Léman Manhattan Preparatory School - Broad Street Campus and United Nations International School are both in New York, about 5 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and United Nations International School also offers Bespoke. Published annual fees are $15,000 - 72,000 at Léman Manhattan Preparatory School - Broad Street Campus and $48,456 - 53,767 at United Nations International School, which puts United Nations International School roughly 17% higher. Léman Manhattan Preparatory School - Broad Street Campus takes pupils from 1 to 18, and United Nations International School from 4 to 18. United Nations International School is the larger school, with around 1,450 pupils to Léman Manhattan Preparatory School - Broad Street Campus's 700. Typical class sizes are 18 at Léman Manhattan Preparatory School - Broad Street Campus and 19 at United Nations International School.
|
L
Léman Manhattan Preparatory School - Broad Street Campus
New York, United States
|
U
United Nations International School
New York, United States
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
|
Fees / year
|
Fees / year $15,000 - 72,000 | Fees / year $48,456 - 53,767 |
|
Age range
|
Age range 1 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
|
Type
|
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding) | Type Co-educational |
|
Curriculum
|
Curriculum IB (DP) | Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum |
|
Pupils
|
Pupils 700 | Pupils 1,450 |
|
Typical class size
|
Typical class size 18 | Typical class size 19 |
|
Instruction language
|
Instruction language English, Mandarin, French, Spanish | Instruction language English |
|
Opened
|
Opened 2005 | Opened 1947 |
|
Bus service
|
Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
|
Location
|
Location Broad Street Campus is at 41 Broad Street, New York, NY 10004, in the Financial District, just steps from the New York Stock Exchange. Morris Street Campus is at 1 Morris Street, New York, NY 10004, housed in the Cunard Building, steps from Wall Street and Battery Park. The Broad Street Campus serves ages 12 months through Grade 5 and the Morris Street Campus serves Grades 6–12, both located in Lower Manhattan. | Location New York, United States. Campus: 24-50 FDR Drive, New York, NY 10010-4046. |
|
Stages
|
Stages Center for Early Childhood Education (12 months–PK4); Léman Explorers (12–24 months); PreK 2; PreK 3; PreK 4; Kindergarten; Lower School (Kindergarten–Grade 5); Middle School (Grades 6–8); High School (Grades 9–12); Boarding Program (Residential Students in Grades 9–12). | Stages Pre-K through 12th grade (PreK-12). |
|
School type
|
School type Private, coeducational day and boarding school; International Baccalaureate World School. | School type Day school. |
|
Pupil nationality mix
|
Pupil nationality mix 100+ nationalities represented. | Pupil nationality mix 97 countries are represented by UNIS students. |
|
Additional learning support
|
Additional learning support Support Team comprises trained Learning Specialists who collaborate with classroom teachers; Student Support Services include Learning Support, Counseling, and Nursing. | Additional learning support The UNIS Student Support Team provides assistance to UNIS students and families from Pre-K through 12, including social, emotional, health and wellness support, learning support, and college preparation. |
|
Country affiliation
|
Country affiliation United States | Country affiliation Affiliation with the United Nations. |
|
Religious affiliation
|
Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
|
School day structure
|
School day structure — | School day structure Junior School begins around 8:30 a.m. with homeroom at 8:45 a.m.; JA pick-up is at 2:55 p.m.; Tutorial House ends around 2:50 p.m., with some courses meeting until 4:10 p.m.; lunch lasts about 30–60 minutes and there are scheduled recess periods. |
|
Bus service details
|
Bus service details Private bus service from Brooklyn is offered, with routes covering Brooklyn Heights, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, and Park Slope for Kindergarten–8th Grade; routes and timetables are determined by the school. | Bus service details There are free NYC school buses for students in kindergarten through sixth grade who live within five miles of the school; private buses may be arranged by parents; UNIS students may also receive MetroCards. |
| Fees | Fees | |
|
Fee details
|
Fee details Application fees - There is no fee to apply to the boarding program; applications for boarding are free. - General student applications are submitted through the school's Ravenna application system; no separate, school-published flat application fee amount appears in the school's tuition materials. Annual tuition (2026–2027 academic year) - Léman Explorers (12–24 months): - Two Days (Tues/Thurs, 10:00–11:30 AM): USD 8,800. - Three Days (Mon/Wed/Fri, 10:00–11:30 AM): USD 11,800. - Five Days (Mon–Fri, 10:00–11:30 AM): USD 15,000. - PreK2: - Five Days Morning (9:00 AM–12:00 PM): USD 35,000. - Five Days Full Day (9:00 AM–3:00 PM, includes lunch): USD 44,000. - PreK3 & PreK4: - PreK3 Five Days Half Day (8:30 AM–1:00 PM, includes lunch): USD 38,600. - PreK3 Five Days Full Day (8:30 AM–3:15 PM, includes lunch): USD 44,000. - PreK4 Five Days Full Day (8:30 AM–3:15 PM, includes lunch): USD 59,000. - Kindergarten through Grade 10: USD 70,700. - Grades 11 & 12: USD 72,000. Per-installment examples (paying by the school's stated installment plans) - Léman offers payment plans in 3, 5 and 7 installments; the figures below are the annual tuition evenly divided for each instalment option (simple division used for examples; the enrollment agreement may specify exact installment amounts, dates, or administrative fees). - Léman Explorers Two Days (USD 8,800): - 3-installment example: USD 2,933 per installment (rounded). 