Druzhba Private Secondary School - Sofia vs Meridian 22 High School
Druzhba Private Secondary School - Sofia and Meridian 22 High School are both in Sofia, about 14 km apart. Both schools offer Bespoke programmes. Druzhba Private Secondary School - Sofia also offers Cambridge (Primary) and Cambridge (Secondary), and Meridian 22 High School also offers IB. Published annual fees are €1,100 - 7,865 at Druzhba Private Secondary School - Sofia and €100 - 7,960 at Meridian 22 High School, which puts Druzhba Private Secondary School - Sofia roughly 11% higher. Druzhba Private Secondary School - Sofia takes pupils from 5 to 18, and Meridian 22 High School from 2 to 18.
Located in Sofia, Bulgaria. The campus is in the Obelya-2 district at 106th Street, No. 3. The location is served by a school transport service with three zones linking Obelya and multiple Sofia districts.
Location
Sofia, Mladost 2, next to Block 227.
Stages
Stages
The school comprises a kindergarten, a primary school, a progymnasium, and a gymnasium.
Stages
Kindergarten; Junior High School; High School (IB Diploma Programme).
School type
School type
Private, co-educational; dormitory facilities are available for gymnasium students.
School type
Private high school; IB Diploma Programme; English-language instruction.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
The school has a pedagogical counselor who supports students' personal, emotional, and academic needs.
Additional learning support
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Country affiliation
Country affiliation
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Country affiliation
International Baccalaureate
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation
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School day structure
School day structure
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School day structure
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Bus service details
Bus service details
Transport is offered in three zones. Zone 1 covers Obelya, Nadezhda (1–4), Lyulin (1–10), Svoboda, Zaharna Fabrika; Zone 2 covers Ovcha Kupel, Banishora, Razsadnik, Sveta Troitsa, Serdika, Zona B, Lagera, Slavia; Zone 3 covers Borovo, Manastirski Livadi, Lozenets, Hadzhi Dimitar, Sukhata Rechka, Levski. Zone 1: €2,150 per year for a round trip or €1,500 for a one-way trip; Zone 2: €2,400 per year for a round trip or €1,500 for a one-way trip; Zone 3: €2,600 per year for a round trip or €1,500 for a one-way trip. For more information contact the Transport Manager at n_milenov@drujba.org or +359 2 934 5555.
Bus service details
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Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application fees
- One-time registration (application) fee: EUR 150 (paid at registration).
Tuition fees by year group (amounts in EUR)
- Kindergarten (ages 3–4), partial programme (08:00–13:00): EUR 418 per month. - Kindergarten (ages 3–4), main programme (08:00–17:30): EUR 572 per month. - Kindergarten (ages 3–4), extended programme (08:00–18:30): EUR 638 per month. - Kindergarten (ages 5–6), extended programme (08:00–18:30): EUR 7,865 per year. - School (grades 1–12): EUR 7,865 per year.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Annual tuition may be paid in full with a 5% discount, or in three instalments. - Three-instalment schedule (example amounts shown): First instalment EUR 3,000 (payable on enrolment), second instalment EUR 2,500, third instalment EUR 2,365. - Fees denominated in EUR are converted to BGN at the applicable euro–lev fixing rate on the day of payment.
Boarding (dormitory) fees
- Boarding (available for secondary / high-school students): EUR 1,100 for the full academic year. - Boarding includes accommodation, access to school dining facilities, Wi‑Fi and supervised residential staff; weekend home visits are permitted according to the boarding rules.
Other costs and fees
- After‑school care (homework club / aftercare) for primary pupils (grades 1–4): EUR 700 for one term (2026/2027 first-term rate shown). - School canteen (primary): EUR 420 per term for breakfast and lunch; lunch only EUR 300 per term; breakfast only EUR 200 per term. Canteen payments are handled separately and the school recommends bank transfer to the canteen provider. - School canteen is included in kindergarten fees; primary-year meals are prepaid per term; students in middle and high school pay for food on site individually. - Participation in interest clubs (extracurricular clubs) is not included in tuition and is charged separately. - School uniforms are ordered and paid for separately. - School transport is provided and invoiced separately.
