British International School of Boston vs International School of Boston

	B British International School of Boston Boston, United States	I International School of Boston Boston, United States
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year $25,468 - 51,291	Fees / year $29,500 - 51,260
Age range	Age range 1 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), British Curriculum, IPC (International Primary Curriculum), Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum, French Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 500	Pupils 575
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language French, English
Opened	Opened 2000	Opened 1962
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The BISB campus is in Boston's Jamaica Plain neighborhood, on the border with Brookline. The address is 416 Pond Street, Boston, MA 02130. The campus spans 40 acres of green woodland with a purpose-built school building and dedicated year-group floors.	Location ISB is located at 45 Matignon Road, Cambridge, MA 02140. The historic Cambridge campus sits at the Cambridge–Somerville–Arlington border, minutes from downtown Boston. MBTA bus stops are within walking distance and two nearby Red Line stations (Alewife and Davis Square) are accessible on foot. ISB provides two bus options: its Private Bus Service and Cambridge Public Schools bus service for Cambridge residents.
Stages	Stages Ages 18 months–18 years. Early Years: 18 months–4 years; Lower School: 5–10; Middle School: 11–13; High School: 14–18.	Stages Preschool through Grade 12
School type	School type The school is a private day school.	School type Independent, non-profit private day school
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix More than 80 nationalities represented. Approximately 75% of students are local to Boston; 25% are expatriates from England, Spain, Russia, the Netherlands, Brazil, and China. More than 20 languages spoken by families.	Pupil nationality mix Total nationalities represented: 32. Nationality breakdown: United States 68%, France 23%, other nationalities 9%.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support English-language support is available for students.	Additional learning support ISB provides Inclusive Learning and related student support services, including guidance, advisory programs, and access to health and wellness resources.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation France (French Baccalaureate program homologué by the French Ministry of Education; ISB is connected to AEFE and related French education networks)
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure The school day runs 8:20 am–3:30 pm. Early drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and after-school care runs from 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm.	School day structure Upper School schedules start at 8:00 AM and end between 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM, depending on course selection.
Bus service details	Bus service details Bus transportation is offered from multiple spots in greater Boston, including downtown Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chestnut Hill, Needham, Waltham, Dedham, and Wellesley.	Bus service details ISB offers two private bus routes via a transportation partner; Cambridge Public Schools bus service is available for Cambridge residents; campus is served by MBTA bus lines 87, 88, and 89 and is near Alewife and Davis Square stations.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Summary — 2026–2027 school fees (British International School of Boston) Annual tuition by year group (2026–2027) - Toddler (5 full days): USD 37,933. - Toddler (5 half days, 8:20–11:45 am): USD 25,468. - Nursery (5 full days): USD 38,833. - Nursery (5 half days, 8:20–11:45 am): USD 25,584. - Reception (Pre‑Kindergarten): USD 41,531. - Year 1 (Kindergarten) & Year 2 (1st grade): USD 46,040. - Year 3 & Year 4 (2nd & 3rd grade): USD 47,341. - Year 5 & Year 6 (4th & 5th grade): USD 48,228. - Year 7 to Year 9 (6th–8th grade): USD 49,650. - Year 10 & Year 11 (9th & 10th grade): USD 51,291. - Year 12 & Year 13 (11th & 12th grade): USD 51,291. Per‑term tuition (three terms: Fall, Winter, Spring) — amounts rounded to nearest USD - The school operates on a three‑term academic calendar (Fall, Winter, Spring); the per‑term figures below are the annual tuition divided by three and rounded to the nearest dollar. - Toddler (5 full days): USD 12,644 per term. - Toddler (5 half days): USD 8,489 per term. - Nursery (5 full days): USD 12,944 per term. - Nursery (5 half days): USD 8,528 per term. - Reception: USD 13,844 per term. - Year 1 & Year 2: USD 