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BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School

Germany, Berlin

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· Reviewed by · Chief Marketing Officer

Independently researched by doris.
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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees €14,900 - 25,100
Ages 3 - 19 years
Pupil numbers 840
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 1991
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Reggio Emilia Approach
Taught languages German, French, Spanish, Mandarin, English
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Community and Service
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction

BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School is a day and boarding international school serving students aged 3 to 18. The school offers the International Baccalaureate continuum: Primary Years Programme in Early Education and Grades 1–5; Middle Years Programme in Grades 6–10; Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12, with an additional BBIS High School Diploma as an alternative path. All teaching is in English, with German language exposure in the Primary years and language acquisition in other years. The campus sits on 360,000 square metres of forested grounds in Kleinmachnow, just southwest of Berlin, and features five buildings, science labs, design/technology spaces, libraries, and dedicated study spaces. The school provides sport facilities, a GISST competition program, a robust arts offering including music, drama, and visual arts, and a technology focus with robotics, 3D printing, and a 24/7 digital library. ACE centre offers targeted support for Grades 11–12, complementing the IB with study workshops.

Schopfheimer Allee 10, 14532 Kleinmachnow, Germany

The Essentials

BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School has 840 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location
BBIS is located on a peaceful green campus just outside Berlin, BBIS offers students the rare combination of a safe and spacious learning environment with easy access to one of Europe’s most dynamic capital cities.

Set within a forested 360,000 sqm campus in Kleinmachnow, on the southwest border of Berlin, BBIS provides an ideal setting for learning, growth and discovery. While close to both Berlin and Potsdam, the campus offers a calm and inspiring environment where students can focus, explore and thrive.

The school is well connected by school buses and public transport, allowing students to benefit from the cultural, academic and professional opportunities of the capital region while enjoying the safety and community of our campus.

Stages
BBIS consists of a Primary School and a Secondary School. The Primary School includes the IB Primary Years Programme (Early Education) and IB Primary Years Programme (Grade 1-5). The Secondary School includes the IB Middle Years Programme (Grade 6-10) and the IB Diploma Programme (Grade 11-12).

Type
BBIS is an international day and boarding school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
75+ nationalities are represented at BBIS.

Additional learning support
Learning Support tailors instruction to meet each learner's needs and helps them access the general curriculum. English as an Additional Language provides targeted small-group support and in-class guidance across Primary and Secondary, with EAL specialists collaborating with classroom teachers. In Secondary, EAL work is supported in Humanities and Science, and through the Learning Lab for targeted interventions in academic writing and study skills.

Bus service
The BBIS bus service is provided through PotsdamBus GmbH. They have an office on campus and families should contact them directly to discuss schedules, routes, terms and conditions.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
BBIS Boarding is available for Grades 9–12. The first English-language boarding school in Germany houses about 70 boarding students from around the world. Boarding students live in two-person rooms with ensuite bathrooms, with single rooms occasionally available for Grade 12. Boarding tuition includes full board, biweekly cleaning and linen service, and boarding-house supervision; a communal kitchen is available on each floor for students to prepare meals and snacks.

Food Options
All meals are included in the boarding tuition and take place in the boarding dining room, the school cafeteria, and in the community kitchens on each boarding floor. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided, and boarders may use the floor kitchens to prepare meals or snacks; kitchens are monitored and kept clean by students.

Governance and Ownership
BBIS is run by BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School GmbH. A Supervisory Board (elected under by-laws) oversees the school, while the Director/CEO leads the organisation; the leadership team also includes a COO and other senior leaders. The BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School GmbH entity addresses the campus and contact details.
Fees

Annual tuition at BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School ranges from EUR 14,900 to EUR 25,100 for 2026/27.

Annual tuition — Early Education and Primary (per year and instalment amounts)

- Early Education (3–4 years): EUR 14,900 per year. Instalments: 60% = EUR 8,940 (due 1 August); 40% = EUR 5,960 (due 1 January).

- Early Education (5 years): EUR 15,900 per year. Instalments: 60% = EUR 9,540 (due 1 August); 40% = EUR 6,360 (due 1 January).

