Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, the bustling capital city of Ethiopia, is a hub for expatriates and digital nomads from around the world. Catering to the diverse community, the city offers a variety of international and bilingual schools, providing quality education for expat children. Among the most popular ones are the International Community School of Addis Ababa and Sandford International School, both known for their comprehensive curricula and multicultural environments. While there are several options to choose from, here is a list of some of the notable international and bilingual schools within a short drive from Addis Ababa.

International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS)

Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Old Airport Area, Addis Ababa
Website: www.icsaddis.org

The International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS) is an independent, co-educational day school, which offers an educational program from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 for students of all nationalities. The school follows an American-style curriculum that is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) in the upper grades. ICS boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities.

Sandford International School

Grades: Age 3 through Grade 13
Location(s): Kirkos Subcity, Addis Ababa
Website: www.sandfordschool.org

Sandford International School, founded in 1947, is one of the oldest in Africa. It offers the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma for higher grades. The school is known for its historic campus, a blend of traditional and modern educational facilities, and a vibrant community that encourages students' personal growth alongside academic achievement.

Bingham Academy

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.binghamacademy.net

Bingham Academy provides a Christian education in English and follows an international curriculum that prepares students for universities worldwide. The school offers a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and has a diverse student body, with a community-oriented approach to education. Bingham Academy is known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development.

One Planet International School

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.oneplanetschool.com

One Planet International School offers a holistic education with a curriculum that includes the Cambridge International Examinations and the Ethiopian National Curriculum. The school emphasizes environmental awareness, critical thinking, and global citizenship. One Planet boasts modern facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields, and offers a wide array of extracurricular activities.

German Embassy School Addis Ababa

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.ds-addis.de

The German Embassy School Addis Ababa provides a German-based education and offers the German International Abitur as well as the Ethiopian School Leaving Certificate. The school serves the German-speaking community and others seeking a German education in Addis Ababa. With a focus on intercultural learning and multilingualism, the school prepares students for higher education in Germany and worldwide.

British International School Ethiopia

Grades: Early Years through Secondary
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.bisethiopia.net

The British International School Ethiopia follows the English National Curriculum and offers a British-style education in Addis Ababa. The school provides a pathway to IGCSEs and A-Levels, with a focus on fostering independent and critical thinking. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and sports amenities, and it offers a range of extracurricular activities to enhance the educational experience.

Lycée Guebre-Mariam

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa

Lycée Guebre-Mariam is a French international school that offers a curriculum based on the French education system. It serves students from kindergarten to the baccalaureate level and is part of the network of French schools abroad. The school is known for its rigorous academic standards, multicultural environment, and promotion of the French language and culture.