International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm vs International School Laren

	I International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm Amsterdam, Netherlands	I International School Laren Amsterdam, Netherlands
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €1,866 - 8,164	Fees / year €5,355 - 7,020
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 11 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Dutch Curriculum	Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 125
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English, Dutch	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1982	Opened 2018
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Emmastraat 56, 1213 AL Hilversum, Netherlands. The campus is located on a single site and is conveniently situated between Amsterdam and Utrecht; it is easy to access by train.	Location Langsakker 4a, 1251 GB Laren, Netherlands. The school is on the grounds of Laar & Berg in the Het Gooi region, near Hilversum, about 30 minutes southeast of Amsterdam and Schiphol airport.
Stages	Stages Primary Years Programme; Middle Years Programme; Diploma Programmes; Bilingual VWO stream; for ages 4 to 19.	Stages Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP).
School type	School type IB World School offering PYP, MYP, DP and bilingual VWO; day school; coeducational.	School type IB World School
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Over 45 nationalities represented; a diverse student body.	Pupil nationality mix More than 30 nationalities represented.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school operates in the Netherlands.	Country affiliation Netherlands
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Primary day: starts 8:30; doors open 8:20; finishes 14:45 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; finishes 12:30 on Wednesday. Secondary timetable runs 08:30–17:15 with a lunch break 12:35–13:15.	School day structure The school day starts at 8:30am and ends no later than 3:30pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details A bus stop is located outside the school.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm — School Fees (current academic year 2025–2026) Application / Registration fees - Initial administration / registration fee (one-off, non‑refundable): EUR 150.00. Deposit - Deposit charged to confirm place on acceptance: EUR 500.00 (one‑off). This deposit is invoiced at acceptance. Tuition and related charges — International Stream (Grades 6–12) — academic year 2025–2026 - Grade 6 - School Fee (annual): EUR 4,930.00. - Examination & moderation costs (where applicable): EUR 613.00 (applies for certain exam-related charges in lower secondary where listed). - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 4,930.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment (School Fee + Registration Fee + Deposit): EUR 5,580.00. - Grade 7 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Examination & moderation costs: EUR 613.00 (where applicable). - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 5,557.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,207.00. - Grade 8 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 5,557.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,207.00. - Grade 9 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 5,557.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,207.00. - Grade 10 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 6,170.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,820.00. - Grade 11 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,745.00. - Examination & moderation costs (IB/DP): EUR 850.00 (where applicable for exam cohorts). - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 6,170.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,820.00. - Grade 12 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,745.00. - Examination & moderation costs (IB/DP): EUR 850.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 7,020.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 7,670.00. Tuition and related charges — Primary (KG1 / Grades 1–5) — academic year 2025–2026 - KG1 through Grade 5 (Primary) - School Fee (annual): EUR 4,030.00. - Registration fee (one‑off): EUR 150.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 4,180.00. Internationaal Tweetalig VWO (Bilingual VWO) — selective VWO streams (2025–2026) - IT Grades 7–10 (typical VWO 1–4 years): components shown include a lower annual School Fee plus additional charges for laptop contribution and excursions; example totals published for IT7–IT10 range from approx. EUR 1,866.00 to EUR 2,479.00 (depending on year and items such as excursions/exam charges). - IT Grades 11–12 (VWO years 5–6): school fee levels for these years are shown with laptop contributions and examination/moderation charges; example totals published: IT11 total approx. EUR 2,790.00 and IT12 total approx. EUR 3,640.00 for the year depending on included exam charges. Other specified recurring or one‑off costs - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00 per student where listed (applies across primary/secondary streams where specified). - Examination and moderation costs: published per year and higher for DP/upper‑secondary exam cohorts (examples: EUR 613.00 or EUR 850.00 depending on year). - Excursions (where applicable to a programme): example figure shown for certain VWO years (IT7–IT10) at EUR 442.00 (2025–2026 data) as part of programme costs. - Uniform: no fixed uniform fee or mandatory uniform price schedule is published together with the school's annual fee tables; uniform purchase/prices are not listed among the published fee items. Billing