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Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction
GISB is a bilingual independent school serving preschool through grade 12 across two Boston-area campuses. It follows a KMK-approved German curriculum and prepares students for the Deutsche Internationale Abitur (DIA), conferring both the DIA and the Massachusetts high school diploma. The program emphasizes German and English language proficiency and requires study in at least one additional world language from grade 6 through 10. In high school, science and mathematics receive substantial instructional hours (13–16 per week across four years), and college-level mathematics, science, and history are required. AP German Language & Culture is available from grade 10. All graduates are fluent in English and German and pursue higher education, with 100% entering higher education. GISB is a German government-recognized German School Abroad and earned the Exzellente Auslandsschule designation in 2011; it became a MINT Friendly School in 2015. The Lower Campus (Preschool–Grade 3) is in Watertown; the Upper Campus (Grades 4–12) is in Boston. Facilities include a bilingual library, a dedicated music room, a teaching kitchen, and a gym.
German International School Boston has 304 pupils, typical class sizes of 14, instruction in German, English.
Location
GISB operates two campuses: the Upper Campus in Boston and the Lower Campus in Watertown. The Upper Campus is located at 57 Holton Street, Boston, MA 02134. The Lower Campus is located at 46 Belmont Street, Watertown, MA 02472.
Stages
GISB serves preschool through grade 12. The Lower Campus serves Preschool–Grade 3, and the Upper Campus serves Grades 4–12.
Type
The school is a bilingual independent school serving students from preschool to grade 12.
Pupil Nationality Mix
The community represents more than 40 cultures.
Additional learning support
Health and wellness services, social-emotional counseling, and special education support are available.
Country affiliation
Germany (German government-recognized German School Abroad).
School day structure
Doors open at 8:00 am. Classes begin at 8:30 am and run until 3:00 pm or 3:50 pm. An after-school Student Life Program runs from 3:00 pm or 3:50 pm to 6:00 pm.
Fees
Annual tuition at German International School Boston ranges from USD 28,365 to USD 41,970 for 2026/27.
Application & Enrollment Fees
- Application fee: USD 50 (non‑refundable). - Enrollment deposit: USD 800 (non‑refundable) due with the signed Enrollment Agreement to secure a place. Enrollment Agreements and deposits submitted after published deadlines are subject to a USD 500 late enrollment administrative fee per student.
Per‑payment / per‑installment amounts (computed from the stated annual tuition and the school's payment plans)
Note: the school offers clearly defined payment plans; the amounts below are arithmetic breakdowns of the published annual tuition according to those plans (shown as USD and rounded to the cent where needed). These are computed values based on the published tuition and the published installment structure.
- Five‑installment plan (five equal payments of 20% each; due May 1, July 1, Sept 1, Oct 1, Nov 1): - Preschool/Pre‑K/Kindergarten: each payment = USD 5,673.00. - Grades 1–4: each payment = USD 5,729.00. - Grades 5–10: each payment = USD 6,063.00. - Grades 11–12: each payment = USD 6,441.00. - Installment plan fee for the 5‑payment plan: USD 100 per student.
- Nine‑installment plan (20% due May 1; then eight payments of 10% on the first of each month from July through February): - Preschool/Pre‑K/Kindergarten: initial 20% = USD 5,673.00; each 10% payment = USD 2,836.50. - Grades 1–4: initial 20% = USD 5,729.00; each 10% payment = USD 2,864.50. - Grades 5–10: initial 20% = USD 6,063.00; each 10% payment = USD 3,031.50. - Grades 11–12: initial 20% = USD 6,441.00; each 10% payment = USD 3,220.50. - Installment plan fee for the 9‑payment plan: USD 300 per student.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Published payment plan deadlines and schedules are: 2‑installment (20% May 1; 80% July 1); 5‑installment (five payments of 20% on May 1, July 1, Sept 1, Oct 1, Nov 1); 9‑installment (20% May 1, then eight 10% payments on the first of the month from July through February). The 5‑ and 9‑installment plans are not available for International Student Program applicants. An installment plan fee applies to the 5‑ and 9‑payment options. - Spots are held only after receipt of the signed Enrollment Agreement and the USD 800 deposit; late enrollment administrative fees apply for agreements submitted after the published deadlines.
