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Metropolitan International School - Viernheim Primary and Secondary

Germany, Heidelberg

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, German
Fees Fees not listed
Ages 12 - 18 years
Type Co-educational
Opened 2007
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE
Taught languages English, German, Spanish
Strengths Sport, Languages, Performing Arts
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction

Metropolitan International School in Viernheim provides bilingual education for students aged three months to 18 years. The school follows the Cambridge International curriculum integrated with German state curriculum standards. Students work toward IGCSEs and A-Levels. The campus includes a dedicated nursery, a forest kindergarten, and secondary facilities equipped with science labs and a cafeteria serving fresh meals. A notable feature is the school's extended day program, which operates from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, incorporating supervised study periods and various afternoon activities. This structure supports families by combining classroom learning with extracurricular engagement on one site. Students study primarily in English and German, preparing them for both local and international transitions. The school is officially recognized as a state-approved "Ersatzschule." This dual-pathway approach ensures learners meet German educational requirements while attaining international qualifications. All-day care is available throughout the year, including during most autumn, Easter, and summer holidays.

Walter-Gropius-Allee 3, 68519 Viernheim, Germany

The Essentials

Metropolitan International School - Viernheim Primary and Secondary has instruction in English, German.

Location
Metropolitan International School operates three MIS locations in Germany: MIS Viernheim houses Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary programs at Walter-Gropius-Allee 3, 68519 Viernheim. MIS Mannheim offers Nursery, Kindergarten and Preschool at Turley-Straße 12, 68167 Mannheim. MIS Heidelberg offers Nursery, Kindergarten and Preschool at Mozartstraße 4, 69121 Heidelberg.

Stages
MIS Viernheim provides Primary and Secondary education; MIS Mannheim and MIS Heidelberg provide Early Learning (Nursery, Kindergarten and Preschool).

Type
The Metropolitan International School is a state-accredited, private non-profit school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
11 nationalities are represented among MIS Mannheim pupils; 16 languages are spoken by pupils.

Country affiliation
Germany

School day structure
MIS Mannheim opens 7:00 to 18:00 on weekdays; MIS Heidelberg opens 7:30 to 18:00 on weekdays.

Bus service
MIS Viernheim offers a school bus service with home pickup and drop-off within its service range; fees are based on mileage.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
The school has a uniform policy. MIS uniforms are ordered online via the School Uniform Shop (Trutex) using location-specific LEA codes for Viernheim, Mannheim, Heidelberg and Geneva.

Food Options
The school provides a weekly lunch menu for Primary and Secondary with German and English versions; meals include a salad bar and a range of hot dishes with gluten-free, low-fat and vegan options.

Governance and Ownership
The Metropolitan International School is a state-accredited, private non-profit school.
Fees
Payment types and billing schedule

- Payments must be made in EUR. Available payment methods: wire bank transfer and monthly Direct Debit (SEPA). An online card payment option is listed as coming soon. Yearly payments receive a 2% discount; semester (half‑year) payments receive a 1% discount. School fees are payable at least one month in advance of the relevant term.

Application fees and registration fees

- Application fee (Early Learning / Nursery): EUR 100. This application fee is counted towards the registration fee on sign up for Nursery/Preschool.

- Registration fees (one‑off) by programme and applicant type:
- Early Learning (Heidelberg): One‑time registration fee EUR 250.
- Early Learning (Mannheim) Option 1 (in‑city): Registration fee EUR 1,000; Option 2 (out‑of‑city): Registration fee EUR 1,250. Application fee EUR 100 also listed under Additional Costs.
- Early Learning (Viernheim) Nursery/Preschool: Registration fee (international) EUR 3,500; (local/German mother‑tongue) EUR 2,500.
- Primary (Grades 1–4) registration fee: international EUR 3,500; local EUR 2,500.
- Secondary (Grades 5–12) registration fee: international EUR 3,500; local EUR 2,500.