Discounts and fee reductions
- Sibling discount and alumni-family discount: 10% for the second and each subsequent child from the same family and for children of alumni. - Transition discount: 10% for students moving from the school kindergarten to the primary school, from primary to lower secondary, and from lower secondary to upper secondary within the school. - Discretionary academic/competition discount: parents may apply for a tuition reduction if the pupil has achieved high results in national olympiads; decisions are made by school leadership. - Only one discount is applied per pupil; the largest applicable discount will be used.
Refunds and cancellations
- No specific refund or general fee‑refund procedure is published in the school's financial terms pages.
Fee payment options and bank details
- Payments are accepted by bank transfer to the school's EUR accounts (IBANs provided for the school and for the kindergarten). The school states that fees should be transferred in euros and converted at the daily euro–lev fixing rate. - School (ChSU Druzhba–Sofia) bank account (example as published): IBAN BG87UBBS80021047752340, Bank: UBB/ОББ. - Kindergarten (ChDG Druzhba–Sofia) bank account (example as published): IBAN BG89UBBS80021093884340, Bank: UBB/ОББ. - For canteen payments the canteen provider account is published (example IBAN): BG84UBBS80021069220240 (bank: ОББ); parents are asked to indicate pupil name, class and term in the payment reference.
Notes on billing
- Transport, clubs, uniforms and some meal options are invoiced separately from core tuition and must be paid in addition to the tuition amounts shown.
Annual tuition fees (High School) - Bulgarian national programme (Grades 8–12): €7,960 per academic year. This amount applies to each Year 8–12 place in the Bulgarian-track high school. - IB Diploma Programme (final two years of high school): - Current Meridian 22 IB students (continuing into the IB Diploma): €9,460 per academic year. - External entrants to the IB programme: €9,800 per academic year.
Billing schedule and payment terms - A signed tuition contract and payment of the first instalment are required at enrolment. - The school accepts either full-year payment or staged payments. The school uses a multi-instalment structure in which the first instalment is larger and the remaining balance is divided into equal instalments (example: a six-instalment option with one higher initial payment followed by five equal payments). This instalment approach is applied by the school for annual tuition billing. - Sibling discounts: second child receives 5% off tuition; third and subsequent children receive 10% off tuition.
Boarding fees - Boarding is not offered by Meridian 22 High School; the school operates as a day school (facilities described do not include boarding/dormitory services).
Other costs and what tuition covers - The published tuition amounts explicitly include the following as part of the fee: hot meals prepared on site, the official school uniform, textbooks, daily English lessons, a second foreign language from Grade 5, medical care, annual accident insurance, and sports activities up to the stated daily time. These items are therefore not charged separately as a standard additional tuition cost. - Optional or occasional additional costs that are charged separately include extracurriculum trips, organized study-abroad or summer courses and their deposits/registration fees (for example, the school runs summer English courses with a separate tuition and registration deposit). Example: a summer-course deposit / fee is paid by bank transfer or at the school cashier for those programmes. - Transport, specific extracurricular programmes, exam-entry charges (where applicable) and some optional activities may incur separate charges; such optional items are billed in addition to the standard tuition when they are taken.
Refunds and cancellations - The enrolment process requires signing a tuition contract and paying the initial instalment; refund and cancellation terms are governed by that enrolment/tuition contract and by the school's contractual terms for parents and pupils. Parents receive contract terms at enrolment that set the precise conditions for cancellations and any applicable refunds.
Payment methods and billing details - Accepted payment channels include bank transfer and payment at the school cashier; deposits for optional programmes have been shown to be payable either in cash at the school or by bank transfer (a bank account is used for program deposits). - The school issues invoices/requests for the instalments and the first instalment is required on signing the tuition contract; specific deadlines and installment due dates are set out in the contract/fee schedule provided at enrolment.
