International School Manila vs The British School Manila

	I International School Manila Manila, Philippines	T The British School Manila Manila, Philippines
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₱555,780 - 1,125,720	Fees / year ₱536,040 - 1,414,215
Age range	Age range 3 - 20 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Online/Hybrid	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, IB (DP)	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 2,400	Pupils 978
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1920	Opened 1976
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location IS International School Manila is located on a purpose-built seven-hectare campus in Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, in Metro Manila. The campus address is University Parkway, Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 1634, Philippines. The location places ISM within the Global City development, with access to southern Manila transport and nearby business districts; the school also operates a bus service that serves Fort Bonifacio and surrounding areas.	Location 36th Street, University Park, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. The campus sits within the Bonifacio Global City district, a major international business and residential area. It is near other international schools and foreign embassies, reflecting its international community.
Stages	Stages ISM serves students from Preschool through Grade 12 and is structured into three divisions: Elementary School, Middle School, and High School. The campus information indicates Preschool through Grade 12 offerings across these three learning divisions.	Stages The British School Manila provides education from Early Years through Senior School. Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stages 1–5 follow the English National Curriculum, with Key Stage 5 offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
School type	School type ISM is a non-profit day school serving students from Preschool to Grade 12. It operates as a single school with three learning divisions: Elementary, Middle, and High School. Boarding facilities are not offered.	School type The school is co-educational and privately run as a not-for-profit international school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support ISM provides inclusive education with a formal Learning Support program. The LS program offers three levels of service (LS1–LS3) and is coordinated by the Learning Support Resource Team; there is a Specialized Learning Support Program (SLSP) for students with significant needs, integrated into regular classrooms with specialists such as speech-language pathologists, psychologists, and occupational therapists. English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports Grades 1–10, with English for Academic Purposes (EAP) in Grades 9–10.	Additional learning support BSM offers Learning Support, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and School Counselling as part of its Student Support Services.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation ISM has no formal country affiliation. The school describes itself as a non-profit day school serving an international community, with no government or religious funding affiliations.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; BSM operates as a British international school and is not tied to a single country.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation ISM has no religious affiliation and does not receive financial support from religious institutions.	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation: none stated; the school is secular.
School day structure	School day structure Preschool 3–4 runs roughly 7:30am–12:30pm (with Wednesday 8:30am start for Preschool 3–4). Kindergarten–Grade 4 runs 7:30am–2:15pm (Wednesday 8:30am–2:15pm). Middle School (Grades 5–8) runs 7:30am–3:00pm (with some tutorials 2:35–3:00pm). High School (Grades 9–12) runs 7:30am–3:00pm (with some tutorials). The Campus Office hours are 7:00am–4:00pm and campus operating hours 7:00am–5:00pm.	School day structure School day typically starts at 7:40 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and at 8:10 a.m. on Thursdays. The day ends around 2:30 p.m. for most year groups, and Nursery ends at 12:30 p.m.
Bus service details	Bus service details ISM offers a school bus service with routes to multiple areas around Fort Bonifacio. The bus service is described as convenient for commuting to and from the Fort Bonifacio area, and transportation rates for SY 2025–2026 are published for families considering this option.	Bus service details Bus service: The school provides a bus service for students.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and registration fees - Application fee: USD 600 per child. This application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable; it is valid for two academic years. - Matriculation fee: USD 4,500 (one-time). This is required to hold a place for new K—Grade 12 students and for preschool students entering Kindergarten; it is refundable only if the application or acceptance is cancelled or the child does not enroll, with re-enrolment guidelines applying. - Facilities enhancement fee: USD 4,500 (one-time). This is charged under the same conditions as the matriculation fee and is refundable only in the cancellation/no-enrolment cases noted above. Tuition fees (annual and per-semester / per-term detail) - Preschool (Preschool 3 to Preschool 4): Annual tuition USD 9,420 plus PhP 297,400; per semester USD 4,710 plus PhP 148,700. - Elementary School (Kindergarten–Grade 4): Annual tuition USD 14,700 plus PhP 465,600; per semester USD 7,350 plus PhP 232,800. - Middle School (Grades 5–8): Annual tuition USD 16,020 plus PhP 509,300; per semester USD 8,010 plus PhP 254,650. - High School (Grades 9–10): Annual tuition USD 17,100 plus PhP 542,100; per semester USD 8,550 plus PhP 271,050. - High School (Grades 11–12): Annual tuition USD 19,080 plus PhP 605,600; per semester USD 9,540 plus PhP 302,800. - Specialized Learning Support Program (SLSP): Preschool 3–4: Annual USD 30,140 (semester USD 15,070); SLSP Kindergarten–Grade 12: Annual USD 46,810 (semester USD 23,405). Additional program and service fees (if applicable) - English as an Additional Language (EAL): Year 1 — USD 1,625 per semester; Year 2 — USD 1,100 per semester. - Learning Support Services (LSS): Level 1 — USD 840 per semester; Level 2 — USD 1,890 per semester; Level 3 — USD 2,940 per semester. - Speech-language program: Level 1 — USD 575 per semester; Level 2 — USD 1,200 per semester; Level 3 — USD 1,400 per semester. - Educational Assistance Fee: Full-time (100%) USD 4,600 per semester; Part-time (50%) USD 2,300 per semester. - Full psychological educational evaluation: USD 1,300; re-evaluation: USD 700. Speech-language evaluation: USD 250. Musical instrument rental: USD 160 per instrument. Car sticker fees and ID fees are charged in Philippine pesos as specified by the school. Other costs and uniforms - The Uniform Shop carries required uniform items and posts a price list; accepted modes of payment at the Uniform Shop are cash and local checks. Sample uniform price points appear on the published uniform price list (for example, polos and shorts priced in Philippine pesos; consult the price list for specific item prices). - BearCard (canteen / card system) top-ups can be loaded via the Parent Portal or at campus kiosks and the Cashier. Concession services such as bus and canteen are arranged and billed separately by the third-party providers. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid for the full year in advance or per semester. Quarterly payment arrangements are available but incur an additional charge of USD 100 per quarter. Only the tuition portion may be paid by semester or quarter; all other fees must be paid in full on their due date. The USD portion of fees should be paid in US dollars and the PhP portion should be paid in Philippine pesos. Payments made in other currencies will be converted using the school exchange rate, which includes a mark-up. - Published tuition due dates (billing cycle): first-semester tuition due date 11 July 2025; second-semester tuition due date 12 December 2025. The academic year is split into four quarters with the dates shown on the school's payment schedule. - Overdue fees: an additional surcharge of 2.5% per month is added on unpaid school fees after the due dates. The school may suspend a student's right to attend classes and withhold report cards/transcripts for accounts unpaid by specified suspension dates; continued non-payment may result in forfeiture of place for the following year. Payment details and bank account information are available from the Treasury Office; when making check, over-the-counter bank payments or wire transfers, include the student's name, student ID number, and telephone number and provide a copy of the deposit slip or bank advice for prompt credit. Payment methods (how fees can be paid) - Accepted payment modes for school fees include: over-the-counter bank payments, wire transfers (bank transfer), checks, and cash at the campus Cashier window. For checks and bank transfers parents are asked to provide remittance details and a copy of the deposit slip for crediting to the student account. The Uniform Shop accepts cash and local checks for uniform purchases; BearCard top-ups can be done online via the Parent Portal or at kiosks/cashier. Contact the Treasury Office for the school's bank details and specific payment instructions. Refund and withdrawal rules - Application fee (USD 600) is non-refundable and non-transferable. The matriculation and facilities enhancement fees are refundable only in the event the application or acceptance is cancelled or the child does not enroll; re-enrolment rules determine whether those fees must be re-paid for a returning student based on the length of withdrawal. Refund of school tuition in the case of student withdrawal is calculated by quarter; fees will not be prorated for part of a quarter regardless of days attended. A USD 1,000 non-refundable, non-transferable reservation payment (deductible from annual tuition) is required to hold a seat for new preschool students; this reservation fee is not refundable. Boarding / accommodation - International School Manila is a non-profit day school; boarding is not applicable. If you need the precise numeric breakdowns reproduced exactly as published (for example the full itemized uniform price list image or the printed payment schedule and bank-instructions PDF), the published school fee schedule and the uniform price list contain the itemized figures and banking instructions. Key published documents used above include the School Fees and Payment Schedules and the Uniform Price List.	Fee details Application fee - Application fee (non-refundable): PHP 30,000. Tuition fees (termly) — amounts payable each term - Nursery: GBP 1,225 + PHP 88,030 per term. Annual equivalent (three terms): GBP 3,675 + PHP 264,090. - Reception – Year 6: GBP 2,440 + PHP 175,520 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 7,320 + PHP 526,560. - Year 7 – Year 9: GBP 2,745 + PHP 197,365 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 8,235 + PHP 592,095. - Year 10 – Year 11: GBP 2,885 + PHP 207,560 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 8,655 + PHP 622,680. - Year 12 – Year 13: GBP 3,230 + PHP 232,385 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 9,690 + PHP 697,155. Other compulsory or regularly charged fees - Yearbook: PHP 2,500 per family, charged yearly. - Class and individual photos: PHP 1,200 per year (charged yearly). - External examination fees: charged at cost as incurred (these appear as additional charges and are billed separately). - Learning Support Fees (for students who require additional learning support), charged termly by stage: - Stage 2: PHP 24,955 per term (PHP 74,865 annual). - Stage 3: PHP 65,100 per term (PHP 195,300 annual). - Stage 4: PHP 103,075 per term (PHP 309,225 annual). Entrance fee and Capital Development Fee (CDF) - A non‑refundable Entrance Fee is charged and is payable on acceptance; the Admissions Guide for prior years has recorded an Entrance Fee of PHP 339,450. - A Capital Development Fee (CDF) is charged and billed termly; previous published schedules show a CDF of PHP 47,825 per term (applicable Nursery to Year 13) and that the CDF is non‑refundable. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are billed and payable termly. There are three terms per school year. Existing students' fees must be paid in full by the first day of each term. - For new admissions, fees are payable according to the due dates shown on the school Statement of Account. Mid‑term admissions are billed pro‑rata for the remaining weeks of the term. The full term tuition is required regardless of the length of time the child attends, except where pro‑rata billing applies for mid‑term starts. - Illustrative term dates and due dates listed in published schedules: Term 1 due in August; Term 2 due in January; Term 3 due in April. Late payments incur interest (example shown: interest at 2% per month for fees not received by the due date) and prolonged non‑payment may result in suspension notices. Refunds and withdrawal terms - Entrance Fee and Capital Development Fee (CDF) are non‑refundable. - Notice of withdrawal must be submitted in writing using the school's Notice of Withdrawal form by the published deadlines; failure to provide the required notice can entitle the school