schedule and payment terms - An invoice for tuition is issued after acceptance; the acceptance process includes payment of the registration fee (EUR 150) and an enrolment deposit (EUR 500) to secure the place. - Proration for students who start or leave mid‑year is applied according to the month of starting/leaving. The proration percentages published for the academic year are as follows (percentage of the annual School Fee to be paid): - Start in August or September: 100%. - Start in October: 90%. - Start in November: 80%. - Start in December: 70%. - Start in January: 60%. - Start in February: 50%. - Start in March: 40%. - Start in April: 30%. - Start in May: 20%. - Start in June or July: 10%. - Leaving in August or September: 50%. - Leaving in October–December: 50% (October–December shown as 50% for leaving months in the published schedule). - Leaving in January: 60%. - Leaving in February: 70%. - Leaving in March: 80%. - Leaving in April: 90%. - Leaving in May, June or July: 100% (full year charged if leaving in May onward). Refund policy and special refund rules - For students leaving during the academic year, 50% of the total School Fee is non‑refundable (the school's published rule). - The initial registration fee (EUR 150) is non‑refundable. - Refund of examination costs after 15 December is not permitted for exam charges that have already been invoiced. Exam registration errors and November re‑takes incur additional surcharges where applicable. Boarding fees - No boarding programme or boarding fees are published for the International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm; the school's published materials and admissions documentation do not list boarding provision or boarding charges. Other costs and optional charges - Optional programme costs such as excursions, specific trip contributions, and examination/moderation charges appear as additional line items in the published fee schedules for particular streams and grades (amounts are shown above where published). Laptop contributions are listed as a separate charge (EUR 425). No single, school‑wide uniform price list or fixed uniform charge is published alongside the annual fee tables. Fee payment options - An invoice is issued after acceptance that sets out the amount due and the payment instructions. The school's published parent and PTA materials demonstrate use of bank transfer (SEPA / IBAN) for school‑related payments; payment details for tuition and the precise accepted payment methods are provided on the invoice / enrolment documentation. Example bank accounts used for PTA payments are shown in school PTA communications (Rabobank IBANs used for PTA contributions), indicating bank transfer is a standard payment channel for school‑related charges. Summary points for parents (concise) - Annual tuition varies by grade and stream; primary fees start at EUR 4,030 (PYP KG1–Grade 5) and international secondary totals vary by year, with published totals for 2025–2026 shown above per grade. Registration fee EUR 150 and deposit EUR 500 are invoiced on acceptance. Laptop, exam and excursion charges are additional line items where applicable. Proration is applied by month for mid‑year starters/leavers according to the published schedule. Fifty percent of the total school fee is non‑refundable for students leaving during the academic year; registration fees are non‑refundable and exam fees are non‑refundable after 15 December. An invoice is issued after acceptance and payment instructions (including bank details) are provided on that invoice.	Fee details Application / Registration fees and deposit - Registration fee: €150 per applicant (one-off, non-refundable). - Deposit: €500 per student (one-off, refundable). Tuition and related annual charges by year group (2025/2026 academic year) - Grade 6: - School Fee: €4,930 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,355. - Total Invoice on enrolment (School Fee + MacBook + registration + deposit): €6,005. - Grade 7: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,557. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,207. - Grade 8: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,557. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,207. - Grade 9: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,557. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,207. - Grade 10: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - MYP/DP costs where applicable: (MYP/DP costs apply for upper-year programmes as shown below). - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €6,170. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,820. - Diploma Programme (DP1 / Grade 11): - School Fee: €5,745 per year. - DP/MYP programme costs (DP specific charge): €613 (MYP/DP cost shown for applicable years) and for later DP year shown as €850 where applicable. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €6,170. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,820. - Diploma Programme (DP2 / Grade 12): - School Fee: €5,745 per year. - MYP/DP programme costs: €850 where applicable. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €7,020. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €7,670. MacBook and technology costs - Annual MacBook contribution shown: €425 per student per year (applies to Grades 6–12). The published new MacBook purchase price is €1,275; a 3‑year payment plan is offered for the MacBook. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are presented as an annual Total Invoice on enrolment (the published amounts above list the Total Invoice including registration fee and deposit). - Proration when starting or leaving during the school year is applied according to month. The published schedule sets the percentage of the Total School Fee payable depending on the month of starting and the month of leaving (e.g., starting in August = 100% payable; starting in November = 80% payable; leaving in August = 50% of the year charged; leaving in February = 70% charged; leaving in May–July = 100% charged). - Refunds and non‑refundability: - A refundable deposit of €500 is charged on enrolment; the registration fee of €150 is non‑refundable. - For students leaving during the academic year, 50% of the total School Fee is non‑refundable. - Refund of examination costs after 15 December is not possible. A surcharge may be imposed on exam students if an error in registration is discovered after signing the registration form; exams re‑taken in November incur an additional standard fee. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as a provision for International School Laren; no boarding fees are published. The school's published admissions and school information present it as a day school offering the IB MYP and DP programmes without boarding options. Other costs and compulsory items - PE/Sports kit: The PE/Sports kit is compulsory for all students in Grades 6–11. New students receive their first kit order (blue t‑shirt & shorts only) free of charge using a promo code provided during admissions; additional sports kit items (hoodies, leggings, pants, etc.) are at parental cost and are ordered through a third‑party webshop. Contact details for the kit supplier are published. - Examination surcharges: Additional fees are charged for exam registration errors and for resit exams (including November re‑sit fees). Refund of exam costs is not possible after 15 December. Refunds and cancellations (summary) - Registration fee: non‑refundable. - Deposit: refundable, subject to the school's refund handling. - If a student leaves during the academic year, 50% of the total School Fee is non‑refundable; the published month‑by‑month proration schedule determines the payable portion when starting or leaving part‑way through the year. - Exam fee refunds are not available after 15 December. Fee payment options - The publicly published fee pages and admissions information list the fee amounts, registration and deposit requirements, proration and refund rules, and provide school contact details for queries, but they do not specify the accepted payment methods (for example, whether payment by bank transfer, SEPA, credit card, or direct debit are accepted). For payment method details, contact the school using the published admissions contact (email: islaren@atscholen.nl; phone: +31 35 206 2202). Notes about price adjustments - The published prices are subject to indexation. (Brief note on any publicly unavailable fee details) - The published admissions and fees material provides detailed annual charges, registration and deposit amounts, MacBook costs, exam refund rules and a month‑by‑month proration schedule. The published material does not specify invoicing frequency beyond the annual Total Invoice presented on enrolment nor the specific accepted payment methods; those details are handled through the school's admissions/finance contact.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school has no boarding facilities; it is a day school.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The school canteen has been awarded the Gold plaque by Voedingscentrum (the Dutch Nutrition Centre). 80% of products are healthy choices; vending machines contain healthy snacks with little or no sugar; fruit and vegetables are offered; drinking water is encouraged.	Food options There is a canteen on site. The canteen is shared with the Laar & Berg campus.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is government subsidised and part of Alberdingk Thijm Scholen; The board is responsible for the running of all the schools within Alberdingk Thijm Scholen.	Governance and ownership The ISL is part of Alberdingk Thijm Scholen (Verenigde Scholen J.A. Alberdingk Thijm), a Dutch foundation that operates seven independently run secondary schools.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school offers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and a bilingual Internationaal Tweetalig VWO stream. It is an International Baccalaureate World School and the language of instruction is English.	Curriculum details ISL delivers the International Baccalaureate curriculum, offering the Middle Years Programme (IBMYP) and the Diploma Programme (IBDP). In the IBMYP, eight subject groups are taught: Language and Literature (English and Dutch); Language Acquisition (Spanish and Dutch); Individuals and Societies (Humanities); Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics); Mathematics (including Extended Mathematics from Grade 9); Arts (Theatre and Music); Physical and Health Education; and Design, with the Personal Project completing the year. In the Diploma Programme, six subjects across Language and Literature, Language Acquisition (Dutch B), Individuals and Societies (Business Management, Economics, Global Politics), Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Sport, Exercise and Health Science), Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretations), and Arts (Film) are offered, with a DP core of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS). A bilingual Diploma may be awarded. The Diploma Programme is designed for students aged 16–19 and enables entry to universities worldwide, including Dutch universities and top North American universities such as Harvard and Yale. ISL emphasises small classes and has highly qualified staff.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Small class sizes and highly qualified staff.