- Primary School (Grade 1–5): fees are shown as minimum and maximum annual amounts to reflect the school's fee-adjustment scheme. Instalments below apply to each listed annual amount (60% due 1 August; 40% due 1 January).
- Grade 1: EUR 175 to EUR 18,800 per year. Instalment examples: minimum 60% = EUR 105 / 40% = EUR 70; maximum 60% = EUR 11,280 / 40% = EUR 7,520.
- Grade 2: EUR 175 to EUR 19,400 per year. Instalment examples: minimum 60% = EUR 105 / 40% = EUR 70; maximum 60% = EUR 11,640 / 40% = EUR 7,760.
- Grade 3: EUR 175 to EUR 19,700 per year. Instalment examples: minimum 60% = EUR 105 / 40% = EUR 70; maximum 60% = EUR 11,820 / 40% = EUR 7,880.
- Grade 4: EUR 175 to EUR 20,800 per year. Instalment examples: minimum 60% = EUR 105 / 40% = EUR 70; maximum 60% = EUR 12,480 / 40% = EUR 8,320.
- Grade 5: EUR 175 to EUR 21,000 per year. Instalment examples: minimum 60% = EUR 105 / 40% = EUR 70; maximum 60% = EUR 12,600 / 40% = EUR 8,400.

Secondary tuition (per year and instalment amounts)

- Grades 6–10: fees are shown as minimum and maximum annual amounts. Instalments (60% due 1 August; 40% due 1 January):
- Grade 6: EUR 175 to EUR 21,800 per year. Maximum instalments: 60% = EUR 13,080 / 40% = EUR 8,720.
- Grade 7: EUR 175 to EUR 22,000 per year. Maximum instalments: 60% = EUR 13,200 / 40% = EUR 8,800.
- Grade 8: EUR 175 to EUR 22,200 per year. Maximum instalments: 60% = EUR 13,320 / 40% = EUR 8,880.
- Grade 9: EUR 175 to EUR 23,200 per year. Maximum instalments: 60% = EUR 13,920 / 40% = EUR 9,280.
- Grade 10: EUR 175 to EUR 23,500 per year. Maximum instalments: 60% = EUR 14,100 / 40% = EUR 9,400.

- Grades 11–12 (IB Diploma years):
- Grade 11: EUR 24,300 per year. Instalments: 60% = EUR 14,580 / 40% = EUR 9,720.
- Grade 12: EUR 24,400 per year. Instalments: 60% = EUR 14,640 / 40% = EUR 9,760. Note: the Grade 12 fee does not include IBO examination fees (these are charged separately by the IB).

One-time and registration fees

- One-time registration fee (payable on signing of the school contract / registration): EUR 7,500 (applicable as shown alongside each school-level entry). The registration fee and deposits are due upon receipt of the signed contracts.

- One-time application fee (credited upon conclusion of the school contract): EUR 100 (this amount is applied/credited as described).

Boarding fees and related charges

- Annual boarding fee (Grades 9–12): EUR 25,100 per year. Instalments: normally invoiced in two instalments with 60% due on 1 August and 40% due on 1 January.

- Boarding additional charges:
- Boarding application fee (one-time, non-refundable): EUR 100.
- Boarding deposit (refundable): EUR 2,000 (one-time).
- Single-room supplement (annual, if applicable): EUR 5,800.

Other costs and typical extras

- Book deposit (refundable): EUR 300.
- BBIS PE clothing (from Grade 6): approximately EUR 30 to EUR 100.
- Pocket calculator (from Grade 9): approximately EUR 150.
- Extra-curricular activities: approximately EUR 250–360 per student/activity/season.
- Annual school trip: approximately EUR 500–2,000.
- Annual bus fees (external service provider): from EUR 2,065.10.
- Canteen (external service provider): from EUR 6.20 to EUR 7.20 per pre-ordered school lunch.
- IBO examination fees: charged separately by the International Baccalaureate Organisation and are not included in the Grade 12 tuition amount.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- School tuition and boarding fees are normally invoiced in two instalments each academic year. The standard due dates are: 60% due on 1 August and the remaining 40% due on 1 January. For families whose contracts were issued before 20 January 2026, the school's existing instalment dates (1 September and 1 January) continue to apply. The school registration fee and deposits are due upon receipt of the signed contracts.

