International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm vs International School Utrecht

	I International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm Amsterdam, Netherlands	I International School Utrecht Amsterdam, Netherlands
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €1,866 - 8,164	Fees / year €4,820 - 7,700
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Dutch Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 1,150
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English, Dutch	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1982	Opened 2012
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 The school is located at Van Deventerlaan 1, 3528 AG Utrecht, Netherlands. It sits in the city of Utrecht in the central Netherlands. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, illustrating proximity to transit and services for international families.
Stages	Stages Primary Years Programme; Middle Years Programme; Diploma Programmes; Bilingual VWO stream; for ages 4 to 19.	Stages The school offers three IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (4–11), Middle Years Programme (11–16) and Diploma Programme (16–18). The Primary Years Programme covers ages 4–11, the Middle Years Programme covers ages 11–16, and the Diploma Programme covers ages 16–18.
School type	School type IB World School offering PYP, MYP, DP and bilingual VWO; day school; coeducational.	School type The school is an IB World School. It offers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Over 45 nationalities represented; a diverse student body.	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support The school provides additional educational needs support through an inclusion team that includes school counsellors, inclusion coaches and a specialist. The school provides learning support services through the inclusion team, including in-class support, small group support and, where needed, individual support. The school uses a three-tier inclusion framework to organise interventions and progress monitoring.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school operates in the Netherlands.	Country affiliation The 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 starts Kindergarten and Primary with drop-off at 8:00 and first lessons at 8:30. The school notes Secondary travel by bike and may use public transport if coming from further away; the day includes timetable-based lessons, self-study periods and field trips. The school is mobile-free, with devices put away during the day.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Public transport is available via bus, tram and train (U-OV and NS) in Utrecht and the surrounding area. Many students travel by bike, and those from further away may rely on public transport.
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 & enrolment fees - Application fee (non-refundable): EUR 250. - Enrolment fee / deposit for new students (payable in advance): EUR 750. This enrolment fee serves as the deposit once the child starts school and is non-refundable if you decline the offered place. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-term instalment amounts) Note: instalment payments are structured as four equal payments (25% each) when instalments are used; amounts below show the annual fee and the value of one instalment (25%). - Primary (KG1 – Grade 5) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 4,820. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,205. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 4,820 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 5,570 (enrolment fee payable in advance). - Secondary — MYP (Grades 6–10) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,050. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,512.50. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 6,050 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 6,800. - Secondary — DP (Grades 11 and 12) - Grade 11 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - Grade 12 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - DP examination fee (Grade 12): EUR 800 (additional one-off fee invoiced for DP exam). - New-student first invoices: Grade 11 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 750 enrolment = EUR 7,700; Grade 12 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 800 DP exam fee = EUR 7,750 (enrolment fee not applicable for Grade 12 new intake as listed). Billing schedule and payment terms - Four payment options are accepted: - Full payment by direct debit. - Payment by direct debit in instalments (available for students starting at the beginning of the academic year). - Manual payment by parent within 14 days of the invoice date. - Manual payment by company within 14 days of the invoice date. Parents remain ultimately responsible for payment regardless of any employer commitment. - Instalment timing (direct debit instalments): - 25% due by end of September; 25% due by end of October; 25% due by end of November; 25% due by end of December. