Top 5 International High Schools in Manila for Expats and Global Families (2025 Edition)

Top 5 International High Schools in Manila for Expats and Global Families (2025 Edition)

Introduction

Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, has long stood as a major educational hub in Southeast Asia—especially for international families seeking world-class high school options. With a growing population of expatriates, diplomats, and globally mobile professionals, the demand for internationally accredited education in Manila has never been higher.

From elite campuses in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to bilingual programs in Makati and Parañaque, the city offers a rich spectrum of academic choices, each tailored to meet global standards. Whether you’re relocating for work, seeking continuity in your child’s education, or aiming for top universities abroad, Manila’s international high schools provide the curriculum, community, and credentials to support your goals.

How does Manila compare with other international education destinations like Cebu, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore? While Singapore may lead in academic rankings and infrastructure, Manila offers a more cost-effective alternative with equally rigorous programs like IB, IGCSE, A-Levels, and AP—all in English-speaking environments. Compared to Cebu, Manila provides a broader selection of elite schools, albeit with higher costs and more urban challenges.

In this guide, we’ll introduce the top 5 international high schools in Manila, breaking down their curriculum, tuition fees, unique features, and admission processes—so you can make the best choice for your family in 2025.

2. How We Selected the Top Schools

Choosing the best international high schools in Manila requires more than a quick glance at glossy brochures. We evaluated each school based on a comprehensive set of criteria designed to reflect the priorities of expat families and globally minded parents.

Selection Criteria

Here are the five key factors we used to evaluate and rank the top schools:

1. Curriculum and Academic Rigor

   • IB (International Baccalaureate), British (IGCSE/A-Levels), AP (Advanced Placement), or internationalized US standards

   • University matriculation rates and academic achievements

2. Accreditation and Global Recognition

   • Validated by international accrediting bodies such as:

     • WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges)

     • CIS (Council of International Schools)

     • IBO (International Baccalaureate Organization)

     • Philippine DepEd and other national agencies

3. Student Diversity and Community

   • Number of nationalities represented

   • Language support programs (e.g., ESL, bilingual education)

   • Supportive expat community and parental involvement

4. Facilities and Extracurriculars

   • Modern campuses with science labs, libraries, tech centers

   • Sports, music, performing arts, and leadership programs

   • Availability of after-school and weekend enrichment

5. Tuition Value and Transparency

   • Clarity on costs and fees (including application, registration, and development fees)

   • Range of services included (transportation, meals, learning support)

Why These Factors Matter

For expat families, the right school is not just about test scores—it’s about finding a stable, inclusive, and inspiring environment that helps students grow both academically and socially. We also considered long-term factors, such as how well a school supports transitions between countries or prepares students for universities abroad.

With these standards in mind, we selected five of the most distinguished high schools in Manila today.

3. International School Manila (ISM)

Location: Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig
Curriculum: American-style with Advanced Placement (AP) + International Baccalaureate (IB)
Tuition: $$$$ (Among the highest in the country)
Student Body: Over 2,200 students from 50+ nationalities

School Overview

Founded in 1920, International School Manila (ISM) is the oldest and most prestigious international school in the Philippines. Located in the heart of BGC, ISM combines academic excellence with a vibrant community spirit, making it the top choice for diplomats, executives, and global families.

Academic Excellence

ISM offers a unique hybrid curriculum that blends American educational standards with globally recognized programs. Students can pursue Advanced Placement (AP) courses and transition into the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in their final two years.

Graduates consistently gain admission to top-tier universities worldwide, including Ivy League schools, Oxbridge, and top Asian institutions.

Facilities

The ISM campus is world-class, featuring:

• Modern science and technology labs

• A state-of-the-art performing arts center

• Multiple sports fields and swimming pools

• Dedicated college counseling and learning support

Community and Culture

With over 50 nationalities represented, ISM fosters a truly international learning environment. The school promotes diversity, inclusion, and holistic growth through:

• A wide range of clubs, service programs, and cultural events

• Strong parental involvement and alumni engagement

• Emphasis on leadership, global citizenship, and character building

✅ Why Choose ISM?

• Consistently ranked #1 for academic rigor in the Philippines

• Premier location in safe, expat-friendly BGC

• Exceptional university placement record

• Ideal for families seeking a U.S.-style education with global credentials

4. British School Manila (BSM)

Location: Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig
Curriculum: British (IGCSE + A-Levels)
Tuition: $$$$ (Comparable to ISM)
Student Body: 1,000+ students from over 40 countries

School Overview

Established in 1976, the British School Manila (BSM) offers a world-class British education in the heart of Metro Manila. Known for academic rigor, pastoral care, and a strong sense of community, BSM is a top choice for UK nationals and globally mobile families who value the IGCSE and A-Level pathway.