Exam results	Exam results May 2025: 130 candidates registered; 124 passed the Diploma; average points 33; highest diploma points 43; average grade 5.33; pass rate 98%. Candidates who do not obtain the diploma can retake certain examinations in November or the following May.	Exam results The Diploma Programme requires six subjects plus the core components—TOK, EE and CAS—across the six groups. A minimum of 24 points must be earned to be awarded the IB Diploma, with a maximum of 45 points. TOK and the Extended Essay are graded A–E and contribute to the diploma score. A bilingual diploma is possible if criteria are met; results are issued by the IB and official certificates are sent to the school in September.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates pursue higher education at universities and international master's programs. Sean Hofland, class of 2011, earned a PhD at the University of Zurich and works in Switzerland. Lena Grobusch, class of 2016, is pursuing an Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management with study in Vienna and Lund.	Higher education progression The Diploma Programme enables entry to universities worldwide, including Dutch universities and top North American universities such as Harvard and Yale. A Career Counselor guides university admissions.
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 The school includes self-knowledge and social and emotional learning as part of the learning program, with reflection and collaboration central to how students learn; it teaches the Approaches to Learning skills to empower students on their learning journeys.	Social & emotional learning ISL supports social and emotional learning through a wellbeing-centered approach that is embedded in its IB programmes. Wellbeing is defined as students feeling content with their school lives, experiencing positive interactions, holding positive attitudes toward school, and recognizing that their work has purpose and meaning. The IB framework emphasises communication, intercultural understanding and global engagement, which underpin social‑emotional development. The school aims to foster a safe, inclusive community where students feel respected and cared for. A Wellbeing Model guides practices across the student experience to promote holistic development.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Inclusion Policy supports teachers in accommodating each student's individual needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) The admissions process requires documentation relating to any special educational needs. Failure to disclose information about known conditions at the application stage may result in withdrawal of the application. The school asks that relevant documents concerning special needs are included with the application.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The Language Policy supports students who experience a barrier to learning due to operating in a language other than their home language.	English as an additional language EAL (English as an Additional Language) is embedded in the Middle Years Programme. Language & Literature options include English and Dutch, supporting English instruction for a diverse student body. In the Diploma Programme, English Language and Literature is mandatory.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Millie Scarborough 'Friends for Life' programme pairs Grade 6/7 students with older students to form friendships and lasting connections across the school; Rainbow Alliance is a student club focused on inclusion.	Mental wellbeing ISL is committed to fostering the well-being of all students. Wellbeing means students are content with school life, have positive interactions, hold positive attitudes toward school, and feel their work has purpose. The school views well-being as a central concern and uses a formally documented Wellbeing model to guide practices across the student experience. The Mission & Vision also emphasizes support for students' social and mental well‑being.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The School Mission describes a supportive and safe environment and healthy relationships within the school community; in accordance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, all decisions are made in the best interests of the student.	Safeguarding ISL Policies include a Bully Protocol and Social Media Policy and an Inclusion Policy, which address safeguarding and creating a safe, respectful school environment. The ISL policies page also provides contact details for the school.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm is on a single campus at Emmastraat 56, Hilversum. The school offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and a bilingual VWO stream for students aged 4 to 19, all on one site. The campus supports a range of learning environments, including spaces for learning outside the classroom and the use of information and communication technology to support teaching and learning. The school's canteen has earned a Gold plaque from the Dutch Nutrition Centre for offering healthy options. The ISHilversum community comprises students from more than 45 nationalities and a wide array of student clubs and activities, including MUN, STEAM, and a Book Club.	Facilities overview The International School Laren is located on the Laar & Berg campus. The ISL uses Laar & Berg's facilities including two gyms, sports fields, an art campus, a music room, a design room, five science labs, a media centre and a canteen. The facilities are modern and versatile to support a 21st-century educational experience. The school is in Het Gooi, central Netherlands, near Hilversum and about 30 minutes southeast of Amsterdam and Schiphol airport, with easy access to the A1. Hilversum train station is a 20-minute bike ride away, and many students cycle to school from surrounding towns.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities Two gyms and sports fields are available on site.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities There is an on‑campus library that provides resources for study, research and classwork and is used by clubs such as the Book Club, which uses Kindle devices funded by the library. The curriculum is delivered across the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme, with learning supported by a variety of spaces and integrated information and communication technology. STEAM projects combine science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the arts in hands‑on learning. The school emphasizes learning through diversity and inquiry, supported by a digital and physical learning environment on a single campus.	Academic facilities Academic spaces include an art campus, a music room, a design room, five science laboratories, and a media centre. The academic approach is based on inquiry and contextual learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include Model United Nations (MUN) clubs with participation in conferences such as LMUNA Arnhem and other events; the MUN program has a leadership structure and regional engagement. The school supports a range of student clubs and activities such as STEAM, Book Club, Rainbow Alliance, Sustainability Committee and Student Council. Excursions and exchanges are part of the learning experience, including field trips and conferences. The Book Club uses ISHilversum library resources and provides Kindle access for members.	Extra curricular facilities —
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The International School Hilversum ‘Alberdingk Thijm' is a long-standing, highly experienced International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and a Bilingual VWO stream for ages 4 to 19. It is one of only a handful of schools in Northern Europe to offer the continuum of all three IB programmes, bringing the full IB experience to its students. The school operates on a single site as part of the Alberdingk Thijm Scholen consortium, with a clear mission and an internationally oriented education programme. It is located between Amsterdam and Utrecht and is easily accessible by train. The learning community includes over 45 nationalities and a diverse teaching staff.	History The International School Laren was founded in 2018 and is located in Het Gooi near Hilversum. It is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP) for students aged 11–18 (Grades 6–12). The language of instruction is English and Dutch.
