While Colombia’s public education system is often ranked above average within the South American context, it still falls short by global standards. Fortunately, the country has a long-standing relationship with international education–Colombian schools have been offering the International baccalaureate (IB) program since 1977. The best international school are concentrated primarily in Colombia’s capital, Bogota. However, options also exist in major regional cities such as Cartagena, Medellin and Barranquilla.
It is important to note that students who pursue their education in Colombia earn academic qualifications that are recognized and respected internationally. Colombia offers a rich, diverse, and welcoming society, providing international students with a unique cultural experience set against the backdrop of a beautiful and vibrant country.
Studying in Colombia also serves as an excellent pathway to globally renowned universities, equipping students with both the academic foundations and the cross-cultural skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
A bilingual school may not be the same as an international one
In Bogota, many schools market themselves as “bilingual,” a term that can be misleading. Parents should be cautious: a bilingual label does not necessarily equate to an international curriculum. In some cases, schools may teach just a few subjects in English and still claim bilingual status.
For families seeking a truly international education, it’s important to go beyond marketing language. Look for institutions accredited by reputable bodies such as the Council International Schools (CIS) or the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). These affiliations are a stronger indicator of quality teaching, recognized standards and globally relevant curricula.
Curriculum and calendar: What to expect from international schools in Bogota
In Bogota’s international schools, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program remains the most widely adopted curriculum. However, families will also find a diverse array of alternatives, including American, British, Swiss, Italian, French and German educational systems.
A typical school day at these institutions starts early-usually around 7:00am-and wraps up by 3:00pm.
When it comes to the academic calendar, international schools in Bogota generally follow one of two models. “Calendar A” runs from January or February through November or December, aligning with Colombia’s summer break. “Calendar B” mirrors the schedule of most international schools globally, starting in September and ending in June. While some regions influence the choice of calendar, for many schools, It simply comes down to institutional preference.
With an understanding of how the international education system operates in Colombia, here’s a list of the top five international schools in the country along with a quick summary of key information for each.
1. Colegio Nueva Granada
The Colegio Nueva Granada is a private co-educational day school founded in 1938 to provide students (K4-12) with a U.S. oriented college preparatory education. The school is in Bogota, Colombia.
- Number of students: 1690
- Age range: Ages 4 to 18
- Number of nationalities represented in the school: 49
- Most common nationality: 45% Colombian, 15% U.S., 14% dual (U.S.-Colombian), 15% dual (Other-Colombian) and 11% from other countries.
- Language qualifications: US Diploma, AP, SAT, and ACT
- Language of instruction: English
- Class sizes: Average of 20 students per class and a maximum of 23 students per class
Academics
The following are the required external examinations or assessments: MAP test, Advances Placement Exams, SAT, ACT, Prueba Saber–a standardized test required by the Colombian Ministry of Education.
Student Support
Colegio Nueva Granada offers students an inclusive approach to learning that supports each student’s potential. To this end, the school establishes a Learning Center based on the belief that every student brings unique abilities interests, and strengths to the classroom–and each one deserves to be recognized and nurtured. This school is committed to inclusion, which it consider a best practice in education.
Colegio Nueva Granada’s programs are child-centered and developmentally appropriate, designed to foster individual growth through differentiated instruction. This approach allows educators to meet students where they are and support thier progress according to their specific learning needs.
This school employs professionals with expertise in a wide range of specializations to supports students with learning disabilities; dyslexia; attention deficits; speech, language & communication needs; developmental delays; genetic disorders; sensory integration; fine and gross motor skills; autism spectrum disorders; and English & Spanish language acquisition. The function of the Learning Center is to foster growth and self-esteem, as well as to teach strategies that lead to self-advocacy and independence.
Admissions
An entry evaluation for students is required for students applying to K, K5 and 1st grade, the assessments look at readiness and foundational skills. From 2nd grade on, the admissions assessments include reading comprehension and math, as well as written essays in English and Spanish. Students who do not speak Spanish are not required to take the Spanish portion of the test. Starting 1st grade, students also interview with an administrator and counselor, and both parents are interviewed by a CNG administrator. The family must plan on spending the morning at CNG.
