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International School of Kraków

Poland, Kraków

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees PLN 45,683
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 345
Type Co-educational
Opened 1993
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (DP), American Curriculum
Taught languages French, German, Spanish, Polish
Strengths Sport, Languages, STEM
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Early Years, Elementary, Middle School, Secondary School, High School
Introduction

International School of Kraków is a not-for-profit PreK–12 international school offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and a certified American high school diploma. The Lusina campus offers learning spaces on a site since 1993. ISK delivers a vertically aligned curriculum from Early Years through Grade 12; in Grades 6–10, instruction draws on AERO, Common Core, and Next Generation Science Standards, with language, arts, technology, and physical education integrated for holistic growth. In Grades 11–12, students may pursue the IB Diploma Programme or the American High School Diploma, with the option to take IB courses for certificates. Language programming includes Polish, French, German, and Spanish, plus a Polish Bilingual Language Pathway aligned to the IB Learner Profile. Innovative programs include Learning Outside the Gates field trips and STEAM experiences. ISK is affiliated with the U.S. Department of State's Office of Overseas Schools and NEASC-accredited, with the ISK Forward 2030 initiative.

Świętego Floriana 57, 30-698 Lusina, Poland

The Essentials

International School of Kraków has 345 pupils, instruction in English.

Location

The International School of Krakf3w is located in the Lusina district of Krakf3w, Poland. Address: ul. sw. Floriana 57, Lusina, Krakf3w 30-698. The campus is described as nature-inspired and nestled among the forest, providing a conducive setting for learning.

Stages

PreK92Grade 12

Type

Not-for-profit, fully accredited international PreK 12 school

Pupil Nationality Mix

Over 30 nationalities represented.

Additional learning support

English as an Additional Language (EAL) support; Social, Emotional and Wellbeing counseling; Learning Support; on-site school nurse.

Country affiliation

Affiliated with the United States through the U.S. Department of State's Office of Overseas Schools

School day structure

The school day runs 8:00 AM0:00 PM. Arrival and preparation 8:000:30; core subjects 8:303:30; midday lunch and clubs; after-school clubs and athletics 3:300:00.

Bus service

Daily door-to-door transportation provided by a contracted company; minivans with professional drivers; routes serving Krakf3w and surrounding areas.
Diving Deeper

Food Options

Lunch is provided during the school day. The school offers a Hot Lunch Service. Midday meals are part of the daily schedule alongside clubs and recreational breaks.

Governance and Ownership

ISK is not-for-profit. The Board of Trustees governs the school, comprising nine voting members (four elected, five appointed). The Director serves as an ex-officio, non-voting member. The Consul General of the United States Consulate in Kraków (or their designee) and a second representative from the U.S. Consulate sit on the Board, and the Consul General chairs the Board.
Fees

Annual tuition at International School of Kraków ranges from PLN 45,683 for 2026/27.

*Registration / one‑time application fees*

- Early Years (ages 3–4): PLN 2,500.00 (one‑time, for new students).
- Grades 0–12 (ages 5–18): PLN 6,350.00 (one‑time, for new students).
- The registration (application) fee is payable on issuance of the invoice and applies only to new students.

*Tuition fees (annual) — by year group, with per‑installment breakdowns*

- Early Years (ages 3–4): Annual tuition PLN 45,683.00.
- Per semester (if using the two‑instalment option): PLN 22,841.50 (half of the annual tuition).
- Per month (if using the nine‑instalment monthly plan): total payable equals annual tuition plus a 10% surcharge; monthly instalment = (PLN 45,683.00 × 1.10) ÷ 9 = PLN 5,583.48 per month.
- Per quarter (reference for pro rata/refund calculations): PLN 11,420.75 (one quarter = annual ÷ 4).

- Grades 0–12 (ages 5–18): Annual tuition PLN 74,868.00.
- Per semester (two‑instalment option): PLN 37,434.00 (half of the annual tuition).
- Per month (nine‑instalment monthly plan): total payable equals annual tuition plus a 10% surcharge; monthly instalment = (PLN 74,868.00 × 1.10) ÷ 9 = PLN 9,150.53 per month.
- Per quarter (reference for pro rata/refund calculations): PLN 18,717.00 (one quarter = annual ÷ 4).