15,347 per term. - Year 3 & Year 4: USD 15,780 per term. - Year 5 & Year 6: USD 16,076 per term. - Year 7–9: USD 16,550 per term. - Year 10 & Year 11: USD 17,097 per term. - Year 12 & Year 13: USD 17,097 per term. Application and one‑time fees - Application fee: USD 100 (one‑time, non‑refundable). - Contract deposit: USD 2,000 (non‑refundable but applied directly to the year's first tuition payment). - New student fee (one‑time): USD 3,000 (non‑refundable). - Exam fees: USD 1,850 (charged for Year 11) and USD 1,850 (charged for Year 13). Sibling discounts - Second oldest enrolled child: 2.5% tuition discount. - Third oldest enrolled child: 5% tuition discount. - Fourth oldest (and subsequent) enrolled child: 10% tuition discount. Billing schedule and payment terms - Payment frequency choices: one payment (annual), two instalments, or monthly instalments. The first payment is due by June 1 (or upon enrollment if after June 1). For two instalments, the second instalment is due by November 1. For monthly instalments, payments are due on the first of each month beginning June 1 (or upon enrollment if after June 1) with final payments completed by March 1. - Contract deposit (USD 2,000) is applied to the year's first tuition payment and is non‑refundable. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods: credit card, check, or wire transfer. An online payment portal is available for credit card and ACH/eCheck payments; ACH/direct bank transfers and domestic/international wire transfer instructions are provided. Other costs that parents should expect - Early care: USD 10 per day (early care is available; charges applied via the school's payment system). Aftercare (3:30–6:00 pm) and many after‑school clubs and activities carry additional charges; parents are billed for actual sign‑ups and usage. School Buddy (the school's payment system) is used for sign‑ups and payments for lunch, clubs, early/after care, and trips. - School lunch: school lunch is available for purchase; families may alternatively provide packed lunches. Lunch is signed up and paid for through the school's payment portal. - Uniform: uniforms are mandatory for Toddlers through Year 11; Lands' End is the uniform provider for general uniform items and BSN Sports supplies PE kit. Families purchase uniforms directly from those suppliers. Costs for uniforms vary by item and are paid by families. - School bus / transportation: the school operates multiple bus routes; a separate bus fee applies when families use the school bus (specific route fees and registration details are administered through the school). - Field trips, certain extra‑curricular external providers, individual instrument tuition or optional external exam fees (beyond the stated exam charges) may incur additional charges; these are billed separately when applicable. Boarding - The British International School of Boston is a private day school; boarding is not offered. Refund information (items specifically stated as non‑refundable) - Application fee: non‑refundable. Contract deposit: non‑refundable (but credited toward the first tuition payment). New student fee: non‑refundable. These non‑refundable items are applied as described above at enrollment. Notes on billing mechanics and chargeable items - Many optional services (early care, aftercare, clubs, lunch, trips) are charged through the school's payment system on an as‑used or sign‑up basis. Parents receive invoices and statements from the school's billing office; payment routing and wire/ACH instructions are supplied by the school's business office. (End of fee overview.)	Fee details Annual tuition by grade (2026–2027 academic year) - Half-Day Preschool (Toute Petite Section and Pre-K only, mornings only): USD 29,500. - Preschool (TPS, Pre-K, Mid-K) and Kindergarten: USD 36,880. - Lower School (Grades 1–5): USD 40,770. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): USD 43,000. - Upper School (Grades 9–12): USD 51,260. Application / admission charges - Matriculation fee (one-time, non-refundable, not applied toward tuition): USD 2,000 for the first new student; USD 1,500 for the second child; USD 1,000 for any additional children. - Annual re-enrollment deposit (non-refundable, applied toward tuition): USD 2,000 per student. Tuition payment schedule and payment terms (dates shown are the stated due dates for the 2026–2027 cycle) - Option 1: Payment of tuition in full by June 5, 2026. - Option 2: Two installments — 60% of the annual tuition due by June 5, 2026, and the remaining 40% due by November 5, 2026. Example amounts by grade under Option 2: - Half-Day Preschool: 60% = USD 17,700; 40% = USD 11,800. - Preschool & K: 60% = USD 