Community	Community The ISHilversum is a single-site learning community with a rich mix of cultures, represented by more than 45 nationalities among students and staff. Students participate in a variety of clubs and activities including a Student Council, Sustainability Committee, Rainbow Alliance, STEAM, MUN, a Book Club and the Alberdingk Times student newspaper. The school also runs world language initiatives such as Language of the Month Celebrations, OWL Day, and Mother Tongue Day to celebrate linguistic diversity.	Community ISL fosters a close-knit, vibrant community where every voice counts as students connect, collaborate, and help shape positive change. The school offers a range of after-school clubs, including Yearbook Club, Model United Nations (MUN), Arts Club, Futsal Club, Photography Club, Basketball Club, Cooking Club, and Volleyball Club. The House System comprises Cygnus, Draco, Hydra, Pegasus, and Phoenix to promote belonging, cross-year connections, and leadership. The Parents' Council acts as a liaison between parents and school administration, with grade WhatsApp groups and a weekly newsletter keeping families informed.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) has many parent volunteers who contribute to ISHilversum. The goals are to represent the interests of students and those of their parents or guardians and to promote contact between parents. The PTA advises the parent representation of the Deelmedezeggenschapsraad (DMR) of the ISHilversum, maintains contact with the Leadership Team, and organizes meetings for parents, students and teachers. The PTA also organises social events and fundraising activities in school; helps students and families new to the Netherlands settle in; and publishes the International Community Guide to Hilversum each year. The Welcome back to school BBQ is a highlight on the PTA calendar, and the PTA email is PTAISH.board@gmail.com.	Parent teacher association Your Parents' Council is a small group of ISL parents representing all grades, serving as a liaison between the school administration and the ISL community. Grade representatives and WhatsApp groups connect families with information, and a weekly head of school newsletter outlines activities and contacts. Representing the Parents' Council are Gael Rowland and Caaren Abbott. Email: ParentsCouncilISL@outlook.com.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school has a Model United Nations (MUN) club. ISH hosts its own ISHMUN conference and participates in other major MUN events such as THIMUN and MUNISH. The MUN club collaborates with the Baking Club, Photography Club, and the school's Technology/IT team during events.	Academic & intellectual IS Laren is an IB World School offering the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The school participates in Model United Nations events, such as Lorentz Model United Nations Arnhem (LmunA), where students simulate UN proceedings. The IB framework supports global-minded, inquiry-based learning to prepare students for higher education. Students have opportunities to engage with international issues through IB coursework.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The school has a Photography Club and a Baking Club. The Student Newspaper: Alberdingk Times is a student-run publication. ISH Arts Week features a Music Showcase, highlighting student creativity.	Arts & creative The Yearbook Club lets students design pages, write captions, and tell the school's story; it is led by Mrs. Joaquim and meets Thursdays after school. The Dungeons & Dragons Club provides a social, imaginative, collaborative storytelling experience and meets after school; it is student-led by Florijn. The Photography Club gives students a chance to learn photography and create visual stories; it meets after school and is teacher-led by Mr. Lee. A Cooking Club is planned to start in December.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The MUN club fosters cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship. Rainbow Alliance is a student club focused on inclusion and diversity. Our World Languages (OWL) activities, including Language of the Month Celebrations and Mother Tongue Day, support linguistic and cultural diversity.	Cultural & language The language of instruction is English and Dutch. The IB program emphasizes international-mindedness and intercultural understanding. IS Laren fosters intercultural understanding and a global learning community through its IB framework.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school supports social and hobby-based clubs such as the Photography Club and Baking Club. The Alberdingk Times is the student newspaper. ISH Arts Week includes a Music Showcase. The Dutch International Schools 7x7 Football Tournament showcases student sports and teamwork.	Social & hobbies After School Clubs include Dungeons & Dragons Club and Basketball Club, both offering social and recreational experiences after school (D&D meets after school on Tuesdays and Basketball meets after school on Thursdays). The Basketball Club provides a team sport that promotes camaraderie and fitness. The Dungeons & Dragons Club offers a social, imaginative outlet for collaborative storytelling. Texel School Camp provides outdoor activities and team-building experiences in a school-led residential trip.