5-installment: USD 1,760. 7-installment: USD 1,257. - Léman Explorers Three Days (USD 11,800): - 3-installment: USD 3,934; 5-installment: USD 2,360; 7-installment: USD 1,686. - Léman Explorers Five Days (USD 15,000): - 3-installment: USD 5,000; 5-installment: USD 3,000; 7-installment: USD 2,143. - PreK2 Five Days Morning (USD 35,000): - 3-installment: USD 11,667; 5-installment: USD 7,000; 7-installment: USD 5,000. - PreK2 Five Days Full Day (USD 44,000): - 3-installment: USD 14,667; 5-installment: USD 8,800; 7-installment: USD 6,286. - PreK3 Half Day (USD 38,600): - 3-installment: USD 12,867; 5-installment: USD 7,720; 7-installment: USD 5,514. - PreK3/PreK2 Full Day (USD 44,000): - 3-installment: USD 14,667; 5-installment: USD 8,800; 7-installment: USD 6,286. - PreK4 Full Day (USD 59,000): - 3-installment: USD 19,667; 5-installment: USD 11,800; 7-installment: USD 8,429. - Kindergarten–Grade 10 (USD 70,700): - 3-installment: USD 23,567; 5-installment: USD 14,140; 7-installment: USD 10,100. - Grades 11–12 (USD 72,000): - 3-installment: USD 24,000; 5-installment: USD 14,400; 7-installment: USD 10,286. Billing schedule and payment terms - Families must sign the enrollment agreement and make the required tuition payment (deposit or pay in full) so that payment clears by the school's reply deadline for the student's admission decision; reply deadlines and required payment timing vary by grade and follow the school's ISAAGNY-based timelines. - Léman offers financial incentives for families who pay tuition in full and provides 3-, 5- and 7-installment payment plans for spreading the balance. Exact installment dates and any administrative terms are set in the enrollment agreement and billing statements. Boarding fees (where applicable) - The boarding program is available for students in Grades 9–12. A 2025–2026 boarding cost example shown for the boarding program lists Tuition + Room & Board: USD 92,000; Boarding Fees: USD 6,000; Total Cost: USD 98,000 (the school separately notes Tuition, Room & Board and an itemized boarding fee component). There is no fee to apply to the boarding program. Other costs and inclusions - Items explicitly included in the published tuition: International Baccalaureate program, books and learning materials, field trips, daily lunch and snacks, qualifying Yellow Bus service, transportation to/from after-school activities, early drop-off for PreK2–Grade 5, specified overnight curricular trips (domestic and international for certain grades), educational devices through Grade 5, athletic programs (Grade 7+), athletic uniforms and equipment, after-school clubs and select arts programs, yearbook and graduation/moving-up photographs. - The school publishes a USD 2,000 sibling tuition discount for families with more than one child enrolled. - Separate or occasional additional charges may apply for items or activities outside the listed inclusions (optional trips beyond those listed, personal supplies, personal travel, health insurance for international students, or other extracurricular-specific charges); specific optional fees and any one-time new-student or senior-year charges are set in admissions/boarding materials and the enrollment agreement. Refund information - Enrollment is contract-based: families sign an enrollment agreement and are required to submit the agreed tuition payment by the reply deadline; refund, withdrawal and cancellation terms are governed by that enrollment agreement and the school's admissions and billing policies. The school's published timelines state that payment (deposit or payment in full) must clear by the reply deadline for the offer to be held. Fee payment options - The school's published materials describe pay-in-full and multi-installment plans (3-, 5-, 7-installments) and financial incentives for full payment; the enrollment agreement and billing statements provide the specific installment schedule and payment instructions. Families follow the billing instructions in the enrollment/enrollment-acceptance materials to complete payments. If you require these figures presented as pre-calculated per installment for other specific grades or rounded differently, use of the school's enrollment billing statement will provide the exact installment dates, any administrative fees, and accepted payment methods. | Fee details Application and acceptance fees - Admissions fee (payable upon acceptance): USD 250. - Tuition pre-payment (payable upon acceptance): USD 1,000. - Security deposit (refundable upon graduation or withdrawal, subject to the school's conditions): USD 300. - One-time New Parent Levy (per new family, payable upon acceptance): USD 3,500. Total payable on acceptance (Admissions fee + Tuition pre-payment + Security deposit + New Parent Levy): USD 5,050. Tuition fees (2026–27) — annual amounts by year group - Junior School (Pre-K through Junior 4 / Grade 4): USD 46,856 per year for each grade in this range. - Middle School - Middle 1 (Grade 5): USD 48,592 per year. - Middle 2 (Grade 6): USD 48,592 per year. - Middle 3 (Grade 7): USD 48,592 per year. - Middle 4 (Grade 8): USD 49,259 per year. - Tutorial House (Grades 9–12) - Tutorial 1 (Grade 9): USD 50,911 per year. - Tutorial 2 (Grade 10): USD 50,911 per year. - Tutorial 3 (Grade 11): USD 51,390 per year. - Tutorial 4 (Grade 12): USD 52,167 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms (2026–27) - Re-enrolling students: a nonrefundable re-enrollment deposit of USD 4,000 is due on March 12, 2026; the balance of tuition is paid in two installments: 70% of the annual tuition due on August 1, 2026, and 30% due on