22,128; 40% = USD 14,752. - Lower School: 60% = USD 24,462; 40% = USD 16,308. - Middle School: 60% = USD 25,800; 40% = USD 17,200. - Upper School: 60% = USD 30,756; 40% = USD 20,504. - Option 3: Ten monthly installments (June 2026 through March 2027). Monthly payment examples (annual tuition divided by 10) plus a yearly flat administrative fee of USD 40 billed by Veracross: - Half-Day Preschool: USD 2,950 per month (plus USD 40 annual Veracross fee). - Preschool & K: USD 3,688 per month (plus USD 40 annual Veracross fee). - Lower School: USD 4,077 per month (plus USD 40 annual Veracross fee). - Middle School: USD 4,300 per month (plus USD 40 annual Veracross fee). - Upper School: USD 5,126 per month (plus USD 40 annual Veracross fee). - All matriculation fees, re-enrollment deposits, and tuition payments are completed through the school's Veracross billing system. Methods of payment accepted include checking/savings accounts drawn on a U.S. bank, wire transfer, and credit cards. Additional and recurring charges (typical items billed separately or based on participation) - Textbooks / media (Grades 6–12) and examination fees (Grades 11–12) are billed separately. Typical estimates: Grades 6–10 average ~USD 350 per year; Grades 11–12 (French Baccalaureate) ~USD 500 per year; International Baccalaureate fees up to ~USD 1,000 covering two years. - Examination fee estimates: Grade 11 (French program) registration ~USD 280; Grade 12 (French program) registration ~USD 340 plus ~USD 270 for the Baccalauréat Français International (BFI); Grade 12 (IB DP) ~USD 750 total. - Global Learning Program (overnight and curriculum trips) anticipated fees (cover transportation and accommodations when applicable): Grades 1–2: USD 300; Grades 3–4: USD 500; Grade 5: USD 1,200; Grades 6–8: USD 1,000. Grade 9 and Grade 12 GLP costs are covered by the school; Grades 10–11 GLP fee: USD 400. - Extended day / after-school: Garderie (TPS through Grade 5) USD 14.00 per hour; Middle School study hall USD 15.00 per hour or an annual flat fee of USD 900. - Extracurricular activities and overnight trips are billed based on participation; Upper School varsity teams carry no participation cost. - Private ISB bus service and the hot lunch program are optional and billed upon participation. The hot lunch program is provided by an external catering company and is billed separately. Boarding / homestay (where offered by the school) - ISB Housing Program (host-family room and board, supervised by ISB) for Upper School international and domestic students: USD 25,000 for room and board from August 25, 2026 to June 30, 2027. This fee includes day field trips, the ISB lunch program, a monthly public transportation pass, the yearbook, and, if applicable, the new student orientation program in August. Uniforms and other school supplies - Preschool (Pre-K, Mid-K) and Kindergarten: supplies included in the listed tuition. - Lower School: all supplies included in the listed tuition. - Textbooks and media for Grades 6–12 are billed separately (see textbook estimates above). Uniform costs (where applicable) and personal supplies vary and are generally family-paid; extracurricular equipment, travel clothing, and optional program materials are billed separately when required. Refunds and non-refundable items - The matriculation fee is one-time and non-refundable. - The annual re-enrollment deposit is non-refundable but is applied toward tuition. - Other refund specifics for tuition installments or program fees are not listed in the school's tuition summary document; the only explicitly stated non-refundable items are the matriculation fee and the re-enrollment deposit. Fee payment channels and administrative notes - All matriculation fees, re-enrollment deposits, and tuition payments are processed through Veracross. - Accepted payment methods: checking/savings account drawn on a U.S. bank, wire transfer, or credit card. - The ten-month payment plan carries a yearly flat administrative fee of USD 40 billed via Veracross.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Homestay Program for international students in Grades 9 through 12; students stay with local families for the duration of their enrollment; fee-for-service arrangement.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are mandatory for Toddlers through Year 11 (Grade 10). Lands' End is the exclusive uniform provider for Toddlers through Year 11 (Grade 10), excluding PE. Years 12 and 13 (Grades 11 and 12) wear professional business attire instead of BISB uniform; the PE uniform is supplied by BSN Sports.	Uniform requirement Students do not have to wear uniforms, but each division has its own dress code.
