Moving to Bali is more than a move – it’s a whole new way of life. The island has beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and a thriving expat community. For families, education is key and Bali delivers a range of international schools to suit every need. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start in the sun or a smart investment, Bali’s international schools offer world-class education in paradise.
Families can also explore bilingual schools as one of the diverse educational options available, alongside eco-schools and English-speaking institutions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an International School in Bali
When choosing an international school in Bali, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
a) Curriculum Options (e.g., IB, Australian, British)
A key factor is the curriculum. International schools in Bali offer options like the International Baccalaureate (IB), Australian, British, and American curricula. Each has strengths and weaknesses, so parents should compare options to find the best fit for their child’s needs and educational goals.
b) Proximity to Residential Areas
Many international schools are near residential areas, making daily commutes easier. For example, the Australian Independent School is in Seminyak, while Canggu Community School is in Canggu. This proximity reduces travel time, helping families balance work, school, and personal life.
c) Transportation Options
Several schools offer transportation services for safe and convenient commutes. Green School Bali provides bus services, while Bali Island School encourages carpooling. Many schools are near public transport hubs, and some promote sustainable options like cycling or walking, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
d) Tuition Fees and Additional Costs
Tuition fees vary, ranging from $4,000 to $20,000 per year. Additional costs may include registration, application, and extracurricular fees. Schools like ProEd Global School offer flexible payment plans and scholarships. Researching costs helps families find options that fit their budget and educational needs.
1. Green School Bali: Eco-Pioneers
- Location: Ubud
- Grades: Preschool to High School
- Curriculum: Hands-on, sustainability-focused
- Languages: English, Bahasa Indonesia, Spanish, French
- Class Size: 20 students on average
- Extracurriculars: BSSA sports, Balinese dance, surfing
- Website: Green School Bali
Green School Bali is famous for its bamboo buildings and sustainability. Students learn through hands-on projects and community activities. The Green School Bali´s small community means students, parents, and teachers work together to create a greener future.
2. Canggu Community School (CCS): Canggu’s Global School
- Location: Canggu
- Grades: Preschool to High School
- Curriculum: IGCSE and International Baccalaureate
- Languages: English, Bahasa Indonesia, French, Spanish
- Class Size: 20-25 students average
- Extracurriculars: Surfing, TED Club, various sports
- Website: Canggu Community School
CCS offers a global education with strong academics. IGCSE, the Cambridge International Curriculum, and IB programmes prepare students for university while TED Club and arts programs add depth. Parents like the community feel regular updates and diverse extracurriculars.
3. The Garden Early Learning Centre: Nurturing Preschool Years
- Location: Berawa
- Classes: Preschool (15 months to 6 years), PlayDates (6 months to 2.5 years)
- Curriculum: Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Walker Learning-inspired
- Languages: English, Indonesian
- Class Size: Small groups
- Extracurriculars: Music, art, drama, gardening
- Website: The Garden Bali
The Garden’s inquiry-based approach encourages curiosity and one-on-one attention. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is a prominent option among the various educational offerings available in Bali's international schools. Preschool and PlayDates programs instill a love of learning and exploration in a nurturing environment. The National Indonesian Curriculum is also integrated with international curriculums such as Cambridge and the International Baccalaureate, providing diverse options for families seeking quality education for their children.
4. Australian Independent School (AIS): Australian Education with a Global Perspective
- Location: Seminyak / Denpasar
- Grades: Preschool to High School
- Curriculum: Australian Curriculum and IB Diploma
- Languages: English, Japanese, French
- Class Size: 16-22 students
- Extracurriculars: Sports, educational courses
- Website: AIS Indonesia
AIS combines the Australian Curriculum with IB options. Facilities include a swimming pool and amphitheater: a multicultural environment and diverse activities for all interests. AIS Bali is highly regarded for its success with students from all backgrounds and abilities. They offer an inclusive education and school culture where students with learning difficulties or disabilities are able to benefit from mainstream education while being provided with specialist support.
5. Bali Island School: Tradition Meets 21st-Century Learning
- Location: Sanur
- Grades: Primary to Grade 12
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Language: English
- Class Size: 20 students on average
- Extracurriculars: Art, theater, dance, swimming
- Website: Bali Island School
Bali Island School’s beautiful campus and warm community stand out. A well-regarded IB program and small class sizes mean personalized learning. Over 80% of their teachers are expats. The average teaching experience at BIS is 16 years and more than half of their teachers have a Masters Degree.