*Billing schedule and payment terms*

- Available payment schemes:
- Annual: single instalment payable by 1 August.
- Semester (bi‑annual): two instalments payable 1 August and 1 January.
- Monthly: nine instalments payable from 1 August to 1 April; the monthly option incurs an additional fee equal to 10% of the tuition (the 10% is added to the tuition total before dividing into nine instalments).
- Invoices are issued electronically and payments are to be made in accordance with the invoice dates. The School may charge statutory interest on late payments.
- A non‑refundable reservation fee is required annually from families who confirm intent to continue; the reservation fee is credited against the next school year's tuition. The amount and payment date for that reservation fee are published each year (no fixed amount is given in the general fee list). If the School is unable to reserve a place despite timely payment of the reservation fee, the School will reimburse an amount equal to double the reservation fee.
- The registration (application) fee for new students should be paid promptly; the Educational Services Agreement references a short payment window (for example, within seven days of invoice for the registration fee).

*Boarding fees*

- Not applicable. ISK is a day school (boarding facilities are not provided). Boarding is not part of the tuition package and boarding is listed as a cost outside tuition.

*Other costs and fees (not included in the annual tuition unless stated otherwise)*

- Student transportation (daily door‑to‑door transport) is offered as a separate service and is charged in addition to tuition.
- Hot lunch service is provided as a separate charge.
- Costs not included in tuition: additional classes run by external providers, the cost of excursions and off‑site events, additional NNW insurance, transportation, boarding, and the cost of uniforms and appropriate clothing required to participate in school activities.
- The tuition fee does include many routine items (examples listed in the fee description): books and materials, a school‑issued Chromebook, a range of field trips identified as part of the curriculum, world language programming, performance fees for certain events, university counseling and full‑time school nursing/medical care — but extra or optional items listed above are charged separately.

*Refund information and withdrawal / pro rata rules*

- If the Educational Services Agreement is terminated during the school year, the School refunds tuition on a pro rata basis by quarter according to the schedule below (the schedule differs by chosen payment scheme):
- If the tuition was paid in a single annual instalment and the student withdraws during the year, refunds (expressed as percentage of annual tuition) are: leaving before the first day of school — 50% refund; leaving before end of Q1 — 37.5%; before end of Q2 — 25%; before end of Q3 — 12.5%.
- If tuition was paid bi‑annually and the student withdraws during the year, refunds are smaller: leaving before the first day of school — 25% refund; before end of Q1 — 18.75%; before end of Q2 — 12.5%.
- If payment is made monthly, the School will not refund any tuition for months already billed.
- The School will not be obliged to refund tuition or other fees in cases of school closure or lost school days caused by force majeure events (for example epidemics, natural disasters, strikes, extraordinary state actions, etc.).
- Termination and refund calculations reference the School calendar quarters; parents should note the School's defined quarter dates when considering pro rata refunds.

*Fee payment options (credit card / bank transfer / other)*

- The Educational Services Agreement specifies that obligations are to be paid based on invoices issued by the School and that invoices may be sent electronically. The School's fee documents and the Educational Services Agreement do not list specific, standardised payment methods (for example a published list of accepted credit cards, online payment portal, or a public bank account / IBAN) within the published fee documents. Families receive invoices that specify payment instructions and should follow the invoice for the payment method and details required. The School may accept payments from third‑party payers (employers) subject to a signed transfer‑of‑liability arrangement. The School may also claim statutory interest for late payments.

*Summary of key numeric items (PLN)*

- Registration / application fee (new students): Early Years PLN 2,500.00; Grades 0–12 PLN 6,350.00.
- Annual tuition: Early Years PLN 45,683.00; Grades 0–12 PLN 74,868.00.
- Semester instalment (two‑way split): Early Years PLN 22,841.50; Grades 0–12 PLN 37,434.00.
- Monthly instalment plan (nine instalments; 10% surcharge applied to tuition before dividing): Early Years ≈ PLN 5,583.48 per month; Grades 0–12 ≈ PLN 9,150.53 per month.
Academics

International School of Kraków teaches IB (DP), American Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum

ISK delivers a vertically aligned curriculum from Early Years through Grade 12. In Grades 6–10, the program builds strong academic foundations using internationally recognized standards including AERO, Common Core, and Next Generation Science Standards, with language, arts, technology, and physical education integrated to support holistic growth. In Grades 11–12, students may pursue either the IB Diploma Programme or the certified American ISK High School Diploma, with the option to take IB courses for IB certificates. World language programming includes Polish, French, German, and Spanish, with a pathway to the IB Bilingual Diploma and CEFR-aligned external assessments such as DELE, DELF, and Goethe-Zertifikat. The Polish Bilingual Language Pathway honors heritage language and culture, designed for Polish-speaking students to retain Polish while thriving in an English-speaking environment, with instruction aligned to the IB Learner Profile. Innovative Programs include Learning Outside the Gates field trips aligned to the IB Learner Profile, STEAM experiences, and experiential learning integrated with the regular program.