Food options	Food options Lunch is provided by Lunchbox for Toddlers through Year 2 and by Sodexo for Year 3 through Year 13. Parents sign up via School Buddy; monthly menus are issued. All BISB students eat lunch in the SHOWA Cafeteria between 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm. BISB is nut-free; no food deliveries are permitted; students may bring their own lunch or purchase on campus.	Food options Lunch is provided by an outside food vendor; all students have a full hour for lunch and recess every day; students may bring their own lunch; families are responsible for providing snacks.
House system	House system Students are divided into four houses—Perlman, Hokusai, Johnson, Hawking—about 60 students per house. Each house has a color: Yellow, Blue, Green, Red. House meetings/assemblies occur regularly.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The British International School of Boston is part of Nord Anglia Education.	Governance and ownership Governance is by a Board of Trustees.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Preschool follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) of the English National Curriculum and is aligned with the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC). Learning is play-based and includes Forest School experiences; specialist French and music are delivered within the program. Lower School (ages 5–10) teaches a combination of the National Curriculum of England and the International Primary Curriculum, with a cross-curricular, thematic approach and specialist language lessons (French or Spanish). Middle School (ages 11–13) follows the National Curriculum of England, offering a broad range of subjects and an enrichment program that links to international experiences; it prepares students for IGCSEs and the IB Diploma Programme in High School. High School (ages 14–18) offers IGCSEs in Years 10–11 and the IB Diploma Programme in Years 12–13; the IGCSE is a two-year, ten-subject program, and the IB Diploma core includes service, an extended essay, and critical thinking. BISB integrates global opportunities through Nord Anglia Education, with collaborations via Global Campus and partners such as MIT and Juilliard.	Curriculum details ISB is a bilingual French-English school. From Maternelle through Upper School, the curriculum offers two internationally recognized diplomas: the French Baccalaureate or the International Baccalaureate (IB) taught in English. The Elementary/Maternelle program teaches in French and English; in Maternelle the French Ministry of Education curriculum is combined with Massachusetts Common Core Preschool and Kindergarten standards; Lower School has accreditation from the French Ministry of Education. In Middle School, classes are taught in French and English, with options to emphasize either language and to pursue IB or French Baccalaureate tracks. In Upper School, students choose between the French Baccalaureate or IB, with additional language options including Spanish, German, and Mandarin.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio 1:5	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results IB Diploma results for Class of 2025: 96% pass rate; average 34.4 points; 16% of students achieved 40+ points. These results significantly exceed global averages.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates go on to attend leading universities around the world, including Harvard University, the University of Oxford, McGill University, and University College London, among others.	Higher education progression ISB's College Counseling Office supports students with higher education planning across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and parts of the Middle East and Asia. ISB students matriculate to many of the nation's and the world's top colleges and universities, with geographically diverse matriculation the most in New England.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Mentor groups are small (max 15 students). Mentors support academic progress and daily wellbeing. The programme develops social and emotional skills and empathy. PSHE supports safe, healthy choices and positive self-image. PSHE is delivered via assemblies, the mentor programme, and the IB activities programme.	Social & emotional learning Learning is a dynamic and holistic process that develops social-emotional skills, study skills, and learning habits.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support and Counseling available for diverse needs. Whole-school, 'high quality teaching first' approach. EAL support included in Learning Support. Services reevaluated annually with student/parent input. Contact Director of Learning Support or EAL Teacher for more information.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language EAL support is part of Learning Support. EAL is led by an EAL Teacher. EAL contact is Elizabeth Sockwell. EAL provision is included in the Learning Support policy. Parents and students can contact the EAL Teacher or Director of Learning Support for information.	English as an additional language The school teaches bilingual instruction in English and French; Preschool through Kindergarten explore both languages, and Middle School courses are offered in French or English with schedules that emphasize one language to support bilingual proficiency.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing School Counseling and mental health services are accessible for students in need of support. Staff training includes safeguarding and suicide prevention. The Mentor Programme strengthens social-emotional skills such as resilience and empathy. Student Wellbeing Survey is conducted each term in Middle and High School. Mental health issues can indicate risks and require appropriate referrals.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is embedded in the school's mission and culture, with emphasis on empathy, respect, open-mindedness, and resilience; inclusive community and service activities further support student wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding BISB has a safeguarding policy to provide a safe environment. DSLs and Deputy DSLs are identified and staff receive safeguarding training. Induction and ongoing safeguarding training are required for staff and contractors. Safeguarding records are maintained in approved software (ISAMs CPOMs or MyConcern). The policy aligns with Keeping Children Safe in Education and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.	Safeguarding —
