New Cairo British International School vs The British International School

	N New Cairo British International School Cairo, Egypt	T The British International School Cairo, Egypt
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year EGP 7,688 - 13,432	Fees / year EGP 6,720 - 15,615
Age range	Age range 3 - 17 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, British Curriculum, IB (DP)	Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 1,059
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Arabic
Opened	Opened 1978	Opened 1976
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The campus is on Road 17, 1st District, 3rd Zone, 5th Settlement, New Cairo, Egypt. New Cairo is a vibrant, expanding area with easy access to sports facilities, shopping, and international schools, and it has convenient access to Cairo Airport and the main coastal road to Ain Sukhna, El Gouna and Hurghada. The school also provides bus transport from other areas.	Location Km 38, Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road, Beverly Hills, 6th of October City, Egypt, 12451. Postal Address: PO Box 137, Gezira, Cairo, Egypt.
Stages	Stages Nursery to Year 13; Primary and Secondary with a Dutch Stream in Primary; Sixth Form offering UK A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).	Stages Foundation Stage; Junior; Senior; Sixth Form
School type	School type Not-for-profit British international school (established 1978).	School type Non-profit British international co-educational day school established in 1976
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix There are more than 70 nationalities represented among the student body.	Pupil nationality mix Over 50 nationalities represented; around 1,059 students.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Inclusive Learning is provided, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and access to specialist learning support programmes from Early Years through IB Diploma level.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Affiliated with the United Kingdom education framework; follows the National Curriculum for England in the English-based primary curriculum and offers IB Diploma or UK A Levels in Sixth Form.	Country affiliation Egypt
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure School day hours: Sundays to Wednesdays 7:30–15:30; Thursdays 7:30–15:00.	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details The school has its own Transportation Office on site; the transportation manager runs day-to-day operations with a team of full-time staff; buses are staffed by bus monitors and operate on scheduled routes with bus fees.	Bus service details The school provides a safe, reliable transport service covering areas in Cairo and Giza, including Dokki, Agouza, Mohandessin, Giza, Pyramids Road, Shabramant, Hadayek Al Ahram; Zamalek, Garden City/Manial, Maadi, Zahraa Al Maadi, Heliopolis, Nasr City; October City, Sheikh Zayed, Beverly Hills, Cairo/Alex Desert Road; First Settlement (Tagamoaa), Fifth Settlement, Rehab, Kattameya in New Cairo. Bus routes may change. Buses have seat belts, a supervisor with mobile phone, air conditioning, GPS, and Foundation Stage car seats. Transport forms are provided at admission; contact Transport Manager Mr Ashraf Gad at [email protected]
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fee - A one-off application fee of GBP 100 is payable prior to or at the time of assessment. This fee is non‑refundable. Registration charge (on offer acceptance) - Registration charge for Reception–Year 11 and Dutch stream: GBP 7,500 (payable once). Non‑refundable. - Registration charge for Nursery (newcomers): GBP 7,500 (new Nursery entrants may be offered the option to pay this in two instalments). - Registration charge for Year 12–Year 13: GBP 3,750 (payable once). Non‑refundable. Refundable deposit - A refundable deposit of EGP 40,000 is payable once in EGP; this deposit is refunded in EGP only on final departure from the school, after the student account is settled in full. Tuition fees (annual and per‑term amounts; tuition is invoiced in three equal instalments) - Tuition fees are shown as annual GBP amounts; tuition is payable in three equal instalments (one per term). The per‑term figures below equal the annual GBP amount divided by three. - Nursery (British): GBP 7,688 per year — GBP 2,562.67 per term. - Reception – Year 5 (British): GBP 11,257 per year — GBP 3,752.33 per term. - Year 6 (British): GBP 11,471 per year — GBP 3,823.67 per term. - Years 7–8 (British): GBP 13,218 per year — GBP 4,406.00 per term. - Year 9 (British): GBP 13,410 per year — GBP 4,470.00 per term. - Years 10–11 (British): GBP 13,650 per year — GBP 4,550.00 per term. - Years 12–13 (British): GBP 14,081 per year — GBP 4,693.67 per term. - Dutch stream tuition: - Dutch Nursery: GBP 8,538 per year — GBP 2,846.00 per term. - Dutch Years 1–8 (G1–G8): GBP 13,432 per year — GBP 4,477.33 per term. Transport / Bus fees - Bus service fees are charged by zone and are invoiced and payable per the term instalment schedule (bus fees are paid in three equal instalments). Examples of zone fees (in EGP): - New Cairo Zone: EGP 86,199. - Mokatam Zone: EGP 43,924. - Maadi / Heliopolis Zone: EGP 93,211. - Zamalek / Dokki Zone: EGP 87,884. - The transport service will not be provided unless bus fees are paid; bus fees may be adjusted prior to the start of term in response to fuel or regulatory changes. Society membership fee - Society membership is charged once on first year and at a lower rate for subsequent years: EGP 400 for first year, EGP 200 for subsequent years. Examination and specialist service charges - External examination fees (IB, A‑levels, GCSE) are invoiced separately; IB/A‑level/GCSE students must settle the full academic year fees prior to exam registration. Fees for specialist services and educational assessments are invoiced separately and are the responsibility of the parent. Billing schedule and payment terms - The academic year is split into three terms and invoices are issued per term; tuition is normally paid in three equal instalments corresponding to the three terms. Parents may opt to pay the full year's tuition up front on request. - A commitment fee of GBP 2,000 (non‑refundable) and a reservation fee of GBP 1,000 (non‑refundable) are applied in the invoicing process: the commitment fee is required for students entering IB/A‑levels to reserve places and will be deducted from the Term 1 invoice; the reservation fee is a down payment on Term 1 and will be deducted from the Term 1 invoice. Commitment and reservation fees are non‑refundable. - An early payment discount of 1.5% on tuition fees is available when invoices are fully settled within the specified early‑payment window (proof of payment must be received within the discount period). This discount is not available for invoices issued after the start of term. - Invoices must be paid by the deadline shown on each invoice. Failure to pay by the deadline may lead to the school withholding attendance, requiring future years' fees to be paid up front, or reallocating the student's place to another applicant. Withdrawal and refund rules - Commitment fees and reservation fees are non‑refundable. - A full refund of tuition (100%) excluding the commitment and reservation fees is given if the withdrawal date is prior to the term invoice payment deadline. No refund of tuition is given for withdrawal after the invoice payment deadline. Refund of the refundable deposit is returned in EGP only after final departure and after the student account is fully settled. Verbal notification of withdrawal is not accepted; notification must be made in writing to the Admissions and Finance offices. - No refund is given on registration charges, tuition, examination fees or bus fees if a student is dismissed from the school. Boarding - The school operates as a day school; there are no boarding facilities or boarding fees. Other costs - Uniform, optional extracurricular activities, trips, co‑curricular costs, specialist support, and certain exam charges are additional costs and are invoiced separately as applicable. Fees for specialist services and educational assessments are invoiced to parents. Payment methods and currency - Payments are accepted in GBP, USD, EURO or EGP; the school may invoice GBP amounts in EGP using the Central Bank exchange rate shown on the invoice. Accepted payment channels include bank draft / electronic transfer, direct cash deposit into the school bank account, and Visa/MasterCard for Egyptian Pound payments (card payments carry a card charge added to the school). Parents must include all beneficiary charges when transferring and provide student name and year group with payment. A copy of the payment instruction should be sent to the Finance Department as instructed on the invoice. Important payment conditions - Tuition and related fees are payable within the deadlines shown on invoices; if term has already started, full fees for that term must be paid prior to the student's first day of attendance regardless of invoice payment deadlines. Students enrolling after the start of a term are charged full term fees except in the case of mid‑term starts where half term tuition may apply per the school policy. The school reserves the right to adjust terms and require upfront payments if invoices are not settled on time.	Fee details School fee billing, schedule and discounts - Tuition is billed per term. The school operates three terms per year; tuition figures below are shown per term and the annual equivalent (three terms). - A 1% discount is applied where the whole-year invoice is paid in a single payment. - The registration payment must be made in cash equivalent in Egyptian pounds (EGP) prior to assessment/testing and is non-refundable. Application / Registration / Admissions - Registration fee (per application/assessment): GBP 300 — cash equivalent in EGP prior to testing (non-refundable). - For pupils accepted at entry, an admissions fee is payable once on entry where applicable; amounts by year group are listed below. Admissions fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees by school year (per term and annual total) - Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) - Tuition: GBP 2,140 per term — Annual total (3 terms): GBP 6,420. - Registration: GBP 300 (cash equivalent in EGP prior to