After‑school, student‑life and extracurricular fees (2026–2027)
- After‑School Program (Preschool – Grade 3) — annual charge, by number of days per week: - Preschool / Pre‑K / Kindergarten: 1 day = USD 2,725; 2 days = USD 4,960; 3 days = USD 6,755; 4 days = USD 8,190; 5 days = USD 9,300. - Grades 1–3: 1 day = USD 2,410; 2 days = USD 4,365; 3 days = USD 5,955; 4 days = USD 7,225; 5 days = USD 8,210. - Student Life (Grades 4–7): annual costs by days per week: 1 day = USD 1,380; 2 days = USD 2,495; 3 days = USD 3,430; 4 days = USD 4,160; 5 days = USD 4,935. Senior Student Life (Grades 8–12) is published as USD 0 for 1–5 days unless a specific team or class carries a separate fee. Specific classes or optional activities may have additional fees; registration occurs before each semester. - Music & school‑day music lessons: small‑group string/instrument lessons carry semester fees (examples): USD 550 per student per semester for certain twice‑weekly small‑group string lessons; USD 375 per student per semester for some once‑weekly group lessons. Some music offerings are no fee (chorus, certain ensembles). The school notes year‑long commitments for many music offerings, with payment divided into two semester installments where indicated.
International Student Program (ISP)
- ISP full‑year tuition (2026–2027): USD 29,625. The ISP requires an application timeline and includes host‑family placement (host family match is arranged rather than a boarding program). ISP applicants are not eligible for the 5‑ and 9‑installment plans and are not eligible for financial aid.
Boarding / Residential provisions
- The school's ISP organizes host‑family placement for exchange students; the school does not list a boarding/onsite residential program or boarding fees. Host‑family matching is part of the ISP process rather than a paid boarding program.
Other costs and fees
- Installment plan fees: USD 100 per student for the 5‑payment plan; USD 300 per student for the 9‑payment plan. - Late enrollment administrative fee: USD 500 per student when Enrollment Agreements and deposits are submitted after published deadlines. - Financial aid application processing cost: USD 65 to complete the Clarity Financial Aid application. Financial aid awards may cover tuition and certain program fees; limits vary by grade band (financial aid currently limited to a maximum of 50% for preschool through grade 5; families with children in grade 6+ may be eligible up to 100% of demonstrated need). - School clothing and branded gear are made available through the school's clothing & gear vendor (school‑branded apparel sold separately). Instrument rental, private lesson fees and some optional activity fees are additional and billed separately when applicable.
Refunds and withdrawal
- Application fee (USD 50) and enrollment deposit (USD 800) are described as non‑refundable. Enrollment deposit secures a spot; late enrollment may trigger administrative fees. - Employer‑sponsored tuition arrangements include a flexible withdrawal provision in case of relocation; in those cases tuition is prorated based on attendance. For standard family accounts, published materials reference the deposit as non‑refundable and administrative penalties where applicable; specific tuition refund or withdrawal terms are handled through the school's enrollment agreement and the family's billing contract.
Discounts and reductions
- Sibling discount: 5% for the second child and 10% for the third child enrolled (not applicable to employer‑sponsored tuition plans). - GISB Employee Tuition Discount: children of GISB employees are eligible for a 50% tuition reduction (not applicable to employer‑sponsored tuition plans). - Employer‑sponsored tuition customers receive a set of administrative benefits (for example, no upfront USD 800 deposit, no late enrollment or administrative fees, prorated tuition on relocation).
Fee payment options and billing portals
- Tuition billing and enrollment are managed through the school's tuition/enrollment portal (TADS); families set up a TADS account and select a payment plan and payment method in their TADS tuition contract. The school uses separate portals for other program registrations (for example, Jumbula for after‑school and activity registration). Accepted payment methods for tuition are established in each family's TADS agreement (TADS supports online payments and multiple payment methods via the school's billing setup). - For extracurricular program registration and on‑campus music enrollments, the school uses Jumbula and other family portals; instrument rental and some private lesson payments are arranged with external vendors and billed separately.