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The British International School of Boston sits on a large, vibrantly green campus in Jamaica Plain, designed to balance New England's natural surroundings with Boston's culture and creativity. The purpose-built school building includes a dedicated home base floor for every year group, promoting a sense of belonging and easy collaboration. A specialist STEAM Center and multiple creative spaces, such as black box theatres and dance and music studios, support cross-disciplinary projects. Four age-appropriate playgrounds and both outdoor and indoor athletics facilities provide spaces for physical activity and exploration. The overall environment is structured to foster connection, collaboration, and a lifelong love of learning.	Facilities overview An historic Cambridge campus anchors the International School of Boston's facilities. The campus features dedicated Libraries for each division, a large gymnasium and a Media Center, two playgrounds, shared outdoor athletic fields, and dedicated spaces for the visual and performing arts. The Media Center for Middle & Upper Schools is on the 4th floor of Building 3, the Lower School Library is on the 1st floor of Building 3, and the Maternelle Library is in Building 4. Middle School science labs support hands‑on learning as part of a bilingual program. The campus is accessible by foot or bike, with MBTA stops and school transportation options nearby.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Outdoor and indoor athletics facilities exist on the BISB campus, equipped for a variety of physical activities. The campus includes four age-appropriate playgrounds.	Sports facilities ISB has a large gymnasium on campus used by students across divisions. There are shared outdoor athletic fields available for team practices and games. ISB offers interscholastic teams in soccer and volleyball in the fall, fencing and basketball in the winter, and volleyball and ultimate frisbee in the spring, for both Middle and Upper School students. Club sports provide exposure to additional activities including archery, badminton, fencing, flag football, indoor soccer, running, table tennis, and more. Through a partnership with AEFE, students compete in AEFE‑sponsored tournaments in volleyball, basketball, and soccer.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school houses a specialist STEAM Center and several creative spaces, including black box theatres and dance and music studios. The building is purpose-built with dedicated home base floors for every year group, promoting belonging and easy collaboration. There are flexible spaces that allow students across years to interact and learn from each other. Spaces balance academic learning with opportunities for hands-on projects and cross-disciplinary work.	Academic facilities ISB provides three on‑campus libraries to support academic work: the Media Center for Middle & Upper School on Building 3's 4th floor, the Lower School Library on Building 3's 1st floor, and the Maternelle Library in Building 4. Middle School science classes include regular time in the school's science labs for hands‑on activities. Middle School language of instruction is bilingual, with classes taught in French or English. The libraries offer Follett Destiny catalog, ebooks through Sora, and Gale databases including The Boston Globe and The New York Times. There are dedicated spaces for the visual and performing arts to support academic and creative work.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Our students participate in hands-on STEAM activities and enrichment offerings, along with numerous clubs and activities across a wide range of interests. Service and social impact initiatives are embedded in student life, including Allies for Action, a Middle and High School initiative focused on equity, diversity, and inclusion. IB Diploma Programme students initiate, lead, or participate in Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) projects. Global Campus connects BISB students with Nord Anglia peers worldwide, offering opportunities in art, music, and creative writing competitions. Trips and excursions—local and international—broaden experiences beyond the classroom.	Extra curricular facilities Preschool through Grade 5 participate in seasonal arts clubs such as Charcoal Drawing, Dance, Digital Arts, Discovery of Music, and Violin/Viola Ensemble, with Open Chorus and private music lessons available. Middle School offers Drama Club and Rock Band, plus seasonal clubs in Photography, Digital Art, Makerspace/Crochet, and Guitar. Upper School provides opportunities in Rock Band, Theater, and Studio Art, with continued access to private lessons. ISB Radio, a web‑based program launched in 2021, gives students a platform to produce content, practice language skills, and share projects. Arts events and traditions include Arts & Design Night and the MaMA (Maternelle Museum of Art).