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for payment by instalment. Full fee settlement is required by the stated deadline in the invoice schedule. - Bank/payment details and instructions: - The school uses separate bank accounts for primary and secondary invoicing; payments must clearly display the student's full name and invoice number. Primary (PYP) IBAN: NL28RABO0182469549 (SPOUtrecht). Secondary (MYP/DP) IBAN: NL04RABO0356552195 (NUOVO). BIC: RABONL2U. Bank address: Rabobank Utrecht, Beneluxlaan 31-33, 3526 KK Utrecht. - Non-payment consequences: - Failed direct debits may lead to termination of the direct debit agreement; outstanding debts are transferred to a debt collection agency and additional costs will be charged to the parent/legal guardian. Persistent non-payment may result in referral of the student to the national education system. Boarding fees - Boarding: Not applicable. International School Utrecht operates as a day school and does not provide boarding facilities. Other costs and optional fees - MYP e-Assessment (external moderation / invoiced separately): - Partial e-Assessment (per course): EUR 60. - Personal Project and Interdisciplinary Assessment: EUR 120. - e-Assessment certificate (8 components): EUR 420. - Items and activities excluded from the standard tuition fee (invoiced separately): - External tuition and tutoring, School Supported Self-Taught (SSST) language tuition and materials, after-school clubs, home language lessons, Pamoja fees, optional overnight stays, and some optional activities. - Laptop requirement and cost responsibility: - All students from Grade 6 upwards are expected to have an Apple MacBook for school use; families must purchase this device themselves. The school operates an Apple webshop option and recommends purchasing insurance and repairs (36-month cover option available via the school webshop). Any purchase and insurance cost is borne by the family. - After-school activities, optional overnight trips and some assessments are charged separately and will appear on later invoices as required. Discounts and fee reductions - Sibling discount: Families with three or more children attending the school receive a 30% reduction on school fees starting from the third child and for each additional child thereafter. - Mid-year starter fee reduction (prorated scale when students start after the academic year begins): - Full amount if start in August or September. - 90% if start in October; 80% November; 70% December; 60% January; 50% February; 40% March; 30% April; 20% May/June. Refunds and deposit return - Refunds for leaving during the school year (percentage of the annual tuition refunded depending on month of departure): - August–December: 50% refund. - January: 40% refund. - February: 30% refund. - March: 20% refund. - April: 10% refund. - May–July: no refund. Note: specific departure procedures and the leaving form must be completed to process refunds. - Deposit return: - Thirty (30) days' notice via the leaving form is required to return the deposit. The deposit is reimbursed only when all financial obligations are met and school property is returned. Families who have re-enrolled and then cancel after 1 June are not eligible for deposit return except where ISU recommends an alternative programme. Fee payment methods (summary) - Accepted/available payment methods: direct debit (full or instalments), manual bank transfer/payment by parent, or manual payment by company within 14 days of invoice. Direct debit creditor IDs appear on statements; separate creditor IDs are used for primary and secondary billing. Credit/debit card payment is not listed as a standard payment method in the standard terms and conditions. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for instalment plans. Administrative notes - Instalment payments are available only for students starting at the beginning of the academic year; instalment processing carries a EUR 10 administration fee and must be fully settled by the deadline stated in the invoice schedule.
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 Primary students eat their packed lunch in the classroom and have a morning snack break. Secondary students often bring their own packed lunch, which they may heat up at school; they can also order a salad or sandwich from an external catering company set up in the school. Secondary lunch runs 12:45-13:30.
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 ISU is a Dutch International School governed by two cooperating local school boards: SPO Utrecht (primary) and NUOVO Scholen (secondary).
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 ISU is an IB World Continuum school offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The PYP is inquiry-based and transdisciplinary, with student voice and ownership of learning, using units of inquiry that integrate mathematics and language while developing international-mindedness. The MYP develops active, internationally-minded learners through inquiry into local, national and global issues, organized into eight subject groups; in Grade 10 students begin more individualized pathways to prepare for the DP. The DP comprises six subject groups plus a core of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), with many subjects offered at Higher Level and Standard Level. ISU is a state-subsidised Dutch international school accredited by the International Baccalaureate and the Council of International Schools, and taught in a Dutch setting.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
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 Class of 2025: 77 registered in May; 75 passed; 97% passing rate; 4 registered in November with 100% passing rate for the cohort including November; ISU average points 32.2; highest score 45; 17 bilingual diplomas. Class of 2024: 63 registered; 63 passed; 100% passing rate; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session passing rate 80%; ISU average 31.6; highest 43. Class of 2023: 50 registered; 49 passed; 98% passing rate including November retake; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session 79%; ISU average 31.5; highest 43. Graduates have enrolled in universities including Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London (UCL), London School of Economics (LSE), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others.
