Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus and International School Utrecht are both in Amsterdam, about 33 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus also offers IBCP. Published annual fees are €6,025 - 9,168 at Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus and €4,820 - 7,700 at International School Utrecht, which puts Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus roughly 21% higher. Both take pupils from 4 to 18. International School Utrecht is the larger school, with around 1,150 pupils to Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus's 725. Both keep typical class sizes around 22.
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Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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International School Utrecht
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year €6,025 - 9,168 | Fees / year €4,820 - 7,700 |
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Age range
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Age range 4 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme) | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils 725 | Pupils 1,150 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 22 | Typical class size 22 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 2022 | Opened 2012 |
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Bus service
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Bus service Yes | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location The AICS operates two campuses in Amsterdam: South Campus at Arent Janszoon Ernststraat 1179, 1081 HL, Amsterdam, and Sandcastle (SE) Campus at Bijlmerplein 1000, 1102 MK Amsterdam. The two campuses form one Dutch international school, served by one team; the curriculum, school values and philosophy are the same across campuses. The Amsterdam International Community School offers international education in English. | Location The school is located at Van Deventerlaan 1, 3528 AG Utrecht, Netherlands. It sits in the city of Utrecht in the central Netherlands. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, illustrating proximity to transit and services for international families. |
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Stages
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Stages Primary and Secondary | Stages The school offers three IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (4–11), Middle Years Programme (11–16) and Diploma Programme (16–18). The Primary Years Programme covers ages 4–11, the Middle Years Programme covers ages 11–16, and the Diploma Programme covers ages 16–18. |
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School type
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School type The Amsterdam International Community School is a co-educational day school. It does not offer boarding facilities for any age groups, as it is designed to support international and local families residing in the Netherlands. | School type The school is an IB World School. It offers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix The school serves students of all nationalities living in The Netherlands; international student body. | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support In-class student support led by teachers and mentors to meet diverse student needs. | Additional learning support The school provides additional educational needs support through an inclusion team that includes school counsellors, inclusion coaches and a specialist. The school provides learning support services through the inclusion team, including in-class support, small group support and, where needed, individual support. The school uses a three-tier inclusion framework to organise interventions and progress monitoring. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation The Netherlands (Dutch international school). | Country affiliation The Netherlands. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure Primary day: Arrival 08:10; Registration and lessons start at 08:30; Story time and snack – 15 minutes; Morning break 30 minutes; Lunch break 30 minutes; Play time 30 minutes; End of day 15:15 (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri); 12:00 (Wed). Secondary timetable varies; all lessons on Thursdays start at 11:00; DP timetables differ by subject; students may be required to start at 10:15. | School day structure The school starts Kindergarten and Primary with drop-off at 8:00 and first lessons at 8:30. The school notes Secondary travel by bike and may use public transport if coming from further away; the day includes timetable-based lessons, self-study periods and field trips. The school is mobile-free, with devices put away during the day. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details The school offers a dedicated shuttle service to assist families with the daily commute to and from the South Campus. This service is operated by an external partner, Atlas Shuttle. Parents can contact the provider directly via phone or email to inquire about routes and arrange transportation for their children. | Bus service details Public transport is available via bus, tram and train (U-OV and NS) in Utrecht and the surrounding area. Many students travel by bike, and those from further away may rely on public transport. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fees - Registration fee: EUR 200 per student. