Being lower cost might mean fewer niche subjects, or less “extras” compared to premium schools
- Faculty and resources may be less expansive than in massive international campuses
- Popularity and affordability can lead to waitlists / limited spaces
Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam (NAISR) — Rotterdam
Part of the Nord Anglia global network. NAISR presents as a strong pick for IB in the Netherlands, with good facilities and the advantage of the network. If you want “international schools Netherlands IB curriculum” with a big-brand backing, it’s a contender.
Approximate cost: Tuition for Years 12-13 (~16-18 yrs) ~ €23,500/yr (as per the published 2025 data) for the senior years.
Pros:
- Big-brand, global network means exchange opportunities + resources
- Relatively cheaper than the highest-fee schools while still high quality
- Good subject offerings in senior years and IB Diploma support
Cons:
- As a network school, sometimes less local “feel” or smaller classes
- Senior years still expensive, so cost-wise you’re not in low budget zone
- Rotter damp / big city context may not suit all students who prefer quieter towns
International School Utrecht (ISU) — Utrecht
This is a full-continuum IB school (PYP, MYP, DP) for ages 4-18, and it’s part of the “international schools Netherlands IB curriculum” club. It’s located in Utrecht, which gives a decent balance of city access + slightly calmer than Amsterdam. Their DP (ages 16-18) is clearly stated.
Approximate cost: For the 2025/26 year:
- Primary years fee: ~ €4,820/year for younger ages.
- Secondary (older years, including DP): ~ €6,950/year for ages ~16-18.
Pros:
- You get full IB Diploma coverage, so progression from PYP → MYP → DP in one place.
- More reasonable fee compared to many premium international schools—less of a wallet-shock.
- Located in Utrecht: good transport links, less frantic than the biggest cities.
Cons:
- Because of lower fees, might mean smaller senior cohort/less niche subject choices in DP.
- Being an international school, you still need to check availability/waitlists.
- Some reviews suggest facilities or older buildings may not be as flashy as ultra-premium schools. (Keep in mind you may have to check in).
International School Breda (ISB) — Breda
This school is authorised for the IB Diploma Programme. It covers ages 4-18 under the IB umbrella (PYP → MYP → DP). They emphasise that at the end of schooling their grads receive the IB Diploma.
Approximate cost: For 2025/26: tuition from ~ €8,288/year for younger years, and ~ €8,870/year for older/DP years.
Pros:
- IB Diploma availability means it’s in the “best IB schools in Netherlands” category for sure.
- Smaller student body (relative to mega schools) so possibly more personal attention.
- It’s somewhat more affordable than the highest-fee international schools in the Netherlands.
Cons:
- Even though it’s more budget friendly, for DP years you’ll need to check exactly what subject options they offer.
- Smaller school size may mean fewer very niche subject choices or extracurriculars compared to large internationals.
- Breda is a smaller city vs Amsterdam/The Hague, so depending on your family preference you might have fewer urban-extras.
International School of Amsterdam (ISA) — Amstelveen/Amsterdam area
This school is a heavy-hitter among “top IB schools in Netherlands” and offers the full IB continuum (indeed they have DP since years ago).Founded 1964, large global student body, well-regarded.
Approximate cost: For upper years: tuition rates vary ~ €19,900 to ~€28,565/year (for recent years) plus capital fees.
Pros:
- High prestige among “IB schools in Netherlands”, massive range of resources & subject choices.
- Excellent reputation and global recognition for universities accepting IB Diplomas.
- Big global community; good for families who move around or want strong international links.
Cons:
- The fee is steep compared to many other options.
- Because it’s large and popular, you might face competition for seats, major waits, and big class sizes.
- High cost may limit budget for other things (housing, transport) if you’re relocating.
UWC Maastricht — Maastricht
UWC Maastricht offers the full IB track: PYP → MYP → DP/CP (ages 4-19). They emphasise a global-citizen vibe, service learning, and a strong community of international students. The DP (for ages ~16-19) is clearly a central focus.
Approximate cost (day-student DP): €12,090 for 2025-26 for the Diploma Programme (day students) in the DP/CP phase.
Pros:
- Strong global mindset + life beyond just academics.
- Full IB Diploma option (so fits the “IB schools Netherlands” requirement) and strong reputation.
- More moderate cost compared to the highest tier international schools.
Cons:
- As with many high-quality schools, subject choice in DP might be somewhat constrained compared to mega-campuses.
- Living in Maastricht may mean fewer ultra-big city amenities compared to Amsterdam/The Hague.
- The boarding/residential option is selective and may have added cost/community expectations
International School Eindhoven (ISE) — Eindhoven
ISE is authorised for the IB Diploma Programme and serves ages ~3-18. It markets itself as an “IB curriculum” school in the Netherlands where students can go from MYP to DP.
Approximate cost (DP years): For 2025-26: DP1 ~ €8,557/yr, DP2 ~ €9,050/yr.
Pros:
- Very good value within the “international schools Netherlands IB curriculum” field (fees lower than many).
- Strong IB credentials and clearly labelled DP offering.
- Located in Eindhoven, which is a tech hub — interesting environment for STEM-minded students.
Cons:
- Subject choice in DP may be less expansive than very big schools (smaller school size).
- Fewer big-city extras (arts, theatre, global exposure) than Amsterdam/Den Haag schools.
- The fee-range though moderate will still stack up when you factor transport/housing if relocating.