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 Graduates pursue higher education at universities around the world. ISU alumni study at institutions such as Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London, LSE, University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others.
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 The school creates a positive and supportive environment that fosters belonging and well-being. The IB programmes are designed to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all learners. The Inclusion Team provides learning support, early intervention, in-class support, small-group and individual interventions. Student voice is encouraged and involved in planning and reviewing learning. A multilingual approach supports access to the curriculum and social inclusion.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Inclusion Policy supports teachers in accommodating each student's individual needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) Additional educational needs refer to groups who may face barriers to education and learning. Categories include communication & interaction; cognition & learning; social, emotional and mental health difficulties; and sensory and/or physical needs. The inclusion framework uses three tiers to provide instruction and interventions at increasing levels of intensity. The Inclusion Team delivers learning support through consultation, observation, in-class support, small-group and individual support. ISU collaborates with regional support networks for Primary and Secondary and has a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality, coordinating with the Attendance officer and Buurtteam as needed.
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 The language of instruction is English; all classes are taught in English, except Dutch Language Acquisition and secondary Spanish Language Acquisition. A multilingual approach recognises the value of home languages and multilingual learning. The school provides an English Language Acquisition (ELA) program for learners whose first language is not English; in primary, specialist ELA teachers work with classroom teachers with stand-alone ELA sessions. In secondary, students join English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and attend stand-alone ELA sessions in the Language Hub. Students may be asked to take a language assessment as part of enrolment.
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 Well-being is central to student success; the school provides a positive, safe and supportive environment to help students thrive. The Inclusion Team, including school counsellors and inclusion coaches, delivers support for social-emotional and mental health needs, with early intervention where possible. Student voice is encouraged in planning and reviewing learning to foster resilience and belonging. The school also provides health support through a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality and coordinates with local services as needed.
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 The school takes safeguarding seriously with annual safeguarding and child protection training for all staff; a safeguarding lead and an inclusion team ensure school-wide focus. A safe learning environment is maintained; staff require a Police Clearance Certificate (VOG) and recruitment includes reference checks. Staff are trained to identify and respond to signs of abuse or neglect and take appropriate action, including involving local or international authorities when necessary. The school provides for trainees with an intensive guidance procedure; trainees must provide a valid VOG before entering their traineeship.
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 school operates from a temporary two-storey campus at Van Deventerlaan 1 in Utrecht Papendorp, with room for 1,200 students. A large temporary sports hall at the rear serves both primary and secondary students. Construction is underway for a new, purpose-built campus at Utrecht Science Park on Cambridgelaan 101 and is scheduled to be fully operational in 2027. The new campus will include indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre, as well as spaces for science labs, visual arts and design, music studios, and outdoor learning. Regular building updates are published.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities The school has a large temporary sports hall at the rear of the Papendorp campus used by both primary and secondary students. The temporary campus includes a two-storey building with space for 1,200 students. The new Utrecht Science Park campus will feature dedicated indoor and outdoor sports facilities.
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 The new campus will offer indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre. It will provide comfortable classrooms, science labs, visual arts and design spaces, music studios, and green spaces for outdoor learning. It will also provide spaces for independent learning and social spaces.
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 After School Activities (ASA's) are run over two terms from September until February and from March until June. ASA's organised by ISU include Home Language Clubs (Grades 1-5) with languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish, and music programs including a private instrumental lessons program and the ISU Music Academy with seven musical projects across levels. Other ISU activities include Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5), Guruscool Abacus (Gr1–5), and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Kind & Co Ludens offers varying after-school activities, including arts & crafts. Sign-ups are via a school app shortly before activities begin.
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 —
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 ISU fosters a connected Utrecht community. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, is open five days a week, and helps with residency permits/visas and registration with the municipality. ISU highlights the expat community by listing organizations such as International Women's Contact Utrecht, Utrecht mamas, Expats in Utrecht, Expats Utrecht, Make the Most of Utrecht, Expatica, Access and Iamexpat, and English-language news sources like Holland Times and Dutch News. The school community participates in celebrations of learning, school festivals, concerts and whole-school celebrations.