testing, non-refundable). - Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) - Tuition: GBP 3,370 per term — Annual total (3 terms): GBP 10,110. - Registration: GBP 300 (cash equivalent in EGP prior to testing, non-refundable). - Years 1 to 6 - Tuition: GBP 4,485 per term — Annual total (3 terms): GBP 13,455. - Admissions fee (payable once on entry): GBP 4,500 (non-refundable). - Supply fees (payable once on entry): GBP 2,500 (non-refundable). - Registration: GBP 300 (cash equivalent in EGP prior to testing, non-refundable). - Yearbook: GBP 30 per academic year (applies Year 1–13). - Years 7 to 9 - Tuition: GBP 5,195 per term — Annual total (3 terms): GBP 15,585. - Admissions fee (payable once on entry): GBP 5,195 (non-refundable). - Supply fees (payable once on entry): GBP 2,500 (non-refundable). - Registration: GBP 300 (cash equivalent in EGP prior to testing, non-refundable). - Exam fee (Year 9 only): GBP 400. - Books' refundable deposit: GBP 50 payable once in Year 7 (or in Year 8/9 for late joiners as specified). - Yearbook: GBP 30 per academic year (Year 1–13). - Years 10 & 11 - Tuition: GBP 5,275 per term — Annual total (3 terms): GBP 15,825. - Admissions fee (payable once on entry): GBP 5,275 (non-refundable). - Supply fees (payable once on entry): GBP 2,500 (non-refundable). - Registration: GBP 300 (cash equivalent in EGP prior to testing, non-refundable). - Exam fees: Year 10 — GBP 400; Year 11 — GBP 500. - Yearbook: GBP 30 per academic year (Year 1–13). - Years 12 & 13 (Sixth Form / IB) - Tuition: GBP 5,595 per term — Annual total (3 terms): GBP 16,785. - Admissions fee: Not applicable for students joining at Sixth Form (---). - Supply fees (payable once on entry): GBP 2,500 (non-refundable). - Registration: GBP 300 (cash equivalent in EGP prior to testing, non-refundable). - Exam fees: Year 12 — GBP 400; Year 13 — GBP 800. - Yearbook: GBP 30 per academic year (Year 1–13). Other one-off and recurring costs - Supply fees (one-off on entry, non-refundable) are shown above for the relevant year groups and are typically GBP 2,500 where listed. - Yearbook: GBP 30 per academic year for students Year 1–13. - Books' refundable deposit (as applicable for secondary entry): GBP 50 payable once in Year 7 (adjusted for late joiners as described). The refundable deposit arrangements for new entrants (refund on leaving BISC) are set out in the school's fee documentation. - Exam fees: indicated above where they apply to specific year groups (Year 9, Year 10, Year 11, Year 12, Year 13). - Uniform: Branded uniform items are available from the school uniform shop on campus; the shop lists current uniform requirements and opening times. (Costs vary by item.) Refunds and non-refundable items - Registration fees are non-refundable. Admissions fees and supply fees are payable once on entry and are non-refundable. - Refundable deposits (where charged for new entrants) are refunded on the day the child leaves BISC; the school's fees documentation sets out conditions and instalment options for this deposit. - Books' deposit (where charged) is shown as refundable under the specific terms given for Years 7–9 entry. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. The British International School in Cairo is a co-educational day school; no boarding fees apply. Billing mechanics and admissions invoicing - At offer/acceptance the school invoices for supply and admissions fees, one term's tuition to reserve the place, and any refundable deposit required; those amounts secure the offered place. Fee payment options (high-level) - The registration payment is required in cash equivalent in EGP prior to assessment. The school maintains a formal Payment of School Fees Policy that governs invoicing and accepted payment channels; the policy and fees pages provide the billing terms, timing and discount rules. Typical school invoicing is by term, with the option to pay the full year to receive the 1% discount. Summary of the main per-term tuition figures (quick list) - FS1: GBP 2,140 per term (GBP 6,420 per year). - FS2: GBP 3,370 per term (GBP 10,110 per year). - Years 1–6: GBP 4,485 per term (GBP 13,455 per year). - Years 7–9: GBP 5,195 per term (GBP 15,585 per year). - Years 10–11: GBP 5,275 per term (GBP 15,825 per year). - Years 12–13 (Sixth Form): GBP 5,595 per term (GBP 16,785 per year). If you require these figures presented in a specific currency format or integrated into a database field layout, include the appropriate field names and I will format the entries to match your import specification.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements The school has no boarding; it is a day school.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement NCBIS has a school uniform. The Primary Uniform includes school trousers, shorts or skorts; a polo shirt; a jumper or cardigan; plain black shoes; tights in black, white or grey; and a sun hat for sun protection. Hair should be neat and natural; makeup is not allowed and jewellery is limited to one pair of studs; PE kit includes a House t‑shirt, PE shorts and an optional tracksuit with white/grey/black socks.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Children bring lunches from home, or Y1-6 may eat from the school canteen. The school is nut-free and snacks, water and meals are available in the canteen during break times; payments are cashless via a wristband.	Food options The school provides catering; Junior and Senior pupils may bring a packed lunch or have a hot lunch; Foundation Stage pupils must have a packed lunch; Senior School may buy lunch daily, while Junior School lunches require a termly or annual plan.