American School of The Hague (ASH) — Wassenaar / The Hague area
ASH offers both the IB Diploma and Advanced Placement programmes, making it one of the “top IB schools in Netherlands” especially for families looking US + IB options.
Approximate cost: While exact DP tuition wasn’t isolated, tuition + enrolment for 2025-26 has one-time enrolment fee €6,810 + annual capital fee €4,610. Standard tuition is high; sample data gives grades K1-12 from ~€22,310/yr according to one source.
Pros:
- Flexibility: IB + AP gives students more pathway options.
- Big, established school with lots of resources (sports, arts, global network).
- Good for families relocating internationally or wanting US-style + IB mix.
Cons:
- Costs are at the high end in the Netherlands for IB schools.
- Big school size means you might feel less “small-school cosy”.
- A lot of students + options means busier admin, more competition for top electives.
International School The Hague (ISH) — The Hague
If we’re talking top IB schools in the Netherlands, ISH always pops up. It’s a government-supported international school offering the full IB lineup (PYP–MYP–DP). Students come from 90+ countries, and the school’s Model UN and global citizenship programs are kinda famous. It’s one of those spots where you get a real mix of cultures and ideas without breaking the bank.
Approximate cost: Around €10,300–€11,600 per year depending on grade level. For the IB Diploma Programme, it’s on the higher end of that range — still very affordable for an international school.
Pros:
- Affordable compared to private IB schools in the Netherlands
- Big focus on social responsibility and world issues
- Killer diversity and school spirit
Cons:
- Massive student body = less 1-on-1 attention
- Waitlists for popular years are a real thing
- Can get pretty bureaucratic — it’s semi-public, after all
International School Hilversum (ISHilversum) — Hilversum
A smaller, cozy school that’s been offering the IB Diploma since forever. Known for its solid academic results, approachable teachers, and community vibe. It’s not flashy, but it’s one of those best IB schools in Netherlands that deliver consistent quality.
Approximate cost: Around €5,500 per year for the Diploma Programme, plus exam and activity fees.
Pros:
- One of the most affordable IB schools Netherlands has to offer
- Great teacher–student connection
- Small classes, relaxed environment
Cons:
- Not the most modern campus out there
- Fewer extracurriculars compared to larger schools
- Tech contributions and extras can sneak up on you
International School Almere — Almere
Located near Amsterdam, this one’s a hidden gem among Netherlands IB schools. It offers both MYP and DP, perfect for those who want a full IB experience but don’t wanna go broke. Students describe it as chill, diverse, and focused on collaboration rather than competition.
Approximate cost: About €4,520 per year, which is seriously low compared to most IB schools in the Netherlands.
Pros:
- Super affordable
- Modern facilities
- Welcoming and inclusive community
Cons:
- Limited range of DP subjects
- Not as well-known internationally
- Extracurricular activities are still developing
International School Twente (IST) — Enschede
A lesser-known but fully authorized IB Diploma school located in the east of the country. It attracts families working in the tech and university scene. Definitely one of the best IB schools in the Netherlands if you’re looking for smaller classes and a calm academic atmosphere.
Approximate cost: Around €7,200 per year for the Diploma Programme, plus exam fees.
Pros:
- Transparent fee structure (no nasty surprises)
- Peaceful town, perfect for focus
- Supportive, family-like staff
Cons:
- Small student population = limited course options
- Not much of a nightlife or big-city buzz
You might travel for sports or events
International School Groningen (ISG) — Haren/Groningen
This one’s been an IB Diploma school for ages, and people love it for its chilled vibe. It’s relatively small, but the IB culture here is genuine — very academic, but not stressful. Think smart but grounded.
Approximate cost: Not always listed publicly, but generally €5,000–€7,000 per year, plus DP exam fees.
Pros:
- Super friendly teachers who actually have time for you
- Authentic IB culture — no marketing fluff
- Calm, green environment
Cons:
- Fewer elective subjects compared to urban schools
- Fee transparency isn’t always clear
- Farther from the main expat hubs
Amity International School Amsterdam — Amstelveen
One of the newer international schools Netherlands IB curriculum options, but already gaining a solid reputation. The campus looks like something out of a magazine — modern, eco-friendly, and full of natural light. They offer the full IB continuum, including the Diploma Programme, with an emphasis on global citizenship.
Approximate cost: Around €25,995 per year for DP students.
Pros:
- Super modern facilities and teaching methods
- Very strong arts and languages programs
- Small class sizes and individual support
Cons:
- Fees are definitely in the luxury bracket
- Still expanding its subject and activity range
- Admission fills fast every year
Conclusion
Choosing among the best IB schools in Netherlands can feel like scrolling Netflix — too many good options, not enough time.
But here’s the deal: every school on this list has the official IB Diploma stamp, solid results, and their own personality. Some shine because of their world-class facilities (hello, ISA and Amity), others for affordability and community vibes (looking at you, IS Utrecht and Hilversum).
When comparing IB schools Netherlands, keep an eye on three things:
- Budget: fees swing from €4K to €30K+ a year.
- Vibe: huge campuses vs cozy communities — both have perks.
- Focus: artsy? tech-driven? globally minded? You’ll find it all.
The Netherlands has quietly become one of Europe’s strongest hubs for international education — mixing progressive teaching, strong English instruction, and multicultural communities.
Whatever your goals are — crushing the IBDP exams, prepping for uni, or just meeting people from 50+ countries — you’ll find your fit here.
Basically? Pick the school that fits your brain and your budget, pack your stroopwafels, and get ready to call one of the top IB schools in the Netherlands your new home base.
