How to Apply

Applications are accepted year-round, but we recommend applying early to secure a place.

BIS offers rolling admissions, allowing students to join during the school year if space is available. Our Admissions Team works closely with relocating families to coordinate start dates, orientation, and a smooth transition into classes.

BIS is not a boarding school. 

When a grade is full, qualified applicants are placed on a waiting list and contacted as soon as a space opens. Please be aware that we cannot provide any information on the student position in the wait list.

Children of expat families will be given top priority for enrolment as they have few other options in the area. Next, siblings of existing BIS families will be considered. After this, we will consider local German families who - unlike expats - always have a viable local alternative (i.e. German state school or German private school).

A place is confirmed only after the application is complete, the Admissions Committee has approved it, the enrolment contract is signed and fees have been received.

Typically recent school transcripts, a copy of the student’s passport, health/medical records, and any learning-support documentation. Please refer to the document checklist on the Application page. We encourage you to upload all required documents promptly so that we can provide an admissions decision without delay.

Grade-level placement in the Early Childhood Centre and Primary School is based on the cut-off date of 30 September. In the Secondary School, placement is determined by both the previous educational experience and the age of the student. For details, please refer to our Resources page (Birth Date Guidelines and Grade-Level Comparison to other school systems).

Depending on grade level, applicants may be invited for trial “guest” days, language screening, placement testing, or a personal interview (in person or via video for long-distance applicants).

BIS provides English language support to help students integrate quickly, up until grade 8. As of Grade 9 students are expected to have intermediate English language knowledge.

No. At BIS, English is the language of instruction. German is part of the curriculum staring in Grade 1.

The Admissions Committee reviews all application components: forms, assessments, records, and the family’s goals, to ensure the best fit. In line with our values and purpose, we kindly ask families not to attempt to influence the admissions decision in any way (e.g. by contacting our Leadership or Supervisory Board members).

Admission decisions are usually provided within 10 working days after receiving a complete application, though holidays or requests for additional information can extend this.

Families are informed via email (and phone if necessary) as soon as the committee reaches a decision.

Families receive detailed enrolment instructions, including orientation information and guidance to help new students integrate smoothly into the BIS community.

Yes. Families are encouraged to book individual tours, attend open days, or arrange trial/guest days to experience school life firsthand.

Admission does not grant eligibility for a student visa, and the school does not provide legal advice on immigration or visa matters.