House system	House system Every student belongs to a House tutor group. House events and house-based activities are part of pastoral care, with house points and celebrations.	House system There are four houses—Air, Earth, Fire and Water; pupils belong to a house and participate in house competitions; House Points are awarded for sport, academics, and other activities; Classdojo points contribute to House Points; winners are announced termly, with a final winner at year end.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by The Board Of Governors. The Board Chair is Lotfy El Badrawy and the Vice Chair is Yasmine Farid Khamis.	Governance and ownership The school is owned and run by The British International School Society, a non-profit and non-governmental organisation.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details NCBIS delivers a bespoke international curriculum. In the Primary School this is based on the English National Curriculum, and the school is an IB World School that uses project- and inquiry-based learning. Three themes run through Primary: STEM, Helping the environment and International Mindedness, with topics linked across year groups. In Secondary, Year 7–9 follow an adapted British Curriculum assessed against UK National Curriculum Age Related Expectations, and Year 10–11 prepare for GCSE/IGCSE. Sixth Form offers either UK A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), with guidance provided to help students choose.	Curriculum details The British International School Cairo offers a British-style curriculum. Early Years uses the UK Foundation Stage Curriculum (FS1 & FS2). Junior School (Years 1–6) is based on the National Curriculum of England. Senior School (Years 7–11) leads to IGCSE examinations. Sixth Form (Years 12–13) offers an academic or vocational pathway with extensive subject options in the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Typical class sizes in the Junior School are around 20 pupils, with a maximum class size of 24 pupils.
Exam results	Exam results External examinations offered include IGCSE, A Levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). From 2016 to 2025, on average 93% of IB students achieved the Diploma with an average score of 30–34, with the highest scores between 39 and 44. In 2025 IB results were about three points above the global average, with a mean subject score of 5.2 and the top score of 42 out of 45. GCSE/IGCSE outcomes are reported through the IGCSE/GCSE pathway offered by Pearson Edexcel and Cambridge International Education.	Exam results GCSE results show a mean A-A/9-7 of 67% in 2024 and 46% in 2023, and a mean A-C/9-4 of 89% in 2024 and 91% in 2023. IB results show a mean Diploma Points of 34 in 2024 and 33 in 2023, with mean Subject Points around 5.46 in 2024 and 5.38 in 2023. University destinations include universities such as University of California, Berkeley; University of British Columbia; American University Cairo; Kingston University; City University London; Boston University; Manchester University; Goldsmiths College; University of Toronto; Brock University; AUC; Heidelberg University; George Washington University; Queen Mary University of London; University of East Anglia; University College London; Oxford; University of Bath; New York University; and the University of Amsterdam.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates have gone on to study at universities worldwide. In the UK they have attended University College London, the University of Reading, Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Bath, the University of Bristol and Queen Mary University of London. In Canada they have joined Concordia University, Huron University and the University of Toronto. In Egypt they have studied at the American University in Cairo; in the Netherlands at Erasmus University Rotterdam, Groningen University, Eindhoven University of Technology and the University of Twente; in Spain at IE Madrid and ESADE; in France at EDHEC and ESCP.	Higher education progression Graduates go on to a wide range of universities worldwide, including U.S., U.K., Canada and beyond. Notable destinations include University of California, Berkeley; University of British Columbia; American University Cairo; University College London; Oxford; New York University; University of Edinburgh; University of Toronto; and others.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented The Inclusive Learning policy identifies potential high achievers through standardised data and teacher referrals and provides extension, enrichment and acceleration opportunities. These include in-class extended learning, enrichment activities such as Super Learning Days, MUN, International Award and Leaders of Learning, and acceleration such as exam-entry timing or working with older students in subjects where they excel.	