Academics and University Outcomes

BSM follows the UK National Curriculum, leading to IGCSEs in Year 11 and A-Levels in Years 12–13. The school boasts outstanding academic results, with students regularly scoring above UK and global averages.

Graduates gain entry into elite universities, particularly in the UK, US, Australia, and Hong Kong, including:

• Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, UCL

• Ivy League schools and top liberal arts colleges

• University of Melbourne, HKU, and NUS

Campus and Facilities

BSM’s BGC campus features:

• Interactive science labs and tech integration

• A 400-seat theater and music studios

• Olympic-sized pool and indoor sports hall

• Outdoor learning areas and sustainability initiatives

Community and Culture

BSM emphasizes a whole-child approach, balancing academics with character development and creativity. The school is known for:

• Outstanding sports and arts programs

• A strong house system and mentorship culture

• Service learning and global citizenship initiatives

• An inclusive, nurturing atmosphere

✅ Why Choose BSM?

• British curriculum with a global outlook

• Superb academic results and university placements

• Strong emphasis on creativity, community, and leadership

• Ideal for families seeking a UK-based education with premium facilities

5. Brent International School Manila

Location: Biñan, Laguna (South of Metro Manila)
Curriculum: U.S.-based + IB Diploma Program
Tuition: $$$ (More affordable than ISM and BSM)
Student Body: 1,000+ students from over 30 countries
Boarding: Available

School Overview

Founded in 1984, Brent International School Manila offers a top-tier American-style education on a spacious, resort-like campus in Biñan, Laguna. While technically outside Metro Manila, Brent’s proximity to Alabang and south Metro makes it a popular choice for families living in the suburbs or seeking a quieter, more expansive school environment.

Curriculum and Academics

Brent blends a U.S.-based curriculum with global elements, culminating in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) in Grades 11–12. It also offers Advanced Placement (AP) options, allowing flexibility for students targeting universities in the U.S., Canada, or Europe.

Students benefit from:

• Small class sizes and individualized attention

• Rigorous academic preparation with a values-based ethos

• Strong ESL and learning support programs

Campus and Facilities

Brent’s 10-hectare campus includes:

• Olympic swimming pool and multiple sports fields

• Fully equipped science and computer labs

• Art studios, theaters, and music rooms

• On-site boarding facilities with structured programs

‍‍ Community and Values

Brent promotes Christian values, inclusivity, and intercultural understanding. It has a warm, community-centered feel, supported by:

• Chapel services and pastoral care

• Local and international outreach programs

• A balance of academics, service, and leadership

✅ Why Choose Brent?

• Excellent value for a premium international education

• Wide range of programs, including boarding for expat teens

• Calm, green environment away from Manila’s urban congestion

• Ideal for families seeking holistic development and strong values

6. Chinese International School Manila (CISM)

Location: Makati City
Curriculum: U.S. Common Core + IB Diploma Program
Tuition: $$$
Student Body: 500+ students, strong Asian representation
Language Focus: Trilingual education (English, Chinese, Filipino)

School Overview

Established in 2007, Chinese International School Manila (CISM) offers a unique blend of Western education with strong Asian values, making it especially attractive to bilingual families or those with a cultural connection to Mandarin-speaking countries.

Located in the heart of Makati, CISM provides international-level education with a special emphasis on Mandarin proficiency alongside global academic standards.

Academics and IB Pathway

CISM follows a U.S. Common Core curriculum from Preschool to Grade 10, preparing students for the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12.

Key features include:

• Rigorous academics designed for international university admission

• STEM-focused instruction and project-based learning

• Advanced Chinese language instruction for all levels

Campus and Programs

Though smaller than other top-tier schools, CISM offers:

• Fully air-conditioned classrooms with smart boards

• Science and computer labs

• Indoor gym, dance studio, and music facilities

• Strong arts, music, and cultural festival programs

Language and Cultural Advantage

CISM stands out for its trilingual approach:

• English as the main medium of instruction

• Chinese (Mandarin) taught daily with native-level fluency as a goal

• Filipino as part of local integration

This multilingual framework prepares students for careers and studies in both Western and Asian contexts.

✅ Why Choose CISM?

• Strong Mandarin program with international accreditation

• Ideal for Chinese-Filipino and bilingual families

• Competitive tuition rates for central Makati

• Focus on academic rigor with cultural balance

7. European International School (EIS)

Location: Parañaque City, Metro Manila
Curriculum: Dual system – French National Curriculum, German Curriculum, and IB Diploma
Tuition: $$$
Student Body: 300+ students, mostly from European and multilingual families
Languages: English, French, German

School Overview

The European International School (EIS) is a unique institution in Metro Manila, offering three academic streams under one roof: the French Section, the German Section, and the shared International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in the final years. This setup reflects the school’s mission to foster multilingual, multicultural excellence.