Refunds and refundable deposits

- Refundable items explicitly published: book deposit (EUR 300) and boarding deposit (EUR 2,000) are refundable as stated. The one-time application fee for admissions is credited upon conclusion of the school contract; the boarding application fee is non-refundable. Grade 12 tuition does not include IB examination fees, which are charged separately. No detailed general tuition withdrawal/refund schedule was published on the school fees and boarding-fees pages reviewed here.

Fee payment options

- The school's published fee and boarding pages list invoicing and instalment schedules and deposits but do not specify accepted payment methods (for example, bank transfer or card) on those pages. Payment instructions and accepted methods are typically provided on invoices and in contract documents. The publicly listed fee pages do not include specific payment-method details.

Notes on interpretation and numeric presentation

- Annual figures above are stated in Euros and are presented as published; instalment amounts shown are calculated from the published annual figures using the school's invoicing split (60% / 40%). The school publishes minimum and maximum annual amounts for several year groups reflecting its fee-adjustment programme; examples above show both ends of those ranges where provided.
Academics

BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Reggio Emilia Approach for students aged 3 to 19.

Curriculum
BBIS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum. The Primary School uses the IB Primary Years Programme (Early Education and Grades 1–5). The Secondary School offers the IB Middle Years Programme (Grades 6–10) and the IB Diploma Programme (Grade 11–12). BBIS also provides a BBIS High School Diploma as an alternative path alongside or in place of the full IB Diploma. The IB Diploma Programme includes six subject groups and a core consisting of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) and the Extended Essay. All teaching is in English, with German language exposure in Grades 1–10 and language acquisition in other years.

Student Teacher Ratio
1:7

Exam Results
IB DP results 2023–2025: BBIS average across all subjects was 4.9 (2023), 5.1 (2024), and 5.0 (2025); World averages were 4.7 (2023), 4.7 (2024), and 4.9 (2025).

Higher Education Progression
BBIS provides a Career and College Counselling programme to support university applications in Germany, Europe, the United Kingdom and beyond. BBIS students are accepted at universities in Germany, across Europe and the UK, as well as North America and Asia.

Gifted and Talented
BBIS offers Academic Coaching for Everyone (ACE) offering tailored academic coaching and enrichment for Grade 11 and 12 students.

Our ACE coaches collaborate closely with classroom teachers to understand each student’s needs and aspirations, offering personalised guidance that fosters growth, confidence, and independence.

Through ACE, students receive support with:

-Planning, structuring, and editing assessments
-Developing academic writing skills
-Understanding course content
-Preparing for tests and exams
-Creating effective study schedules
-Maintaining concentration and motivation
-Group workshops are held regularly to develop skills in academic writing, study strategies, exam preparation, and assessment planning.

In addition, ACE provides a range of academic support materials to encourage independent learning.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
By addressing barriers related to language, learning, health, behaviour, and social-emotional wellbeing, BBIS empowers all learners to thrive.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Learning Support services are available for students who may need extra support to realise their full potential.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Many students receive support to build English language proficiency; a team of highly qualified English language teachers are here to help.

Mental Wellbeing
School Counselling helps students and families navigate all aspects of school life. BBIS has on-site nurses as part of Health Services to support everyday and emergency health needs.
Parent Experience

History
BBIS began on 2 October 1990 when the application for state registration was accepted, just before Germany's reunification process was complete. It opened as the International School Berlin-Potsdam (ISBP) and welcomed eight students on 16 September 1991 in a rented villa, before expanding to a second Potsdam facility in 1994. In 1998 Berlin-Potsdam International School GmbH was established as a non-profit company. After relocating to Kleinmachnow and a series of campus improvements, the school renamed BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School on 1 September 2002 to reflect its Brandenburg support and broader geographic reach. Major milestones included purchasing the Seeberg site in December 2005, opening a boarding facility in 2008 (which moved onto the campus in 2010), and refurbishments such as House 5 in 2021 and the new Primary Centre beside House 1 in 2022.