Gifted and talented Junior School Gifted and Talented Coordinator is Ms C. Day.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning NCBIS has a dedicated pastoral team that places students' well‑being at the heart of the school. The team uses technology to track daily well‑being and includes fully‑qualified pastoral specialists to listen, support and guide students. A dedicated in‑house behaviour specialist is part of the team. Parent workshops cover topics such as behaviour and transitions between key stages. An active Student Council and a House system enable student leadership and social development.	Social & emotional learning BISC supports social and emotional development through a broad pastoral programme. The Junior School begins each day with Wake Up, Shake Up led by WUSU Leaders, pupils, teachers and parents to promote a positive start. Pupil Leadership opportunities include Pupil Councillors, Assembly Leaders, Eco Committee and PALS to develop leadership, collaboration and social skills. The House System, Breaktime Radio and Wellbeing Ambassadors foster teamwork, positive interactions and student-driven initiatives. Residential trips for Years 4–6 further social and emotional growth, independence and confidence.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL), booster support and more structured personalised learning plans. An Inclusive Learning team focuses on early identification and intervention to help students access the curriculum from Early Years through IB Diploma. The team works with Educational Psychologists, Speech Language Pathologists and other specialists to deliver bespoke interventions.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided within a range of additional and specialist learning programmes. A whole‑school Inclusive Learning team focuses on early identification and intervention for language needs. The school collaborates with outside specialists, including Educational Psychologists and Speech Language Pathologists, for bespoke language interventions.	English as an additional language —
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing A dedicated pastoral team supports student wellbeing and uses technology to track daily wellbeing. The team includes qualified pastoral staff and a dedicated in‑house behaviour specialist. There are parent workshops addressing wellbeing topics. The school recognises mental health and wellbeing within safeguarding guidance and has on‑site Mental Health First Aiders.	Mental wellbeing Counselling is part of a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing. Students can access one-to-one counselling in a safe, confidential space with two experienced counsellors who have UK and international experience; referrals can be made by staff or parents, and students may self-refer.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding NCBIS has a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy that follows UK guidance (KCSIE 2025 updates). There is a Designated Safeguarding Lead (Sam Hurst) and a Deputy Safeguarding Lead (Charlotte Longmuir), supported by senior leaders. All staff receive safeguarding training and reporting is conducted via CPOMS. The policy provides contact details for the DSL and deputy DSL and covers topics including online safety, missing education and the protection of children.	Safeguarding Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone's responsibility. BISC has a team of Designated Safeguarding Leads for Foundation Stage, Junior School and Senior School, plus Deputy DSLs. DSLs work with the school's counsellors to maintain rigorous safeguarding practices, and safeguarding policies are reviewed annually. The PSHE programme incorporates safeguarding, anti-bullying, online safety and healthy relationship education, with parent workshops to support the wider school community.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school has two grass pitches and a large shaded hard-surface playing area for PE and games. It also features a grass football field, covered multipurpose courts, a fitness suite, a 25m swimming pool and a learner pool, plus a dedicated Sport Science classroom. Inclusive Learning spaces include six dedicated classrooms, three one-on-one teaching rooms and three inclusion team rooms; four classrooms have interactive whiteboards and staff use iPads and laptops. The Primary building houses a library on the first floor serving the Dutch department.	Facilities overview Foundation Stage classrooms are in the main school building and are large, with direct access to large, bespoke play areas. The Foundation Stage includes an Arabic classroom, a Music Room, a natural garden area for PE and an age-appropriate swimming pool. Each Foundation Stage class has a UK-qualified teacher, a bilingual graduate Teaching Assistant and a dedicated classroom nanny; safeguarding training is undertaken annually by staff. The Arts and sports facilities support art, drama, music and general sport, and there is a broad range of co-curricular activities. The school has major sports facilities including a 50m pool, a 1000m² sports hall, a 400m track, a fitness gym, netball courts, a sports field, an additional field and a basketball court.