Berlin International School (BIS) is a non-profit, co-educational institution located in the Dahlem district of Berlin, Germany. Established in 1998, BIS offers an internationally recognized curriculum to students aged 6 to 18. With a reputation for inclusive education, strong academic standards, and a diverse community, BIS has become one of Berlin’s leading international schools.
- Location: Lentzeallee 8/14, Berlin 14195, Germany
- Grades: Primary (Grades 1-5) to Secondary (Grades 6-12)
- Curriculum: IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, IGCSE, German Mittlerer Schulabschluss (MSA)
- Student Numbers: Approximately 820 students
- Fees: €11,880 – €17,400 per year
- Languages: English (primary), German (mandatory)
- Uniform Requirements: No
- Accreditations: CIS, IBO, VDP
Curriculum & Qualifications
Berlin International School follows a bilingual approach that integrates English and German into the academic programs, catering to an international student body.
Curriculum Structure:
- Early Years: The school uses the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), providing an inquiry-based approach for students from Nursery (3-6 years) to Grade 5.
- Secondary Education: Students in Grades 6-10 follow a British-style IGCSE program. From Grade 11, students can pursue the IB Diploma, which prepares them for university education worldwide.
The IB Diploma allows students to study a broad range of subjects and encourages independent thinking, research skills, and global awareness. For those opting for the German track, the school offers the Mittlerer Schulabschluss (MSA), a German equivalent to the high school diploma.
Learning Support and SEN Provision
Berlin International School is committed to inclusive education. The school provides learning support for students with mild learning difficulties such as dyslexia or ADHD, and ensures a tailored approach for each student. The school’s learning support team works closely with classroom teachers to integrate students’ needs within regular lessons.
- Support: Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are available for students requiring additional support.
- English as an Additional Language (EAL): The school provides EAL instruction for non-native English speakers, ensuring smooth integration into the school’s academic environment.
Arts & Extracurricular Activities
Berlin International School encourages students to participate in a wide range of arts and extracurricular activities to foster creativity and personal growth.
- Arts: The school offers visual arts, drama, and music programs, with private lessons available in various instruments. The annual drama productions and musical performances provide students with the opportunity to showcase their talents.
- Sports: BIS participates in various sports tournaments through the German International Schools Sports Tournament (GISST). Sports offerings include football, volleyball, basketball, and track and field.
- Clubs: The school offers clubs like debate, model United Nations (MUN), robotics, and coding.
Sport at Berlin International School
Berlin International School emphasizes physical fitness and team-building through its comprehensive sports programs.
- Sports Teams: The school has athletic teams that compete in inter-school sports events like basketball, football, and volleyball.
- Facilities: BIS makes use of nearby sports facilities at the Freie Universität, offering students ample opportunities to develop their athletic skills.
Pastoral Care and Community
BIS fosters a strong sense of community and places a high value on student well-being. The school provides a nurturing and supportive environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
- Pastoral Care: The school has a team of counselors and student support staff who help students with social-emotional learning, conflict resolution, and academic challenges.
- Inclusive Environment: With students from over 70 nationalities, the school celebrates its diversity and promotes inclusivity across all aspects of student life.
University Placement and Success
The school boasts an impressive track record of university placements, with students going on to study at top universities in Germany, the UK, and internationally.
- Graduate Destinations: In 2024, BIS graduates were accepted into prestigious universities such as Frankfurt School of Finance, TU Munich, TU Berlin, and international universities like ESCP Paris and SOAS London.
- IB Results: In 2024, BIS achieved an average IB score of 36, with 25% of students receiving a bilingual diploma.
Admissions and Fees
Admissions:
BIS is academically non-selective for younger grades. However, students wishing to enter secondary school are required to take placement exams in German, English, and Mathematics. The school has a rolling admissions process, accepting applications throughout the year.
Annual Fee Structure:
| Grade Level | Fees (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Primary School | €11,880 |
| Secondary School | €14,000 – €17,400 |
Additional Costs:
- Registration Fee: €800
- Resource Fee: €100
- Sports and Clubs: Additional fees apply for extracurricular activities.
Conclusion
Berlin International School offers a well-rounded international education with a strong academic foundation, extracurricular opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusivity. With its IB programs, IGCSE qualifications, and German language support, BIS provides students with the skills and experiences necessary to succeed in higher education and beyond.
For more details on admissions and the school’s offerings, visit the Berlin International School Website.
Accreditations & Memberships:
- IB World School
- Council of International Schools (CIS)
- Council of British International Schools (COBIS)
- German International Schools Association (AGIS)
- European Council of International Schools (ECIS)
