Which IB programmes are offered by international schools in Russia and how complete are they?
Many international schools in Russia offer one or more IB programmes - most commonly the Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP) - but not every school delivers the full PYP - MYP - DP continuum. Parents should check the school’s current IB authorisations and which programmes are active at the campus they are considering, because programme availability can differ between campuses and may change over time.
What language(s) of instruction should we expect at an IB international school in Russia?
English is the dominant language of instruction in most IB international programmes in Russia, but many schools also deliver extensive Russian-language lessons and offer bilingual streams or combined international/Russian pathways. Expect schools to describe how they support non-Russian speakers and whether they prepare children for Russian state examinations or only for international assessments.
How much do IB international schools in Russia cost?
Published fees vary widely by city, campus and age group: recent market surveys show annual tuition broadly in the range of roughly $10,000 to $35,000 (or the local equivalent), with higher fees concentrated in central Moscow and St Petersburg and lower fees outside major cities. Check each school’s fee schedule for additional compulsory charges such as registration, capital or activity fees, transport and assessment costs, because the headline tuition rarely covers these extras.
When should we apply and what does the admissions process look like?
The Russian school year starts on 1 September and most international schools run an annual intake for that term, so families commonly begin applications 6 - 12 months before the intended start date; some schools also accept mid-year entries subject to vacancy. Admissions usually include an online registration, submission of past school reports and vaccination records, an assessment or interview (sometimes age-banded tests) and a non-refundable registration fee - ask the school for the exact timeline and the format of any assessments.
Is the IB a safe and legal choice for schooling in Russia right now?
The legal environment has changed: Russian authorities have in recent years placed various foreign organisations on official lists that limit or prohibit their activities inside Russia, and the International Baccalaureate organisation has been included in those designations, which affects how IB services are provided in the country. Because this has practical consequences for programme delivery, staffing and official recognition, families should get written confirmation from any school that it holds valid authorisation to teach the specific IB programme, and check how the school manages transcripts, university guidance and any interactions with Russian educational authorities.
What should we look for when comparing IB international schools in Russia?
Focus on current IB authorisation (which programmes are authorised on the specific campus), the balance of English and Russian instruction, support for English-language learners and recent inspection or accreditation reports where available. Also review class sizes, pastoral care and university guidance, the school’s schedule for assessments and fees in writing, and ask how the school handles diploma and transcript recognition if your family plans to move again.
