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Franconian International School

Germany, Erlangen

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees €13,940 - 19,620
Ages 3 - 18 years
Type Co-educational
Opened 1998
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages German, Spanish, English
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction

Franconian International School (FIS) is a private international day school in Erlangen offering an IB continuum from the Primary Years Programme to Diploma Programme, together with a bespoke curriculum. The Primary School serves ages 3 to 12 with the transdisciplinary PYP, while the Secondary School follows MYP (Grades 6–10) and offers the DP for Grades 11–12, after which students graduate with the FIS High School Diploma. The DP provides courses across six groups, including English, German, Business Management, Geography, Biology, Mathematics and Arts; the High School Diploma requires 24 credits across core and additional areas. FIS is NEASC, CIS and IPC accredited, and became an IB Continuum School in 2025. The campus is purpose-built in Erlangen with libraries, science laboratories, multiple gyms, a football field, and ICT. An ASA program, MUN, music lessons, and GISST sports enrich learning beyond the classroom, supported by the Advisory and University and Careers programs.

Marie-Curie-Straße 2, 91052 Erlangen, Germany

The Essentials

Franconian International School has instruction in English.

Location
The Franconian International School is located in Erlangen, Germany, at Marie-Curie-Straße 2, 91052 Erlangen. It lies in the Nürnberg Metropolitan Region.

Stages
The school offers Early Years through Primary and Secondary, culminating in graduation with the IB Diploma and the FIS High School Diploma in Grade 12.

Type
The school is a private international day school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
The student population is comprised of over 40 nationalities.

Additional learning support
English as an Additional Language; Learning Support; Counseling.

School day structure
School opening hours are 8:20 to 16:00. Students must be in homerooms by 8:25. The front offices operate 8:00–17:00 (Mon–Thu) and 8:00–16:00 on Fridays. Primary students not in a supervised activity should leave by 15:45; Secondary students should leave by 16:00. Grades 9–12 may study in the FIS 2 Library until 16:30 under supervision. After-school activities (ASAP) follow the season's schedule.

Bus service
The FIS offers a bus transport service for families within FIS bus zones.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
The FIS offers a bus transport service for families living within FIS bus zones outside a 2 km radius of the school. Families who live outside FIS bus zones may bring their children to a predetermined meeting or pickup point and join the FIS Bus Transport Service from that point onward. Registration forms for the service are available in OpenApply, and the Terms of Use and bus fees are published for the current and upcoming school year. Conduct guidelines cover orderly boarding and safety on the bus.

Food Options
The Cafeteria at the FIS offers a hot lunch program with an international option and a vegetarian option, and there is an on-campus FIS Kiosk. Most meals are prepared in the school kitchen from fresh ingredients, with external catering support as needed, and the 14 main allergens are clearly displayed according to German law. Lunch subscriptions automatically renew for each school year until cancelled.

Governance and Ownership
The FIS is governed by Franconian International School e.V. (FIS e.V.) and is overseen by a Board of Directors responsible for the management of the Association, finances and facilities. The Board members are elected by the parents of the school community and by sponsoring companies to represent them in governance, and the Board sets the school's long-range goals in collaboration with the management team.
Fees

Annual tuition at Franconian International School ranges from EUR 13,940 to EUR 19,620 for 2026/27.

Application / Registration Fees

- Application / registration fee: EUR 340 per student (annual). This fee must be submitted with the application and is non-refundable unless the school denies admission. EUR 340 will be applied to the tuition invoice for returning students. A separate pre-payment for new entrants of EUR 1,500 is payable together with the registration fee; this pre-payment is non-refundable unless admission is denied and will be credited toward tuition.

Infrastructure Fee

- Applies to students in Grade 1 and above (does not apply to the Early Years Program). For the 2025/2026 school year: first year of admission: EUR 4,200; following three years (per year): EUR 840. The infrastructure fee is payable by August 1 (or 14 days after invoice for mid-year entry) and is not refundable on withdrawal. Students re-enrolling after one or more full years are considered to be in their second year for infrastructure fee purposes.