Early Learning (Nursery / Preschool) — fees per year group and payment breakdown

- Heidelberg (Nursery: 7:30–18:00)
- Annual tuition: EUR 8,926. Per semester (half‑year): EUR 4,463. Monthly: EUR 759. Additional one‑off registration: EUR 250. Monthly meal fee: EUR 110. Annual materials fee: EUR 125.

- Heidelberg (Kindergarten/Preschool: 7:30–18:00)
- Annual tuition: EUR 8,250. Per semester: EUR 4,125. Monthly: EUR 701.50. Annual materials and meal fees as above.

- Mannheim (two options based on residence)
- Option 1 (children living in the city of Mannheim):
- 7:00–16:00 plan: Annual tuition EUR 11,736 (per semester EUR 5,868). Monthly: EUR 978.
- 7:00–18:00 plan: Annual tuition EUR 14,280 (per semester EUR 7,140). Monthly: EUR 1,084.
- Additional costs: Application fee EUR 100; Registration fee EUR 1,000; other modest supply/uniform costs as listed.
- Option 2 (children living outside the city of Mannheim):
- 7:00–16:00 plan: Annual tuition EUR 13,008 (per semester EUR 6,504). Monthly: EUR 1,190.
- 7:00–18:00 plan: Annual tuition EUR 15,552 (per semester EUR 7,776). Monthly: EUR 1,296.
- Additional costs: Application fee EUR 100; Registration fee EUR 1,250; supply/uniform approximations listed.

- Viernheim (Nursery / Preschool — international and local rates)
- International nursery/preschool (Reception 1, Reception 2, Preschool): Annual tuition EUR 15,012. Per semester EUR 7,506. Monthly EUR 1,251. Registration fee (international) EUR 3,500.
- Local (German mother‑tongue) nursery/preschool: Annual tuition EUR 12,432. Per semester EUR 6,216. Monthly EUR 1,036. Registration fee EUR 2,500.

Primary School (Grades 1–4, Viernheim) — fees per year group and payment breakdown

- International students (Grades 1–4)
- Annual tuition (each grade 1–4): EUR 16,992. Per semester: EUR 8,496. Monthly: EUR 1,416. Registration fee: EUR 3,500.

- Local / German mother‑tongue students (Grades 1–4)
- Annual tuition (each grade 1–4): EUR 9,312. Per semester: EUR 4,656. Monthly: EUR 776. Registration fee: EUR 2,500.

Secondary School (Grades 5–12, Viernheim) — fees per year group and payment breakdown

- International students (Grades 5–12)
- Grades 5–10: Annual tuition EUR 20,592. Per semester: EUR 10,296. Monthly: EUR 1,716. Registration fee: EUR 3,500.
- Grade 11: Annual tuition EUR 20,820. Per semester: EUR 10,410. Monthly: EUR 1,735. Registration fee: EUR 3,500.
- Grade 12: Annual tuition EUR 20,244. Per semester: EUR 10,122. Monthly: EUR 1,687. Registration fee: EUR 3,500.

- Local / German mother‑tongue students (Grades 5–12)
- Grades 5–10: Annual tuition EUR 10,140. Per semester: EUR 5,070. Monthly: EUR 845. Registration fee: EUR 2,500.
- Grade 11: Annual tuition EUR 16,680. Per semester: EUR 8,340. Monthly: EUR 1,390. Registration fee: EUR 2,500.
- Grade 12: Annual tuition EUR 16,104. Per semester: EUR 8,052. Monthly: EUR 1,342. Registration fee: EUR 2,500.

Additional and optional costs

- Lunch: included in tuition for most programmes where indicated; some Early Learning sites list a separate monthly meal fee (e.g., Heidelberg EUR 110/month). After‑school care (16:00–18:00) is offered at EUR 250/month or EUR 10/hour. Snacks are available for purchase at the school kiosk. External extracurricular activities, the Language Academy and Music Academy have separate costs (examples: Language Academy EUR 30–45/month; music lessons EUR 35 per 30‑minute individual lesson; group music rates and language lesson hourly rates also listed). Field trips and specific residential trips (Grades 3–4 excursions, Grade 5–11 camps and optional ski trips) may be invoiced separately; an example listed is a 5‑day camp priced at EUR 680 (equipment, accommodation, meals, transport included). Computers/iPads: every student from Grade 5 upward will be issued an iPad for use during the academic year.