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History British International School of Boston opened its doors in 2000 in Dedham, Massachusetts with a handful of founding families and a half-dozen teachers. The school moved to a purpose-built building on the Showa campus in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. In 2013 BISB joined the Nord Anglia Education family of international schools. Nord Anglia has enhanced BISB's curricula and offerings with Global Campus and collaborations with MIT, The Juilliard School, and UNICEF. BISB's growth and academic successes have continued; today BISB serves over 520 students from ages 18 months to 18 years.	History ISB began in 1962 as a French bilingual kindergarten in a house basement and quickly expanded into a bilingual elementary school. In 1983, the school moved to the Parmenter School building in Arlington. A Middle School opened in 1997 in the Almshouse in Cambridge through a partnership with the Archdiocese of Boston, and the Upper School began in 1999, with the first graduating class earning the French Baccalaureate in 2001. ISB purchased the Almshouse in 2005, and in 2019 expanded Cambridge's campus footprint to include Maternelle, previously located in Arlington, through a long-term lease with the Archdiocese of Boston. Since 2005 the historic building at 45 Matignon Road in Cambridge has been ISB's campus home.
Community	Community The BISB campus in Jamaica Plain spans 40 acres of green woodland, and the school hosts students from 80+ nationalities. The school serves students aged 18 months to 18 years and teaches French and Spanish. The English National Curricula and the International Baccalaureate Diploma are part of BISB's offerings. As part of Nord Anglia, BISB participates in Beyond The Classroom programs including Model United Nations, the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, and the Tanzania Service Learning Trip.	Community ISB serves nearly 600 students from more than 425 families, reflecting a diverse, global community. Community is central to ISB's identity, with families connected through bilingual, international education, traditions, and relationships that make ISB a sense of home. The school's community highlights include the OneISB Parent Network, school-wide Events & Traditions, and connections to Boston's French cultural networks, enriching the bilingual environment for families. ISB's community fosters engagement across divisions and backgrounds through parent involvement and partnerships within Boston's Francophone landscape.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association OneISB Parent Network, ISB's parent association, aims to build a sense of community among ISB's nearly 800 parents. The network operates on three pillars—Community Events, Parent Connect, and Volunteer Opportunities—to keep families connected, informed, and involved throughout the year. Volunteer opportunities span weekly Bread Sales (a school tradition supporting OneISB events), the Gala Planning Committee (a major fundraiser for the Annual Fund), and the Spring International Picnic Planning Committee, among others. Additional roles include handling the Best of Boston Guide for relocating families, Admissions Ambassador activities, and room parent support across divisions. ISB provides contact channels and details for involvement through the network's dedicated pages and staff contacts.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Every term features extracurricular activities that enhance academic interests beyond class time. Students explore STEAM, participate in History Bowl or Math Competitions, and practice languages such as Mandarin, Spanish, or French. Participation stimulates growth beyond the classroom.	Academic & intellectual Career exploration is available through the Grade 10 Work Observation Program, and an Upper School Career Fair connects students with parents and alumni to explore paths after high school. The Global Learning Program provides travel opportunities via Academic Exchange Programs and Culture & Curriculum Trips. Student-led clubs span many subjects, including Ambassadors, Advanced German, Astronomy, BioBuilder, Chess, Creative Writing, Film, Finance, Model UN, and more. Weekly Assembly and the Student Council support leadership development and community engagement beyond the classroom.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The arts program provides a broad spectrum of activities, including visual arts and photography, as well as performing arts such as drama, dance, and music; other creative pursuits support future designers, architects, and engineers. The Juilliard School collaboration enriches students' performing arts experiences.	