Annual Tuition (by year group) and per-term calculation

- FIS Early Years Program — Annual: EUR 13,940. Per term (annual ÷ 3, calculated): EUR 4,647.
- Grades 1 – 2 — Annual: EUR 14,635. Per term (calculated): EUR 4,878.
- Grades 3 – 4 — Annual: EUR 15,330. Per term (calculated): EUR 5,110.
- Grade 5 — Annual: EUR 16,025. Per term (calculated): EUR 5,342.
- Grade 6 — Annual: EUR 16,710. Per term (calculated): EUR 5,570.
- Grades 7 – 8 — Annual: EUR 17,405. Per term (calculated): EUR 5,802.
- Grade 9 — Annual: EUR 18,100. Per term (calculated): EUR 6,033.
- Grade 10 — Annual: EUR 18,795. Per term (calculated): EUR 6,265.
- Grades 11 – 12 — Annual: EUR 19,620. Per term (calculated): EUR 6,540.

(Note: per-term figures above are calculated by dividing the published annual tuition by three; they are shown for convenience and are not listed as official term invoices in the fee schedule.)

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Two payment options:
- Option 1 — Payment in full: registration fee, infrastructure fee and tuition must be paid in full within 14 days after the date of invoice and no later than August 1.
- Option 2 — Eight monthly installments: tuition may be paid in eight monthly installments between August 1 and March 1 via SEPA direct debit. A direct debit mandate must be returned by July 15; the first installment is withdrawn on August 1 and the final installment on March 1. The registration and infrastructure fees cannot be paid by installments and will be withdrawn with the first tuition installment on August 1. For installment arrangements, payment by cash, check or bank transfer is not accepted; the SEPA direct debit is required. For payment in full, bank transfer is the permitted method. No student will be admitted until payment schedule requirements are met. Mid-year enrolments must pay fees in full 14 days after the date of invoice.

- The fee schedule also lists monthly percentage milestones tied to the payment calendar to illustrate the timing/coverage of payments across the school year.

Pro-rata, refunds and early departure / late enrolment rules

- Application / registration and infrastructure fees are not prorated and are non-refundable. The pre-payment for new entries is non-refundable unless admission is denied. Tuition pro-rata and refund percentages for late enrolment and early departure are published in the fee schedule. The schedule shows the month-by-month percentages used to determine the portion of tuition payable on late enrolment and the portion refundable on early departure (example sequence for August through May: 87.5%, 75%, 62.5%, 50%, 37.5%, 25%, 12.5%, 0%, 0%, 0%). Any tuition refund due after early departure is paid two weeks after the student's last school day. Membership cancellation in the school association must be given with 10 working days' notice prior to the end of the month for refunds to be processed.

Loyalty bonus, exchanges and special cases

- Loyalty bonus: an annual 5% reduction in tuition is available once a student begins his/her fifth full consecutive year at the school (this excludes years in the Early Years Program). The bonus applies to subsequent full consecutive years; mid-year enrollments do not count toward the loyalty bonus.
- Student exchange: a full academic-year student exchange results in no tuition charged for that year while the student remains enrolled and the place is reserved; the exchange year does not count toward the five consecutive years for the loyalty bonus. If a student does not return after an exchange year, a compensation fee of 25% of the tuition for the respective grade is due as a deposit before the exchange year and applied toward the following year's tuition.

Other costs and optional charges

- Field trips: single-day class field trips and the Secondary School one-week field trips are mandatory and their cost is included in tuition up to a specified amount; if costs exceed the included amount or for voluntary trips (e.g., Model United Nations) the school may charge parents for additional costs. Optional activities (for example, extra-curricular programs) and lunch are invoiced separately for participating students. Student Support Services are generally included in tuition, but exceptionally required additional support beyond the school's standard parameters may incur extra charges. The bus transport service has its own fee structure and terms (see transport service terms).
- School merchandise / branded clothing: branded items such as hoodies and T‑shirts are available through the school's shop/collection; there is no mandatory uniform fee stated in the published fee schedule. Branded items are sold separately through the school shop.

Boarding

- The Franconian International School operates as a day school; there are no boarding provisions or boarding fees listed in the published materials. (Boarding fees are not applicable.)

Refund timing and non-refundable items

- Application/registration fee, the new-entry pre-payment and infrastructure fee are non-refundable except where explicitly stated (admission denied). Tuition refunds for early departure are processed and paid two weeks after the student's last school day.

Fee payment options and restrictions

- Payment in full: by bank transfer (bank details and invoice instructions are provided on the invoice). Installment payments: by SEPA direct debit only (direct debit mandate required). Payment by cash or check is not permitted. Credit card payment is not listed as an accepted method in the published fee schedule.
Academics

Franconian International School teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
Primary School uses the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3 to 12, with a transdisciplinary Programme of Inquiry organized into six Units of Inquiry across subjects. Secondary School follows the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6-10 and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11-12, with all students able to graduate with the FIS High School Diploma. The DP provides courses across six groups, including English, German, Business Management, Geography, Biology, Mathematics, and Arts, subject to timetabling and student demand. The FIS High School Diploma requires 24 credits across English, Mathematics, Humanities, Science, Arts/Design, Physical Education, Additional Language, and further credits. Advisory Program supports personalized learning and the University & Careers program guides students through four phases toward higher education; the High School Diploma is NEASC-accredited and the school is recognized as an IB World School.

