International Education in Santiago
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A stable economy, Mediterranean climate and affordable cost of living make Chile an attractive option for expats. The sheer length of this country means that everything - people, jobs, international schools, and the rest - tends to be concentrated in the middle, which is where the capital city of Santiago de Chile happens to be. If you’re planning a move to Chile with children in tow, the capital city is most likely where you’ll end up, at least during school time.
While the previously lacklustre education system in Chile is changing for the better, private and international schools still offer higher teaching standards and facilities and are therefore in high demand. In fact, many of Santiago de Chile’s international schools are very well established and have a long history.
By far the widest and best choice of international schools in Chile is found in the capital, Santiago de Chile. Although a sprawling city, it has a good public transport network and most of the international schools are clustered in the eastern and north eastern areas. Neighbourhoods to look out for include Lo Barnechea, Las Condes and Chamisera.
Remember Santiago de Chile is in the southern hemisphere and so the seasons are reversed. Summer is from December to February, which means the school year typically begins in March and ends in November. Keep this in mind when the time comes to apply to your chosen international school, but do also check with each individual school first. Some of them choose to follow the northern hemisphere school calendar, i.e. beginning the school year in September.
If you are moving to Santiago de Chile from the northern hemisphere, this switched-around calendar means your child may have to repeat a semester of school instead of skipping ahead to the next grade. While this may seem like a waste of time and school fees, remember it gives your child an extra chance to settle into a new school and get used to their new home.
The Chilean government sets a standard curriculum for all schools in the country. However, international schools are permitted to offer an alternative curriculum as well. This is why you’ll see many international schools in Santiago de Chile offering two or more curricula - and you’ll almost always see both Spanish and English (or the language of the country the school is affiliated with) as languages of instruction. The most popular curriculum is the International Baccalaureate (IB), but there is a varied choice of European curricula on offer too. You’ll find British, German, French, Swiss and Italian, as well as American curricula in the city.
To apply to an international school in Santiago de Chile, you and your child will likely need to attend an interview and complete a lot of paperwork (more than the usual application process!). Because private education is in-demand in Chile, you may encounter waiting lists. As usual, it is best to apply as far in advance as you can or as far in advance as your chosen school will allow.
Below, we have compiled the top 5 international schools in Santiago according to our users. However, there are another 12 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 Santiago based on your requirements.