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid to process the application; payment is taken via a credit-card payment link during the application. Annual tuition and itemised charges (school year 2025–2026) For new students starting in August 2025 the annual school-fee totals and the component breakdowns are as follows (amounts shown in EUR): - Primary Group 1–5 — Total: EUR 6,025.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 5,505.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 138.00 - Lunch supervision: EUR 363.00 - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Primary Group 6 — Total: EUR 6,309.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 5,505.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 422.00 - Lunch supervision: EUR 363.00 - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Primary Group 7 — Total: EUR 6,230.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 5,505.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 343.00 - Lunch supervision: EUR 363.00 - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Secondary MYP1–MYP4 — Total: EUR 7,178.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 6,531.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Secondary MYP5 — Total: EUR 7,628.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 6,531.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 450.00 (MYP assessment/exam charge) - DP1 & CP1 — Total: EUR 8,318.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 7,671.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - DP2 & CP2 — Total: EUR 9,168.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 7,671.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 850.00 (IB examination charge) (These component totals produce the annual Total School Fees shown above.) Deposit and registration summary - Deposit: EUR 500 per student. The deposit is payable with the first instalment and is refundable subject to the school's withdrawal conditions. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing: Families will receive invoices via the school's invoicing system (WIS Collect); the finance team issues one invoice at the latest by the beginning of June each school year. Parents/caregivers receive an email with a link to view and pay invoices. - Existing (returning) students payment schedule (2025–2026): - First instalment due by 1 July. - Second instalment due by 31 October. - The two instalments are equal halves of the full annual amount. A student may be excluded from school and transcripts withheld if fees remain unpaid. - New students starting in August/September 2025: the annual fee may be paid in two instalments (first instalment includes the EUR 500 deposit). New students starting in October or later are required to pay the prorated/full amount for their start month in full (no instalment option for October onwards). A detailed prorating schedule per starting month is applied. - Prorating (examples for new students starting after August 2025): - August: 100% of annual fee - September: 100% of annual fee - October: 90% of annual fee - November: 80% of annual fee - December: 70% of annual fee - January: 60% of annual fee - February: 50% of annual fee - March: 40% of annual fee - April: 30% of annual fee - May: 20% of annual fee - June: 10% of annual fee - July: 10% of annual fee. Refunds, cancellations and withdrawal - Cancellation for new students: If a new student cancels after acceptance and after payment of the deposit and first instalment, the family must give one month's notice (excluding school holidays). Without one month's notice the EUR 500 deposit is retained; the tuition fee itself will be refunded. - Withdrawal by enrolled families: A 30‑day written notice is required to receive a refund of remaining tuition, deposit and costs; a 60‑day notice applies for students leaving at the end of the academic year. Refund percentages are prorated by month (for example, August 75% refund; March 10%; April–July 0%) and the exact refund amount depends on the month of exit and full payment of fees. The deposit is refundable only when withdrawal conditions are met (notice given, fees paid in full, school property returned). Refund processing typically takes 4–6 weeks; if withdrawal occurs around winter or summer break it may take up to 10 weeks. The school also applies specific rules for students who withdraw within 30 days before the planned start date. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable; the AICS operates as a day school and no boarding fees are listed. Other costs and incidental charges - IB / examination items excluded from the standard fee: IB exam retakes for CP2 & DP2, E‑Assessment retakes for MYP5, and remarks on request are excluded from the school fee and are payable separately. - MacBook provision (secondary students): MacBooks and chargers are loaned to secondary students; parents are financially responsible for negligence, maintenance, repairs, loss and theft. If a MacBook is not returned or is damaged, the replacement/repair cost will be charged and may be deducted from the deposit. - Locker card replacement: EUR 5 for a replacement secondary locker card. - School supplies / uniform: The school provides basic school materials and the first AICS T‑shirt is provided by the school for primary students; additional AICS T‑shirts may be purchased. Parents must supply certain personal items (book bag, lunch box, indoor gym shoes, specified stationery, graphic calculator for higher secondary levels, etc.). Fee payment options and practical payment details - Registration fee payment: taken via a credit‑card payment link during the OpenApply application process. - School fees payment: invoiced through WIS Collect; parents receive an email with a link to view invoices and to pay via the iDEAL payment link offered in WIS Collect. Companies/employers can be invoiced directly on request; company invoices carry 30‑day payment terms from the invoice date. Parents receive reminders from WIS Collect three days before payment due dates. - Instalment deadlines and consequences: first and second instalment due dates are indicated above; missed payment deadlines can result in delayed start, forfeiting the student place, referral to collection agencies and withholding of transcripts and reports. All costs from debt collection and legal proceedings are charged to the parent/caregiver. Summary - Annual Total School Fees 2025–2026 (new students starting August 2025): Primary Group 1–5 EUR 6,025; Primary Group 6 EUR 6,309; Primary Group 7 EUR 6,230; Secondary MYP1–MYP4 EUR 7,178; Secondary MYP5 EUR 7,628; DP1 & CP1 EUR 8,318; DP2 & CP2 EUR 9,168. Deposit EUR 500 (held with first instalment). Registration (application) fee EUR 200 non‑refundable (credit card). Payment is administered via WIS Collect (iDEAL link); instalment and prorating rules apply as described above. | Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application fee (non-refundable): EUR 250. - Enrolment fee / deposit for new students (payable in advance): EUR 750. This enrolment fee serves as the deposit once the child starts school and is non-refundable if you decline the offered place. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-term instalment amounts) Note: instalment payments are structured as four equal payments (25% each) when instalments are used; amounts below show the annual fee and the value of one instalment (25%). - Primary (KG1 – Grade 5) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 4,820. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,205. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 4,820 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 5,570 (enrolment fee payable in advance). - Secondary — MYP (Grades 6–10) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,050. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,512.50. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 6,050 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 6,800. - Secondary — DP (Grades 11 and 12) - Grade 11 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - Grade 12 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - DP examination fee (Grade 12): EUR 800 (additional one-off fee invoiced for DP exam). - New-student first invoices: Grade 11 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 750 enrolment = EUR 7,700; Grade 12 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 800 DP exam fee = EUR 7,750 (enrolment fee not applicable for Grade 12 new intake as listed). Billing schedule and payment terms - Four payment options are accepted: - Full payment by direct debit. - Payment by direct debit in instalments (available for students starting at the beginning of the academic year). - Manual payment by parent within 14 days of the invoice date. - Manual payment by company within 14 days of the invoice date. Parents remain ultimately responsible for payment regardless of any employer commitment. - Instalment timing (direct debit instalments): - 25% due by end of September; 25% due by end of October; 25% due by end of November; 25% due by end of December. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for payment by instalment. Full fee settlement is required by the stated deadline in the invoice schedule. - Bank/payment details and instructions: - The school uses separate bank accounts for primary and secondary invoicing; payments must clearly display the student's full name and invoice number. Primary (PYP) IBAN: NL28RABO0182469549 (SPOUtrecht). Secondary (MYP/DP) IBAN: NL04RABO0356552195 (NUOVO). BIC: RABONL2U. Bank address: Rabobank Utrecht, Beneluxlaan 31-33, 3526 KK Utrecht. - Non-payment consequences: - Failed direct debits may lead to termination of the direct debit agreement; outstanding debts are transferred to a debt collection agency and additional costs will be charged to the parent/legal guardian. Persistent non-payment may result in referral of the student to the national education system. Boarding fees - Boarding: Not applicable. International School Utrecht operates as a day school and does not provide boarding facilities. Other costs and optional fees - MYP e-Assessment (external moderation / invoiced separately): - Partial e-Assessment (per course): EUR 60. - Personal Project and Interdisciplinary Assessment: EUR 120. - e-Assessment certificate (8 components): EUR 420. - Items and activities excluded from the standard tuition fee (invoiced separately): - External tuition and tutoring, School Supported Self-Taught (SSST) language tuition and materials, after-school clubs, home language lessons, Pamoja fees, optional overnight stays, and some optional activities. - Laptop requirement and cost responsibility: - All students from Grade 6 upwards are expected to have an Apple MacBook for school use; families must purchase this device themselves. The school operates an Apple webshop option and recommends purchasing insurance and repairs (36-month cover option available via the school webshop). Any purchase and insurance cost is borne by the family. - After-school activities, optional overnight trips and some assessments are charged separately and will appear on later invoices as required. Discounts and fee reductions - Sibling discount: Families with three or more children attending