Higher Education Progression
Graduates are prepared for higher education at universities around the world. The University & Careers program guides students through four phases (Guided Self-Exploration, Career Exploration, Higher Education Planning, and Alumni engagement) toward university choices and careers. The FIS High School Diploma is NEASC-accredited and recognized for entry into American colleges.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The Franconian International School is an IB World School with an emphasis on international-mindedness and a values-driven environment that supports students' social and emotional development.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school provides Learning Support services as part of its support offerings.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English as an Additional Language is listed in the school's Support section, indicating dedicated language support for learners.

Mental Wellbeing
Counseling services are available as part of the school's student welfare provisions.

Safeguarding
The school maintains safeguarding and child protection policies as part of its support and safety framework.
Parent Experience

History
Founded in 1998 to serve the needs of a growing international community in the Nürnberg, Erlangen, Fürth and Herzogenaurach area. It grew from 25 students to 700+ from over 40 nationalities, taught by a highly-qualified and dedicated international faculty. The school moved from Haundorf to Herzogenaurach in 1999 and, over the years, expanded to include dedicated Erlangen facilities, including a purpose-built campus opened in 2008 and a high school building opened in 2015. In 2015 the FIS earned accreditation from CIS, NEASC and the IPC, and in 2025 it became an IB Continuum School with authorization to offer the Primary Years Programme.

Community
The FIS community thrives on diversity, with students and staff from over 50 nations. The shared values that bind the community are Caring, Curiosity, Respect, Integrity and Belonging, which guide daily interactions and decisions. The school is located in the Nürnberg Metropolitan Region and is proud to be part of the Erlangen community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is the Franconian International School's parent-teacher consultative body. The 2025 PTO board includes Dr. Constanze Mölders (President), Larissa Wedel (Vice-President), Chris Puppe (Secretary) and Sriram Aiyyer (Treasurer). The board was announced on May 15, 2025. The PTO coordinates events and activities for the FIS community and volunteers participate in these events alongside staff. The PTO is governed by formal by-laws that define it as the official parent-teacher organization of the Franconian International School e.V.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The Franconian International School has a purpose-built campus in Erlangen designed for a modern, colorful and open learning environment. Facilities include spacious classrooms, three purpose-built libraries, well-equipped science labs, two gyms and a football field, interactive whiteboards in every classroom, and full WiFi coverage in both buildings. The main building houses all departments, with some grades located across the street, and the campus is surrounded by integrated playgrounds, courtyards, a sports field and parking. Performing Arts facilities include four teaching rooms, the Aula and the Theater, with pianos including a grand piano, a music storage area and a dedicated stage for performances. Libraries across the Primary, Middle and High School hold over 20,000 volumes and provide online reservations for borrowing.

Sports Facilities
Sports facilities include a gymnasium with underfloor heating and a climbing wall, a football pitch, and an outdoor all-weather court plus an athletics area. There are additional outdoor sports facilities on campus, including a football pitch, an all-weather court and an athletics area. The GISST program provides opportunities for multiple sports: badminton with 13 indoor courts; basketball with 5 indoor and 1 outdoor court; football with a small-side pitch; table tennis in an indoor hall; and track and field on an external university track.

Academic Facilities
The Science Department operates five fully equipped laboratories for Physics, Chemistry and Biology, plus two large preparation rooms, with computers and data logging equipment for experiments and interactive whiteboards to facilitate learning. There are three libraries serving the entire school (Primary, Middle, and High School) with extensive print and digital resources; opening hours vary by library. The FIS Libraries support the IB and IGCSE curricula and provide online access and a broad range of fiction and reference materials. Integrated technology supports learning with information technology in classrooms and full WiFi coverage across both buildings.

