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Affordable International Schools in Brisbane, Australia

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About international schools in Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane’s more affordable international-school options sit alongside the city’s broad state and independent systems and typically combine the Australian Curriculum with internationally recognised pathways such as the International Baccalaureate or, in some schools, Cambridge/IGCSE-style programmes - families will therefore commonly find English-medium teaching with additional language programmes. Languages you can expect to see include Mandarin, Japanese, French and Spanish as common options in both primary and secondary years. Fees vary widely between providers: lower-cost options and state international programs are substantially cheaper than full-fee private international places, while independent IB or full-fee overseas-student places commonly charge in the mid-teens to tens of thousands of Australian dollars per year depending on year level. Admissions generally follow the Queensland school calendar and popular intake points are at the start of the school year or at term beginnings, so plan applications around term dates and any Education Queensland International deadlines if you are seeking a state placement. Visa status, whether a child is eligible for fee exemptions through state programs, and the student-visa requirement to hold Overseas Student Health Cover are practical matters that commonly determine affordability for relocating families.

Compare 6 Affordable international schools in Brisbane, Australia. Filter by curriculum, fees (average AUD 9,354), location, and more to find the right international school now.

At a glance 6 schools · avg fee AUD 11,195
Schools listed
6
Curricula
4
Average annual fee
AUD 11,195
Fee range
AUD 143 – 22,680
Most common curriculum
Australian Curriculum (5 schools)
Average school size
1,320 pupils
Largest by enrolment
Indooroopilly State High School
Oldest
Moreton Bay College (1901)
With boarding
2
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FAQs for Australia

What international curricula are commonly available in more affordable Brisbane schools?
Many of the more affordable international options teach the Australian Curriculum alongside internationally recognised pathways such as the International Baccalaureate; some schools also offer Cambridge-style assessments at secondary level. Public/state schools in Queensland can also run approved international programmes, so you’ll find the same internationally recognised qualifications available across different fee levels.
How much should I budget for tuition at an affordable international-style school in Brisbane?
Tuition varies a lot: lower-cost private or state international programmes can be significantly cheaper than full-fee overseas-student places, while many independent and full-fee IB providers commonly charge in the mid-teens to tens of thousands of Australian dollars per year depending on year level and whether boarding or extras are included. Look at individual school fee schedules and compare what is included (activities, camps, testing and health levies) to understand the real cost.
Can children attend a state (public) school on an international programme in Brisbane to reduce costs?
Yes - Queensland runs international student programs through Education Queensland International, and some state secondary colleges also offer the IB or other international pathways; eligibility and fee treatment depend on visa type and the specific program. In some cases school-age dependants of certain visa holders may be exempt from tuition fees, so check the Queensland fee-exemptions rules and the EQI application process early.
When should I apply if I’m relocating and want a term start at a Brisbane international school?
Most schools fill places around the start of the Queensland school year (late January) and at term beginnings, so plan applications well ahead of those dates; Education Queensland International publishes application cut-offs for state placements and many independent schools recommend applying several months before your intended start. If you are arriving on a student visa allow extra time for visa paperwork and for arranging Overseas Student Health Cover.
What languages of instruction and language programmes will my child find in Brisbane international schools?
Instruction is typically in English with language-learning offered as part of the core or elective programme; Mandarin, Japanese, French and Spanish are commonly taught across primary and secondary levels in Brisbane schools. Check each school’s language policy or subject matrix to confirm when language study starts and whether additional language support or immersion is available.
What practical items should relocating families check when assessing affordability?
Families should verify whether tuition quoted is for domestic or full-fee overseas students, whether OSHC or school-arranged health levies are required for visa holders, what extra charges (excursions, camps, assessment fees) are billed separately, and whether the school has entry quotas or waiting lists that affect timing and cost. Confirm visa-related fee exemptions, the school’s published fee schedule and what is included before accepting any place.