January 1, 2027. - Payable upon acceptance (new enrolments): Admissions Fee (USD 250), Tuition Pre-Payment (USD 1,000), Security Deposit (USD 300), and One-time New Parent Levy (USD 3,500) for a total of USD 5,050 due when the place is accepted. Example installment amounts (70% / 30% split) for 2026–27 (rounded to nearest USD) - Junior School (annual USD 46,856): 70% = USD 32,799; 30% = USD 14,057. - Middle 1–3 (annual USD 48,592): 70% = USD 34,014; 30% = USD 14,578. - Middle 4 (annual USD 49,259): 70% = USD 34,481; 30% = USD 14,778. - Tutorial 1–2 (annual USD 50,911): 70% = USD 35,638; 30% = USD 15,273. - Tutorial 3 (annual USD 51,390): 70% = USD 35,973; 30% = USD 15,417. - Tutorial 4 (annual USD 52,167): 70% = USD 36,517; 30% = USD 15,650. Additional and incidental fees - Capital surcharge: USD 1,400 per child, charged in addition to tuition. - UNIS Parents' Association membership dues: USD 200 per family. - Textbooks and field trips: variable (as required by Middle School and Tutorial House). - 1:1 device assignment insurance deductible deposit (Grades M1 to T4): USD 250 per family; refundable upon return of devices in good condition subject to the school's device-return conditions. - Optional fees (examples): after-school programs, lunches (contracted on an annual basis), private music lessons and instrument rental; these are charged in addition to tuition and other mandatory fees. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. UNIS is a PreK–12 day school; there are no boarding facilities or boarding fees. Refund information - All payments are generally non‑refundable, with stated exceptions for return of computer devices in good condition and the security deposit upon graduation (or withdrawal where the school's policy allows refund of the security deposit). Specific refund timing and conditions for the New Parent Levy and the Security Deposit are stated in the school's fee policy (examples for prior-year enrollment deadlines are included in the school's terms). Fee payment options - The school provides a Parent Portal (portal access is available for families) for account management. For other electronic payment channels used by the school for financial transactions (including donations), accepted methods include online credit-card payments, electronic funds transfer, Venmo, checks, phone payments, and securities transfer where applicable. (These electronic and check/EFT channels are used by the school for institutional payments and giving transactions.) |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
|
Boarding arrangements
|
Boarding arrangements Boarding is available for students in Grades 9–12. Léman Manhattan is New York City's only boarding program. Boarding students live in modern apartments at 37 Wall Street; each suite includes a kitchen, a bathroom, a study area, Wi-Fi, and a hi-tech security system. Residential counselors provide 24/7 supervision and meals consist of three chef-prepared meals per day. | Boarding arrangements The school is a day school; there is no boarding. |
|
Uniform requirement
|
Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement Uniforms are not worn at UNIS; students dress in neat and clean attire. |
|
Food options
|
Food options Three chef-prepared meals per day are provided to boarding students. | Food options UNIS offers a dining program through Elior Independent School Dining. Dining plans are 100% optional and available for students in grades J1 through Tutorial 4. UNIS is allergy aware. |
|
House system
|
House system — | House system — |
|
Governance and ownership
|
Governance and ownership The governing body is the Léman Community Association, a non-profit parent organization. | Governance and ownership UNIS is a not-for-profit organization under U.S. law and is chartered by the New York Regents to provide an international education for UN-affiliated families and other families seeking a similar education. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the mission and policies of UNIS and is composed of eighteen Trustees; members are appointed by the Secretary-General of the United Nations and regulated by UNIS By-Laws. The School recognizes Honorary Trustees from UNIS, the United Nations and UN member states and observers. |
| Academics | Academics | |
|
Curriculum details
|
Curriculum details Léman Manhattan is an International Baccalaureate World School that delivers a rigorous, inquiry-based curriculum. The Four Pillars guide learning: Academic Rigor, Global Education, Personalized Learning for Each Child, and Partnerships that Drive Results. The curriculum emphasizes a globally minded community representing more than 50 countries. Personal Learning Plans differentiate instruction to support each student's growth. World language instruction begins in PreK 2 with Mandarin, French, and Spanish offered, continuing through 5th grade. Academic divisions include the Center for Early Childhood Education, Lower School, Middle School, and High School. | Curriculum details The UNIS curriculum is a Pre-K-12 International Baccalaureate program. The school is accredited by the International Baccalaureate, the Council of Independent Schools, and the New York State Association of Independent Schools. The UNIS curriculum aligns to Common Core Math Standards, the Next Generation Science Standards, NY Next Generation ELA standards, and British Columbia Social Studies Standards. UNIS is a founding IB school, and the IB learner profile is reflected in UNIS's approach to learning. |
|
Student teacher ratio
|
Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
|
Exam results
|