to payment in full for the following term. Academic records and reports are withheld until all outstanding fees (including interest) are settled. - Prior admissions guidance documents state that a Nursery deposit equal to one‑half term's fee is billed on acceptance and may be refundable under the specific conditions listed in the school's enrollment terms (parents should note deposit conditions and deadlines). Boarding - Boarding is not offered; the school operates as a day school and does not publish boarding fees. Other optional / commonly billed services and likely additional costs - Optional services and ancillary costs (examples that are typically charged separately): school lunches, school bus/transport, extra‑curricular activities, overseas trips and specialist courses; these items are billed separately or on request. (Published schedules list yearbook, photos, external exam fees and learning support fees as separate charges.) Payment methods and instructions - Accepted payment channels include bank transfers to named school accounts (examples given include HSBC, UnionBank and Metrobank accounts in the school's collection arrangements). Parents must indicate the student's name on the bank advice and are responsible for any bank charges. - Card payments are accepted (credit/debit) via a card payment link; card payments incur a processing fee (example noted up to 3.2%). - E‑wallet payments (examples shown include Maya and GCash) are accepted as alternative channels in the school's payment options.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school does not provide boarding facilities. Guardianship placements are not allowed unless prior approval is obtained from the school administration.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms consist of polo shirts in green, yellow, white and black, and pants or shorts in black or beige. Students may mix and match these items on a given day. The Uniform Shop on campus carries all required clothing and is also available online; it is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; clothing must fit properly and alterations or exact copies of the uniform are not allowed.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Bearcat Kantina offers a wide range of on-site dining options, including American, Asian, Italian, Mexican and vegetarian dishes. The Kantina operates from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and payments are made via the BEARCard debit system linked to the student ID.	Food options Sodexo Philippines provides the school's cafeteria service for SY 2024-2025. The partnership expands menu variety with international and local cuisines and includes micromarket and vending solutions, as well as after-school activities teaching cooking skills and nutrition. A detailed information pack and ordering options were planned to be rolled out to families in August 2024. (source: turn0search5)
House system	House system —	House system On admission, students and staff are allocated to one of three Houses: Luzon (Green), Visayas (Red), Mindanao (Yellow). Each House has three Student Captains and three Deputies. The House System fosters community and includes whole-school and year-group competitions, with House Points, House Shields and a House Cup awarded across terms. (source: turn0search1)
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ISM Manila is a non-profit day school governed by a Board of Trustees.	Governance and ownership The British School Manila is operated by British Education Inc. It is governed by a 12-member Board of Governors (four elected, eight appointed) and overseen by a five-member Council of Trustees that includes members of the British Embassy and the Australian Embassy. Day-to-day operations are led by the Head of School, supported by the Chief Operating Officer and the Heads of Primary and Senior School. (source: turn0search0)
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details International School Manila serves Preschool through Grade 12, organized into Elementary, Middle, and High School sections, with the High School offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) and some Certificate-level options. In Elementary (Kindergarten to Grade 4), learning is concept-based and framed around big ideas, meeting the Common Core Mathematics and English Language Arts Standards, the Next Generation Science Standards, and the ISM-adopted Standards for Social Studies. Middle School (Grade 5–8) includes core subjects (English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, Modern Language, Physical Education, Wellness) and a range of electives, with English language support provided through EAL programs (EDP/EAP) across Elementary through High School. In High School, students pursue ISM's High School Diploma, with a significant majority taking the full IB Diploma in Grades 11–12 and others taking IB Subject Certificates; Grades 9–10 offer electives such as Robotics, Design Technology, Ceramics, Graphic Design, Computer Programming, Film, Visual Arts, Theater, Peer Counseling, and Food Technology. The program emphasizes co-curricular learning and service through clubs, arts, sports, and ICARE service experiences. In 2025, 98% of IB candidates earned the full IB Diploma.	Curriculum details BSM follows an adapted English National Curriculum arranged into Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stages 1–5. EYFS (Nursery–Reception) and KS1 (Year 1–2) use play-based learning with phonics (Letters & Sounds) and Year 2's Inquiry Projects to build foundational literacy and numeracy. KS2 (Years 3–6) develops knowledge through concept-based learning around topics such as interdependence, systems and change, supported by the Learning Power Approach and a Well-Being Framework. KS3 (Years 7–9) delivers a bespoke British National Curriculum taught by subject specialists with emphasis on global citizenship. KS4 (Years 10–11) follows a two-year International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) programme, with students choosing subjects to achieve breadth and depth for university study. KS5 (Year 12–13) offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), comprising six subject groups and a core of Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity and Service, with Higher and Standard Level options.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