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 The Parent Support Group (PSG) helps parents connect by organizing monthly events such as coffee mornings, daytime outings and evening drinks, and supports parent clubs including running club, language club and book club. PSG can be contacted at psg@parent.isutrecht.nl. New Parent Connectors assist new parents with school information and link them with Grade parents. Each primary class has at least one parent representative who works with the teacher to recruit volunteers for class activities and excursions. ISU also has a Participation Council (PC) that includes staff, parents and students and advises on school vision and planning; PC regulations were updated in June 2024, and annual reports for 2022–23, 2023–24 and 2024–25 are available.
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 ISU participates in the National Educational Fair (NOT) with a Design Team from Grades 8–9 that demonstrates 3D printing, laser cutting, soldering and coding for Junior IOT. The library provides personalised support for research, academic writing, referencing and responsible technology use. The language of instruction is English, and an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme helps learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum.
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 ISU has an ambitious music programme for KG-Grade 9 delivered by an experienced music team. The ISU Music Academy runs group lessons and private instrumental lessons and includes seven musical projects. Private instrumental lessons cover vocal, drums, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, guitar, violin/viola, cello and piano, with after-school lessons available.
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 Home Language Clubs for Grades 1–5 are offered after school, including languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. English is the language of instruction, with an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme to help learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum. The language acquisition approach supports multilingual learning and curriculum access.
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 Activities & Care offers Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5) and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Home Language Clubs are available as part of ASA with languages including Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. ISU Running Group provides a weekly social run for parents, with coffee and chat after the run.
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 (SAA) is an integral part of the Middle Years Programme at ISU, giving students aged 11-16 the chance to learn and grow through community service. SAA projects include volunteering at local soup kitchens and fundraising for causes, with students choosing projects that hold personal significance. SAA develops critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration and leadership, following a four-step process from investigation to action.
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 SAA fosters leadership and professional skills through project coordination and teamwork. Students take active roles in planning and managing SAA projects. ISU's student-led design team has represented the school at external events, such as the National Educational Fair (NOT). The SAA program is led by a dedicated coordinator who guides the projects.
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 ISU Running Group offers a weekly social run for parents, promoting fitness and community. Grade 2 students participate in swimming lessons as part of the school's safety and wellbeing program. Mental well-being is addressed in ISU's educational events, such as themes highlighted at the National Educational Fair (NOT) 2025. After School Activities & Care support wellbeing through structured activities and care.
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 ISU uses English as the language of instruction, with Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition taught as separate language courses. An English Language Acquisition (ELA) program supports learners whose first language is not English in both primary and secondary. In secondary, English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and a Language Hub provide ongoing language support, and students may be required to take a language assessment during enrolment. Home Language Clubs and Home Languages Week celebrate multilingualism.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school has a Bilingual VWO stream.	Bilingual teaching No bilingual teaching; English is the language of instruction. Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition are taught as separate language subjects.
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 Get in touch. We would like to get to know your child(ren). Please contact our admissions team through OpenApply, our admissions portal. This initial contact starts the admissions process. Providing documentation. When you start the admissions process, we will ask you to upload information about the languages your child(ren) speak(s) and their educational background. This documentation helps the admissions team understand your child(ren)'s profile. Submitting the information advances you to the next stage of the process. Application stage. We will talk to you and look at your documentation to make sure that there is a good match between the school's educational provision and your child(ren)'s needs. The admissions team may discuss next steps and timelines with you. You will be updated as the process progresses. Welcome and onboarding. Once placement is confirmed, you will receive welcome information. On your starting date, you will be welcomed by the admissions team and join an induction meeting. Your child(ren) will be welcomed and supported by their classroom teacher or mentor.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist The International School Hilversum does not operate a waiting list.	Waitlist —
	View full profile →	View full profile →