Arts & creative Art is introduced across all grades through age-appropriate visual and performing arts courses, with seasonal or year-long clubs and private lessons in Visual and Performing Arts. Middle School offers Drama Club, Rock Band, French Theater Company, and Studio Art. Performance & Club opportunities for Preschool–Grade 5 include Seasonal Clubs and Open Chorus, with private music lessons available. Arts events include Arts & Design Night, MaMA (Musée d'Art de la Maternelle), and the Grade 12 Art Exhibition as part of IB Visual Arts.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language A range of language-related clubs and activities are offered, with opportunities to study and practice languages such as Mandarin, Spanish, and French.	Cultural & language The Global Learning Program is the cornerstone of student life, combining local, national, and international experiences and strengthening language skills. Travel opportunities fall into Curriculum & Culture trips, Academic Exchanges, and AEFE Partnerships. AEFE Partnerships enable participation in AEFE-sponsored tournaments and events, and ISB hosts AEFE events. Middle School SEP topics include Japanese Culture, and language-focused clubs such as Advanced German are offered.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Students participate in Model United Nations and Model G20 clubs to develop public speaking and research skills. A wide array of clubs includes Lego, chess, board games, computer science, financial investing, community service, environmental activities, Yearbook, and Newspaper Club.	Social & hobbies ISB Middle School offers after-school clubs and athletics, expanding opportunities for social and intellectual engagement. Clubs include Archery, Art, Chess, Chorus and Select Singers, Jazz/Rock Band, Model United Nations, Movie Making, Private Music Lessons, Sailing, Soccer, Tennis, Ultimate Frisbee, Yearbook, and more. Clubs run after school Monday through Friday, with some Saturday options, and are supervised by ISB faculty or approved partners. Interscholastic and club sports are offered across fall, winter, and spring.
Community & service	Community & service UNICEF SDG resources are embedded in teaching and learning to empower global citizenship. Students engage in service-learning and volunteering locally and globally; BISB runs trips such as the Tanzania Service Learning Trip.	Community & service Upper School has an active Community Service Club that engages with the local community through service projects and fundraising. IB students participate in service-learning and partner with organizations such as Groundwork Somerville, Alewife Biodiversity and Pollinator Garden, Mystic River Watershed Association, Food for Free, Food Link, and Cradles to Crayons. Middle School's Community Service Day involves students and faculty delivering services to the community, with projects and presentations about partner organizations.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional High School students can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Program, focused on leadership development across physical challenges, volunteering, and camping; completing the highest level may be recognized by the Royal Family.	Leadership & professional Upper School features a Student Council with student-elected officers. Grade 10 offers a Work Observation Program and an Upper School Career Fair to help students explore futures. ISB encourages student leadership through a wide range of student-led clubs, created by students and supported by faculty. Clubs include Ambassadors, Advanced German, Model UN, and other leadership-focused activities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing A sports and athletics program offers soccer, track and cross-country, basketball, curling, with rotations that may include yoga, mindfulness, or martial arts. Forest School adventures for younger students promote outdoor activity, confidence, creativity, and communication.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The athletics program promotes sportsmanship, competition, physical fitness, and lifelong wellness. Upper and Middle School students participate in interscholastic teams and club sports across fall, winter, and spring, including soccer, basketball, fencing, volleyball, and more. Club sports provide exposure to new activities in a non-competitive environment. Traditions such as the Cambridge Cup and International Cup highlight ISB's athletic culture.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision —	Language provision ISB teaches French and English as core languages across all grades; Spanish, German, and Mandarin are available as electives. In Maternelle, about 75% of the day is in French, with English interwoven. Lower School is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. In Middle School, classes are taught in French and English, with options to emphasize one language and to add Spanish, German, or Mandarin; Upper School offers the French Baccalaureate or the IB Diploma, with continued access to Spanish, German, or Mandarin alongside French.