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 ISM supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its counseling services across Elementary, Middle, and High School. The Elementary School Counseling team fosters students' social, emotional and personal growth through individual consultation, classroom guidance, assessment and crisis intervention, and coordination with teachers and parents. They maintain an open-door policy and run parent presentations and workshops to strengthen home–school collaboration. In Middle School, Counseling provides confidential personal and small-group counseling, orientation for new students, parent workshops, and collaboration with staff to design interventions, while leadership development is encouraged through Student Council and Ambassadors, and counselors connect families with internal and external therapeutic resources. In High School, seven counselors assist with academic, personal, social or family concerns, and support college and career planning; students are encouraged to visit the Vicky SyCip Herrera Counseling Center, and counseling is available throughout the year. The approach is complemented by wellness initiatives on campus, including a therapy dog program for wellbeing.	Social & emotional learning The British School Manila adopts a bespoke Well-Being Framework that promotes a whole-school approach to positive physical and mental health. Five key areas are defined as targets for all students: Self Acceptance, an Active and Balanced Lifestyle, an Ability to Self-regulate, a Sense of Belonging, and a Capacity for Growth and Resilience. The school uses a Positive Education approach (Positive Psychology) to help students lead meaningful lives and contribute to others, with the aim of cultivating what is best within themselves and in others. Dedicated Positive Education classes teach these concepts, and key ideas are reinforced in other subjects. The Physical Education Health & Well-Being Team delivers a programme that integrates the Well-Being Framework into the PE curriculum to support holistic development and belonging. Well-Being lessons cover relationship-building, self-talk and realistic thinking, emotional self-regulation, resilience, gratitude, self-motivation, curiosity, and strengths recognition.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) ISM believes in inclusive education and accepts students with learning differences, coordinating supports across divisions through the Learning Support Department. The Learning Support Resource Team (LSRT) in Elementary, Middle, and High School includes Principals, the Learning Support Program Leader, the EAL Program Leader, an Educational Psychologist, and Counselors. The Learning Support Program provides three levels of service: LS1 (curriculum adaptation without changing objectives), LS2 (accommodations and some modification), and LS3 (significant modifications and possible diploma options). The Specialized Learning Support Program (SLSP) serves students with significant needs and provides integrated support with trained specialists. Admission decisions for students with learning needs are made by the LSRT on an individual basis, with regular review of levels.	Special educational needs (SEN) BSM offers Learning Support, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and School Counselling as part of its Student Support Services, delivered by a multidisciplinary team. Learning Support provides high-quality intervention for Primary and Senior School, with tailored support for learning, language, social and behavioural needs, using a multi-tiered approach that includes in-class, small group and individual support for both short-term and longer-term needs. Speech-language therapists provide intervention for speech and language disorders and delays, assessing speech, language, cognitive-communication, pragmatic language and feeding/swallowing skills to determine accommodations and strategies. Occupational Therapy helps students improve task behaviours, gross and fine motor skills, cognitive skills, executive functions, sensory processing and communication to enable meaningful participation. School Counselling offers comprehensive, student-centered support aimed at promoting academic, personal, social and emotional development, delivered by a team of professionals with a focus on diversity, inclusion and cultural sensitivity. The school does not publicly disclose information regarding whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language ISM's English as an Additional Language (EAL) program serves students from Grades 1-10 who require language support to access the curriculum. Language specialists work within a sheltered-immersion model alongside content teachers to deliver integrated language and content instruction. In Elementary School, each grade has an EAL specialist who supports mainstream classes, provides language lessons for identified learners, and collaborates with classroom teachers. In Middle and High School, English for Academic Purposes (EAP) classes provide intensive language support, with Sheltered-Instruction English helping emergent multilinguals access content. The program emphasizes multilingualism and maintains literacy in home languages as assets.	English as an additional language EAL support is provided through Learning Support; the Admissions page states that English Language Proficiency is required and that all candidates undergo an age-appropriate English assessment, with Learning Support available for incoming students. The Student Support page notes that Learning Support can address language needs as part of its broad intervention for learning, language, social and behavioural needs. There is no separate, named EAL department listed on the site; support is delivered through Learning Support. English language proficiency requirements are explicitly outlined in the Admissions section.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing ISM promotes student mental wellbeing through a structured Counseling program across all divisions, offering individual and group sessions, crisis intervention and collaboration with families and teachers. The Elementary School Counseling team focuses on social, emotional and personal growth, with an open-door policy for students and involvement of parents through workshops. The Middle School program provides confidential counseling, orientation for new students, parent workshops, and collaboration to design interventions, along with leadership programs such as Student Council and Ambassadors. The High School has seven counselors, a dedicated counseling center, and active college and career counseling, with students encouraged to consult the counselors throughout the year. On-campus wellbeing initiatives include Marimar, ISM's therapy dog, and the on-campus Health Clinic with a team of nurses and a pediatrician; safeguarding policies also require a campus-wide wellness program.