Higher Education Progression

ISK offers a University and Career Counseling program for Grades 9–12 to support self-awareness, career exploration, skill development, and university applications. It helps students pursue higher education worldwide, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, and beyond, by integrating career education into advisory, classroom learning, and co-curricular activities to ensure equitable access to opportunities. Graduates attend top universities across Europe, North America, and beyond, with many choosing to study internationally after ISK. In grades 11–12, students may select either the IB Diploma Programme or the ISK High School Diploma, aligning their preparation with university goals.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school has a full-time onsite Social, Emotional, and Wellbeing counselor who works with all students and families. They support the implementation of a comprehensive Social and Emotional Learning program that addresses the social and emotional wellbeing for all learners, with preventive services and responses to identified needs.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school has a Learning Support team that analyzes student data to understand where each learner is in their academic journey. By closely monitoring progress, early interventions are implemented to keep students on track and build confidence in learning.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school has an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program designed to provide tailored support for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. A team of EAL specialists collaborates with classroom teachers to deliver targeted instruction, individualized support, and integrated classroom strategies to build English proficiency while continuing academic progress.

Mental Wellbeing

The school has a full-time onsite Social, Emotional, and Wellbeing counselor who supports all students and families, and a comprehensive Social and Emotional Learning program focused on wellbeing and preventive services as well as responses to learner needs.

Safeguarding

The campus is health and safety focused with a full-time school nurse on site. The campus is protected by a professional security team, with controlled access, security cameras, and emergency procedures to ensure a safe learning environment.
Parent Experience

History

Founded in 1993, the International School of Krakow began as a satellite of the American School of Warsaw and was initially called the American International School of Kraków, enrolling four students in its first year. In 1997 the school moved to Kasztelanska near the Blonia field, and in the early 2000s it relocated to a larger facility in Podgórze while pursuing independence from the American School of Warsaw. In 2005 the Lusina campus became the school's current home, and NEASC accreditation followed in 2008. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme was introduced, contributing to rising secondary enrollment and a peak of 282 students in 2016. In 2023 ISK celebrated its 30th anniversary on Founder's Day (October 11) and is advancing its ISK Forward 2030 initiative to adapt to a changing world.

Community

ISK is located in Kraków, a city that blends centuries of tradition with a dynamic, forward-looking spirit. The city's rich cultural heritage and renowned universities provide an authentic backdrop for an international school that values intercultural understanding. ISK draws inspiration from Kraków's legacy of intellectual pursuit and cultural exchange, reflecting a diverse, internationally minded community with students from over 30 countries. Field trips to the historic Old Town and collaborations with local institutions connect students with Kraków's history and vibrant present.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

All parents with currently enrolled students, as well as ISK faculty and staff, are automatically members of the PTA. The PTA is about building belonging and creating lasting connections among families, and it helps new families feel at home with a warm welcome, assistance, and friendship. Through events, activities, and volunteer opportunities, the PTA encourages parents to get involved and share their talents. It enriches the student experience by supporting programs and initiatives such as cultural events, guest speakers, and extracurricular activities. PTA events bring the ISK community together.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

ISK has a secure campus in Lusina, Kraków. A professional security team monitors entry points, conducts regular patrols, and enforces visitor protocols. The campus uses controlled access measures, security cameras, and emergency response procedures to ensure a safe learning environment. ISK emphasizes modern learning spaces within a PreK–12 program. The Lusina campus was secured in 2005, and an annex was added to the main building to accommodate growth.

Sports Facilities

ISK offers athletics including volleyball, basketball, soccer, and cross country. The program emphasizes teamwork, commitment, and perseverance, with opportunities to compete in CEESA events across Poland and internationally. Fall season includes high school and middle school soccer, cross country, and volleyball; winter season includes basketball; spring season includes volleyball and track.

Academic Facilities

ISK delivers a PreK–12 international education, including Early Years, Elementary School, Secondary School, and the IB Diploma Programme. ISK offers World Language Programs (Polish, French, German, Spanish) with a CEFR-aligned pathway and external assessments such as DELE, DELF, and Goethe. The school is not-for-profit and is accredited by NEASC and authorized for the IB Diploma Programme. Notable evidence of learning spaces and campus upgrades is documented in ISK's history and admissions materials.

