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International School of Bremen

Germany, Bremen

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees €12,500 - 18,700
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 330
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 1998
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE, IB (DP)
Taught languages German, French, Spanish
Typical class size 16
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Languages
Clubs Cultural and Language, Community and Service, Leadership and Professional
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction

Located directly on the University of Bremen campus, the International School of Bremen (ISB) provides an English-medium education for students from ages 3 to 18. The school follows the International Early Years and Primary Curriculums, progressing into the Cambridge IGCSE and culminating with the IB Diploma Programme. ISB is the first international school in Germany to earn the MINT-EC Partner School status, reflecting a heavy emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students access modern science laboratories, an extensive media center, and the university's sports facilities. The school also offers a dedicated Music Enrichment Programme featuring private tuition in instruments ranging from the violin to the ukulele. A distinctive feature is the school's integrated boarding program for secondary students, which emphasizes practical life skills like personal finance, cooking, and self-reliance, ensuring students gain tangible independence before transitioning to university.

Badgasteiner Str. 11, 28359 Bremen, Germany

The Essentials

International School of Bremen has 330 pupils, typical class sizes of 16, instruction in English.

Location
Badgasteiner Strasse 11, 28359 Bremen, Germany. The campus is located on the University of Bremen campus. It is well-connected to Bremen's public transport network, and many students travel to school by tram or bus.

Stages
Early Learning (ages 3-6); Elementary/IPC (Grades 1-5); Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum (Grades 6-8); IGCSE (Grades 9-10); IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11-12).

Type
Private International School

Pupil Nationality Mix
ISB hosts students from over 53 countries.

Country affiliation
Germany

School day structure
The school day begins at 8:00 am and ends at 3:00 pm; on Fridays, dismissal is at 2:10 pm. Depending on the timetable, IB classes may end at 3:50 pm on certain days.

Bus service
No dedicated school bus; public transport is used (tram/bus) to travel to school.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Boarding is provided on the University of Bremen campus. ISB offers individual rooms with an attached bath, toilet and ensuite kitchenette. The boarding house is a short walk (5–7 minutes) from the school. Guardianship is arranged by the School, and meals are included (three meals per day plus a healthy snack).

Food Options
ISB Canteen provides all-day dining from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages. The weekly canteen menu offers a variety of options, with a garden-to-plate connection and a focus on local and school-grown produce to support nutritional awareness and inclusivity of dietary preferences.

Governance and Ownership
The school operates as a non-profit and depends on donations and sponsorships. FRIENDS OF ISB (Freundeskreis) brings together the ISB Support e.V. and the PTA to support ISB's community and projects. The school is also connected to international accreditation and associations (e.g., CIS, ECIS, AGIS) through its admissions and governance framework.
Fees

Annual tuition at International School of Bremen ranges from EUR 12,500 to EUR 18,700 for 2026/27.

Application and registration fees
- Application fee (non-refundable): EUR 1,000. For additional siblings registered at the same time or later an additional Application Fee of EUR 500 applies per sibling.
- Family Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable): EUR 5,000, payable when a place is accepted and enrollment is confirmed in writing.
- Security (book) deposit (refundable): EUR 350, payable on acceptance and registration; refundable (without interest) on leaving after completion of leave-clearance formalities, subject to settlement of any claims.

Annual tuition fees (by year group) — stated in Euros
- Early Learning 1–3: EUR 12,500 per year.
- Elementary (Grade 1–4): EUR 14,000 per year.
- Secondary (Grade 5–8): EUR 14,600 per year.
- Secondary (Grade 9–10): EUR 18,200 per year.
- Secondary (Grade 11–12): EUR 18,700 per year.
- Non-resident surcharge: When a student is not resident in the State of Bremen, an additional EUR 1,000 applies to each grade-level fee per year.