Exam results MAP tests show Léman students consistently score above national and New York State averages in reading, math, and language, with many students demonstrating more than a year's growth in a single school year. In the most recent testing cycle, Léman students outperformed the national average in every grade and subject tested and exceeded New York State averages in reading, math, and language. | Exam results — |
|
Higher education progression
|
Higher education progression Expert College Advising provides comprehensive college counseling, including PSAT and practice ACT, advisory sessions, parent workshops, and one-to-one college planning meetings starting in junior year. The college counseling program also hosts workshops with college admissions officers and an annual college fair. Léman graduates have been accepted to colleges and universities such as Harvard University, Yale University, and Columbia University. Eighty percent of Léman graduates are accepted to highly selective colleges. | Higher education progression Graduates attend colleges and universities across the United States and in many other nations. UNIS students apply to and enroll at universities in ten or more countries. The College Counseling Office provides a structured program with events such as the UNIS College Fair, which hosts over 150 colleges, and a College Counseling Timeline to guide students through the process. |
|
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 Center for Early Childhood Education is a joyful, nurturing place that sets the foundation for each child's academic, social, and emotional success. Social and emotional development is supported through a play‑based, inquiry‑driven program and a Responsive Classroom approach, including Morning Meeting to help students feel welcomed and connected and daily emotional support to form secure relationships. In PreK 4, students learn to express themselves, cooperate, take turns, and show empathy, creating a nurturing classroom community that supports social growth and academic learning. | Social & emotional learning The UNIS Student Support Team (SST) provides assistance to Pre-K through 12 students and serves as a liaison with higher education, health and psychological services, educational specialists, and other schools. The program aims to promote students' social, emotional, physical, and intellectual well-being, with a focus on social and emotional competency, general health and wellness, safety and risk prevention, learning support, and college preparation. It supports smooth transitions for families entering UNIS and for students moving between grades and divisions. |
|
Special educational needs (SEN)
|
Special educational needs (SEN) A multidisciplinary Student Support Services program includes Learning Support, Counseling, and Nursing. Each division has a Student Support Team of Learning Specialists who collaborate with teachers and administrators to identify interventions and ensure equitable access to all programs, including the IB curriculum. The program emphasizes meeting the whole student—intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically—through a team approach that involves families and staff. Student Study Teams and targeted instructional interventions are used to support students who need additional help. | Special educational needs (SEN) Learning support is provided to UNIS students through the School-wide Student Support Team, with proactive and responsive programs for individual needs and differences. |
|
English as an additional language
|
English as an additional language English For Speakers Of Other Languages (ESOL) is offered as part of Student Support Services. ESOL includes leveled courses (ESOL 2, ESOL 3, ESOL 4) aligned to CEFR levels B1, B2, and C1, with instruction focused on listening, speaking, reading, and writing and delivered through projects and individualized work. Students are placed using the Oxford Online Placement Test and reassessed annually with the WIDA framework; ESOL placement can be adjusted based on performance, with ESOL becoming optional once a student meets proficiency thresholds. | English as an additional language English is the common and primary language of instruction at UNIS. The community includes students who speak many languages, and the school honors and celebrates home languages while English remains the primary language of instruction. ELL support is offered at beginner, intermediate, or advanced levels, and as proficiency develops, the amount and type of support adapts to meet individual growth and learning needs. |
|
Mental wellbeing
|
Mental wellbeing The Léman Counseling Office provides mental health resources for Middle and High School students, offering advisory lessons and guest speakers to promote awareness, coping skills, and general wellness. The program includes mindfulness activities and talks by external experts, such as crisis intervention and wellbeing professionals, to help students recognize mental health needs in themselves and others. Resources include connections to crisis support services, such as Crisis Text Line, to provide immediate assistance when needed. | Mental wellbeing The Student Support Team promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual well-being for all students, focusing on social and emotional competency, general health and wellness, safety and risk prevention, learning support, and college preparation. |
|
Safeguarding
|
Safeguarding The Antiracism Action Plan establishes safeguarding‑oriented structures, including a Mandated Reporter Policy and a transparent Incident Reporting System to address harassment and discrimination. The plan also outlines policies to prohibit hate speech and discrimination and creates a Student/Faculty Honor Council to review disciplinary matters and improve the school community's safety and wellbeing. | Safeguarding The school places emphasis on safety and risk prevention within its student support programs. |
