International Schools in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has rapidly emerged as a hub for global education, offering world-class international schools that blend academic excellence, cultural diversity, and global learning standards. With an increasing number of expatriates and international families, the Kingdom now hosts dozens of institutions following British, American, Indian, and IB curricula.
1. British International School, Riyadh (BISR)
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Overview:
BISR is one of the oldest and most respected international schools in Saudi Arabia, offering the UK National Curriculum from Early Years to A-Levels.
Admission Procedure:
- Online application through the official school website.
- Submit previous school reports and recommendation letters.
- Assessment test and parent interview.
Eligibility:
- Open to expatriate and international students.
- English language proficiency required.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 60,000 – 90,000 (depending on grade level).
2. American International School – Riyadh (AIS-R)
Location: Riyadh
Overview:
AIS-R is one of the top American-curriculum schools in the Kingdom, accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
Admission Procedure:
- Submit an online application.
- Entrance test and interview (Grades 6–12).
- Submission of previous academic records.
Eligibility:
- English fluency and strong academic performance.
- Priority given to international and diplomatic families.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 80,000 – 120,000
3. International Indian School, Jeddah (IISJ)
Location: Jeddah
Overview:
A leading CBSE-affiliated school catering to the Indian expatriate community. It provides affordable, high-quality education with strong academic results.
Admission Procedure:
- Online registration through school portal.
- Age-appropriate entrance test.
- Document verification (passport, iqama, and previous records).
Eligibility:
- Indian and international students with valid residency.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 4,000 – 8,000
4. Dhahran British Grammar School (DBGS)
Location: Dhahran
Overview:
Part of the International Schools Group (ISG), DBGS offers a British-style education following the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) framework.
Admission Procedure:
- Submit application form and academic transcripts.
- Entrance assessment and interview.
Eligibility:
- Expatriate students fluent in English.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 60,000 – 95,000
5. American International School of Jeddah (AISJ)
Location: Jeddah
Overview:
AISJ follows an American-based curriculum offering Pre-K through Grade 12 education with AP courses and extracurricular development.
Admission Procedure:
- Apply online.
- Provide school records, recommendations, and test scores.
Eligibility:
- Open to international and Saudi families fluent in English.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 75,000 – 115,000
6. The British International School of Al Khobar (BISAK)
Location: Al Khobar
Overview:
BISAK delivers the National Curriculum of England and prepares students for IGCSE and A-Level exams.
Admission Procedure:
- Submit application and academic records.
- Entrance assessment for placement.
Eligibility:
- Open to international families.
- English proficiency is required.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 55,000 – 85,000
7. Riyadh International Community School (RICS)
Location: Riyadh
Overview:
RICS provides a diverse learning environment following a British-based curriculum with an emphasis on academic and personal growth.
Admission Procedure:
- Application form and supporting documents.
- Interview and placement test.
Eligibility:
- Open to students from all nationalities.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 40,000 – 70,000
8. Al Rowad International School
Location: Riyadh
Overview:
Al Rowad offers both British and American curriculums, making it a versatile choice for international families seeking bilingual education.
Admission Procedure:
- Online or in-person registration.
- Entrance assessment and orientation.
Eligibility:
- Available to both Saudi and expatriate students.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 30,000 – 65,000
9. British International School of Jeddah (BISJ)
Location: Jeddah
Overview:
BISJ is among the most prestigious international schools in the western region, offering IB, IGCSE, and A-Level programs with a multicultural faculty.
Admission Procedure:
- Application submission via website.
- Assessment test and parent interview.
Eligibility:
- Students must meet English proficiency standards.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 80,000 – 120,000
10. American School Dhahran (ASD)
Location: Dhahran
Overview:
ASD delivers a high-quality American curriculum education emphasizing STEM, leadership, and global awareness.
Admission Procedure:
- Online application and document upload.
- Admission test and family interview.
Eligibility:
- Open to all nationalities with English fluency.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- SAR 70,000 – 105,000
General Admission Guidelines
✅ Application Submission: Most schools require online registration through their portals.
✅ Documents Needed: Passport, Iqama (residency permit), birth certificate, academic records, and health certificates.
✅ Entrance Assessment: English and Math tests are common for grades above primary level.
✅ Interviews: Many schools conduct parent-student interviews to understand academic goals and fit.
Eligibility Requirements
- Valid residency permit (for expatriate families).
- Age as per grade placement guidelines.
- English proficiency (for British/American curriculum schools).
- Satisfactory academic record from previous institutions.
Average Fee Range
| Level | Annual Fee Range (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Kindergarten | SAR 25,000 – 45,000 |
| Primary | SAR 35,000 – 70,000 |
| Secondary | SAR 60,000 – 120,000 |
Note: Fees vary by curriculum, city, and facilities.
Why Choose International Schools ?
- Global Curriculum: British, American, IB, and Indian programs.
- Multicultural Learning: Diverse student population and faculty.
- Modern Facilities: Smart classrooms, labs, sports complexes, and international accreditation.
- University Pathways: Graduates gain admission to top universities worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Saudi Arabia’s international schools have set global benchmarks in academic quality, cultural inclusivity, and holistic learning. Whether you’re seeking a British-style education, an American curriculum, or a CBSE-based system, the Kingdom offers an ideal environment for academic growth.
Choosing the right school depends on your child’s goals, learning style, and curriculum preference — but rest assured, the top international schools in Saudi Arabia provide world-class education that prepares students for success anywhere in the world.