2. Colegio Anglo Colombiano
The Colegio Anglo Colombiano was founded in 1956 by a group of Colombian and British Citizens. It is a private co-educational, non-denominational international school based upon the British educational system. The school is located in Bogota, Colombia.
An important highlight is that the fundamental values at Colegio Anglo Colombiano lie at the heart of the school’s ethos. These guiding principles are built on four key pillars: honesty, respect, responsibility, and solidarity. Together they shape the school’s culture and inform both academic and community life.
- Number of students: 1800
- Age range: Ages 4 to 18
- Number of nationalities: 10+
- Most common nationality: Colombian
- Curriculum: IB
- Leaving qualification: IB Diploma
- Languages of instruction: English and Spanish
- Class size: an average of 22 students per class and a maximum of 23 students per class
Academics
The IB diploma makes part of the external examinations and assessments required in the school.
Student support
Colegio Anglo Colombiano has an Educational Support Department available for students. As an inclusive school, if offers students a wide and diverse range of abilities and needs through its Inclusion Programme. The school’s goal is to ensure every student receives holistic and effective support tailored to their individual strengths and needs.
The school has psychology professionals available to help students supporting social/emotional development. For making this happen they use tools and spaces such as small-group counseling, School counseling Wellness Curriculum workshop and activities.
Admissions
The Colegio Anglo Colombian perform sevaluations before accepting new students. The evaluations are different depending on the grade in which the student is applying. From Pre-Kindergarten to Transition (PK to TR) the school has individual observations on the different areas of development performed by the Pre-School team. For grades 1 to 10 the school uses MAP Test as the admissions evaluation. For Grade 11 internal examination papers apply.
3. Colegio Helvetia
The Colegio Helvetia is a private bilingual, calendar B, international school located at the north of Bogota, with over 40 years of experience demonstrating the highest standards in premium education. The school focuses on developing social entrepreneurship through positive community transformation, maximizing the potential of school members. The school is committed to fostering the holistic development of each student, ensuring not only academic achievement but also preparing them to meet the demands of an increasingly globalized world.
- Number of students: 700
- Age range: Ages 2 to 18
- Language qualifications: IGCSE and A-Levels
- Language of instruction: English and Spanish
- Class size: a maximum of 25 students per class
Academics
Pruebas Saber 11 and Swiss Matura make part of the external examinations and assessments required in the school.
Student Support
The school has dedicated staff and programs for students with special learning needs. The Swiss Matura is a comprehensive program for high achieving students. To ensure and integral education the school offers a wide array of extracurricular activities.
Admissions
The student is required to undergo an internal evaluation.
It is important to highlight that the school follows the curriculum of Switzerland and Colombia offering an integral education based on our core values of respect, responsibility and autonomy.
4. British International School
Located in Barranquilla, Colombia, the British International School (BIS), is a trilingual institution and a proud member of Inspired Education, the world’s leading global school network. With over 43 years of academic excellence, BIS offers the IB Diploma Programme and a holistic curriculum emphasizing well-being, performing arts and sports. Its modern facilities, global perspective, strong values and commitment to character development make it a top choice for families seeking world-class education in Colombia.
- Number of students: 1102
- Age range: from 3- to 18-year-old
- Number of nationalities: 6 different nationalities
- Accreditations: IB school, Francophone Seal, Character Counts Program
- Language of instruction: English, French, Spanish
- Examinations: DELF, IB Diploma, MYP
Student support
The school has an available network of emotional support with interdisciplinary professionals who accompany students at different stages of academic and/or socio-emotional processes, both individually and collectively with the aim of harmonizing the community.
The school has qualified specialists on staff who are equipped to support students facing emotional, interpersonal, or academic challenges.
Admissions
The British International School has a structured and personalized admissions process designed to guide families through each stage efficiently and transparently.