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Grass football field on site. Covered, purpose-built multipurpose courts are available for games and training. A fitness suite supports strength and conditioning. The school has a 25m swimming pool and a learner pool for aquatic activities. A dedicated Sport Science classroom supports physical education and sport science learning.	Sports facilities The school has specialist sports facilities including a 50m pool, a 1000m² sports hall and a 400m track, complemented by a fitness gym. Netball courts, a sports field, an additional field and a basketball court are available for training and competition. The school competes in local, regional and international tournaments and has hosted events such as the BSME U13/U15 Football tournament.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Classrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art smart boards. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) operates for Years 7–13. As a Google for Education school, Google Classroom and other Google tools support learning. Digital resources are integrated across the curriculum.	Academic facilities Foundation Stage classrooms are in the main building with direct access to large play areas, plus an Arabic classroom, a Music Room, a natural garden area for PE and an age-appropriate swimming pool. The EYFS curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. The Arts are supported by facilities for drawing, design and multimedia, with art exhibitions and clubs. Pupils use technology in lessons, with Junior School requiring an iPad and Senior School students bringing a tablet or laptop to lessons. In Sixth Form, students can pursue IB Diploma and other options with extensive subject choices.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The ECA programme is world class and offers a varied Quality First programme that enriches learning beyond the classroom. It provides opportunities to participate in activities and to compete locally, nationally and internationally. ECAs include sports, music and drama, and other activities, plus opportunities for trips.	Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular activities provide a range of clubs and events. Junior activities include Chess Club, Movie Making, Yoga, Band Club, Dance and Arts & Crafts Club, among others. Senior activities include Art Club, Injaz, The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Science Club, MUN, History Club, and GCSE Production. Accelerated Reading is used to promote reading, with librarians tracking progress through the Accelerated Reader programme.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History NCBIS was established in 1978 by a group of parents, many of whom were connected with the World Health Organisation. It operates as a not-for-profit organisation under the Heliopolis Society for the Cultural and Social Care of English Speaking Foreigners and is governed by a Board of Directors elected from amongst the parent community. The Vision states that in 2027 NCBIS will be the first school of choice in Cairo, providing unrivalled experiences that will enable all students to follow their passions and become successful, caring citizens and leaders in tomorrow's world. The school serves an international community with more than 70 nationalities represented and is described as a close-knit, welcoming environment.	History Established in 1976 to serve expatriate children in Cairo, The British International School, Cairo has built a reputation for strong academic achievement and a broad educational programme. Graduates progress to leading universities worldwide, and the school is regarded as shaping tomorrow's leaders. The school has grown to welcome pupils from the Commonwealth, the English-speaking Egyptian community and other nationalities tied to British schooling. In 1989 the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme was introduced, and in 2008 a Beverly Hills campus opened west of Cairo; in April 2022 the Egypt and Middle East Programme was launched to enhance Arabic language skills and knowledge of Egyptian and Middle Eastern history and culture.
Community	Community NCBIS has an international community with more than 70 nationalities represented among students, and it is described as close-knit and welcoming. Parents are invited into school for class assemblies and Parent Teacher Conferences to discuss their child's progress. The NCBIS Parent Group organises meetings and activities such as the Christmas Fair and International Week, and parent volunteers help with activities including library support, cooking sessions, and hearing readers in class. Frequent parent workshops are offered throughout the year.	Community The school has a diverse community of pupils, parents and staff supporting the School and its students in many ways. This happens through charitable giving and through the community activities we support. Community involvement in school life makes for a closer partnership in the realisation of our common aims. There are 1,059 students across Foundation Stage (110), Junior (529) and Senior (530).