6. Dyatmika School: Bilingual Education with great results
- Location: Denpasar
- Grades: Playgroup to High School
- Curriculum: Cambridge (CAIE), AS and A-levels
- Languages: English, Indonesian
- Class Size: Varies; older classes often under 15 students
- Extracurriculars: Music, sports, community garden events
- Website: Dyatmika School
Dyatmika’s bilingual program is excellent and cultural events celebrate Indonesian traditions. Dyatmika is a not-for-profit school founded by national and international parents over twenty-five years ago. While student numbers have grown from a single class to a student body ranging from Play Group to the graduating Class 12, the school continues to have a community feel, utilizing age appropriate methods to support students with learning difficulties or disabilities.
7. Sanur Independent School: Dual Curriculum Excellence
- Location: Sanur
- Grades: Preschool to Elementary School
- Curriculum: Cambridge and Australian Curriculum
- Languages: English, Indonesian
- Class Size: Small groups
- Extracurriculars: Clubs and activities
- Website: Sanur Independent School
Sanur School is devoted to educating students in an environment that is caring, encouraging, and respectful. Sanur School is responsible for seeing the students strive for high excellence in all aspects of education holistically, including academically, socially, emotionally, physically, and creatively. Through this Sanur School sees that all students are prepared to be positive members of tomorrow’s changing society.
8. Montessori School Bali: Authentic Montessori
- Location: Berawa
- Grades: Infant/Toddler to Elementary School
- Curriculum: Montessori
- Languages: English, Indonesian
- Class Size: Varies by program
- Extracurriculars: Capoeira, Balinese dance, soccer, violin
- Website: Montessori Bali
Montessori School Bali, a bilingual school, offers an authentic Montessori education in a serene and nature-rich environment, fostering independence, curiosity, and a love of learning. The advantages of bilingual education are evident as the school provides a comprehensive curriculum taught in both English and Indonesian, creating a rich learning experience. The beautiful campus, designed with traditional Balinese pavilions and lush greenery, creates an inspiring space where children can explore, learn, and grow at their own pace.
9. ProEducation School: 1 on 1 British Curriculum
- Location: Umalas
- Grades: Early Years to High School
- Curriculum: British Curriculum, IGCSE, A Level, ASDAN
- Language: English
- Class Size: 8-15 students
- Extracurriculars: Clubs and SEN support
- Website: ProEducation School
At ProEducation, every child gets the attention they need to thrive. With small classes and a flexible British curriculum, the school supports learners of all abilities, including those needing extra help. Teachers work closely with families to personalize each child’s learning journey. Whether it’s academics or school activities, ProEducation focuses on building confidence, skills, and a love for learning in a supportive environment, emphasizing child development and social-emotional development as key aspects of their holistic education approach.
10. Gandhi Memorial Intercontinental School (GMIS): Raising Global Leaders
- Location: Renon
- Grades: Preschool to High School
- Curriculum: Cambridge and IB
- Languages: English, Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia, Hindi, French
- Class Size: Varies
- Extracurriculars: Clubs and sports
- Website: GMIS Bali
GMIS is a melting pot of cultures, offering a truly international education. With a blend of Cambridge and IB programs, students learn to think critically and embrace diversity. Multilingual teaching prepares them for a connected world, while clubs, sports, and cultural events keep school life vibrant. GMIS helps kids grow into confident, global citizens ready to take on the world.
Moving to Bali?
Bali is more than just beaches and relaxation. It’s a thriving international hub that offers you and your family everything needed for a modern lifestyle. Imagine your kids growing up as globally aware individuals, forming connections with people worldwide. Living abroad is one of the best ways for children to develop, adapt, and expand their horizons.
Read our blog article: “Which region of Bali reflects your lifestyle?”
Bali’s schools provide world-class education with diverse curriculums, languages, and teaching methods. Bali has everything your kids need to thrive from eco-focused programs to bilingual education. The international curriculum, integrating well-recognized frameworks like the International Baccalaureate and Cambridge International Curriculum, fosters a wide range of skills, cultural understanding, and academic excellence among students.
Investland Bali can help you find your dream home and community. Whether you’re seeking a modern villa near top schools or a promising investment opportunity, we make the process seamless. Your ideal lifestyle awaits!
Contact us: info@investlandbali.com
