International Education in Dusseldorf-Cologne-Bonn

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Named after the two rivers that flow through it, the Rhine Ruhr Metropolitan Area is the largest metropolitan area in Germany. In fact, it is one of the largest urban areas in Western Europe and is home to over 10 million people. Considered by some to be a ‘megacity’, in reality the region encompasses several German cities from Dortmund to Dusseldorf to Koln (Cologne) and Bonn, with many suburbs and towns in between. With such a large population, it should come as no surprise that the region has several international schools.

In terms of individual cities in the Rhine Ruhr Metropolitan Area, Koln has the most international schools within its borders. Several schools are scattered between Dusseldorf and Essen, and two are located south of Bonn. Train and road infrastructure in the region is very good, so it is feasible to choose an international school outside of the city you live in. However, for convenience and a shorter commute, a school closer to your home may be a better choice.

While Europe in general is not cheap for international schooling, fees in Germany and in the Rhine Ruhr Metropolitan Area are not as high as neighbouring countries such as Switzerland. The cost of living is also slightly cheaper in this region than in Germany’s larger cities like Berlin. While costs may be somewhat lower, the standard of education is just as good as anywhere else in Germany or Europe.

In terms of features, international schools in the Rhine Ruhr Metropolitan Area have just about everything you would expect. Most schools teach the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and the language of instruction is usually English, with German also offered in some schools. Native English speaking teachers are common across schools, as are additional language classes other than English. If you intend to stay in Germany long-term, your child will have ample opportunity to learn German.

While Germany’s public school system is excellent, international schools are still a popular choice among locals as well as expats in the Rhine Ruhr Metropolitan Area. Due to the smaller choice of schools on offer than in other German cities, competition for school places is possible. As the population of the region continues to grow, this could become more intense in the coming years.

As always, you should apply to your chosen school as far in advance as you can. You should also make sure all paperwork (visas, previous school grades, application forms and so on) are ready ahead of time. Many of the Rhine Ruhr Metropolitan Area’s international schools accept children from the ages of 2 or 3 for pre-school, so it’s never too early to think about applying!

Below, we have compiled the top 5 international schools in Dusseldorf-Cologne-Bonn according to our users. However, there are another 5 schools to choose from in the city. You can find the best international school for your child by personalising your results. Just fill in your search criteria, and we will calculate a personal score for every international school in Dusseldorf-Cologne-Bonn based on your requirements.