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching ISB provides bilingual instruction in French and English across all grade levels. Maternelle and Lower School teach in both languages, with Lower School holding accreditation from the French Ministry of Education. In Middle School, classes are taught in French and English, with students able to emphasize one language and to add Spanish, German, or Mandarin. In Upper School, students may pursue the French Baccalaureate or the International Baccalaureate (IB), with additional language study in Spanish, German, or Mandarin alongside French.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs ISB uses a bilingual immersion model from Maternelle through Upper School. Maternelle has about 75% of the day taught in French. Lower School maintains bilingual instruction in French and English and is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. Middle School and Upper School continue bilingual delivery, with options to add Spanish, German, or Mandarin.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations CIS; NAIS; NEASC; IB; AISNE; AFSA; HDMFS; MLF; AEFE
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Contact BISB. Submit the inquiry form online, email the Admissions team, or call the Admissions office to begin the process. The Admissions team is available to answer questions and guide families through BISB's admissions process. They will help you understand the documents required and what happens next. 2. Discover our school. Visit BISB in person or join a Virtual Discovery Meeting with the Director of Admissions, who will share BISB's personalized approach to learning and answer your questions. You'll tell BISB more about your child, your family, and what you're looking for. The Director will provide details about BISB's programs and admissions steps. 3. Apply for a place. Submit the online application form and the required supporting documents for your child. These documents include your child's report cards and evaluations, and, for Middle and High Schoolers, standardized test results. There are key admissions dates for 2026-27: Application Deadline January 15, 2026; Admissions Decisions Released March 10, 2026; Enrollment Deadline April 10, 2026. We also continue accepting applications throughout the school year to fill spaces that remain open.	Admissions ISB has four steps in its admissions process: Inquire, Visit, Apply, Enroll. Step 1 Inquire: complete a brief inquiry form to join the mailing list and hear about upcoming ISB events. Step 2 Visit: ISB offers campus tours, on-campus and virtual Open House events, Secondary School Shadow Days, and virtual campus visits; local families are encouraged to participate in on-campus programming. Step 3 Apply: applications are submitted online through Ravenna with no application fee; priority review is given to applications received by January 15; siblings of current students receive priority if their application is submitted by December 15; January 15 is the application deadline for priority review and the financial aid deadline. Step 4 Enroll: decisions are released by March 10; enrollment confirmations are due by April 10; ISB accepts applications year-round depending on space and student qualifications; applicants admitted after April 10 will have one week to respond to an offer of admission. Application materials vary by grade (Preschool & Kindergarten, Lower School, Middle School, Upper School) with language considerations and testing requirements as described.
Scholarships	Scholarships BISB's 2025 graduating class received offers from more than 100 top universities and was awarded $2.53 million in scholarships.	Scholarships ISB offers financial aid based on demonstrated need. The financial aid application is separate from the admission application and uses Clarity; deadlines are returning families December 15, 2025 and new families January 15, 2026. Awards are grants (not loans) and are based on demonstrated need and available funding; awards may cover tuition and other costs such as books, transportation, clubs, and exam fees. Returning families' aid is typically released with reenrollment in February 2026; new families' aid is released with the admissions decision and enrollment contract on March 10, 2026. Financial aid awards are renewable with annual reapplication. Financial aid is not available for students requiring an I-20 or who participate in ISB's homestay program. ISB may offer French government scholarships (Bourses Scolaires Françaises) for eligible French citizens, and the ISB Financial Aid Program may supplement government funding. The school also offers a ten-month payment plan for families in the financial aid program.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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