Boarding

- No boarding fees are listed. The school operates early learning, primary and secondary day programmes at its listed locations.

Refunds and cancellations

- No specific refund or cancellation schedule for tuition or registration fees is published on the school's fees page. (Parents should note registration fees are generally presented as one‑off, non‑recurring charges in the published fee tables.)

How invoices are handled / bank details (payment details published)

- Payment options specified: yearly (2% discount), semester (1% discount), monthly Direct Debit (SEPA). Wire transfers are accepted; the published bank details for transfers include IBAN DE02 4306 0967 6020 5315 01 and BIC GENODEM1GLS. Fees are invoiced in EUR and are payable in advance of the relevant term.

Summary of the main fee items for quick reference

- Application fee (Nursery/Preschool): EUR 100 (counted toward registration on sign up). Registration fees range by programme: typical values are EUR 250 (some Early Learning), EUR 1,000–1,250 (Mannheim options), EUR 2,500 (local primary/secondary), EUR 3,500 (international primary/secondary and some nursery/preschool). Annual tuition examples: Early Learning from around EUR 8,250–15,012 (varies by site and programme); Primary EUR 9,312 (local) to EUR 16,992 (international); Secondary EUR 10,140 (local lower grades) to approx. EUR 20,592–20,820 (international). Payment choices: yearly, semester (half‑year) or monthly SEPA.
Academics

Metropolitan International School - Viernheim Primary and Secondary teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE for students aged 12 to 18.

Curriculum
MIS uses Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Secondary curricula at the Viernheim campus, with Early Learning located at Heidelberg and Mannheim. Cambridge begins in Kindergarten; Primary (grades 1–4) and Secondary (grades 5–10) are offered at Viernheim. The Cambridge curriculum provides a flexible framework with integrated assessment in Mathematics, English and Science. For the senior years (grades 11–12), MIS offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), including six subjects across groups, three at Standard Level and three at Higher Level, plus Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Action and Service (CAS). Language studies cover Studies in Language and Literature in English or German, and Language Acquisition including additional languages such as French or Spanish, with the possibility of a bilingual diploma. MIS operates four locations: the main campus in Viernheim for Primary and Secondary, and two Early Learning Centers in Heidelberg and Mannheim.

Higher Education Progression
MIS graduates go on to study at top European universities and other universities worldwide, with alumni continuing their academic journeys at institutions within Germany and beyond.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
MIS prioritizes personal, social, and emotional growth and fosters a strong sense of community. Staff build personal connections with students to support their development, interests, and aspirations. A range of programs and activities helps students connect with each other and their surroundings. Leadership and service opportunities develop essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork. The school provides a safe and inclusive environment to learn, grow, and belong.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
All core classes are taught in English. MIS uses Early Language Immersion to develop bilingual potential in English and German. The Language Acquisition element of the IB Diploma enables study of a second language. Students may choose French or Spanish if they have prior learning, and a self-taught option may be available, with guidance from the school.

Mental Wellbeing
The school focuses on personal, social, and emotional growth and the overall well-being of students. It provides a safe, inclusive environment for learning and growth. Programs and activities support emotional development, resilience and social connectedness.
Parent Experience

History
MIS was founded by Julia and Bernhard Bentgens, who are CEO and founders. MIS is a state-accredited, private non-profit school. It operates across four locations: a Nursery/Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary School in Viernheim, Germany, and two Early Learning Centers in Heidelberg and Mannheim. The main campus houses the Primary and Secondary School in Viernheim, while the Early Learning Centers are located in Heidelberg and Mannheim.