The admissions process at BIS begins with an initial inquiry, during which families receive comprehensive information about the school’s academic programs, facilities and educational philosophy. This is typically followed by a campus visit and a personal interview to evaluate the student’s academic background, interests, and alignment with BIS’s values and teaching approach.
Applicants are then guided through an evaluation process, which varies by grade level and is designed to assess each student’s readiness and potential for success at BIS. Once a student is accepted, families receive an official offer admission.
The final step involves completing the enrollment process, including the submission of required documentation and payment associated fees.
BIS is committed to ensuring a smooth and welcoming transition for all new students. The school provides support to both children and parents as they integrate into the community, with the admissions team available to assist at every stage-reflecting BIS’s dedication to delivering an exceptional educational experience from the very start.
5. Colegio Colombo Britanico
Located in Envigado, South of Medellin, Colombia, and founded in 1956, The Colegio Colombo Britanico is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) institution. Recognized by the Envigado Department of Education as a national bilingual educational institution, it is also the first school in Envigado to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The IB diploma is awarded by the International Baccalaureate Organization, a globally respected authority in international education.
- Age range: Ages 2 to 18
- Curriculum: IB
- Leaving qualification: IB Diploma
- Languages of instruction: English and Spanish
Admissions
To provide students with a high-quality, well-rounded education, the school sets enrollment limits for each grade level.
For families interested in enrolling a child in a grade other than Pre-Kindergarten, it’s important to note that availability depends on the withdrawal of a currently enrolled student. As a result, applicants are placed on a waiting list.
Admission priorities for all grades follow the same criteria ad for Pre-Kindergarten, giving preference to siblings of current students and children of alumni. Additionally, all applicants must undergo diagnostic testing and/or observation assessments, depending on the grade level.
For applicants entering Kindergarten, Transition of 1st grade, the school conducts observational evaluations focused on key developmental areas appropriate to early childhood education.
Students applying for grades 2 through 11, whether new or returning, are required to complete diagnostic tests in mathematics, Spanish Language Arts, and English.
How to apply?
To begin admissions process and be added to the waiting list, families must submit a formal letter to the school’s rector via email. The letter should include the following information:
- A brief introduction to the family and the reason requesting admission
- The applicant’s full name and date of birth
- The name of the applicant’s current school. Including academic calendar and current grade level
- Contact information, including full names of both parents, a phone number, and an email address where the school may respond if a spot becomes available
- A copy of the applicant’s identification document and most recent academic report must also be attached
It is important to highlight that only families for whom a spot becomes available will be contacted. The waiting list is reviewed in chronological order, and there will be no further communication unless an opening arises. The school strongly recommends that applicants remain enrolled in an alternative educational option.
From Pre-Kindergarten, there is no waiting list. Applications for this grade are managed virtually through the school’s website once the child reaches two years of age.
Why choose an international school?
For many international families, relocating to a new country or city, finding the right school is a top priority. Fortunately, Colombia offers a broad selection of private international schools that cater to diverse academic needs and cultural backgrounds. These schools typically follow globally recognized curricula, with the British American and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs being most popular.
Here are five key advantages of international education in Colombia:
Bilingual Education: Most of international schools in Colombia offer bilingual programs, helping students become fluent in both English and Spanish. This dual-language approach not only enhances cognitive skills but also prepares students for success in an increasingly globalized world.
Global perspective: These schools place a strong emphasis on international mindedness, encouraging students to explore and appreciate diverse cultures and viewpoints. This fosters open-mindedness and nurtures cultural competence-essential qualities for global citizens.
High Academic Standards: International schools in Colombia maintain rigorous academic expectations and often provide advanced programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP). These programs are designed to challenge student and prepare them for admission to leading universities worldwide.
Holistic Development: Beyond academics, these institutions offer a wide range of extracurricular activities–from sports and the arts to community service initiatives. This well-rounded approach supports the personal, social and emotional development of each student.
Global Networking: Attending an international school in Colombia provides students with the opportunity to build lasting friendships and connections with peers from around the world that can prove invaluable in their academic and professional futures.