Per-term / installment amounts and alternative payment plans
- Annual payment: full-year amounts as listed above; an early-payment reduction is available for a single payment made by the early-payment deadline: reductions are small (for example, most year groups see a EUR 100 reduction on full-year fees when paid early).
- Quarterly payment (Plan 2): fees may be paid in four quarterly installments with an administration fee of EUR 25 per quarter. Quarterly amounts (examples):
- Early Learning 1–3: EUR 3,150 per quarter.
- Elementary 1–4: EUR 3,525 per quarter.
- Secondary 5–8: EUR 3,675 per quarter.
- Secondary 9–10: EUR 4,575 per quarter.
- Secondary 11: EUR 4,700 per quarter.
- Secondary 12: EUR 6,259 per quarter (final quarter not applicable for Grade 12 in that format).
- Monthly payment (Plan 3 — Director approval required): 10 monthly installments (August–May) with an administration fee of EUR 10 per month. Monthly examples (including the administration fee):
- Early Learning 1–3: EUR 1,260 per month.
- Elementary 1–4: EUR 1,410 per month.
- Secondary 5–8: EUR 1,470 per month.
- Secondary 9–10: EUR 1,830 per month.
- Secondary 11–12: EUR 1,880 per month for Grades 11–12 respectively.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Annual fees for the School Year are invoiced with the School Fees due date indicated as 1 August (example: School Fees for 2025/2026 are stated as due on 1 August 2025). Payment may be made annually, quarterly or monthly under the approved payment plans.
- Quarterly payment due dates: 1 August, 1 November, 1 February and 1 May. Monthly plan is payable in 10 installments from August through May.
- Accepted payment methods: payments must be made by standing order or by direct debit authorization; bank transfers to the school bank account are used (IBAN and BIC are provided on invoices). International bank charges for transfers are to be borne by the payer.
- Late payment: arrears interest of 1% per month applies if payment is delayed for more than two weeks from due date. If delay continues for more than one month, the School may terminate the schooling contract; legal costs for fee recovery are charged to the payer.

Boarding fees and arrangements (where applicable)
- Boarding is offered for students aged approximately 14–18. Boarding fees are additional to the stated tuition fees. For a first year including tuition and the one-time registration fees, total costs (tuition + boarding + one-time registration) are indicated as approximately EUR 49,000 (rounded guidance given for first-year total costs; boarding is charged in addition to the school tuition figures listed above). Meals (three meals plus a snack) are included in the boarding charge. Specific line-item boarding fees are invoiced separately.
- Boarding places are confirmed on receipt of the relevant application and payment; guardianship and visa assistance arrangements are described as part of the boarding admissions process.

Other costs and additional charges
- Items commonly charged in addition to tuition: extracurricular activity fees where outside providers are used, Music Enrichment Programme charges, day-trip costs, overnight/residential trip charges (accommodation, travel, food), and the school lunch programme (lunch is not included in standard tuition). These costs vary by activity and year group.
- School cloth/uniform is available and is ordered separately through the school's supplier; prices for garments are charged at point of order.

Refunds and early-departure terms
- Security deposit: refundable (without interest) after student withdrawal once the Leave Clearance Form has been submitted and after settlement of any outstanding claims; an explicit refund request must be made within three years of withdrawal or the right to refund is lost.
- Early departures and late registrations: fees are adjusted for late registrations on a monthly pro-rata scale (example: a registration in October is charged 90% of the yearly fee, November 80%, etc.). Early departures require written notice and take effect at the end of the second calendar month following receipt of notice; refunds of any credit balance are made after settlement of outstanding claims. Refund arrangements for early departures are to be arranged with the School Director. There is no refund of tuition for instructional days lost for reasons beyond the school's control (including weather, strikes, epidemics/pandemics, force majeure).
Academics

International School of Bremen teaches IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE, IB (DP) for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum for Grades 6 to 8 covers English, Mathematics, Science, and Global Perspectives, with arts, humanities and physical education. The program is student-centred and inquiry-based, with Cambridge Checkpoint assessments to monitor progress. Global Perspectives is a core component that develops critical thinking, research, analysis, evaluation and collaboration. Cambridge IGCSE is offered for Grades 9 to 10, covering languages, mathematics, sciences and humanities, and is recognized as equivalent to the German Mittlere Reife under certain conditions. IBDP is offered for Grades 11 to 12, spanning six subject groups with Higher and Standard Levels, plus Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and CAS, and is globally recognized as a German university entrance qualification.

Student Teacher Ratio
Teacher to student ratio is 1:8; average class size is 16.