Extra Curricular Facilities

ISK's After School Activities program offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities spanning arts, sports, STEAM, language enrichment, and leadership. Examples include Dance, Photography, Yoga, American Flag Football, Girls Soccer, Rube Goldberg Machines, Cooking Club, Guitar/Piano Club, Swim Academy, Chess Club, Pottery Club, Lacrosse, Programming Games, Esports, Rock Band, and LEGO Cars and Architecture. ASA sessions run Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 15:45 to 16:40, with a Wednesday session from 15:10 to 16:05.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

Knowledge Bowl, Mathcounts, and Model United Nations challenge students to think critically and collaborate beyond the classroom. The After School Activities program includes STEAM initiatives and programming games to deepen understanding and problem-solving skills. Language enrichment and leadership activities are part of ASA, expanding academic experiences after school.

Arts & Creative

Dance, Photography, Pottery, and Guitar/Piano Club provide visual and performing arts experiences. Rock Band and Lego Cars and Architecture offer collaborative design and creative building opportunities. Cooking Club and Esports give students creative outlets in culinary and digital realms.

Cultural & Language

Polish, French, German, and Spanish are offered through World Language Programs. A French Bilingual Diploma Pathway starts in Elementary School and provides advanced instruction in English and French, fostering bilingual proficiency. The language program follows the CEFR framework, and students may take external assessments such as DELE, DELF, and Goethe-Zertifikat to demonstrate proficiency.

Social & Hobbies

Student-run clubs include Arts and Crafts, Top Chef, Chess Club, Creative Writing, Table Tennis, Circle Time, Fundraising Club, Dungeons and Dragons, Cooking Masters, ISK Magazine, Photo and Film, Card Games, and Gardening. These clubs foster collaboration, creativity, and social connection during Period 3. The community also includes Dance and other social activities supported by student leadership.

Community & Service

Leadership opportunities enable students to organize events, lead clubs, and initiate service projects for the ISK community. Fundraising Club and service-minded initiatives are among student-led programs. Student clubs such as ISK Magazine and Circle Time support community building and charitable activities.

Leadership & Professional

Student leadership develops ethical leadership through opportunities to run clubs, organize events, and initiate service projects. HS Student Council and MS Student Council provide formal leadership roles, along with clubs like ISK Magazine and IB Support. All student clubs run during Innovative Period 3 to cultivate school spirit and sustained leadership.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Athletics play a vital role in student life with volleyball, basketball, soccer, and cross country, and teams travel to CEESA events across Poland and internationally. The activities program includes Yoga and Swim Academy to support fitness and well-being. A focus on teamwork, commitment, and perseverance underpins ISK's sport and activity experiences.
Languages

Language Provision

Languages taught: Polish, French, German, and Spanish. Pathways are designed to prepare students for entry to the IB Diploma Programme in Grade 11. External assessments aligned with CEFRL are offered, including DELE (Spanish), DELF (French), and Goethe-Zertifikat (German).

Bilingual Teaching

French Bilingual Diploma Pathway; Polish Bilingual Language Pathway. The French pathway provides near-immersion instruction starting in Elementary School. The Polish pathway preserves heritage language for Polish-speaking students within an English-speaking international environment.

Immersion Programs

The French Bilingual Diploma Pathway offers near-immersion French instruction from Elementary School. The Polish Bilingual Language Pathway provides Polish language development within an English-speaking, international setting. Both pathways reflect the IB framework and support bilingual or heritage language development alongside English.
Reputation

Accreditations

NEASC accreditation and IB Diploma Programme authorization; U.S. Department of State's Office of Overseas Schools support; CEESA member.
Admissions

Admissions

1: Visit & contact. Families begin by contacting the admissions team to start the process. Visiting the campus in person or virtually lets you experience the ISK community. You'll have the opportunity to explore facilities, meet educators, and connect with the ISK community. For more information and to schedule a visit, call +48 608 600 873 or refer to the visit page.

2: Enquiry. Submit an inquiry form and the Director of Admissions will contact you via email or phone. The inquiry form can be accessed on the admissions page. This initial contact helps outline the next steps and what information is needed. The admissions team will guide you through the rest of the process.

3: Submit application. Submit your application using the link below, ensuring all required documents are included. The Admissions team will contact you upon receipt to discuss further details. The Ready to apply link directs you to the online application.

4: Application evaluation. The application form must be completed in full. Records from the previous school(s) must be on file. MAP testing and/or English and math placement tests (grade 6 and up) must be completed.

5: Finalize Enrollment and Fees. The admissions team will carefully evaluate all submitted documents. If your application is successful, you will be contacted to sign the enrollment contract. Upon receipt of the signed contract, an invoice for the application fee will be sent. Fees include a Registration Fee (2,500.00 zł for Early years; 6,350.00 zł for G0-G12) and Tuition fees (45,683.00 zł for Early years; 74,868.00 zł for G0-G12).
School Events
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