Key practical notes for parents (concise) - Registration fee: €100 due with application/enrolment. - Annual fees to budget for (High School): Bulgarian track €7,960; IB DP €9,460 (current students) / €9,800 (external entrants). - Tuition normally covers meals, uniform and textbooks; optional trips, summer courses and certain extras are charged in addition.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
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Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
An intensive English language program based on Cambridge prepares students to take Cambridge English Qualifications. The school teaches English to children and encourages them to take Cambridge English Qualifications such as Starters, Movers, Flyers, KET (A2 Key for Schools), PET (B1 Preliminary for Schools), and FCE (B2 First for Schools), which bring numerous academic, cognitive, and personal benefits. Cambridge English Qualifications include Young Learners Exams (YLE) with Starters, Movers, Flyers (from Pre-A1 to A2). FCE for Schools (B2) is offered for higher-level English. The school uses project-based learning as a core method. The classrooms are modern and equipped with computers, interactive boards and projectors; science laboratories support physics, chemistry, and biology; a large conference hall and sports facilities are available. The school fosters a multicultural environment and offers diverse opportunities to participate in extracurricular clubs. One class averages 17 students.
Curriculum details
Meridian 22 High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school is a member of the International Baccalaureate. IB subjects are chosen by students based on their interests and plans for higher education and career development. The program prepares students for successful futures at universities abroad and in Bulgaria. The school has graduated fourteen cohorts who earned IB diplomas and Bulgarian high school diplomas. The maximum IB Diploma score is 45.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
In its 15 years as an IB member Meridian 22 High School has graduated fourteen cohorts who earned IB diplomas and Bulgarian high school diplomas. IB subjects are chosen by students based on their interests and plans for higher education and career development. The maximum possible IB Diploma score is 45. Top IB results include scores such as 44 points, 43 points and 41 points.
Higher education progression
Higher education progression
Significant success of students in applying to prestigious universities in Bulgaria and abroad.
Higher education progression
Meridian 22 High School prepares students for successful futures at universities abroad and in Bulgaria. Some graduates have gone on to universities worldwide, such as Albert-Ludwigs University in Freiburg, Germany, and Geneva Business School in Spain.
Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning
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Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
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English as an additional language
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Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing
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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
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Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
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Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
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History
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Community
Community
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Community
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Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
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Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1) Admission to 1st class is through an interview with the pupil and/or assessment of pre-school readiness (6-year-old). The interview and testing are conducted by an admissions committee consisting of the deputy director, a pedagogical counselor, and a primary teacher. Required documents for enrollment include: the ChrS Druzhba application form, a signed enrollment contract, the original certificate of completion for the preparatory group, a personal health record from the family doctor, and an immunization passport. 2) Admission to 2nd, 3rd and 4th class is through an interview and an examination in Mathematics and Bulgarian language and literature; the interview and testing are conducted by a committee of the deputy director, a pedagogical counselor, and teachers. 3) Admission to 5th class is through an interview and examinations in Mathematics, Bulgarian language and literature, and English; the interview and testing are conducted by the deputy director, a pedagogical counselor, and teachers. Enrollment documents include the application form, a birth certificate copy, a transfer certificate and curriculum copy, a certificate of completed primary education, immunization passport and health record, two photos, enrollment contract, and the initial tuition payment. 4) Admission to 8th class is through an entrance exam in Bulgarian language and literature, Mathematics, and English; the exam may be taken individually at the school and a minimum score of 4.80 is required; if below, retaking is possible. Excellent performance on Druzhba entrance exams or on the National External Examination (7th grade) may yield tuition discounts if places are available. 5) Admission to the remaining classes (2–4; 6–7; 9–11) follows the described pattern: 2, 3, 4 require Mathematics and Bulgarian language and literature; 6 and 7 require Mathematics, Bulgarian language and literature and English; 9–11 require Bulgarian language and literature and English; interviews and tests are conducted by a committee including the deputy director, a pedagogical counselor, and teachers. 6) Admission of pupils from abroad involves recognition of foreign schooling and qualifications; the procedure and documents cover submission of original educational documents, translations, and related confirmations; a committee assesses each case. 7) Documents for submission across these admissions include the standard forms, birth certificate copies, transfer documents, evidence of completed education, immunization/health documents, photos, and signed contracts; submissions to the Regional Education Office (ROU) are possible through the persons specified by Bulgarian regulations, with decisions issued within about one month unless additional information is requested. 8) Language and curriculum notes: English is emphasized from 1st grade with intensive English instruction from that level.