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The NCBIS Parent Group connects families with staff to support the school experience. The Parent Class Representatives provide a link between academic staff and the parents of children in the class. The NCBIS Parent Group organises meetings and activities such as the Christmas Fair and International Week. Parent volunteers assist with the running of the library, lead a cooking session, or hear readers in class. The school encourages parent involvement in both academic and non-academic activities, and frequent parent workshops are held throughout the year.	Parent teacher association The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) organises events, brings the community together and raises funds for specialist projects. BISC has a resourceful body of parents who generously support the School and its activities. PTA committees include Development, Community and Volunteers. The PTA Constitution describes its aims to assist in providing resources for the school as suggested by staff and in consultation with the school leadership, foster the community spirit within and around BISC, and promote activities to support curriculum, co-curriculum and the local community. PTA Values include Commitment, Diversity, Collaboration, Respect and Accountability. All parents are encouraged to join the British International School Society, whose annual membership is LE200 per person.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Model United Nations provides opportunities to interact with other schools locally and nationally and to explore issues affecting the world. The International Duke of Edinburgh Award engages students in outdoor education and provides accreditation recognised by universities and employers worldwide. Starting with the Bronze Award, students complete expeditions that involve overnight camping and desert trekking. The ECA programme offers a range of arts, sporting and creative activities and supports student engagement through regular practice and perseverance.	Academic & intellectual BISC offers a broad range of academic, STEM and competition-based activities as part of its co-curricular programme. Junior pupils are encouraged to take at least one activity per week, supervised by staff. Senior students participate in Injaz (Young Enterprise), Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, MUN, Mathematics/Science Support and Public Speaking.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Young Musician of the Gulf music competition includes soloists and choirs. There is a Robotic Exhibition. The ECA programme encompasses arts, sporting and creative activities.	Arts & creative Pupils can join Art Club, Band Club, Dance Musical, Arts & Crafts Club, Sunshine Dance, Movie Making and Creative Writing. Senior students may access GCSE Production and Exhibition-style Art techniques.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Model United Nations provides opportunities to interact with other schools locally and nationally and to explore issues affecting the world. The International Duke of Edinburgh Award offers outdoor education with accreditation recognised by top universities and employers. Starting with Bronze, students complete an expedition involving overnight camping and a desert trek. The ECA programme enables students to participate in a broad array of arts, sporting and creative activities that promote global perspectives.	Cultural & language The French Support Group and MUN support language development and global citizenship. The school also runs local, regional and international trips and conferences to broaden cultural understanding.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies There are nearly 80 weekly activities on offer. Activities are delivered by school staff, external providers, and accredited short courses offsite. The ECA programme provides opportunities to participate and compete in activities on a local, national and international basis. More than 1,500 student hours are booked weekly.	Social & hobbies A range of recreational activities runs throughout the year, including Yoga, Crossfit, Puzzles and Brain Teasers, Card Games and Playtime Games. Junior activities also include Movie Making, Jewellery Making & Crafts, and others supervised by staff.
