Chicago, a vibrant metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan, is renowned for its cultural diversity, architectural marvels, and robust educational landscape. As of February 20, 2025, the city hosts 10 international schools, offering a diverse array of curricula including British, IB, French, American, German, and Montessori systems. These schools cater to students from early childhood to Grade 12, blending global educational standards with a local context to prepare students for international opportunities. With fees ranging from affordable to premium and options for co-educational and faith-based environments, Chicago provides a wealth of choices for families. This detailed guide lists all 10 schools, explores their unique offerings, and includes a personalized search tool to help you find the perfect match.
Overview of International Education in Chicago
Chicago’s international schools reflect the city’s multicultural fabric, serving a mix of local and expatriate families across neighborhoods like South Loop, Lincoln Park, and downtown. The IB curriculum is prominent, often alongside British and American systems, reflecting a strong emphasis on global education. Many schools offer bilingual programs (e.g., English-French, English-German), aligning with Chicago’s diverse population. Emphasis is placed on holistic development, integrating academics with extracurriculars, character-building, and modern facilities. Fees vary widely, with some schools transparent about costs and others requiring inquiries, catering to diverse socioeconomic needs.
Complete List of International Schools in Chicago
Below is a detailed breakdown of all 10 international schools in Chicago, including their curricula, languages of instruction, age ranges, fees (where available), and standout features.
1. British International School of Chicago, South Loop (BISC South Loop)
- Description: Part of the Nord Anglia Education group, committed to academic, personal, and social excellence.
- Curriculum: IB, British, International
- Language: English
- Ages: 3-18
- Fees (2024/2025): $29,500–$41,950
- Highlights: Personalized learning in an inclusive, vibrant community.
2. Lycée Français de Chicago (LFC)
- Description: Founded in 1995, offering a multicultural, dual-language education since pre-K.
- Curriculum: IB, French
- Languages: English, French
- Ages: 3-18
- Fees (2024/2025): $26,500 (flat rate)
- Highlights: Culminates in French Baccalaureate or IB Diploma, with a bilingual focus.
3. Beacon Academy Chicago
- Description: A high school reimagining college prep with independence and real-world understanding.
- Curriculum: IB, Montessori
- Language: English
- Ages: 14-18
- Fees (2024/2025): $35,840 (flat rate)
- Highlights: Close-knit community with exceptional learning experiences.
4. Daystar Academy
- Description: A faith-based IB World School empowering students with a global mindset.
- Curriculum: IB, Christian
- Language: English
- Ages: 3-18
- Fees (2024/2025): $16,900–$20,100
- Reviews: 1
- Highlights: Affordable with 60% of families receiving financial aid; includes technology and expeditions.
5. British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park (BISC Lincoln Park)
- Description: A Nord Anglia primary school fostering international education for young learners.
- Curriculum: British, International
- Language: English
- Ages: 1-11
- Fees (2024/2025): $27,000–$36,600
- Highlights: Focuses on early education with a global perspective.
6. St. Matthias School
- Description: A Catholic IB World School developing compassionate, faith-centered citizens.
- Curriculum: IB, Catholic
- Language: English
- Ages: 3-14
- Fees (2024/2025): $9,450–$10,250
- Highlights: Affordable with a commitment to lifelong learning and service.
7. The French American School of Chicago (EFAC)
- Description: Integrates French Ministry curriculum within the Chicago Public Schools system.
- Curriculum: American, French
- Languages: English, French
- Ages: 5-18
- Fees (2025/2026): $4,879–$6,444
- Reviews: 1
- Highlights: Most affordable option with French Baccalauréat certification.
8. DePaul College Prep
- Description: A Catholic high school offering a 21st-century college preparatory education.
- Curriculum: IB, Catholic
- Language: English
- Ages: 14-18
- Fees (2025/2026): $19,825 (flat rate)
- Highlights: Close-knit community valuing each student’s potential.
9. German International School Chicago (GISC)
- Description: A private, non-profit IB World School with a bilingual German-English program.
- Curriculum: IB, German
- Languages: English, German
- Ages: 3-14
- Fees (2024/2025): $20,900 (flat rate)
- Reviews: 1
- Highlights: Focuses on bilingual education through Grade 8.
10. GEMS World Academy Chicago
- Description: A downtown IB school offering preschool to Grade 12 education.
- Curriculum: IB
- Language: English
- Ages: 3-14
- Fees (2024/2025): $28,000–$37,500
- Highlights: Central location with a global IB curriculum.
Curriculum Options
- IB: Dominant (e.g., BISC South Loop, Lycée Français), offering PYP, MYP, and DP.
- British: Prevalent (e.g., BISC Lincoln Park, St. Matthew), with British National Curriculum elements.
- American: EFAC integrates CPS with French standards.
- French: Lycée Français and EFAC provide French-language programs.
- German: GISC offers a German curriculum with IB.
- Montessori: Beacon Academy incorporates Montessori principles.
Fee Structures
- Budget-Friendly: EFAC ($4,879–$6,444), St. Matthias ($9,450–$10,250).
- Mid-Range: Daystar ($16,900–$20,100), GISC ($20,900), DePaul ($19,825).
- Premium: BISC South Loop ($29,500–$41,950), Beacon ($35,840), GEMS ($28,000–$37,500).
Personalize Your Search
To find your ideal school, answer these questions for a personalized score:
- Curriculum: IB, British, American, French, German, or Montessori?
- Age Range: Early years (1-5), primary (6-11), secondary (12-18), or full (1-18)?
- Budget: Low (<$15,000), mid ($15,000–$25,000), premium (>$25,000)?
- Languages: English only, English-French, or English-German?
- Values: Secular, Christian, Catholic, or inclusive focus?
Examples:
- IB + Full Range + Premium: BISC South Loop or Lycée Français.
- British + Primary + Mid-Range: BISC Lincoln Park.
- Affordable + Bilingual: EFAC or St. Matthias.
Conclusion
Chicago’s 10 international schools offer a rich blend of educational options, from the affordable EFAC to the premium BISC South Loop. Whether you prioritize global curricula, bilingualism, or a faith-based ethos, there’s a school to match your needs as of February 20, 2025. Use the personalization tool to rank your top choices and ensure your child thrives in this dynamic Midwestern city.