the school receive a 30% reduction on school fees starting from the third child and for each additional child thereafter. - Mid-year starter fee reduction (prorated scale when students start after the academic year begins): - Full amount if start in August or September. - 90% if start in October; 80% November; 70% December; 60% January; 50% February; 40% March; 30% April; 20% May/June. Refunds and deposit return - Refunds for leaving during the school year (percentage of the annual tuition refunded depending on month of departure): - August–December: 50% refund. - January: 40% refund. - February: 30% refund. - March: 20% refund. - April: 10% refund. - May–July: no refund. Note: specific departure procedures and the leaving form must be completed to process refunds. - Deposit return: - Thirty (30) days' notice via the leaving form is required to return the deposit. The deposit is reimbursed only when all financial obligations are met and school property is returned. Families who have re-enrolled and then cancel after 1 June are not eligible for deposit return except where ISU recommends an alternative programme. Fee payment methods (summary) - Accepted/available payment methods: direct debit (full or instalments), manual bank transfer/payment by parent, or manual payment by company within 14 days of invoice. Direct debit creditor IDs appear on statements; separate creditor IDs are used for primary and secondary billing. Credit/debit card payment is not listed as a standard payment method in the standard terms and conditions. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for instalment plans. Administrative notes - Instalment payments are available only for students starting at the beginning of the academic year; instalment processing carries a EUR 10 administration fee and must be fully settled by the deadline stated in the invoice schedule. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options — | Food options Primary students eat their packed lunch in the classroom and have a morning snack break. Secondary students often bring their own packed lunch, which they may heat up at school; they can also order a salad or sandwich from an external catering company set up in the school. Secondary lunch runs 12:45-13:30. |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership Partly state funded by the Dutch government. All Dutch International Schools are connected to a Dutch school board. The AICS was founded by and is part of the Esprit Scholen Group and is also part of the DIS (Dutch International Schools). | Governance and ownership ISU is a Dutch International School governed by two cooperating local school boards: SPO Utrecht (primary) and NUOVO Scholen (secondary). |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The Primary Years Programme (PYP) has been implemented for students aged 4–11. It is a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based framework in which traditional subjects are taught in multi- or interdisciplinary units around six transdisciplinary themes: Who we are; Where we are in place and time; How we express ourselves; How the world works; How we organize ourselves; Sharing the planet. The PYP provides horizontal alignment across both campuses and vertical articulation with the Secondary School. The school has strengthened the arts in Primary and publishes the Programme of Inquiry for 2025/26. The Fireflies Programme supports learners with complex learning profiles, with differentiated curriculum and collaboration with Stichting Kolom and the samenwerkingsverband to support development of the programme and aligning Primary and Secondary. Specialist lessons include English Language Acquisition, Dutch Language Acquisition, Dutch Language and Literature, Physical & Health Education, and Performing Arts. Outdoor learning is part of the curriculum. AICS is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme. | Curriculum details ISU is an IB World Continuum school offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The PYP is inquiry-based and transdisciplinary, with student voice and ownership of learning, using units of inquiry that integrate mathematics and language while developing international-mindedness. The MYP develops active, internationally-minded learners through inquiry into local, national and global issues, organized into eight subject groups; in Grade 10 students begin more individualized pathways to prepare for the DP. The DP comprises six subject groups plus a core of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), with many subjects offered at Higher Level and Standard Level. ISU is a state-subsidised Dutch international school accredited by the International Baccalaureate and the Council of International Schools, and taught in a Dutch setting. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results Secondary School exam results (DP/CP): 2024–2025: DP pass rate 93% (133/143); CP pass rate 90% (18/20); All CP students will also receive their BTEC diplomas; highest DP score 43. 2023–2024: DP/CP pass rate 93%; one student achieved a DP high score of 45; CP students received BTEC diplomas. 