Community & service	Community & service The school donated €3,258.50 to CliniClowns as part of its King's Day Service as Action. A Sustainability Day produced petitions led by the Sustainability Committee to discuss youth well-being and environmental initiatives with local government. Millie Scarborough 'Friends for Life' and Rainbow Alliance programs promote inclusion and community engagement. The school encourages volunteering and building partnerships with local organizations through the Student Portal.	Community & service Service as Action is an integral part of the IB programme, especially in the MYP community projects. Students engage in service activities by applying classroom learning to real-world contexts. Service as Action aims to develop caring members of the community who act to make a positive difference to others and the environment. IS Laren has hosted service-related initiatives, such as the Tulips campaign in partnership with the Tara Bodong Foundation.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school has a Student Council and a Sustainability Committee as formal student leadership bodies. Students lead and organize major activities, including ISHMUN and other student-led conferences. The school also joined the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.	Leadership & professional The school has an active PTA and Student Council. The Student Council works with teachers, mentors, and student buddies to celebrate successes and realize initiatives. The IB framework supports leadership development and professional skills through student leadership opportunities. IS Laren participates in conferences such as Model United Nations, which develop collaboration and public speaking.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school demonstrates a focus on youth well-being, including petitions on outdoor spaces and mental health resources discussed with local officials. Buddy programs and cross-age peer activities connect younger and older students. Neighborhood walks with Grade 10 buddies foster community and social learning. The school also runs sports events such as a Dutch International Schools 7x7 Football Tournament.	Lifestyle & wellbeing IS Laren supports students' social and mental well-being. Sports and fitness are encouraged through Basketball Club, providing regular physical activity. Texel School Camp offers outdoor activities and team-building experiences for Grade 6-7. The school emphasizes a holistic learning environment balancing academics with well-being.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school offers the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme, and a Bilingual VWO stream, for ages 4 to 19.	Language provision English and Dutch are taught in Language and Literature. Dutch B is offered as an additional language in Language Acquisition, and Spanish is also offered as an additional language in MYP. In the Diploma Programme, Language and Literature includes English and Dutch (with School-Supported Self-Taught Literature), and Dutch B is offered as an additional language in Language Acquisition.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school has a Bilingual VWO stream.	Bilingual teaching English and Dutch are taught for Language and Literature. Dutch B is offered as an additional language in Language Acquisition. The ISL is located in the same building as its bilingual Dutch partner school, Laar & Berg.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions The International School Hilversum provides an English-language international education for 4–19 year olds and welcomes applications from all genders, ethnicities and religions. Potential families should review the Admissions Policy and How to Apply sections before submitting an enquiry. Admissions to the International Stream (Secondary): 1. Enrolment is possible at any time during the school year if space is available. Applications are made online through Open Apply, and a school visit can be arranged by appointment with the Admissions Officer. An initial enquiry does not guarantee a place. Placement is based on space and alignment with programme requirements and families should review the policy and process before applying. 2. Conditions of entry include space availability, the school's ability to meet the student's needs, and the student's ability to fulfil programme requirements, with the Dutch Ministry of Education rules binding the process. Prioritisation places priority on certain categories of students, including those from our own PYP, international students needing a Dutch school, qualifying siblings, and other extenuating circumstances; entry is not guaranteed in strict chronological order. 3. Academic expectations require students who can profit from a challenging, English-language international education and the Diploma Programme; the programme is demanding and language-rich, and most graduates proceed to higher education. Inclusion is offered for students with learning challenges, with provisions evaluated against available facilities; families must report any diagnosed learning needs, and may be asked to provide relevant documents or undergo diagnostic testing as part of induction. 