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is central to BSM's Well-Being Framework, which emphasizes positive physical and mental health and uses Positive Education to foster resilience and a growth mindset. The framework is integrated into the curriculum and school life, with a focus on self-acceptance, belonging, emotional regulation, and self-motivation. The PE, Health and Well-Being programme reinforces mental well-being by delivering the Well-Being Framework through PE and sport, promoting inclusivity, differentiation and active lifestyles. Well-being concepts are taught in dedicated Well-Being classes and reinforced across subjects, including relationship-building, self-talk, resilience and gratitude activities. The aim is to cultivate belonging, curiosity and a capacity for growth in all students.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding ISM maintains a formal Child Safeguarding policy that recognizes that children can be at risk of abuse and requires measures to protect them. All school employees must be vetted and vouched for, including criminal-record and reference checks, with internal controls for contractors and staff. Outsourced contractors and volunteers with close contact to students must be screened, trained and supervised. If abuse is suspected or occurs, a comprehensive inquiry is conducted and findings are reported up to the superintendent, with potential involvement of relevant authorities or employers. The policy also requires a clear internet-use policy, filtering of inappropriate content, and education about digital citizenship. A comprehensive wellness program is outlined to support student safety and wellbeing across the school.	Safeguarding BSM is committed to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and maintains an environment that minimizes risk of harm while promoting students' right to be heard if they feel unsafe. The school also promotes safeguarding and the well-being of staff, parents and volunteers and expects their active participation in creating a safe and inclusive environment. The Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy can be accessed through the Family Portal. These policies reflect a structured, school-wide approach to safeguarding and child protection.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview International School Manila sits on a seven-hectare campus in Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The facilities support a comprehensive program with athletic, arts, and academic spaces. Outdoor facilities include a 400-meter all-weather track, three playing fields, a Sports Hall, eight tennis courts, and three fully air-conditioned gymnasiums. The arts and performance spaces include a 920-seat Fine & Performing Arts Theater, a Little Theater, and Amelita M. Ramos Hall with retractable seating. Academic and creative spaces include a Design Technology and Robotics Suite, a fully equipped Film Lab, a Specialized Learning Support Center, and an Early Years Center. Three libraries house over 80,000 books.	Facilities overview The British School Manila's campus combines academic, arts, and sports facilities designed to deliver learning beyond the classroom. The indoor multi-purpose hall supports basketball, volleyball and badminton, with a covered court, two football fields, and two swimming pools on site. The Creative Arts Centre provides spaces for drama, music and visual arts, including dedicated music rooms and a dance studio, and it opened in 2019 with a large atrium and a glass exterior. A library was added in 2014 as part of the Learning Resource Centre. In 2024, laboratory prep rooms and ICT facilities were introduced as part of campus refurbishments.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Sports facilities include a 400-meter all-weather track and three playing fields. Indoor and court facilities include a Sports Hall, eight outdoor tennis courts, and three fully air-conditioned gymnasiums. These spaces support physical education, school-wide competitions, and after-school sports activities.	Sports facilities Indoor multi-purpose hall for sports including basketball, volleyball, and badminton; a covered court; two football fields; and two swimming pools.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Three libraries house over 80,000 books and provide spaces for study and research across divisions. The campus includes a Design Technology and Robotics Suite and a fully equipped Film Lab to support STEAM and media projects. A Specialized Learning Support Center offers targeted assistance, and an Early Years Center serves younger students with age-appropriate facilities.	Academic facilities Library added in 2014 as part of the Learning Resource Centre. Laboratory prep rooms support science teaching, and ICT facilities in El Nido were updated in 2024 as part of campus refurbishments.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The arts and performance spaces support extracurricular programs, including the 920-seat Fine & Performing Arts Theater, the Little Theater, and Amelita M. Ramos Hall for drama, music, and productions. Hands-on creative opportunities are also provided by the Design Technology and Robotics Suite and the Film Lab.	Extra curricular facilities 180+ After School Activities are offered weekly across five strands: Academic, Creative Arts, Physically Active, SIDE (Science, Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurship), and Service & Sustainability. Primary and Senior cafeterias were refurbished as FoodiE Bistros in 2024.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History International School Manila (ISM) was established in 1920 as the American School by American and British expatriates. It moved through several Manila locations before relocating to a purpose-built 7-hectare campus in Bonifacio Global City in 2002. In 1970, the American School was renamed International School Manila at the recommendation of the US Embassy, reflecting a growing and diverse student body and becoming the first international school in the region to receive accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). ISM joined the Interscholastic Association of Southeast Asian Schools (IASAS) in 1982. In 2020, ISM celebrated 100 years of service, underscoring its status as Manila's oldest international school with an international community representing over 100 countries.	History The British School Manila was established in 1976 in the old Union Church with 36 students, making it the oldest not‑for‑profit international school in Manila offering British education. In 1980 the school moved to Merville, Parañaque as the student population grew to 107 students. In 1997 the school expanded to offer Key Stage 3 of Senior School, and in 2002 the Bonifacio Global City campus was inaugurated. The school was authorised to offer the IB Programme in 2003, with the first IB cohort in 2005. Royal visits included Princess Anne in 1999 and 2015, and the 40th anniversary was celebrated in 2016, followed by the opening of the Creative Arts Centre in 2019.