|
Safeguarding policy
|
Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
|
Facilities overview
|
Facilities overview Upper School is housed in the Cunard Building at 1 Morris Street. Light-filled classrooms use state-of-the-art technology and offer views of New York Harbor, the city, and the Statue of Liberty. The campus includes a research library, art and music studios, multiple technology labs, and a café. Athletic facilities comprise a 25-yard pool, a full-size gymnasium, and a fully equipped fitness center. The Broad Street Campus serves younger students and provides science labs, art studios, music rooms, a library, a swimming pool, a gym, and a ballroom. | Facilities overview UNIS operates across two campuses: a four‑story Manhattan campus on the East River and a smaller Queens campus near the site of the original UNIS. The Manhattan campus, built in 1973, spans about 226,000 square feet and houses PreK–12 with roughly 200 classrooms, 15 science laboratories, and three libraries. Many classrooms and offices on the Manhattan campus overlook New York City from its riverfront site, and the campus includes a roof gym in a bubble and an outdoor running track on the roof. The Queens campus serves Grades K–8, including the Junior and Middle Schools, and is located near the original UNIS site. |
|
Sports facilities
|
Sports facilities Two indoor pools provide swimming facilities across Léman's campuses, with the Morris Street Aquatics Center featuring a competition-sized pool for instruction and teams. A rock-climbing wall supports physical education. A full gymnasium and a fitness center support conditioning and team practices. The Broad Street Campus provides additional gym facilities and a swimming pool for younger students. | Sports facilities UNIS uses gymnasia, playgrounds, and rooftop field spaces for physical education and athletics; the Manhattan campus features a roof gym in a bubble and an outdoor running track on the roof. The school maintains an extensive athletics program with 38 school teams and participates in interscholastic competition. |
|
Academic facilities
|
Academic facilities SMART Classrooms are equipped with the latest technology and audiovisual capabilities. The Technology Lab houses software resources, 3D printers, and spaces for computer science, digital music, and digital design. Multiple Science Labs support inquiry-based science learning. The Library offers print and digital resources and is supported by librarians with advanced degrees. Art Studios, an Art Gallery, and a 400-seat Theatre support visual and performing arts, while Music and Practice Rooms host ensembles and private lessons. | Academic facilities The Manhattan campus has approximately 200 classrooms, 15 science laboratories, and three libraries within about 226,000 square feet of space. The Queens campus provides the K–8 Junior and Middle School programs. |
|
Extra curricular facilities
|
Extra curricular facilities Children in PreK through Grade 5 can participate in after-school programming, with Middle School students joining clubs and sports. Léman Plus offers enrichment courses including performing and visual arts, chess, newspaper, martial arts, STEM, swimming, sports, and cooking. The Center for Early Childhood Education After-School provides a program for PreK 2 through PreK 4. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is available to students aged 14-24. Camp Léman is Léman's summer day camp for ages 3 through rising 6th grade, featuring on-site pool time, sports, rooftop and field activities, and a range of specialty programs. | Extra curricular facilities UNIS offers a broad range of language and travel opportunities, with nine languages offered and a full mother‑tongue program; Grade 8 includes an exchange trip with schools in Spain and France. The Arts program includes drama and theatre, with productions and performances such as citywide events at venues like Carnegie Hall. UNIS‑UN is a student‑run conference held in the General Assembly Hall at the United Nations. After‑school care and environmental programs augment the curricular offerings, and the school supports extensive travel, clubs, committees, and community‑service opportunities. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
|
History
|
History Rooted in a sixty-year history of academic excellence, Léman Manhattan draws on Collège du Léman, founded in 1960 in Versoix, Switzerland. Léman Manhattan was established in the heart of downtown in 2005 to bring a cross-cultural global context, personalized learning, and innovation to New York City's K-12 independent school landscape. Collège du Léman enrolls nearly 2,000 students from 100 nationalities on its lakeside campus. The school has built a strong community recognized for exceptional academic outcomes, teaching excellence, international diversity, and a genuine warmth. | History UNIS was established in 1947 by United Nations parents to provide an international education while preserving diverse cultural heritages. The school opened in Lake Success, NY to 36 children from 15 countries who spoke 10 languages. In November 1950 the formal opening of the new quarters included the presentation of the United Nations Flag by Henri Laugier on behalf of the Secretary-General. In 1967 UNIS was one of eleven schools participating in the newly founded International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. A cornerstone for the permanent UNIS building was dedicated by Secretary-General U Thant, with opening planned for September 1972 to accommodate 1,200 pupils, and UNIS celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2017 and its 75th anniversary in 2022. |