Key administrative notes (fees and timing)
- The amounts above are the published 2026–2027 tuition rates and related fees, with installment schedules and plan fees as stated. The USD 50 application fee and USD 800 enrollment deposit are required steps in the admissions/enrollment process. Installment plan fees apply where noted. Financial aid and discounts are available under described conditions.
If you require these figures presented in a specific field-by-field format for an external database (for example: separate lines for tuition, deposit, installment fees, ASP fees, etc.), the amounts above can be parsed directly from each bolded section.
Academics
German International School Boston teaches Bespoke Curriculum, German Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.
Curriculum
GISB offers a bilingual education with a German KMK-approved curriculum. The program prepares students for the German International Abitur (DIA) and confers both the DIA and the Massachusetts high school diploma. High school emphasizes science and mathematics with 13–16 hours of instruction per week across all four years, and college-level mathematics, science, and history are required. All students take German and English Language & Literature, and study at least one additional world language from grade 6 through grade 10. The Abitur program in grades 11–12 spans 11 subjects and ends with final Abitur exams (three written and two oral) proctored by German officials, while the AP German Language & Culture exam is available from 10th grade. All GISB graduates are fluent in English and German and speak at least one additional world language; 100% of graduates pursue higher education.
Student Teacher Ratio
High school classes typically have no more than 18 students. Elementary class sizes are small with individualized attention.
Exam Results
GISB follows a KMK-approved curriculum that prepares students for the DIA. The final Abitur exams consist of three written and two oral subject exams proctored by German officials. The AP German Language and Culture exam is available as an option in the German curriculum from 10th grade. 100% of GISB graduates pursue higher education.
Higher Education Progression
100% of GISB graduates pursue higher education.
Gifted and Talented
GISB Merit Award is an annual award honoring academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and community service.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school counselor provides individualized mental health support to students and teaches social-emotional learning classes to middle school students. The student services team supports students in reaching their academic and emotional goals with health and wellness, social-emotional counseling, and special education support.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
GISB's Special Education Teachers support all teachers in creating an inclusive environment that provides specialized instructions for students with learning differences.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English fluency is not required at any grade level. Our English Department provides differentiated instruction for both novice and native English speakers alike.
Mental Wellbeing
The health team promotes the health and wellness of all students and provides day-to-day care. They oversee all public health requirements relating to our school, sports, and camp programs and offer health information sessions for students of all ages. The school counselor provides individualized mental health support to students.
Safeguarding
The health team oversees health and safety and public health requirements for the school, sports, and camp programs and offers health information sessions for students of all ages. The Magnus Health Portal is available for health information management, and the health team can be contacted at health@gisbos.org.
Admissions
Admissions
1. Submit an inquiry form. We'll contact you to schedule a (video) call or a personal tour. This begins the admissions process.
2. Join an admissions event. Meet our community and learn about GISB. This helps you understand the program and culture.
3. Submit your online application and non-refundable $50 application fee. This starts the formal application process. You will be guided through the admissions timeline.
4. Schedule a student visit. Language and math assessments are required for Fast Track applicants. Other applicants may have additional evaluation steps.
5. Await admissions decision. View the admissions timeline to understand when decisions are released. You will be notified within the stated timeframe.
6. Submit your enrollment agreement and $800 non-refundable deposit to secure your child's spot. Deposits and enrollment agreements are due by the specified dates. Spots cannot be held until both documents are received.
7. International Student Program (ISP) Applications. International students follow the same admissions timeline. A mandatory online interview is scheduled. If accepted, enrollment is initiated along with visa processing and host-family matching.
8. Fast Track Applications. GISB accepts Fast Track applications for grades K to 5 according to the regular admissions timeline. Grades 2–5 undergo Math and English assessments. The program is subject to minimum enrollment; contact Marion Goodwin for more information.
Scholarships
GISB is committed to enrolling a diverse student body and making bilingual education affordable to all families. We offer various tuition reductions and a need-based financial aid program.
Payment Plans and Financial Aid: GISB offers three payment plans (2, 5, or 9 installments). Financial aid is awarded based on financial need and is typically for tuition as well as after-school program costs and overnight trips.
Financial Aid: Aid is typically granted based on need and is awarded through Clarity Financial Aid; an annual renewal is required. International Student Program applicants are not eligible for financial aid.