Community	Community ISM's international community includes students and staff from more than 100 countries, with a student body of over 2,200. The school is supported by the Parent Community Association (PCA), which organizes events that foster community and cultural exchange, such as Bearcat Welcome, the PCA Cooking Series, the Charity Holiday Bazaar, the PCA International Food Festival, the Used Book Fair, and the PCA Gala Dinner. These events bring together families across ISM's diverse community and support service and livelihood partnerships through fundraising and cultural celebration.	Community The school community is diverse, with more than 950 students from over 50 nationalities across Primary and Senior School on a single campus. Home–school partnerships and close engagement with UK and Commonwealth trained teaching staff support cross‑year interaction and a family‑like atmosphere. The calendar features Whole School Assemblies, Fun Run, International Evening and Speech Day, while Guy Fawkes Night and the Summer Fete are led by the PTA to strengthen community ties.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Community Association (PCA) functions as ISM's parent-teacher association, coordinating volunteer involvement and family engagement. The PCA runs a calendar of events that supports fundraising and campus life. Key events include Bearcat Welcome (new-family orientation) and the PCA Cooking Series. The Charity Holiday Bazaar highlights products from ISM's Service and Livelihood Partners, and the PCA International Food Festival showcases global cuisines. The Used Book Fair is a major fundraising sale and the PCA Gala Dinner is the largest annual fundraising event. Funds raised support school programs and community projects.	Parent teacher association The PTA sits at the heart of BSM, focusing on sustaining a sense of belonging and organizing events that engage students, families and staff. It coordinates whole‑school occasions such as Guy Fawkes Night in Term 1 and the Summer Fete in Term 3, and supports other school events to involve parents in the life of the school. Parent Representatives and the BSM PTA work together to strengthen family–school communication and ensure timely dissemination of key messages. The SY 2024-2025 PTA committee oversees areas including Work at BSM, BSM Alumni, BSM Taguig Scholarship Programme, Community Events, and the official PTA group. Membership comprises 11 parents and two teachers, elected by the school community. The PTA aims to create moments of joy, with funds from ticket sales supporting further activities or projects such as a climbing wall, bleachers on the sports field, and garden restorations.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ISM's co-curricular program provides academic enrichment beyond the classroom. In Design Technology, students explore coding and robotics, and science-focused activities emphasize hands-on experiments. Debate, forensics, and Model United Nations offer opportunities to develop critical thinking, research, and public speaking through IASAS events and local competitions. Co-curricular experiences are tracked in ManageBac CAS to document student growth across disciplines.	Academic & intellectual The After School Activities (ASA) programme offers 180+ scheduled sessions each week across five strands: Academic, Creative Arts, Physically Active, Science, Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurship (SIDE), and Service & Sustainability. SIDE provides STEM-focused experiences such as science, design challenges, and entrepreneurial projects beyond the classroom. The school supports academic enrichment outside class time through student leadership roles and clubs, including Model United Nations. Activities Week and Trips provide residential and outdoor learning experiences that extend education beyond the classroom.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative ISM provides a comprehensive arts program across elementary, middle, and high school. Arts & Crafts activities include 3D printing, crochet, drawing, film production, painting, and sculpting. Dance and music options include ballet, choir, strings, and tap dance, and Drama@ISM provides curricular and after-school drama opportunities. HS arts clubs such as Film Club, along with ongoing drama and dance programs, support performance and creative expression.	Arts & creative BSM offers extensive arts and creative activities across music, drama, visual arts, dance, and film, supported by the Creative Arts Centre. The Visual and Performing Arts department showcases student work through displays, performances, and exhibitions, including regular concerts, theatre productions, and art events. Students participate in major events such as the BSM Summer Concert featuring orchestras, choirs, and bands, and in productions and art festivals hosted or attended by the school. The school also hosts large-scale arts events such as FOBISIA drama festivals and various school productions.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language ISM engages students in cross-cultural activities through Model United Nations and IASAS Cultural Convention events that involve cross-cultural dialogue and public speaking. Debate and forensics programs contribute to international-competition pathways within IASAS and local contests. The Fine Arts and culture programs are supported by dedicated arts offices that coordinate events, trips, and showcases.	Cultural & language Model United Nations is offered for students from Year 5 to Year 13, providing opportunities to engage in diplomacy and global issues. International evenings and other multicultural events are part of the school's community life, reflecting its diverse community. Cultural activities are integrated with student leadership and performance opportunities within the Creative Arts and broader ASA programmes.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies ISM offers after-school activities across elementary, middle, and high school, including chess, the Sailfish Swim Team, table tennis, and wall climbing. Sign-ups for after-school activities are managed through the AFAC system, with separate processes for elementary and older students. Activities run through the school year and align with IASAS seasons and local competitions.	Social & hobbies The ASA programme includes a broad range of after-school clubs across academics, arts, sports, and service, with a dedicated Physically Active strand for sports and fitness. Facilities such as the indoor multi-purpose hall, covered court, two football fields, and two swimming pools support these activities. The Student Leadership programme and peer mentoring provide social development experiences, alongside coaching roles and extracurricular projects. Activities Week & Trips further enhance social engagement through group experiences and community-building activities.
