What curricula do international schools in Thessaloniki offer and how do they differ?
You will commonly find International Baccalaureate (PYP/MYP/DP) programmes alongside schools that follow British (English National Curriculum/IGCSE/A-Level) or American (school diploma/AP) models, and there are also French and German national curriculum options in the city. The practical differences are the assessment style and university recognition: IB and A-level/IGCSE routes are internationally recognised and focused on external examinations, while American-style diplomas frequently use continuous assessment and Advanced Placement options; French and German schools follow their national systems and prepare students for those higher-education pathways.
Which languages are used for teaching, and is Greek taught at international schools?
English is the dominant medium in most international schools in Thessaloniki, but Greek language and culture lessons are widely offered even in English-medium settings to help children integrate locally. There are also schools that operate in French or German or as bilingual programmes, so families seeking instruction primarily in those languages can find local options.
How much should I expect to pay and what extras should I budget for?
Typical annual tuition at international schools in Greece commonly falls within a broad band that often runs from roughly €7,000 up to around €15,000, though exact charges depend on the school, the child’s age and whether boarding or specialist services are required. In addition to published tuition expect registration/enrolment fees, refundable deposits, exam and curriculum materials charges, bus transport, lunches and any individual learning-support provision; always request a complete, itemised fee schedule before accepting an offer.
When should we apply and what is the usual admissions process?
Most families aiming for a September start begin researching schools about 9 - 12 months ahead and submit formal applications in the autumn or winter before the intake, because popular year groups can be full well before term starts. Schools typically request recent school reports/transcripts, proof of identity and vaccinations, and references, and many will carry out age-appropriate academic assessments and English placement checks before offering a place; some schools also operate rolling admissions and accept mid-year entrants where space is available.
What ages and entry points should I expect for international schools in Thessaloniki?
International schools commonly cover early years through to secondary and sixth form, with natural entry points at kindergarten/Reception, the start of primary, the first year of secondary and the beginning of diploma programmes (typically ages 16 - 18). Age cut-offs, cohort structures and the exact grade that corresponds to each age vary by school, so check each school’s published admissions policy for its cut-off dates and whether it runs preparatory assessments for late joiners.
What practical things should we look for when comparing schools?
Ask about curriculum accreditation (for example IB authorisation or recognised national inspection), university-destination support, the level of English-language and special-educational-needs provision, staff qualifications and class sizes, and whether the school publishes recent inspection or examination outcomes. Also request a full breakdown of fees and extras, visit the campus if possible, and speak to current parents about transport, pastoral care and how the school supports new international students during their first term.