|
Community
|
Community The Léman Community Association (LCA) is a non-profit parent organization that fosters a sense of strong community at Léman and enriches the experiences of all Léman students, parents and faculty. Led by a Board of Directors and supported by many parent volunteers across the school, the LCA connects families across divisions, welcomes new families, fosters school pride, and funds enrichment opportunities for students and faculty. The LCA supports student enrichment including financial support for Léman Plus After School Programming, overnight class trips to Frost Valley and Nature's Classroom, and the Annual Middle School Global Games, and coordinates events across the entire school to bring students together outside of class and foster fun, community and a sense of Léman pride. The Léman community celebrates its international character through events such as the Book Fair in November, the International Festival, the Spring Gala with themes like Great Gatsby, Havana Nights, Casino Royale and Kentucky Derby, Family Socials, Spirit Wear, and a Parent-Faculty Basketball Game. | Community UNIS has a close connection to the United Nations, offering opportunities to meet and visit the UN through programs such as UNIS-UN and UN Day. UN Day marks the day the United Nations officially came into being and celebrates the school's diversity and shared humanity. The school hosts Master Classes during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown featuring distinguished guests including a US Supreme Court Judge, the Director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a Tony Award-winning actor, and the creator of The Daily Show. The Global Citizens United Nations Connection reinforces the UN spirit in the curriculum and experiences. |
|
Parent teacher association
|
Parent teacher association The Léman Community Association is a non-profit parent organization that fosters a strong sense of community at Léman and enriches the experiences of students, parents, and faculty. Led by a Board of Directors and supported by many parent volunteers, the LCA connects families across divisions, welcomes new families, fosters school pride, and funds enrichment opportunities for students and faculty. The LCA supports teacher enrichment through the Teacher Innovation Grant Program, which has funded projects such as a Broadcast Journalism Studio, a Physics Cloud Chamber, a Buddy Bench at the 41 Broad St Rooftop Playground, and World Language Spring Break Trips to Shanghai. It coordinates a range of events to bring the community together, including the Book Fair, International Festival, Spring Gala (with themes such as Great Gatsby, Havana Nights, Casino Royale and Kentucky Derby), Family Socials, Spirit Wear, and a Parent-Faculty Basketball Game. LCA liaisons coordinate communications across grades, and volunteers can contribute by emailing LCA@lemanmanhattan.org. Funds raised support enrichment and community-building initiatives. | Parent teacher association UNIS has a Parents' Association (UNIS PA) that partners with the school administration, faculty, and staff. All UNIS families are automatically members and pay PA dues annually. Monthly PA meetings are held and members contribute through committees and activities. The PA committees include Arts, Bridge2UN, Cultural Events, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), New2UNIS, UNIS Athletic Association, and Social Responsibilities Committee. New families are welcomed through New2UNIS. The PA sponsors events such as Deepavali (the Festival of Lights) and the International Food and Fun Fair, with 20+ PA-sponsored events and thousands of attendees. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
|
Academic & intellectual
|
Academic & intellectual FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competitions are part of Léman's STEM program. Seven Léman students collaborated with professors on scientific research projects. The school recognizes student achievement in mathematics through the Noetic Math Competition. IB science courses are offered at Higher Level and Standard Level, including Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Systems and Societies, and Physics, with laboratory work and research opportunities. | Academic & intellectual The school offers a wide range of activities beyond the classroom, including travel programs, clubs, committees, publications, and community-service opportunities. Students participate in travel programs and a broad selection of student clubs and conferences that emphasize research, debate, and global issues. |
|
Arts & creative
|
Arts & creative Léman features a vibrant Fine Arts program spanning music, theater, and visual arts. The music program includes a Signature Strings program for K-3, band or chorus in Elementary and Middle School, and the Léman Conservatory for after-school private lessons. Theatre offers Middle School coursework and IB Theatre in High School, with signature productions such as Main Stage, One Act Plays, and Scene Night. Visual Arts cover drawing, painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, and more, supported by dedicated studio spaces. | Arts & creative UNIS arts programs offer opportunities for studio practice, problem solving, and cultural investigation through classical and contemporary music, acting, directing, and playwriting, drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, computer graphics, and digital photography. Programs include Music, Visual Arts, Theatre, and Film. |
|
Cultural & language
|
