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. Bali is suitable for kids of all ages, from high school students to pre-school kids.
Read the comprehensive article by ILA Global Consulting: "Moving to Bali For Expats Life? Here’s Some Guide"
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 the 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. Some schools provide bus services, while others encourage 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.
Overview of International Schools in Bali
Bali hosts a variety of international schools for both expat and local students, offering curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge International Curriculum, and National Indonesian Curriculum. Accredited by reputable organizations, these schools ensure high educational standards. Notable institutions like Green School Bali, Bali Island School, and Canggu Community School provide world-class education emphasizing academic excellence, social-emotional development, and essential life skills. Whether seeking an eco-friendly environment or traditional academics, Bali's international schools cater to diverse family needs.
Curriculum Options
International schools in Bali offer diverse curriculum choices. The globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) emphasizes academic rigor and critical thinking. The flexible Cambridge International Curriculum focuses on individualized learning. Some schools offer bilingual programs, merging the National Indonesian Curriculum with international curricula for a well-rounded education. Additionally, schools accredited by the French National Education Ministry offer a French-Indonesian bilingual program. Specialized programs like the International Primary Curriculum emphasize hands-on, project-based learning for a comprehensive educational experience.
Supporting Students with Special Needs
Many international schools in Bali support students with special needs, offering inclusive learning environments. Dedicated special education programs, staffed by trained professionals, address individual student needs. Services often include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. ProEd Global School, for instance, provides individualized support and accommodations. Some schools also offer adaptive sports and extracurricular activities, ensuring all students can participate and engage with peers, fostering a nurturing environment for student growth.
1. Green School Bali: Eco-Pioneers
Foto source: Green School Bali
- 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): IB World School
Photo source: CCS BALI
- 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 is an IB World School that offers a global education with strong academics. IGCSE, the CAIE, and IB programs 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
Photo source: The Garden Bali
- 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): World-Class Education with a Global Perspective
Photo source: AIS Indonesia
- 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
Photo source: Bali Island School
- 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
Photo source: Dyatmika School
- 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
Photo source: Sanur School Bali YouTube
- 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
Photo source: Montessori Bali
- 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. ProEd Global School: 1 on 1 British Curriculum
Photo source: Our Year in Bali
- 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: ProEd Global School
At ProEd Global, 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, ProEd 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
Photo source: GMIS Bali
- 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!
