Compare 4 international schools in Austin, United States. Filter by curriculum, fees (average USD 19,463), location, and more to find the right international school now.
About international schools in Austin, United States
Austin’s international school scene sits between a large public dual-language system and a handful of private schools that teach in two or three languages or follow international curricula. Families can find full International Baccalaureate pathways, French-national programmes delivered under French accreditation, and Spanish-immersion IB or bilingual models alongside district dual-language (mainly Spanish/English, with some Mandarin/Vietnamese) options. Annual fees vary: preschool and primary places at private bilingual schools commonly fall in the mid-teens to mid-twenties of thousands of US dollars, while some secondary programmes reach the mid-thirties; many schools also offer financial aid. Admissions for private international schools usually follow an annual cycle with autumn/winter deadlines and require translated transcripts, language-proficiency evidence and an interview, while public dual-language places are allocated through district enrolment rules and have entry points in early years.
What international curricula and programmes are available in Austin?
You will find several models: full International Baccalaureate (PYP/MYP/DP) pathways at some private schools, French-national curricula in French-accredited schools, and Spanish immersion or bilingual IB programmes. Austin Independent School District also runs district dual-language programmes (primarily Spanish/English, with select schools offering Mandarin or Vietnamese) as part of its multilingual education offerings.
How much do international and bilingual private schools typically cost in Austin?
Tuition varies by age and school but commonly ranges from around $17,000 a year at preschool level to the mid-$20,000s for primary and lower secondary, with some senior secondary or independent IB schools charging into the low-to-mid $30,000s. Schools usually publish exact annual tuition and itemised fees (enrolment or programme fees, testing or IB fees) on their websites and many offer need-based financial aid.
When should we apply and what do admissions look like for international students?
Private schools generally run an annual admissions cycle for the following school year, with many giving priority to applications submitted in autumn or early winter; some schools also accept late or rolling applications depending on space. International applicants are commonly asked for translated transcripts, proof of English proficiency, recommendations, an interview and, if studying long-term, appropriate visa documentation; schools for younger children may have specific entry points (PreK/Reception and Year 1/Kindergarten).
Is the public district dual-language programme an alternative to private international schools?
Yes. Austin ISD operates a wide network of dual-language elementary programmes designed to develop bilingualism and biliteracy, with many campuses following a 90/10 or two-way model that begins in early years. These programmes are neighbourhood-based and governed by district enrolment rules, so families should check catchment, transfer and transportation policies when considering them as an alternative.
What languages are commonly taught and how is support for non-English speakers handled?
Common languages of instruction in Austin’s international and bilingual schools include Spanish and French, with Mandarin, Vietnamese and occasional other languages available at specific schools. Public schools provide structured English as a Second Language and bilingual services for emergent bilingual students, while private international schools typically offer language acquisition support, entry-level bridging programmes and progression plans so students can access the mainstream curriculum as they develop proficiency.
