A comprehensive overview of the educational pathways available to expatriate families abroad — from international schools and local schools to homeschooling and online options.
When relocating abroad with children, families have more educational options than they might initially realise. While international schools are the most common choice for expat families, they are not the only pathway. Understanding the full range of options — their advantages, limitations, and costs — helps you make the best decision for your family's unique circumstances.
International schools are purpose-built for globally mobile families. They teach in English using internationally recognised curricula (British, IB, American), employ internationally recruited teachers, and serve diverse, multinational student bodies. Advantages include curriculum continuity when moving between countries, globally recognised qualifications, English-medium instruction, and strong transition support. Costs range from £3,000 to £35,000+ per year depending on location and prestige. International schools are the most popular choice for expat families and are available in every major expat destination worldwide.
In some countries, local state schools offer excellent education and may be free or very low cost. Countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Scandinavian nations have strong state systems that accept expat children. The primary barrier is language — your child may need to learn the local language to access the curriculum. This option works best for younger children (who acquire languages quickly), families planning long-term stays, and countries with English-friendly state systems. In Thailand, local Thai schools teach in Thai and follow the national curriculum, making them challenging for most expat children — though some families choose them for young children to aid language acquisition.
Bilingual schools offer a middle path between international and local schools, typically splitting instruction between English and the local language. In Thailand, bilingual schools offering Thai-English programmes are popular with mixed families and cost significantly less than full international schools — often £3,000 to £8,000 per year. Alternative educational approaches — Montessori, Waldorf/Steiner, and forest schools — are available in some expat destinations and appeal to families seeking non-traditional educational philosophies.
Homeschooling is legal in many countries and has grown significantly among expat families, particularly digital nomads. Online international schools such as Pearson Online Academy and Wolsey Hall Oxford offer structured curricula leading to recognised qualifications. Homeschooling offers maximum flexibility and can be combined with local activities and socialisation. However, it requires significant parental time and commitment, and some countries have restrictions on homeschooling. Online learning works best as a supplement to or combination with other schooling options.
Which option is cheapest? Local state schools are usually free. Bilingual schools are the most affordable paid option. Which gives the best university preparation? International schools with A-Levels, IB, or AP provide the clearest university pathways. Can I combine options? Yes — some families use online school alongside local school, or supplement homeschooling with after-school programmes at international schools. What do most expat families choose? The majority choose international schools for curriculum continuity, English instruction, and ease of transition between countries.