4. Age placement is governed by age with rare exceptions after careful evaluation; language requirements support international students, with English-language support (EAL) where needed in Grades 6–10. For the Diploma Programme, placement may require additional tests in Languages, Mathematics and Sciences; bilingual students may be admitted with specific criteria. 5. How to Apply: enrolment is online via Open Apply. Steps include an interest form, submission of two years of transcripts, a reference from the current school, a passport/ID, and possibly an entrance test and interview. A non-refundable administration fee is charged before any interview; upon acceptance, a €500 deposit secures the place, payable before the start date, and tuition invoices follow according to the current fee structure. New admissions are typically considered for September, January and April; admissions outside these times require prior agreement; the International Stream does not operate waiting lists. Admissions to Primary Years Programme (PYP): 1. Access to international primary education is available to students meeting space availability and programme readiness, with priority given to international families and those with English-language education outside the Netherlands; inclusion of Dutch nationals educated in English abroad is also considered. All PYP students are reassessed for eligibility to continue into secondary international education. Applications and placement follow a process similar to the international stream, with careful consideration of space and needs. 2. Prioritisation mirrors the international stream, with emphasis on emergency cases, international families needing a school in the Netherlands, qualifying siblings, and other extenuating circumstances. Age placement generally places students between ages 4 and 11, with Grade 1 requiring age 6 by October 1 of the admission year. 3. How to Apply: all primary applications are online via Open Apply; the administrator meets with families and potential students; an initial interest form does not guarantee a place; transcripts and two years of school records must be uploaded along with a passport/ID. Inclusion-related documents and questionnaires from the current school may be requested; an administration fee is charged upon definite entry; after acceptance, tuition invoices follow according to the fee structure. Toelating tot Internationaal Tweetalig VWO (Dutch content translated to English): Students who have a VWO recommendation from their primary school, hold a Dutch passport, speak Dutch fluently and have home language Dutch can apply to the Internationally Bilingual VWO program. The program is taught largely in English with Latin as an extra challenge; collaboration and self-management are important in the IB Middle Years Programme. If deemed necessary, an interview may be requested after enrolment. To be admitted to the Internationally Bilingual VWO program in the first year, students must meet the stated criteria and have an equivalent education (including Latin); to enter the Diploma Programme as a bilingual student, completion of at least VWO 4 is required, with minimum grades specified for higher-level subjects. Age placement is by age, with rare exceptions after careful evaluation by the Admissions Team. The usual enrolment procedure places ITW VWO students in the first year of secondary education (Grade 7, around 12 years old), with key dates for 2026/2027 published (open day, information evening, and formal enrollment window). All applications are online via Open Apply; the first enrollment does not guarantee a place; official primary-school advice and a valid passport/ID must be uploaded; interviews may follow enrollment; after admission, a invoice will be issued. Documents and links related to the 2026 enrollment are provided. Contact details are the same as the general admissions contacts.	Admissions 1. ISL accepts students in Grades 6-11 (DP1). Include all relevant documents concerning special needs; a reference letter from the current school may be requested if applicable. Failure to disclose special needs may result in withdrawal. 2. Once all documents are submitted, the school invites the applicant to an online interview. The interview assesses the applicant's English language ability and fit for ISL's program. The school may request additional information or documents if needed. 3. Based on the intake interview, feedback from the applicant's current school, and the academic results, a student may be accepted at ISL. English language proficiency is considered as English is the language of instruction. Applicants entering Grade 9 or Grade 10 must take an English test before a place can be offered. 4. There is a non-refundable registration fee of €150 per applicant, charged when ISL confirms definite entry to the school. Only when this fee is paid on time can a place at ISL be guaranteed. The school does not provide visa application support; students are responsible for applying independently for their study visas. 5. Enrollment is possible at any time during the school year. The admissions form can be downloaded, and inquiries can be directed to Ms. Eva Goossens (MYP Middle School Coordinator) and Mrs.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist The International School Hilversum does not operate a waiting list.	Waitlist —
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