Important Dates: Financial aid applications become available online in mid-October 2025; returning families due January 1, 2026; new families due February 1, 2026.
Other Tuition Reductions and Benefits: Sibling Discount 5% for the 2nd child and 10% for the 3rd child; GISB Employee Tuition Discount 50%; Employer-Sponsored Tuition Benefits include benefits such as guaranteed enrollment, waitlist priority, no upfront deposit, and customized payment plans.
For further information about financial aid or tuition reductions and benefits, please contact the Director of Finance.
Merit Award: Established in 2016, the GISB Merit Award honors academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and community service. Applications are open for students in grades 9 and up; the award includes a one-year tuition reduction and is awarded annually by a committee.
FAQs
What curriculum does German International School Boston follow?
GISB offers a bilingual education with a German KMK-approved curriculum. The program prepares students for the German International Abitur (DIA) and confers both the DIA and the Massachusetts high school diploma. High school emphasizes science and mathematics with 13–16 hours of instruction per week.
What are the tuition fees at German International School Boston?
Annual tuition fees range from USD 50 to USD 32,205 depending on the year group. **Application & Enrollment Fees** - Application fee: USD 50 (non‑refundable). - Enrollment deposit: USD 800 (non‑refundable) due with the signed Enro
What age range does German International School Boston serve?
The school serves students aged 3 to 18. GISB serves preschool through grade 12. The Lower Campus serves Preschool–Grade 3, and the Upper Campus serves Grades 4–12.
Where is German International School Boston located?
GISB operates two campuses: the Upper Campus in Boston and the Lower Campus in Watertown. The Upper Campus is located at 57 Holton Street, Boston, MA 02134. The Lower Campus is located at 46 Belmont Street, Watertown, MA 02472.
Does German International School Boston provide SEN support?
GISB's Special Education Teachers support all teachers in creating an inclusive environment that provides specialized instructions for students with learning differences.
What wellbeing support does German International School Boston offer?
The school counselor provides individualized mental health support to students and teaches social-emotional learning classes to middle school students. The student services team supports students in reaching their academic and emotional goals with health and wellness, social-emotional counseling, an
What sports facilities does German International School Boston have?
The Lower Campus includes a gymnasium with a performance stage for indoor athletic and performance activities. The physical education program includes off‑campus activities at Harvard University's athletic facilities, swimming at Boston University, rock climbing at a local indoor gym, and CrossFit.
How do I apply to German International School Boston?
1. Submit an inquiry form. We'll contact you to schedule a (video) call or a personal tour. This begins the admissions process. 2. Join an admissions event. Meet our community and learn about GISB. This helps you understand the program and culture. 3. Submit your online application and non-refun
How diverse is the student body at German International School Boston?
The community represents more than 40 cultures.
What type of school is German International School Boston?
German International School Boston is a Co-educational school with 304 students. The school is a bilingual independent school serving students from preschool to grade 12.
What languages are taught at German International School Boston?
The school teaches in German and English. In the Abitur, classes are taught in German or English depending on the subject, and occasionally in both languages. A third language is learned as part of the Abitur program. GISB is recognized as a German School Abroad and can award the International Abitu
What is the history of German International School Boston?
Founded in 2001 by a dedicated group of parents, GISB is an officially recognized German School Abroad. It moved to 57 Holton Street in Allston in 2006, where the Upper Campus houses the elementary, middle, and high school programs. In 2011 the German government designated GISB an Exzellente Ausland
What accreditations does German International School Boston hold?
The school is a bilingual independent school serving preschool through grade 12 and is part of a network of officially recognized International German Schools worldwide, enabling it to award the German International Abitur. The Abitur and GISB High School Diploma are recognized by European and Ameri
What extracurricular activities are available?
Music is a core, collaborative experience at GISB. The School Day Music Program for Grades 1–3 includes small-group violin and cello lessons, singing and recorder, and instrument rental. For older students, there are additional instrumental lessons and ensembles, plus a chorus that performs at schoo
What are the school hours at German International School Boston?
Doors open at 8:00 am. Classes begin at 8:30 am and run until 3:00 pm or 3:50 pm. An after-school Student Life Program runs from 3:00 pm or 3:50 pm to 6:00 pm.