Community & service	Community & service The International Duke of Edinburgh Award includes volunteering in communities. Starting with Bronze, students participate in expeditions involving camping overnight and desert trekking. The Award provides accreditation recognised by universities and employers and helps students find their purpose, passion and place in the wider world. Students from Year 10-13 participate in the programme.	Community & service The programme includes community-focused activities, including an After School Community Club. The enrichment offering extends beyond campus with local, regional and international trips and conferences.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Model United Nations provides opportunities to interact with other schools locally and nationally and to explore issues affecting the world, developing leadership skills. The International Duke of Edinburgh Award develops transferable skills, increasing fitness and volunteering. The ECA programme promotes engagement in big-picture thinking through regular practice and perseverance. There are nearly 80 weekly activities offering ongoing opportunities to develop leadership and professional skills.	Leadership & professional Injaz (Young Enterprise) and The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award provide entrepreneurial and leadership experiences. MUN and Public Speaking also develop leadership and professional skills.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The International Duke of Edinburgh Award includes outdoor education and expeditions. Expeditions involve camping overnight and desert trekking. The Award provides accreditation recognised by universities and employers and includes volunteering in communities. The ECA programme offers nearly 80 weekly activities and more than 1,500 student hours weekly to encourage active participation.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports and fitness are central to wellbeing in the co-curricular programme. Senior School Fitness, Crossfit, Yoga and Sunshine Dance help maintain physical and mental wellbeing.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the main language of instruction and an EAL program supports students in developing English language skills. The language department offers Arabic, French and Spanish to students from Year 1 to Year 13, with Arabic introduced early in Reception through Fun Arabic. In Year 1, students experience a language carousel and later select a language for Years 2–6. Dutch is available for students who qualify for the Dutch program.	Language provision Arabic is taught at Foundation Stage to foster awareness of the Arabic language and Egyptian society, with a dedicated Arabic classroom for lessons. Foreign languages are featured in the Junior School. Early Years are based on the UK Foundation Stage Curriculum (FS1 & FS2); Junior follows the National Curriculum of England; Senior offers GCSE/IGCSE courses; Sixth Form offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching Arabic is taught at Foundation Stage (FS1 and FS2). A bilingual Teaching Assistant supports learning in Foundation Stage.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Reception has weekly Fun Arabic lessons to introduce Arabic language and Egyptian culture. In Year 1, students experience a language carousel of Arabic, Spanish and French for 10–12 weeks before selecting a language for Years 2–6. Dutch is available for some students as an additional language option as part of language immersion. There is an English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision to support English language development.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards High Performance Learning (HPL) World Class School Award.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations BSO – British Schools Overseas accreditation; latest inspection in April 2025; accreditation lasts three years. CIS – Council of International Schools accreditation; re-accreditation certificate on file for 2024. COBIS – Accredited member; COBIS network links to British international schools. BSME – Accredited member; participates in COBIS and BSME activities. AoBSO – Accredited member; Association of British Schools Overseas. IB – International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme authorization.	Accreditations BISC is an accredited member of COBIS and IAPS, and is a member of the British Schools of the Middle East (BSME). It is an IB World School and has been licensed to run its own GCSE examinations onsite; it is registered with the UK Department for Education. It has been inspected by ISI (2015) and by PENTA (subsequent inspections) and is monitored by Ofsted; His Britannic Majesty's Ambassador to Egypt is the school's Patron. The Penta Inspection Report cited is from 2024.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Complete and submit the online application form. Upload the required documents: a recent photograph of your child; a copy of your child's birth certificate; a copy of your child's passport (personal details page); and copies of both parents' passports. Provide the child's school reports for the last two academic years in English. Confidential Recommendation Forms must be completed by the child's current teacher or Head of School and sent directly to admissions, together with the NCBIS Learning Support reference form and the NCBIS Student Safeguarding Form.	Admissions 1. The admissions process begins a year in advance of September admission. Before you fill in the online form, prepare the required documents: Parents' Egyptian IDs (Mother + Father) in PDF, Pupil Passport in PDF, and Previous school report in PDF. Incomplete applications will not be processed. The Admissions Department acknowledges receipt of each application and holds it on file for entry to the requested academic year. 2. The School accepts pupils for admission at the key entry points of Foundation Stage, Year 7, Year 10 and Year 12. Mid-year entry is not available for Year 11 and Year 13. 3. The Admissions Department oversees the following aspects of your child's admission: receipt of application forms, Open Morning appointments and school tours, arrangements for admissions assessments, interviews with the Principal and the relevant Head of School. 4. Assessments are scheduled subject to the availability of places. It is possible that an applicant will be assessed and offered a place on the waiting list. The registration fee must be settled on or before the date of the assessment. The registration fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee the offer of a place. 5. Foundation Stage uses classroom observation to assess ability; standardised CAT tests are used throughout the rest of the school to assess student ability. Places are offered subject to successful completion of the application procedures and of an academic entrance examination in English, Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning. A formal letter is issued with other necessary paperwork for your completion and return. 6. A term's fees (admissions fees) and supply fees are payable to reserve the place. You are invoiced for: Supply and Admissions Fees; One term's Tuition Fees; Refundable Deposit.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist Assessments are scheduled subject to place availability. It is possible that an applicant will be assessed and offered a place on the waiting list.
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