Exam Results
IBDP results exceed international averages: the average IB score is 35 points, compared to the global average of 31; 96% of students pass the IBDP in a non-selective school. IGCSE results in 2024 were at or above international averages across most subjects. IQB national testing shows ISB students significantly outperform Bremen averages in German proficiency. ISA (PISA) testing shows strong performance in Mathematical Literacy, Reading, and Scientific Literacy across ESB and NESB cohorts.

Higher Education Progression
A University Counsellor supports students in life after school, including higher education planning; the IBDP is globally recognized and fully recognized as a German university entrance qualification; the ISB campus on the University of Bremen provides access to university resources and facilities to support applicants.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school integrates Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education into daily activities to help children develop essential life skills and emotional intelligence. Philosophy for Children (P4C) is used to encourage thoughtful discussions and reflective thinking. These practices help children understand their feelings, build strong relationships, and develop empathy and respect for others. The Early Learning Centre uses IEYC and IPC frameworks, blending structured themes with play to support social development. The literacy program, Jolly Phonics, supports language development in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school offers in-class support for students with mild to mid-level learning difficulties. Support is provided in a limited manner. The school is non-selective and does not conduct entrance tests.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English is the language of instruction. German is offered as a second language from Grade 2 onwards at a native or non-native level. French or Spanish is offered as a third language from Grade 5 onwards. Students with limited English language skills receive support from the EAL team.

Mental Wellbeing
The well-being of our students is paramount at ISB. We offer a comprehensive support system, including counselling services, wellness programs, and pastoral care, to ensure that every student feels safe, supported, and valued. Our dedicated staff are available to provide guidance and assistance to help students navigate challenges and thrive both academically and personally.
Parent Experience

History
In 1996 a group of forward‑thinking and innovative thinkers met with the idea of establishing an International School for Bremen, with a committee that included the Education Authority, the Chamber of Commerce, internationally oriented companies, the Economic Development Agency and interested parents. The School's mission was created and remains valid: the International School of Bremen is an independent school for students seeking an international learning experience within the Bremen community. On 4 September 1998 the International School of Bremen opened at Thomas-Mann Straße in Bremen, starting with three students whose parents trusted and saw the potential of an International School. In August 2011 the new ISB building was constructed and opened, enabling ongoing growth. The school operates as ISB gGmbH and ISB Boarding GmbH.

Community
ISB bases its strong sense of school community on the active participation of parents and partners, who are regularly updated on school practice, general occurrences and any special events through information meetings, social media, the website and email. Parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers, Heads of School and the Director to stay informed about their child's academic performance and daily matters. Parents are actively invited to participate in and provide support to the School in its academic and extra‑curricular efforts. The ISB community includes sponsors & partners and Friends of ISB; the Friends of ISB (ISB Support e.V.) was formed in 2020 by the school board to support ISB with various projects and fundraising, and has funded initiatives such as a groundwater pump and the Early Learning Centre outside playground, and hosts events like the Annual Winter Dinner and ISB Summer Celebration.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Friends of ISB (ISB Support e.V.) is a non‑profit organization created by the ISB school board in 2020 to support ISB with projects that improve facilities and the student and family experience. Through fundraising and donations, it has funded projects such as the groundwater pump in the ISB garden and the Early Learning Centre outside playground. It also hosts fundraising events, including the Annual Winter Dinner and ISB Summer Celebration, to connect the school and the community. Anyone can join; members may include individuals, alumni, parents, community members or companies, and donation receipts can be issued for tax purposes.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
ISB is located on the University of Bremen campus, giving students access to university resources and facilities. Modern classrooms feature interactive whiteboards, high-speed internet, and ergonomic furniture. The library & media center offers books, digital resources, and librarians to support research. Fully equipped science laboratories support biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. The campus includes art and music studios, extensive sports facilities with a large gymnasium and outdoor fields, and access to the university's sports amenities. A cafeteria provides healthy meal options, and the campus maintains a secure and inclusive environment.

Sports Facilities
ISB boasts a large gymnasium, outdoor sports fields, and access to the University of Bremen's sports amenities. Students participate in various sports activities, fostering teamwork, physical fitness, and a healthy lifestyle.