Community
BBIS has a vibrant sense of community with families from around the world who participate actively in school life. The BBIS PTA is made up of parents and staff who volunteer their time to foster school spirit, enrich student experiences, bring home and school closer together, and build lasting friendships among families. PTA activities include coffee mornings held at local cafes, homes or at school, as well as a wide range of special events such as BBQs, picnics, Oktoberfest, Dine Around the World, Winter Bazaar, Bingo, bike tours and boat cruises, and volunteering at Orientation Day and other programs. Parent clubs include a Choir, Book Club, German Conversation Lunch Club, Museum Club, Men's Biergarten Club, Knitting Club, Mahjong Club and more; Staff Appreciation Day and SummerFest are also highlights.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The BBIS PTA is a dedicated group of parents and staff who volunteer their time throughout the school year. It fosters school spirit, strengthens home–school connections, and enriches student experiences. The PTA runs activities on and off campus, including coffee mornings, BBQs, picnics, Oktoberfest, Dine Around the World, Winter Bazaar, Bingo, bike tours and boat cruises. Parent clubs include a Choir, Book Club, German Conversation Lunch Club, Museum Club, Men's Biergarten Club, Knitting Club, Mahjong Club and more. Staff Appreciation Day is held once a year to recognize the BBIS team, and SummerFest is a major family event. The Booster Club supports the school during larger sports events, and PTA Grants fund projects such as school proms, a portable hydroponic garden, a 3-D printer, and various book collections.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School sits on a forested campus of 360,000 square metres in Kleinmachnow, on the southwest border of Berlin. The campus is spread across five buildings and offers modern, well‑equipped facilities to support a broad range of learning needs. There are large classrooms for both Primary and Secondary, modern science labs, fully networked computer labs, art studios, a makers space, music classrooms and practice rooms, a multi‑purpose room, a performance and exhibition space, faculty and student lounges, and a dedicated design/technology area. The Primary School library and a Secondary School learning hub, library, media centre and common room provide direct access to outdoor areas for Secondary students. Playgrounds are available around the campus for breaks and recreation.

Sports Facilities
BBIS offers extensive sporting facilities including a full‑size artificial‑turf field with a six‑lane running track, a sand court for beach volleyball, basketball courts, and facilities for high and long jump, discus and shot put, all equipped with floodlights and bleachers for 820 spectators to host larger tournaments. The BBIS Sports Hall features three gymnasiums, audience seating and a fitness room, and can be used as one large space for basketball, volleyball, handball, indoor soccer and tennis; it also includes a climbing wall, rings, climbing ropes and other professional equipment, and can function as an auditorium or concert hall. Playgrounds are located around the campus.

Academic Facilities
Science laboratories are equipped for modern data logging, digital analysis and microscopy, and all classrooms are networked with smart boards and Apple TVs. Design and Technology spaces include CAD software, machinery and woodworking tools, electronics, 3D printing and laser cutting, with robotics and programming lessons. Technology is integrated across the curriculum with 3D printers, VR headsets, coding tools and the latest in educational robotics, and BBIS provides a 24/7 digital library alongside networked computers and online journals. The Academic Centre for Excellence (ACE) offers tailored coaching for Grades 11–12, including one‑on‑one sessions during study periods and group workshops on writing, study strategies and exam preparation. The Primary and Secondary School libraries provide extensive resources and a fully automated catalogue, with access to the BBIS 24/7 digital library.

Extra Curricular Facilities
BBIS offers a broad range of co‑curricular activities. In sports, students from Grade 6 to 12 participate in GISST tournaments (football, basketball, cross country, swimming, track and field, tennis, badminton and volleyball) across Germany; BBIS is a full GISST member and has been a season‑winner on multiple occasions. The athletics program runs across three seasons and also connects with the European Sports Conference. Tech‑related activities include World Robot Olympiad, Coding Club, STEM Club and Minecraft. The Berlin International Music Project (BIMP) brings BBIS ensembles together with other schools for an annual concert; private instrumental lessons (in English) are available in instruments such as piano, guitar, bass, drums, saxophone, violin, viola and cello. Drama productions and an active drama program build confidence, while Visual Arts and Design offer creative courses and opportunities to showcase work.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
BBIS offers a broad ECA programme combining sports, STEM, arts, and academics. In Primary School, students can engage in activities such as chess, robotics, pottery, graffiti and street art, and the instrumental programme. In Secondary School, options include the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Model United Nations, Creative Writing Club, and a range of music and drama ensembles. Many activities are available, with additional options changing each year to provide new challenges.