EIS is one of the only schools in Asia that is a member of both the AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad) and the ZfA (Central Agency for German Schools Abroad), making it ideal for expats from Europe and globally mobile families.

Curriculum Structure

• Preschool to Grade 10: Students follow either the French or German national curriculum.

• Grades 11–12: Students from both sections converge in the IB Diploma Programme, taught in English.

The school focuses on language mastery, critical thinking, and global citizenship, producing well-rounded graduates ready for top universities across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Campus and Atmosphere

Located in Parañaque, EIS offers:

• A quiet, secure campus with green space

• Language-focused classrooms and small group instruction

• Access to shared arts, music, and sports programs

• Personalized support for academic and cultural transitions

Community and Strengths

EIS cultivates a tight-knit, inclusive European expat community. Students are typically fluent in at least two, often three languages, and families benefit from:

• European traditions and holiday celebrations

• Integration support for families new to Asia

• Strong alumni network across EU institutions

✅ Why Choose EIS?

• The only Manila school offering both French and German curricula

• Excellent multilingual foundation + IB Diploma track

• Ideal for European families or globally mobile professionals

• Small-school feel with strong academic rigor and personalized care

8. Other Notable Mentions

While the top five schools represent the most prestigious and internationally recognized options, Metro Manila hosts several other strong contenders that may be a better fit depending on your family’s needs, values, or budget.

German European School Manila (GESM)

• Location: Parañaque

• Curriculum: German curriculum + IB Diploma

• Language: German and English

• Highlights: Excellent for German nationals and bilingual education; strong music and science programs

Everest Academy Manila

• Location: Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

• Curriculum: Catholic, U.S.-based + IB Diploma

• Highlights: Strong religious education component, values-based formation, and global curriculum

Australian International School (AIS)

• Location: Makati

• Curriculum: Australian curriculum (ACARA), offers WACE for university preparation

• Highlights: Small class sizes, flexible learning support, great for Australian and New Zealand expats

Leaders International Christian School of Manila

• Location: BGC

• Curriculum: Christian, U.S.-style

• Highlights: Lower tuition range, strong community and values-based education, growing international body

Why These Matter

If your child has specific religious, cultural, or budgetary considerations, one of these schools might be more aligned with your goals. Many offer smaller class sizes, a close-knit community feel, and easier admissions processes.

9. Cost Comparison & Admission Process

Tuition Fee Ranges

The cost of enrolling in an international high school in Manila varies widely depending on the school’s prestige, curriculum, facilities, and location. Below is a general breakdown:

Note: Additional costs such as enrollment fees, uniforms, textbooks, lunch, and transportation can add $2,000–$4,000 annually. Some schools also charge capital development fees for new students.

Admissions Timeline & Requirements

Admissions typically follow an academic year starting in August, but most schools accept rolling applications, especially for international families.

️ Timeline

• August – September: Ideal time to start school visits and inquiries

• October – January: Submit application forms, documents, and schedule interviews/tests

• February – April: Offers of admission issued

• May – June: Secure enrollment with payment and documents

Requirements (may vary by school)

• School transcripts or report cards

• Recommendation letters from current teachers

• Passport copy of student and parents

• Entrance assessment or interview

• Application and processing fees

⚠️ Waitlists and Competition

Top-tier schools like ISM and BSM may have long waitlists, especially in popular grade levels (Grade 6–10). For faster placement:

• Apply early

• Have backup options (like Brent or CISM)

• Be flexible with housing location to match school availability

10. Final Thoughts: Is Manila Right for Your Family?

Manila stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic hubs for international education. Its wide array of prestigious schools, English-speaking environment, and vibrant expat communities make it an attractive choice for families seeking world-class learning opportunities for their children.

Manila Is Right for You If…

• You prioritize academic excellence and want access to top global curricula (IB, British, U.S.)

• Your career or lifestyle is centered in Metro Manila

• You seek a diverse, multicultural environment for your child’s growth

• You are prepared for higher tuition and urban challenges like traffic and cost of living

Consider Cebu as an Alternative If…

• You prefer a more relaxed, resort-style lifestyle

• You want affordable yet high-quality education

• Your child thrives in a smaller school environment

• You are looking for a balance between education and quality of life

Cebu is emerging as a rising destination for international families, especially those looking to combine cost-effectiveness, English immersion, and safety in one place.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/why-cebu-is-the-best-place-to-raise-and-educate-your-child.html

Final Recommendation

Choosing the right school (and city) isn’t just about academics—it’s about the entire ecosystem your child and family will live in. Manila offers world-class schooling with urban energy, while Cebu brings simplicity and balance. Both are valid choices depending on your family’s goals.

Need help with planning your move or exploring Cebu’s education options?
Check out our complete International Education Guide to Cebu and Step-by-Step Enrollment Tutorial for more hands-on advice.

Top 5 International High Schools in Cebu for Global Education (2025 Edition)