Cultural & language World language instruction begins in early childhood with daily exposure to Mandarin, French, and Spanish in PreK; Léman Explorers expands language experiences for 12 to 24 months with exposure to Mandarin, Spanish, and French through stories and songs. In Upper School, IB language courses are available in multiple languages. The Model UN Club participates in United Nations conferences, developing diplomacy skills and global awareness. | Cultural & language Students can engage in international programs through UNIS Model United Nations and UNIS-UN Conference, reflecting international engagement. Equity and Inclusion Board involves cross-cultural initiatives and student leadership. |
|
Social & hobbies
|
Social & hobbies After-School Programs extend learning beyond class with Léman Plus, offering classes in chess, newspaper, martial arts, STEM, swimming, and cooking. Camp Léman provides summer experiences with sports, outdoor play, and specialty activities such as live animal shows, cooking, science, visual and performing arts, and martial arts. | Social & hobbies Students can participate in more than fifty student clubs and conferences; there is an annual Club Fair for Tutorial House students to explore and join clubs. UNIS supports student-led conferences and a variety of clubs such as UNIS-UN Conference, UNIS Model United Nations, Equity and Inclusion Board, and UNIS Student Council. |
|
Community & service
|
Community & service Léman builds a culture of service through monthly student service projects that engage partners in the local and global community. Upper School students participate in clubs such as The Red Cross Club, The Volunteer Club, National Honor Society, and National Junior Society, and IB Diploma students complete Creativity, Activity, and Service projects. Each year Léman supports multiple service partners including City Harvest, Meow Squad, New York Cares, Rise Against Hunger. | Community & service Community service is a core component at UNIS; Tutorial 1 and Tutorial 2 students are required to complete thirty hours by the end of the school year, with at least ten hours completed off campus. There are many volunteer opportunities; past projects include Habitat for Humanity, Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen, NYC Parks Conservation Corps, and museum internships. UNIS Community Cares projects showcase acts of kindness and student-led initiatives to support care providers and first responders. |
|
Leadership & professional
|
Leadership & professional The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is a globally recognized program for students aged 14 to 24, with Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels across four areas: Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey. The Award develops leadership, teamwork, goal setting, and community contribution and is recognized by universities and employers worldwide. Upper School students also participate in National Honor Society and National Junior Society, which offer leadership opportunities and service experiences in line with the IB CAS framework. | Leadership & professional Student leadership opportunities include UNIS Student Council and the Equity and Inclusion Board, which organize school-wide initiatives and forums. The Office of Student Activities publicizes opportunities and helps with placements. |
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing Léman offers 45 competitive athletic teams across fall, winter, and spring seasons. The facilities include two indoor pools, a rock-climbing wall, a full gymnasium, and access to city fields and parks, emphasizing health, fitness, and teamwork. Camp Léman provides summer experiences with sports, outdoor play, and a range of specialty activities such as live animal shows, cooking, science, visual and performing arts, and martial arts. | Lifestyle & wellbeing UNIS has an extensive Athletics program, running across three seasons for students in 7th–12th grades, and consists of 38 school teams. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
|
Language provision
|
Language provision Languages taught include Mandarin, Spanish, and French. In PreK 2, students receive weekly instruction in Mandarin, Spanish and French; in PreK 3, students receive daily world language instruction in Mandarin, French or Spanish; PK4 through 5th grade continues daily language instruction. Léman already offers a bilingual IB Diploma in Mandarin, and a French bilingual high school program with The École began in 2022 with plans to introduce a Spanish bilingual diploma. | Language provision Nine languages are offered at UNIS. English is the language of instruction. The nine languages include French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Mandarin, Arabic, German, Japanese, and English, and UNIS also offers seven self-taught languages. The Language A program includes Language & Literature and Humanities in French from Kindergarten through Grade 10, and IB DP Group 6 French and Group 6 Spanish. |
|
Bilingual teaching
|
Bilingual teaching Mandarin, Spanish and French are offered as world languages. In PreK–5, PreK 2 has weekly instruction in Mandarin, Spanish and French; PreK 3 has daily world language instruction in Mandarin, French or Spanish; PK4 through 5th grade continues daily language instruction. Léman already offers a bilingual IB Diploma in Mandarin, and launched a French bilingual high school program with The École in 2022 that transitions to a bilingual IB Diploma; there are plans to introduce a Spanish bilingual diploma. | Bilingual teaching UNIS offers bilingual diplomas. The Section Française Internationale welcomes francophone students from Grande Section (Kindergarten) through Terminale (12th grade) and provides instruction in French for Literature, Humanities, and Mathematics, following the official French curriculum in parts of the program. The Section Française Internationale is affiliated with the Mission Laïque Française. The Sección Internacional Española serves Spanish-speaking students, with coursework in Spanish Language and Geography & History in Junior and Middle School and the first two years of Tutorial House, and includes a curriculum integrated with UNIS, with 3 hours per week of Spanish and 3 hours per week of Humanities. |