Community & service	Community & service ISM runs service learning and sustainability initiatives across divisions. The Service Learning and Environment Committee coordinates cross-division service activities, and the school maintains Disaster Relief and Sustainability funds to support initiatives. The EcoSchools program and ongoing sustainability work involve the broader school community through committees and partnerships.	Community & service Service & Sustainability is a dedicated ASA strand offering volunteering, charity work, and community outreach opportunities. The school emphasises partnerships with community organisations and integrates service initiatives into school life, including broad participation during events and assemblies. Community events and school-wide activities foster a sense of belonging and social responsibility among students, families, and staff.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional ISM encourages students to take on leadership roles beyond the classroom, developing organizational and citizenship skills. The High School Peer Counseling program provides leadership opportunities as trained peer counselors, with pathways to the Peer Counseling Council. ManageBac CAS experiences document and support the development of leadership and professional skills across co-curricular activities.	Leadership & professional BSM's Student Leadership programme runs for Year 6–Year 13, providing a platform to initiate ideas, model positive behavior, and develop problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. In addition to the Student Council and leadership teams, students can engage in Buddying and Peer Mentoring, Sports Events & Extra Curricular Coaching, magazine editorial work, and opportunities such as TEDxBritishSchoolManila and Model United Nations. These roles cultivate leadership, communication, project management, and teamwork skills across the school community.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing ISM supports wellbeing through Wellness Activities such as cooking, playground games, and yoga. The athletics program includes season-based sports and all-year-round options to promote fitness and healthy lifestyles. Facilities and programs are designed to balance physical activity with opportunities for mindfulness and well-being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Well-Being framework guides a holistic approach to health, aiming for an active and balanced lifestyle, self-regulation, belonging, and resilience. The ASA strands emphasize physical activity and wellness as part of everyday school life, supporting students' physical and mental health. Positive Education and well-being initiatives are integrated into daily practice to promote lasting healthy habits. Outdoor education, residential trips, and activities within ASA also contribute to well-being and personal growth.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction at IS Manila. Filipino Language & Culture is taught in the Elementary School as a specialist subject, and a Modern Language program is available in Middle and High School. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme offers study options in Mandarin, Spanish, French, Arabic, Korean and Japanese. For non-native English speakers, IS Manila provides an integrated EAL program with a sheltered-immersion model (EDP in Elementary; EAP in Middle/High) to support access to the curriculum, and the school emphasizes maintaining students' home languages.	Language provision The language of instruction at The British School Manila is English. Beyond English, the school offers Mandarin, French and Spanish as Group 2 languages in the IB Diploma Programme, with Mandarin B HL/SL, French B HL/SL, Spanish B HL/SL and Spanish ab initio SL. Students may access English language assessments and Learning Support to assist non-native English speakers.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs ISM uses a sheltered-immersion model for language learning. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) program runs across Grades 1–10 and involves collaboration between language specialists and content teachers to make English content accessible. In Elementary School, the English Development Classes (EDP) provide targeted language support; in Middle and High School, English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is the core EAL course. The program emphasizes multilingualism and maintaining students' home languages as assets.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards 1. Eco-Schools Green Flag Award (June 6, 2022). The Eco-Schools Green Flag recognizes ISM's progress in sustainability across Biodiversity, Water, and Waste as part of the UNESCO-backed Eco-Schools program.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations 1. ACS-WASC accreditation (PK-12). The Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges accredits ISM's PK-12 program and reaffirmed the accreditation through June 30, 2025 after a March 2023 mid-cycle visit. 2. International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) accreditation. ISM is an IB World School, confirming that it offers IB programs; ISM was the first international school in Asia to offer the IB Diploma Programme.	Accreditations {
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Review Admissions Guidelines. IS Manila will admit children provided there is space in the grade/program and they demonstrate the ability to benefit from IS Manila's academic program, as determined by interviews, tests and review of past records. They must have no unresolved disciplinary or emotional problems in their previous schools, and they must reside with their parent(s) in the Philippines; any exception must be approved by the School prior to commencing the admission process. The age placement policy sets a September 1 cutoff, and High School students should graduate no later than age 20. If a student completes a grade level after the first semester, they will be placed in that same grade for the remainder of the school year; the School reserves the prerogative to accept or reject any application. 2. PowerSchool Registration. Create a PowerSchool account and begin the Online Application. You will be required to upload documents such as your child's passport, parent passports, previous and current academic records, and, if applicable, any learning support documentation. Once you submit, you will not be able to upload additional documents, which may delay review; you will receive a confirmation email indicating successful submission. To apply for another child, start a new application; you may save and return to complete before final submission. 3. Online Application Requirements. Your PowerSchool Registration account allows you to track the documents received. Review the specific Application File Requirements per grade and ensure that you complete all requirements for the file to be reviewed. It is advisable to submit prior and current academic information along with the required teacher recommendations; administrative documents may be submitted as they become available. 4. Confirmation of a Seat. Admission decisions are generally made after the applicant has taken the appropriate entrance test(s) on site and has interviewed with the relevant School Counselor. The School may make early decisions at its prerogative. If a seat is offered, parents should enroll immediately to secure the place and pay tuition and fees. 5. Enrollment Process. After formal acceptance, the student must complete the Enrollment Process, which requires clearance signatures on the Enrollment Clearance Form from the Admissions Office, the Cashier's Office, and the Health Clinic. The Enrollment steps include: submitting the Student Health Card and Physical Examination Record to the Health Clinic to obtain a clearance signature on the Enrollment Clearance Form; paying tuition and all other school-related fees at the Cashier's Office; submitting the signed Parent and School Shared Agreement; purchasing school uniforms at the Uniform Shop; obtaining school photo IDs at the Security Office and applying for car stickers there; signing up for the bus service at the Transportation Office (optional); signing up for the snack and/or lunch option at the Elementary School Canteen (optional); and submitting a signed General Proxy for the Board of Trustees (optional). All students entering Grades 7-12 must sign the ISM Drug Policy Form; all High School students must sign the Honor Code. For Preschool, the Enrollment Clearance Form may be given to the Preschool teacher. 