2022–2023: DP pass rate 96% (87/91). | Exam results Class of 2025: 77 registered in May; 75 passed; 97% passing rate; 4 registered in November with 100% passing rate for the cohort including November; ISU average points 32.2; highest score 45; 17 bilingual diplomas. Class of 2024: 63 registered; 63 passed; 100% passing rate; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session passing rate 80%; ISU average 31.6; highest 43. Class of 2023: 50 registered; 49 passed; 98% passing rate including November retake; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session 79%; ISU average 31.5; highest 43. Graduates have enrolled in universities including Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London (UCL), London School of Economics (LSE), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression Graduates go on to universities in the Netherlands and internationally, including Leiden University (School of Law), University of Amsterdam, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Maastricht University, TU Delft (Architecture and Aerospace Engineering), Open University, and international institutions such as Parsons the New School for Design, Florida International University, University of Miami, University of Massachusetts Amherst, and University of Virginia School of Architecture. | Higher education progression Graduates pursue higher education at universities around the world. ISU alumni study at institutions such as Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London, LSE, University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning Wellbeing and academic achievement are linked; a holistic approach nurtures students' emotional, social, and academic growth. The Wellbeing Programme comprises Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), the KIVA anti-bullying programme, the Common Sense Digital Citizenship Programme, and the Community Safety Agreement (CSA) developed with staff, students and parents. The AICS Wellbeing framework emphasises student agency, parent school child partnership and a sense of belonging, supporting wellbeing and learning. Members of the safeguarding team include Lyndsay Gregory, Child Protection and Safeguarding Lead; Niké Yonkio, Primary Sandcastle Campus; and Sanne Zaadnoordijk, Primary South Campus. The Multisignal system connects professionals involved with a student to coordinate support and resolve issues quickly. | Social & emotional learning The school creates a positive and supportive environment that fosters belonging and well-being. The IB programmes are designed to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all learners. The Inclusion Team provides learning support, early intervention, in-class support, small-group and individual interventions. Student voice is encouraged and involved in planning and reviewing learning. A multilingual approach supports access to the curriculum and social inclusion. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The AICS uses an inclusive approach to learning and accepts students of average to above average ability, including those with English as an additional language and learners with learning diversity. Extra assistance is provided for a limited number of students. Speech and Language Team and Occupational Therapist services are available, and these services must be covered by health insurance. If capacity is reached, families may be placed on a waiting list until full support can be provided. | Special educational needs (SEN) Additional educational needs refer to groups who may face barriers to education and learning. Categories include communication & interaction; cognition & learning; social, emotional and mental health difficulties; and sensory and/or physical needs. The inclusion framework uses three tiers to provide instruction and interventions at increasing levels of intensity. The Inclusion Team delivers learning support through consultation, observation, in-class support, small-group and individual support. ISU collaborates with regional support networks for Primary and Secondary and has a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality, coordinating with the Attendance officer and Buurtteam as needed. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The main language of instruction is English. English Language Acquisition support is provided for students learning English as a emerging language, including an extended English Language Acquisition Programme (ELAX). The school also recognises English Best Language and Language Acquisition as part of its language provision and supports developing Dutch as a best language as part of its Dutch international school framework. | English as an additional language The language of instruction is English; all classes are taught in English, except Dutch Language Acquisition and secondary Spanish Language Acquisition. A multilingual approach recognises the value of home languages and multilingual learning. The school provides an English Language Acquisition (ELA) program for learners whose first language is not English; in primary, specialist ELA teachers work with classroom teachers with stand-alone ELA sessions. In secondary, students join English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and attend stand-alone ELA sessions in the Language Hub. Students may be asked to take a language assessment as part of enrolment. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is central to the school approach; a holistic wellbeing programme supports emotional and social development and links to academic growth. It emphasizes student agency, a parent school child partnership, and a sense of belonging. The programme includes CSE, the KIVA anti-bullying programme, the Common Sense Digital Citizenship Programme, and the Community Safety Agreement to support mental wellbeing and safe online behaviour. | Mental wellbeing Well-being is central to student success; the school provides a positive, safe and supportive environment to help students thrive. The Inclusion Team, including school counsellors and inclusion coaches, delivers support for social-emotional and mental health needs, with early intervention where possible. Student voice is encouraged in planning and reviewing learning to foster resilience and belonging. The school also provides health support through a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality and coordinates with local services as needed. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Safeguarding is led by a safeguarding team with Lyndsay Gregory as Child Protection and Safeguarding Lead (Secondary), Niké Yonkio (Primary Sandcastle Campus) and Sanne Zaadnoordijk (Primary South Campus). The school uses MULTISignal to coordinate professionals involved with a student, ensuring a coherent plan. A Community Safety Agreement and other safeguarding measures underpin the protective framework. | Safeguarding The school takes safeguarding seriously with annual safeguarding and child protection training for all staff; a safeguarding lead and an inclusion team ensure school-wide focus. A safe learning environment is maintained; staff require a Police Clearance Certificate (VOG) and recruitment includes reference checks. Staff are trained to identify and respond to signs of abuse or neglect and take appropriate action, including involving local or international authorities when necessary. The school provides for trainees with an intensive guidance procedure; trainees must provide a valid VOG before entering their traineeship. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The Amsterdam International Community School has two campuses in Amsterdam: South Campus and Sandcastle (SE) Campus. The campuses form one Dutch international school served by one team, with the same curriculum, values and philosophy across both locations. The school offers international education in English and is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme. The school provides education for students aged 4 to 19. The AICS Library is part of the school and hosts weekly primary reading sessions with book borrowing. | Facilities overview The school operates from a temporary two-storey campus at Van Deventerlaan 1 in Utrecht Papendorp, with room for 1,200 students. A large temporary sports hall at the rear serves both primary and secondary students. Construction is underway for a new, purpose-built campus at Utrecht Science Park on Cambridgelaan 101 and is scheduled to be fully operational in 2027. The new campus will include indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre, as well as spaces for science labs, visual arts and design, music studios, and outdoor learning. Regular building updates are published. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Park Startbaan is a multi-sport facility that includes padel courts and offers competitive youth training. Frans Otten Stadion is a large recreation centre hosting padel clubs and sports facilities for junior programmes. The Frans Otten Stadion and nearby facilities provide venues for padel, football and other activities for students. AICS cooperates with local clubs and venues offering after-school sports and activities such as football, tennis and hockey for youth. | Sports facilities The school has a large temporary sports hall at the rear of the Papendorp campus used by both primary and secondary students. The temporary campus includes a two-storey building with space for 1,200 students. The new Utrecht Science Park campus will feature dedicated indoor and outdoor sports facilities. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The AICS is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme. The school teaches in English and serves students aged 4 to 19. The AICS Library provides weekly reading sessions for primary groups and book borrowing. The School is part of Esprit Scholen Group and affiliated with IB, enabling the full continuum including Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma programmes. | Academic facilities The new campus will offer indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre. It will provide comfortable classrooms, science labs, visual arts and design spaces, music studios, and green spaces for outdoor learning. It will also provide spaces for independent learning and social spaces. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Global Citizenship Day promotes understanding of the world and developing the skills to contribute to it. Model United Nations is offered as part of the secondary programme. Nieuw Vocaal Amsterdam is a co-curricular activity available at AICS. AICS is an IB World School offering the full IB Programme, and co-curricular activities are integrated with the IB framework. | Extra curricular facilities After School Activities (ASA's) are run over two terms from September until February and from March until June. ASA's organised by ISU include Home Language Clubs (Grades 1-5) with languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish, and music programs including a private instrumental lessons program and the ISU Music Academy with seven musical projects across levels. Other ISU activities include Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5), Guruscool Abacus (Gr1–5), and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Kind & Co Ludens offers varying after-school activities, including arts & crafts. Sign-ups are via a school app shortly before activities begin. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History — | History — |
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Community