Academic Facilities
Modern classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards, high-speed internet, and ergonomic furniture. The library & media center provides books, digital resources, and librarians to support research. Science laboratories are fully equipped for hands-on biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. Computer labs have the latest hardware and software, and campus-wide Wi‑Fi connects students and staff across the campus.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Art and music studios support creative expression. Extensive sports facilities enable after-school sports and physical education activities.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school offers an enriching environment that balances academics with creative and athletic expression. Enrichment programs provide leadership opportunities, community involvement, physical fitness, and creative outlets. Field trips broaden cultural understanding and global awareness, supporting the development of well-rounded, responsible individuals.

Arts & Creative
Arts enrichment includes musical productions that enable students to perform outside the classroom. Since 2018, ISBremen has produced major musicals such as Guys and Dolls JR and Fiddler on the Roof JR, with involvement from students, parents and staff. The program showcases musical and dramatic talents and fosters collaboration and artistic growth.

Cultural & Language
Global Issues Network (GIN) fosters awareness of environmental, ethical, and economic issues worldwide. Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation where students role-play as diplomats to develop diplomacy, debate and international relations. ISBremen regularly joins with other schools to participate in locally or nationally held simulated conferences.

Social & Hobbies
Sport offerings include gymnastics, football for younger and older students, baseball and ballroom dance sport. There are after-school sessions with coaches and clearly scheduled times. Playful Discover Soccer is run in cooperation with FC Riensberg 11 and uses ISB's facilities.

Community & Service
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award has been offered at ISBremen since 2007. Qualified trainers guide candidates and help them develop leadership qualities. The Award is structured into four sections—Service, Physical, Skills and Expedition—with Gold adding a residential component.

Leadership & Professional
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award develops leadership, self-management and teamwork through the Award framework. Model United Nations builds leadership through diplomacy, debate and public speaking in simulated conferences. ISBremen provides trained facilitators to guide students through these leadership experiences.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
ISBremen offers a diverse range of sport activities, including gymnastics, football, baseball, ballroom dance sport and adult yoga. The sport timetable is updated regularly to reflect current offerings. These activities promote physical fitness, wellbeing and mindfulness.
Languages

Language Provision
English-language education from Kindergarten to Grade 12. German is offered as a second language from Grade 2 onwards at native or non-native level. French and Spanish are offered as third languages from Grade 5 onwards. EAL (English as an Additional Language) support is available for students with limited English. A range of native languages are offered in the extracurricular programme. For IB applicants, sufficient English is required to follow the IB programme, with IELTS level 6 recommended as the minimum.

Bilingual Teaching
The school offers bilingual education in German and English. German is offered as a second language from Grade 2 onwards at native or non-native level. English is the language of instruction from Kindergarten to Grade 12, with EAL support for students with limited English.
Admissions

Admissions
Admission Process: The International School of Bremen uses a four-step admissions process. Inquiry and Initial Contact: Start by filling in an inquiry form, emailing the admissions officer or calling. Personal Interview: A personal interview is conducted face-to-face or online. Experience ISB First-Hand: Visit the school for a tour, spend a day experiencing what it's like to be a student here, or stay overnight in boarding facilities. Formal Offer and Enrollment: After a successful interview and visit, a formal offer is extended; to secure a place, complete the acceptance documents and pay the fees. Admissions for Boarding Students: Selection is based on interview performance, English proficiency, and a careful assessment of needs, with boarding designed for students aged 14 and above and focused on independence, community living and academic progression. For inquiries and more information, reach ISB by email or phone.

Scholarships
ISB has a Bursary Programme to support families unable to pay full school fees, adjusted to gross family income. ISB is an independent, self-supporting educational institution registered in Germany as a non-profit association and recognized in the State of Bremen as an “anerkannte Ersatzschule.” The bursary programme applies to students in grades 1–12. Parents or guardians can file an application for a reduction of school fees by submitting a bursary application form; the family's assets and gross monthly income are considered and annual reviews apply. If the annual gross family income is below EUR 100,000, an application can be filed. Applicants must submit a registration certificate proving main residence in Germany and financial details including bank statements; discounts apply to annual fees, the registration fee and the application fee, with reductions shown in the Bursary Reduction Guidelines. All interested families can file their bursary application by email.
School Events
The school has not added events
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