6. Testing. Tests are usually scheduled to start at 8:00 a.m. in the Admissions Office and include English language skills and Mathematics; for older candidates, testing may include a foreign or modern language such as French, Japanese, Spanish and Mandarin. 7. Interview. All candidates and their parents are required to meet with a School Counselor. The Elementary School Counselor handles teacher placement, while Middle and High School Counselors work out class schedules; High School students and parents may also discuss the International Baccalaureate (IB) program with the IB Coordinator. Notes. IS Manila follows a Rolling Admissions Policy and accepts applications throughout the academic year; admissions operate with an Admissions Priority Policy and a maximum of nine months' advance applications.	Admissions 1. Submit an Enquiry. Submit your enquiry via the Admissions Enquiry Form. The Admissions team will respond to your enquiry with information and the next steps in the admissions process. Applications are processed throughout the year, subject to space availability. 2. Admissions Briefing/School Visit. To ensure you have the information you need, a briefing and a school visit are offered as part of the application process. The briefing typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, while the visit lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. Because briefing and visit appointments are limited, they are scheduled in line with application priorities, and advance booking is required. 3. Submission of Application Requirements. To process the application, provide a complete application form and health record for each child, school reports covering the past two years (with a grade translation and current English/Math work if from a non-British system), and the details of your current school for online reference forms. Include copies of the child's birth certificate and passports ( Applicant and Parents ), recent photos, and an application fee payable prior to invitation for review/assessment. 4. Review of Application Requirements. The Admissions team, together with the Primary and Senior School teams, will review the submitted documents and the application form to determine readiness for assessment. This review assesses documentation completeness, language proficiency considerations, and alignment with available spaces. 5. Invitation for Assessment. An applicant will be invited to proceed with assessment if recommended after the review. Invitations are issued by the Admissions team in accordance with the school's assessment plan for the relevant year level. 6. Assessment. The assessment duration varies by year group: Nursery–Reception about 1 hour; Year 1–2 about 1–2 hours; Year 3–6 about 1.5 days; Year 7–13 about a full morning with a 15-minute interview. The school may request additional days if further assessment is recommended. 7. Decision. The Admissions team will inform families of the decision regarding their child's application, indicating whether a place is offered, the child is placed in the wait pool, or the application is declined. Wait pool placements depend on space and pass of entrance assessments.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships. Applications for SY 2026-2027 are closed. IS Manila offers scholarships to Filipino citizens who will be thirteen years old on or before September 01, 2026 and who have completed Grade 7; awardees enroll in Grade 8 and continue through Grade 12. The need-based scholarships cover fees such as tuition, matriculation, and book rental, with a possible participation fee for families. Eligibility requires Filipino citizenship, Grade 7 completion, high academic achievement (no grade below 85%), demonstrated financial need, meeting regular IS Manila entrance requirements, strong English proficiency, and good health; only one sibling per family is considered; dual citizens are not eligible. Selection involves an assessment day (8:00 AM–3:00 PM) with English and Math evaluations, followed by home visits and panel interviews; a final decision is based on overall application materials and interviews. Scholarships require acceptance within one week of notification; awardees must cover other student expenses (lunches, uniforms, activities) beyond the scholarship grant; the scholarship spans Grades 8–12 and includes yearly evaluations by the Philippine Scholarship Committee to determine continuation. Dates of examination and interview are January 31, 2026 (8:00 AM–3:00 PM) and March 23–24, 2026 (Interview Day). Scholarship forms include an Application Checklist, Online Application Form, Financial Requirement, Principal's Appraisal, and Certificate of Good Health; report cards/transcripts from Grade 1 onward are required. The program includes ISM Filipino Scholars and the Victoria SyCip Herrera Scholarship Foundation as named components of IS Manila's scholarship ecosystem.	Scholarships BSM Taguig Scholarship Programme (BSMTSP). The British School Manila operates the BSM Taguig Scholarship Programme to help excellent, but financially disadvantaged Senior High School and college students in Taguig obtain higher education from the top schools in Metro Manila. The programme provides augmented services and supports scholars with seminars/workshops and pastoral guidance, and the committee monitors career movements after graduation to support ongoing development. Current scholars are being supported by the programme, and the initiative has supported scholars for about 20 years. Since it began, the programme has funded a total of 55 scholars, with 24 current scholars noted on the page.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waitlist/Pool. When a grade or program has no available space, IS Manila maintains a Waitpool. Candidates on the Waitpool are considered for admission as openings become available. There is Admissions Priority consideration, but there is no fixed chronological order within that priority grouping; IS Manila strives for balance in gender, diversity of nationalities, and predictable academic success for the candidate when a space opens. If a space becomes available, parents are advised immediately and asked to confirm continued interest and pay the current tuition and fees to hold the place. The Application Fee remains valid for two academic years for Waitpool applications, and families may roll over an application year if space is not offered (requires a formal rollover request). IS Manila reserves the right to accept or reject any application. One exploratory visit per family is allowed. Guardianship requests follow additional policy by the Superintendent.	Waitlist Wait Pool and Admissions Priority. A wait pool process is in place. Once admissions by year level have reached the maximum class size, the following Admissions Priority Procedures apply, subject to the student applicant successfully completing the entrance assessment. Priority categories determine order of consideration: Category 1 – Dependents of British diplomats and Commonwealth diplomats; Category 2 – Commonwealth nationals resident in the Philippines by expatriate employment status; Category 3 – Siblings of enrolled students not in Category 1 or 2; Category 4 – Dependents of families not included in Categories 1–3.
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