Admissions
1. Grade range and applicant pool. Meridian 22 High School provides education from 8th to 12th grade. The school is small and places are limited, with priority given to current 10th-grade students applying for 11th IB, applicants from Meridian 22 Junior High School applying for 8th grade, siblings of current or former students, international students or applicants who do not have Bulgarian as their first language, and then any other applicants if places remain. 2. Initial contact and appointment. Families should contact the school to arrange an appointment with the Head of School. At the meeting, the parents and the prospective student should bring the required documentation, learn about the school's core programme, and be informed about the admissions timeline and examination dates. The school will evaluate the application and may set dates for the relevant exam(s). 3. Admissions criteria for 8th grade and 11th IB. Applicants must sit entrance exams, usually held at the end of March or the beginning of April for a September start. The Admissions Committee makes decisions based on the exam results (including English), academic records from previous years, the applicant's potential to handle academic rigour, the school's ability to meet the applicant's educational needs, and availability of places. 4. Admission decision process. The Head of School, the Deputy Head of School for the high school, a teacher, and the school psychologist form the Admissions Committee to decide admission, taking into account exam results, interview performance, and, if applicable, the applicant's performance at any national assessments. If admission occurs after a national examination, those results are considered. After a decision is made, enrolment documents are prepared. 5. Learning support and inclusion. The school provides a limited level of support for mild to moderate learning difficulties; parents must inform the school when applying and may need to fund additional support. The Access and Inclusion Policy clarifies the available support. 6. Registration and entry for 8th grade. Registration includes submitting an application form online or on site, providing the first-term academic transcript, paying a registration fee (for applicants from schools other than Meridian 22 Junior High), and attending an interview with the candidate and their parents. The interview explores motivation, interests, and potential, with dates arranged individually. The entry exam covers Bulgarian Language and Literature, Mathematics, and the student's English proficiency; results are announced within 7 days; the admission decision follows the committee's assessment. 7. Admissions to 9th–12th non-IB grades. Registration requires the application form, an academic transcript, entry/equivalency exams as appropriate, a registration fee, and an interview. The entry exam covers Bulgarian Language and Literature, Mathematics, and English proficiency; results are announced within 7 days. There may be a one-week trial training to assess knowledge and motivation, and the admission decision is made by a committee based on exam results, interview performance, and trial results. 8. IB Diploma Programme admissions. For the IB DP, registration requires an application form, a 10th-grade transcript (average must be 4.50 or above on the Bulgarian 6-point scale), a motivation letter in English, a registration fee, and an interview. The English entry exam is based on the Cambridge Advanced Level Certificate Exam (CEFR B2–C1) and includes written and oral components; results are provided within 10 days. The entry score is the average of the English exam and the 10th-grade average. Admission decisions are made by the Admissions Committee, including the IB DP Coordinator, Head of School, Deputy Head of School for the high school, psychologist, and IB teachers. Offers are based on entry scores and interview performance; enrolment in the DP is completed after the candidate and parents acknowledge the IB requirements, with subject choices made in consultation with the IB Coordinator and Head of School. 9. Enrolment and contractual commitments. A place is offered and tuition is paid according to the schedule specified in the contract, with parents informed of the commitments they are making. 10. Documentation preparation. Upon approval, all necessary enrolment documents are prepared. 11. Scholarships. The school offers partial and full merit-based or need-based scholarships to support the school as a whole and the Diploma Programme. 12. Language and qualification requirements. As an English-language school and IB World School, good English proficiency is essential; DP applicants should demonstrate English proficiency through their academic records and/or an English exit exam at Meridian 22. If necessary, an equivalency test in English is required; a Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (minimum grade C) can exempt the applicant from the entry exam for the IB Diploma Programme.
Scholarships
Scholarships
The school offers tuition discounts as a form of financial aid. A 10% discount applies to the second and each subsequent child in the same family. A 10% discount is also available when advancing to the next educational stage within the Druzhba system. A 10% discount is available for siblings of current pupils, and the same 10% may apply to twins where one twin gains admission and the other follows. For high achievement in national/international competitions, a discount may be granted at the school's discretion upon parental request; only one discount is applied per student, with the largest discount used. The annual tuition may be paid in full with a 5% discount or in three installments (第一 installment €2000, second €1825, third €1825). Other fees for goods and services (meals, transport, uniforms, clubs, etc.) are separate.
Scholarships
The School offers partial and full merit-based or need-based scholarships, which aim at supporting the School as a whole and the Diploma Programme.