Arts & Creative
BBIS provides extensive arts and creative activities. Primary School options include pottery and sculpting, graffiti and street art, dance, and an instrumental programme. Secondary School expands to drama, acting for stage and screen, digital film and photography, guitar orchestra, make your own jewellery, and creative writing. The programme fosters creative expression and collaboration across disciplines.

Cultural & Language
BBIS offers cultural and language-oriented activities through programmes such as Model United Nations, United World Schools Club, and Gender and Sexuality Alliance. These activities promote global citizenship, cross-cultural understanding, and inclusive communities. Model United Nations provides opportunities to explore international affairs and debate global issues. United World Schools Club supports education access worldwide, while the Gender and Sexuality Alliance fosters inclusive school culture and peer support.

Social & Hobbies
BBIS supports social and hobby clubs that encourage peer connections and personal interests. Examples include the Role Playing Games Club, Gardening, and other informal groups that rotate annually. These activities supplement classroom learning with teamwork, creativity, and relaxed social interaction. They also provide opportunities to take initiative and lead peers.

Community & Service
BBIS runs community-service oriented activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award which emphasizes service, along with the United World Schools Club that supports education initiatives abroad. Students engage in meaningful projects that benefit others and develop social responsibility. These experiences connect students with local communities and global partners, reinforcing civic awareness.

Leadership & Professional
BBIS provides leadership development through structured programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award and student leadership activities. Students gain project-management, teamwork, and communication skills through planning and participating in challenges. The Pathways to Academic Success supports goal setting and study skills to prepare for future academic pathways.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
BBIS emphasizes wellbeing and physical activity through a wide range of sports and wellness activities. Options include football, basketball, badminton, volleyball, track and field, cross-country, and other fitness activities. Kids Yoga and dance support mindfulness and physical health as part of daily life at BBIS.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the language of instruction. BBIS runs a Home Language programme in Primary and Secondary to support students' home languages and cultural heritage. English as an Additional Language is provided across the school with targeted small-group support and Learning Lab interventions, including activities scheduled during French, Spanish, or Drama lessons; French and Spanish are offered as language subjects.

Bilingual Teaching
BBIS supports bilingualism through a Home Language programme in Primary and Secondary, and students can earn a bilingual IB Diploma.
Reputation

Awards
Eco-Schools recognition: International Sustainability School – Eco-Schools in Europe for the 2024–2025 school year.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Stay & Play at BBIS. For families considering Grade 1 entry, Stay & Play sessions offer a welcoming opportunity to experience BBIS first-hand before formal admissions. Children participate in a short, engaging classroom experience; parents meet members of our school leadership team and gain insight into daily life at BBIS and the transition into Grade 1. Stay & Play sessions are complimentary and places are limited.

2. Book a tour. BBIS is an inclusive international school. A guided private tour provides a first-hand opportunity to get to know BBIS, our students and our facilities. If a face-to-face tour isn't possible, you can explore BBIS by taking a virtual tour.

3. How to apply and start your application. BBIS uses an online application system for all enrolments, and families can start an application at any time by following the link. You can also apply for BBIS Boarding. The Admissions Team is here to help at every stage of the process. Applications are considered throughout the school year based on space availability.

4. What happens next and documentation. Families should submit all the required documentation. A 100 EUR application fee is due per submitted school application and is credited when the contract is signed. An additional 100 EUR boarding application fee applies for boarding. Completed applications are processed by the admissions team and applicants will be updated on their status via the online portal. Students may be tested and screened depending on age and language proficiency.

5. Acceptance, contracts and fees. If the application is successful, you'll receive a letter of acceptance, a school contract, a registration fee invoice and, if applicable, a boarding contract. To confirm your child's place, sign these contracts and pay the registration fee within three weeks of receipt. If the application is unsuccessful, you will be notified. The School Fee Reduction Programme is available for Grades 1–10; applications are processed separately from the admissions process and are handled by the Director's Office.

Scholarships
School Fee Reduction Programme. BBIS offers a School Fee Reduction Programme for students in Grades 1–10; applications are processed separately from the admissions process and are handled by the Director's Office.
School Events
The school has not added events
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