|
Immersion programs
|
Immersion programs — | Immersion programs Immersion is provided through the Section Française Internationale for francophone students from Kindergarten to 12th grade, with instruction in French in key subjects and alignment to the French Ministry of Education. The Sección Internacional Española provides Spanish-language immersion for Junior and Middle School and the first two years of Tutorial House, including three hours per week of Spanish and three hours per week of Humanities under an integrated curriculum. Both sections embody UNIS's multilingual, international-baccalaureate framework. |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
|
Awards
|
Awards — | Awards — |
|
Accreditations
|
Accreditations IB World School New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) Member Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation Independent Schools Admissions Association of Greater New York (ISAAGNY) Member Parents League of New York member school | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
|
Admissions
|
Admissions 1. Start the online Ravenna application and register for an admissions tour. Admission is selective and Léman Manhattan cannot admit every applicant, so begin the online process early. The birthday cut-off for PK2, PK3, PK4 and Kindergarten is December 31 of the enrolled school year. Applications are submitted on Ravenna for Léman Manhattan. 2. If you will seek financial aid, indicate this on your child's application. The financial aid process has two steps: Step 1, indicate that assistance will be sought on the application; Step 2, create a Clarity account and begin the financial aid application (Day Applicants). 3. Submit the preliminary Ravenna application and gather required supplemental materials according to grade. The Preliminary Application includes basic contact information, educational history, and a student/guardian statement; Supplemental Materials differ by grade and may include school reports, teacher letters and standardized test scores if required. 4. Follow the published timelines by grade; Regular Admission follows ISAAGNY and Rolling Admission may occur on a space-available basis after the final ISAAGNY dates. 5. If admitted, enroll by the specified deadline, sign the enrollment agreement and have tuition payment (deposit or pay in full) clear by the deadline; extensions are not guaranteed for spots or financial aid. | Admissions 1. Create a Ravenna account to begin the UNIS application. Through Ravenna you submit the UNIS application, register for a tour and assessment, email a teacher recommendation form directly to your child's teacher, submit additional admissions materials, and check the status of your application. The $75 application fee is paid by credit card and is waived for financial aid applicants. 2. Submit the UNIS application in Ravenna. 3. Schedule the assessment or interview: Prekindergarten to Fourth Grade participate in an in-person assessment; parents attend a panel discussion led by the Director of Admissions; Fifth to Eighth Grades may have a group activity or an interview; Ninth to Twelfth Grades are interviewed. 4. Send the ISAAGNY Confidential Information Sheet via Ravenna to delegate to your child's current teacher. 5. Take an Admission Test: ISEE or SSAT; testing can be online or at a Prometric testing center; MAP or PSAT may be submitted as substitutes. 6. Receive the Admission Decision: PK decisions on February 26, 2026; Kindergarten on February 5, 2026; 1st–4th on February 11, 2026; 5th–8th on February 11, 2026; 9th–12th on February 20, 2026. For entry in 2026-27, the Manhattan campus window runs September 1, 2025 to November 15, 2025 with interviews by mid-January 2026; midyear entries are possible when spaces exist, with midyear applications due by March 1, 2026 and enrollment by March 17, 2026. |
|
Scholarships
|
Scholarships Financial aid is available starting in Kindergarten. The financial aid process comprises two steps: Step 1, indicate on the application that you will seek assistance; Step 2, go to Clarity to begin the financial aid application. Clarity webinars are offered to help families understand the process. Léman also provides a $2,000 sibling tuition discount. | Scholarships A need-based financial aid program provides awards to newly admitted students based on demonstrated financial need. Financial aid is based on need and UNIS uses its own Financial Aid form; an aid application will not prejudice admission decisions. Financial aid decisions are coordinated after admissions decisions, and submission timing helps the process. SSS begins processing financial aid information on November 1, 2025; it is recommended to submit by December 31, 2025 for consideration in the February/March notification cycle. For more information on eligibility and process, contact Margaret Chiu at (212) 584-3034 or mchiu@unis.org. |
|
Waitlist
|
Waitlist Léman follows the ISAAGNY admissions timeline; deadlines apply by grade and, after the final ISAAGNY dates, applications may continue to be accepted on a space-available basis. | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
Comparing more schools, or want notes and ratings of your own? Build your own compare board.