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Community The AICS comprises two campuses, South Campus and Sandcastle (SE) Campus, forming one Dutch international school served by one team; the curriculum, values and philosophy are the same across campuses. The school is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme; the IB Primary Years Programme was authorised in September 2021 and the IB certificate programme was authorised in 2020. The AICS is part of Esprit Scholengroep, a large group of schools in Amsterdam, and Learning for life guides its approach, emphasising student agency, inquiry and community. Global Citizenship Day fosters understanding of the world and developing the skills to actively contribute to it, and the AICS Library supports weekly primary group reading and borrowing. | Community ISU fosters a connected Utrecht community. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, is open five days a week, and helps with residency permits/visas and registration with the municipality. ISU highlights the expat community by listing organizations such as International Women's Contact Utrecht, Utrecht mamas, Expats in Utrecht, Expats Utrecht, Make the Most of Utrecht, Expatica, Access and Iamexpat, and English-language news sources like Holland Times and Dutch News. The school community participates in celebrations of learning, school festivals, concerts and whole-school celebrations. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The AICS Parents Society (APS) is a parent-led organisation with a mission to build and support an active community surrounding the school. It hosts coffee mornings, international breakfasts, and other social events. It organises clubs and activities around parents' interests. It plans staff-appreciation brunches and primary graduation celebrations. It runs popcorn sales, winter fairs, and other seasonal events. It offers support and community to incoming families, fosters constructive dialogue with the school, and connects parents to each other. | Parent teacher association The Parent Support Group (PSG) helps parents connect by organizing monthly events such as coffee mornings, daytime outings and evening drinks, and supports parent clubs including running club, language club and book club. PSG can be contacted at psg@parent.isutrecht.nl. New Parent Connectors assist new parents with school information and link them with Grade parents. Each primary class has at least one parent representative who works with the teacher to recruit volunteers for class activities and excursions. ISU also has a Participation Council (PC) that includes staff, parents and students and advises on school vision and planning; PC regulations were updated in June 2024, and annual reports for 2022–23, 2023–24 and 2024–25 are available. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual Model United Nations (MUNAICS) is the official conference hosted by AICS that invites students to engage in diplomacy and global affairs. It is a student-led event bringing together delegates from diverse backgrounds to develop research, negotiation, and public-speaking skills. The conference uses themes and committees to challenge participants and foster collaboration. The 2025 edition, A World in Transition: The Future of Global Solidarity, takes place September 27-28, 2025 at the AICS South campus. | Academic & intellectual ISU participates in the National Educational Fair (NOT) with a Design Team from Grades 8–9 that demonstrates 3D printing, laser cutting, soldering and coding for Junior IOT. The library provides personalised support for research, academic writing, referencing and responsible technology use. The language of instruction is English, and an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme helps learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Nieuw Vocaal Amsterdam is a co-curricular vocal program at AICS. | Arts & creative ISU has an ambitious music programme for KG-Grade 9 delivered by an experienced music team. The ISU Music Academy runs group lessons and private instrumental lessons and includes seven musical projects. Private instrumental lessons cover vocal, drums, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, guitar, violin/viola, cello and piano, with after-school lessons available. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language — | Cultural & language Home Language Clubs for Grades 1–5 are offered after school, including languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. English is the language of instruction, with an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme to help learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum. The language acquisition approach supports multilingual learning and curriculum access. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Global Citizenship Day 2025 featured creativity, collaboration, and inspiration with workshops focused on sustainability, equality, and innovation. Students across all year levels participated, and the day highlighted student voice and teamwork. | Social & hobbies After School Activities & Care offers Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5) and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Home Language Clubs are available as part of ASA with languages including Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. ISU Running Group provides a weekly social run for parents, with coffee and chat after the run. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Service as Action is an integral part of the Core curriculum in the MYP where students apply knowledge in real-world contexts to make a positive difference. It develops lifelong transferable skills and Learning Outcomes. Examples of student action include Global citizenship activity, Jugueton Maya Project, and Chewing gum meets Art. | Community & service Service as Action (SAA) is an integral part of the Middle Years Programme at ISU, giving students aged 11-16 the chance to learn and grow through community service. SAA projects include volunteering at local soup kitchens and fundraising for causes, with students choosing projects that hold personal significance. SAA develops critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration and leadership, following a four-step process from investigation to action. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Student Council is a group of elected students from each year level in the Primary and Secondary Schools who represent the student body and voice. The council functions in advisory and policy-making capacity. An Eco-committee also leads school sustainability initiatives under the Eco-Schools programme, focusing on litter, energy conservation, waste recycling, water, biodiversity, transport, healthy living, and global perspective. | Leadership & professional SAA fosters leadership and professional skills through project coordination and teamwork. Students take active roles in planning and managing SAA projects. ISU's student-led design team has represented the school at external events, such as the National Educational Fair (NOT). The SAA program is led by a dedicated coordinator who guides the projects. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing — | Lifestyle & wellbeing ISU Running Group offers a weekly social run for parents, promoting fitness and community. Grade 2 students participate in swimming lessons as part of the school's safety and wellbeing program. Mental well-being is addressed in ISU's educational events, such as themes highlighted at the National Educational Fair (NOT) 2025. After School Activities & Care support wellbeing through structured activities and care. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision The school teaches in English. It is a Dutch international primary and secondary school offering international education in English. It is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate programme. | Language provision ISU uses English as the language of instruction, with Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition taught as separate language courses. An English Language Acquisition (ELA) program supports learners whose first language is not English in both primary and secondary. In secondary, English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and a Language Hub provide ongoing language support, and students may be required to take a language assessment during enrolment. Home Language Clubs and Home Languages Week celebrate multilingualism. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching No bilingual teaching; English is the language of instruction. Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition are taught as separate language subjects. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Verify Eligibility and Availability First, check the school's Open Apply page to see current availability for new students. You must also review the specific entry criteria to ensure your child qualifies, as the school primarily caters to students spending a temporary period in the Netherlands or returning Dutch students. 2. Gather Required Documentation Before applying, prepare mandatory documents including valid passport copies, a digital photograph, and school reports from the previous two years provided in English. Families must also upload a BRP document from their local municipality and proof of temporary residence or a statement of intent to relocate. 3. Submit Application and Registration Fee Submit your formal application through the school's online portal. To complete the submission and secure your place in the processing queue, you are required to pay a non-refundable registration fee. 4. Await Processing and Placement For mid-term starts where a place is available, the process takes a minimum of two weeks. For the upcoming academic year, place allocations begin in May, with the Head of Campus determining final grade placements primarily based on the student's age. | Admissions Get in touch. We would like to get to know your child(ren). Please contact our admissions team through OpenApply, our admissions portal. This initial contact starts the admissions process. Providing documentation. When you start the admissions process, we will ask you to upload information about the languages your child(ren) speak(s) and their educational background. This documentation helps the admissions team understand your child(ren)'s profile. Submitting the information advances you to the next stage of the process. Application stage. We will talk to you and look at your documentation to make sure that there is a good match between the school's educational provision and your child(ren)'s needs. The admissions team may discuss next steps and timelines with you. You will be updated as the process progresses. Welcome and onboarding. Once placement is confirmed, you will receive welcome information. On your starting date, you will be welcomed by the admissions team and join an induction meeting. Your child(ren) will be welcomed and supported by their classroom teacher or mentor. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
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