BIS at a Glance
The Bavarian International School is an accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and the only school in Germany to offer all four IB programmes:
- the Primary Years Programme (PYP)
- the Middle Years Programme (MYP)
- the Diploma Programme (DP) and
- the Career-related Programme (CP).
The IB Diploma is recognised by the best universities in Germany and the world.
1,150 students from 61 nations call BIS their academic and extracurricular home, and study at one of our two campuses, located in Munich city centre or in Haimhausen, roughly 15 km North of Munich.
Academic excellence, intercultural competence, collaborative learning and social responsibility characterise the spirit of BIS. Our Mission is inspiring and challenging young minds as a caring and committed international community to achieve excellence, assume responsibility and pursue life-long learning.
In the challenging times of COVID-19, BIS blends its exemplary, well-balanced Distance Learning and Hybrid Learning programme in accordance with state-mandated health guidelines to provide continuous learning with limited disruption.
We operate under the motto, "Believe. Inspire. Succeed."
Dr. Chrissie Sorenson, Head of School “Our students will be able to solve the challenges of the future.”
Academic excellence
35
Average 2023 BIS student IB Diploma score - well above the worldwide average of 30.24
170 teachers from 29 nations provide BIS students with an average student-teacher ratio of 7-1, allowing teachers to identify and accommodate the individual needs and strengths of each child.
Evidence of the success of this approach include annual BIS student IB Diploma scores: in 2023 the average score was 35 points, well above the worldwide average of 30.24.
BIS exceeds international standards with state-of-the-art investment in interactive whiteboards, Apple TV's, and iPads in grades 3-5.
Science and technology laboratories, art and design studios, sports halls, theatre spaces, an auditorium and an extensive extra-curricular programme, all contribute to establishing BIS as an industry leader.
Holistic approach
75%
of BIS students come from international families so internationalism and diversity are embedded in the DNA of BIS
The child’s individual development is at the centre of our educational approach and includes various student support services, such as language support, learning support, pastoral care, mental health and wellbeing, and university counselling.
Our nutrition programme ensures healthy, tasty food is available to the students and both campuses offer transportation services for children to safely arrive at school and at home.
With typically around 75% of students coming from international families, internationalism and diversity are embedded in the DNA of BIS. Complementing English as the language of instruction are German language classes offered from Grade 1 onwards for all proficiency levels, and French, Spanish, Japanese, and Mandarin beginning in grade 6. Currently offered in an additional 17 languages is an optional "Home Language Programme", which allows students to maintain and develop literacy in their native language.
Students and parents alike regard the multitude of extracurricular activities on offer as an exceptional feature of BIS. These activities include approximately 40 sports offerings over the two campuses, as well as CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), the Model United Nations debate team, the Eco-schools project, the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, and a mix of fitness, scouting and expeditions. The social engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration and the exploring of new horizons plays a particularly significant role in an educational environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1:1
BIS Students in Grades 4 through 12 receive an iPad or MacBook
10 Reasons to Join BIS
17
languages are offered in the BIS Home Language Programme
- 1. Helping personalities to flourish
- 2. Focus on holistic development
- 3. Inspiring global citizens
- 4. Caring community
- 5. Communicating with the whole world
- 6. A safe home away from home
- 7. Preparing for the future
- 8. Smart use of technology
- 9. Engagement with body and mind
- 10. Living innovation