Community
MIS celebrates diversity and cultural differences, fostering respect and open-mindedness for other cultures. There are 13 languages represented at MIS and students from 22 countries of origin, creating a multicultural learning environment. The school hosts events such as an annual International Day and a Unity Art Exhibition to celebrate and share cultures.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
MISPA is the organization through which parents participate in MIS, providing a constructive partnership with teachers and the school administration. It enables monthly exchanges with the school's management and regular email communication among MISPA representatives, teachers, and administration. MISPA meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month. It actively supports the organization of events and activities and serves as a forum for ideas, suggestions for events and formats, and direct input from parents. MISPA helps parents contribute their know-how and commitment to supporting teachers.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Viernheim is the main campus, housing Nursery/Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary. The Mannheim Nursery + Kindergarten sits in the SoHo quarters in Neckarstadt, Mannheim, in a historic building with a spacious outdoor play area behind the building. Heidelberg hosts the Nursery + Kindergarten in Heidelberg. MIS Early Learning centers are bilingual and located in three Rhine-Neckar locations. MIS integrates information technology in classrooms with resources such as chat rooms, video tools and presentation software. The school offers Cambridge International for grades Pre-School through 10th and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for 11th and 12th.

Sports Facilities
Indoor spaces for sports include Blue Hall and Grey Hall. MIS runs after-school sports programs with clubs such as Yoga for Kids, Capoeira, Golf, Judo, Parkour, Tiny Dancers, Hip Hop Dance, Sing & Groove, Table Tennis and Ball Sports; registration is via a Registration Form emailed to the specific activity, with a sports contract to be signed and follow-up details provided by the trainer.

Academic Facilities
MIS offers Cambridge International for Pre-School through 10th grade and the IB Diploma Programme for 11th and 12th, and is an accredited Cambridge International Centre. The curriculum is aligned with the Hessen core and emphasizes technology-enhanced learning in classrooms. Early Learning follows the Cambridge Primary Program (CIPP) as part of the Primary preparation. MIS emphasizes digital learning resources and IT integration in classrooms. The school operates across multiple locations including Viernheim, Mannheim and Heidelberg.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Academic Clubs include Chess Club and Math Club with established schedules and instructors. After-school sports programs offer a range of clubs (Yoga for Kids, Capoeira, Golf, Judo, Parkour, Tiny Dancers, Hip Hop Dance, Sing & Groove, Table Tennis, Ball Sports) with a registration process and ongoing schedule. Students can suggest additional clubs or partnerships by emailing MIS. There are opportunities to participate in school trips, camps and other enrichment activities as listed by MIS.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Academic Clubs give students opportunities to explore interests beyond the classroom, build confidence, and develop skills that last a lifetime. Chess Club and Math Club are currently active. Joining a club helps students meet like-minded peers, explore topics they love, and stand out on university, scholarship, and job applications.

Arts & Creative
MIS Music embraces music and theatre opportunities and is a focal point of the school. Lessons are offered as classes and private instruction with world-class musicians, and there are opportunities to learn and perform throughout the year, including school concerts and annual celebrations. Instrument options include piano, drums, guitar, violin/viola, and voice and piano, with sessions scheduled during the day or after school as availability allows.

Cultural & Language
MIS develops bilingual potential through Early Language Immersion. Students hear, speak, and learn in authentic daily activities in English and German. All core classes are taught in English. MIS currently has 13 unique languages represented among its students.

Social & Hobbies
MIS offers after-school activities across clubs and sports. Academic Clubs include Chess Club and Math Club. After-school sports programs offer Yoga for Kids, Capoeira, Golf, Judo, Parkour, Tiny Dancers, Hip Hop, and more, with schedules and costs published. These activities help students build friendships, explore interests, and develop teamwork.

Community & Service
MIS has an active Parents Association that coordinates communications and supports events and activities, providing a channel for parents to contribute ideas and support the school. Ways to Give offers donor opportunities to support projects such as Playground, Science Labs, and the Innovation Hub. MIS Community celebrates diversity with 13 languages represented and 22 countries of origin, and hosts events like the International Day and Unity Art Exhibition.