Extra Curricular Facilities
The After School Activity Program (ASA) offers year-round activities for Early Years 5 to Grade 12, run by FIS staff or qualified external teachers, including crafts, chess, sports, languages and more. The Spring 2026 ASA season is published and registration runs via the FIS Parent Portal with a two-week trial period and no bus service. In addition to ASA, students can take private music lessons after class; G3–G12 students can participate in the GISST Sports Program; and many activities can be organized locally in the Erlangen community, such as Play Club, Primary School Choir and the FIS Musical Theater Production.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The After School Activity (ASA) Program offers year‑round activities for Early Years 5 to Grade 12, including Craft, Chess, Sports, and Languages. Activities are delivered by FIS staff or qualified external teachers. Fall, winter and spring activities cover a wide spectrum: Craft, Chess, Sports, Languages and more. Registration and scheduling are managed online through the FIS Parent Portal.

Arts & Creative
Instrumental Program offers private music lessons at the school and is open to internal and external students. The program covers piano, woodwind instruments, vocals, drums, guitar, violin, and brass. The Performing Arts facilities include music rooms and a theater for performances. There are spaces for small ensembles and after‑school instrumental lessons.

Cultural & Language
Model United Nations (MUN) is a student‑initiated club open to Grades 8–12 and meets weekly. MUN debates international issues, conference participation and public speaking development. German language meetups (‘Sprechen Sie Deutsch?') are offered to practice conversational German. Field trips contribute to international learning experiences, including visits to conferences and destinations related to academic work.

Social & Hobbies
Play Club is an after‑school program with unstructured play and guided activities for EY5 to Grade 5. The ASA lineup includes crafts, chess and other hobbies; languages are also offered. Student Council and related events such as discos and proms provide social experiences for secondary and primary students. A Science Club and other hobby groups are part of ASA offerings.

Community & Service
Student Council represents student voice in both Secondary and Primary and initiates service learning projects. The PTO board and community events foster parent involvement and community service. Field trips include voluntary CAS work for Grades 9–12. The school culture emphasizes community engagement and service-learning opportunities.

Leadership & Professional
Student Council exists in Secondary School and Primary School and meets weekly. The Council liaises with teachers and school leadership and helps organize social events, discos, proms and fundraising activities. PTO leadership boards foster parent involvement and school‑wide initiatives. Clubs such as Model United Nations provide leadership and public‑speaking opportunities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The main gym offers space for a variety of team sports and individual activities and can be divided into two spaces. Outdoor facilities include a football pitch, outdoor all‑weather court and an athletics area, plus an additional gym next to the main building. The cafeteria serves hot lunches with vegetarian options, desserts and fresh fruit. Playgrounds and safe outdoor spaces support recreation and physical activity.
Languages

Language Provision
The languages taught are English and German as languages of instruction. In the IB Diploma Programme, English B, German B, and Spanish B are offered at Standard and Higher Level. EAL (English as an Additional Language) is provided as a school-wide program to support English language learners. The school emphasizes multilingualism and language development across the curriculum; German is the language of the host country.

Bilingual Teaching
The school teaches in English and German. English is the language of instruction, with German used as the host-country language in classes. An EAL (English as an Additional Language) program supports students who are non-native English speakers.
Reputation

Accreditations
The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC).
Admissions

Admissions
Admission policy: The school accepts students regardless of race, sex, religion, nationality or ethnic background from the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region in northern Bavaria, with a limited number of local German parents seeking a multicultural environment. German native speakers joining the school are expected to have some knowledge of English. Preference is given to students with an international background or who have lived abroad. The school reserves the right to refuse admission to those who will not benefit from or contribute to the educational program. Applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committee to ensure services align with individual needs; if the school cannot provide an appropriate educational program and adequate resources to meet an individual student's exceptionality, admission will be denied and recommendations towards alternative placement in the region can be provided. The language of instruction is English; families whose mother tongue is not English are expected to be committed to learning English. Parents of students enrolled automatically become members of Franconian International School e.V. Because of the academic demands in Secondary School, all applicants whose mother tongue is not English must demonstrate sufficient academic English language skills to cope with the level of academic language used in classes.

Scholarships
The school offers a Fee Reduction Program (FRP) to provide financial relief to families with limited financial background and to promote international and social diversity. The FRP requires a detailed application with financial information; if registration depends on FRP, apply before admission; Decisions are made as soon as possible but may not be finalized before the start of the school year; While pending, full fees apply. Eligibility is based on worldwide income, including child benefits; The program is granted for one school year and requires annual re-application. Levels of support vary by income and number of children, with reductions up to 75% for the first child and corresponding reductions for additional children.

Waitlist
Admission may be granted but, due to class size restrictions, the child has been placed in a waiting pool. Mid-year entry is possible on a space-available basis.
School Events
The school has not added events
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