Leadership & Professional
MIS participates in LeaderInMe and is Germany's first LeaderInMe Lighthouse School. MIS Leadership reflects a culture of leadership within the school community.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
After-school Sports Programs promote fitness and healthier lifestyles, including activities like Yoga for Kids, Capoeira, Judo, and more. Holidays feature camps such as Science, Theater, Yoga, and Snowboarding, offering opportunities to stay active and learn in a structured environment.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the language of instruction for all core classes. English and German are used in the immersion program. The Language Academy is available for all ages.

Bilingual Teaching
The school uses a bilingual education approach with English and German. Language immersion is a core part of the curriculum, enabling students to develop bilingual proficiency from an early age.

Immersion Programs
Early Language Immersion Method develops bilingual potential through immersion in English and German. The child is immersed in a language bath of English and German, hearing, speaking and learning these languages in authentic daily activities. One-face one-language guides interactions, encouraging speaking to individuals in their native language whenever possible. All core classes are taught in English, while German is learned through immersion.
Reputation

Awards
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Accreditations
The MIS is a state-accredited private non-profit school.
Admissions

Admissions
1. School Visit (or video call). The first step is to visit the school when possible to gain insight into the campus and curriculum and to meet staff. An admissions representative is available to address questions you may have. If you are not in the area, a video call can be scheduled in place of the tour.

2. Application Form + School Records. To move forward with the application, submit the Application Form and provide details of the child's two most recent report cards to help the admissions team understand progress. For younger pupils, school assessments can be conversational. Written feedback is helpful to support your child's transition.

3. Trial Day. If your child would like to get a better feel for school, MIS welcomes children for a trial day. They will spend a typical day at school and meet future teachers and classmates. Participation is not mandatory, but it is a great way to support the transition.

4. Placement Test. Placement tests are required for new entrants to evaluate English and Math skills. For younger years, a motor skills and social skills assessment is required. When possible, assessments may be completed in an accredited overseas institution that ensures MIS assessment requirements are met. For entrance into our Secondary school, and for acceptance into the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, students will need to achieve a B2 level of English, as well as other subject-specific skills; if not at B2, additional language lessons are required until B2 is reached.

5. Application Review. The Admissions Team meets weekly to review new applicants. The Application Form and School Records MUST be turned in before the applicant is reviewed by the team. You will be notified as to whether MIS is a good fit for your child and if space is available in their grade.

6. Place Offer. If space is available, you will be sent an Acceptance Letter, followed by a School Contract. If there is not currently space, you will be placed on the waiting list and will be contacted if any opportunities open up.

7. School Contract. A School Contract will be sent from the Administration Office and should be reviewed and signed by both parents/legal guardians and initialed on each page. Please be aware that at times there is high demand for places, and there may be a delay between place offers and the receipt of the School Contract. A Acceptance Confirmation Letter is not issued until the School Contract is complete.

8. Welcome Packet. Once the School Contract is complete, you will receive a Welcome Packet via email. It includes details such as how to log onto the online platform ItsLearning, shuttle bus information, textbook and supply lists, the uniform dress code and how to order, and introductions to your child's homeroom teacher and class parent representative. The Admissions Team is available to help with questions and contact details by location are provided.

Scholarships
Scholarships: We do get requests often from extremely deserving students around the world, and we wish we could say yes to them all. MIS is a non-profit organization and has limited ability to provide financial assistance or scholarships; however, each year a few students may receive partial support. Financial Assistance Review Process: To be considered for a partial scholarship on annual tuition, the student must demonstrate exceptional academic ability, and both parents must submit their most recent tax returns. If eligible and space is available, the offered tuition is on a sliding scale based on combined income and all financial information is kept confidential. To start the process, submit financial statements to the Financial Office (Claudia Jäger at jaeger@metroschool.de). If financial assistance is approved, it applies to the current academic year only and you must reapply for the following year if needed.

Waitlist
If space is not currently available, MIS places applicants on a waiting list and will contact families if opportunities open up.
School Events
The school has not added events
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