Compare International Schools in Hamburg, Germany

Instructs in English, German

Ages 6 - 18 years

Fees €8,040 - 18,216

Pupils 240

Type Co-educational

The school is an Ersatzschule in Schleswig-Holstein and an IB World School in Pinneberg, Germany, serving students aged 6 to 18. The main language of instruction is English, with German taught in parallel and a native German track aligned to Schleswig-Holstein's curriculum. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is offered for the grades, and a German language track supports native speakers. The pedagogy follows Progressive Education, implemented through Project-Based Learning and Social-Emotional Learning, with interdisciplinary courses and student agency in creating projects. Primary School integrates English and German literacy, includes play across curricula, and provides native German instruction by native speakers. Middle School emphasizes depth in interdisciplinary learning, linking algebra in Geography and literature in Art. The campus features a barefoot nature path and a 3D printer for prototyping. The afternoon program extends learning with project-based activities. CAS and language development are central to IB DP, preparing students for study worldwide.

Location

Eggerstedter Weg 19, 25421 Pinneberg. The school is in the Hamburg metropolitan region, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.

Stages

Grades 1–12; International Baccalaureate World School (IB Diploma Programme). The main language of instruction is English, with a German program to support native-level learning.

Type

State-approved substitute school (Ersatzschule) in Schleswig-Holstein; IB World School.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The school has 240 students representing 47 nationalities. The student body includes international and German families from the Hamburg metropolitan region.

Country affiliation

Germany

School day structure

School hours are Monday to Friday, 7:00–17:00.

Application / Entrance Fees
- Grades 1–10: Registration fee EUR 200 per student; due together with the first month's school fee and non-refundable.
- Grades 11–12 (IB Diploma applicants): Application fee EUR 750; due on submission and non-refundable.

Tuition / Programme Fees (by year group) — monthly, yearly, and per term (half-year = yearly ÷ 2)
- Grades 1–10 (Company or Government sponsored):
- Monthly: EUR 1,261. Yearly: EUR 15,132. Per term (half-year, calculated): EUR 7,566.
- Grades 1–10 (Private families — split Morning/Afternoon structure):
- Morning Programme: Monthly EUR 210; Yearly EUR 2,520; Per term (calculated) EUR 1,260.
- Afternoon Programme: Monthly EUR 485; Yearly EUR 5,820; Per term (calculated) EUR 2,910.
- Combined Morning + Afternoon: Monthly EUR 695; Yearly EUR 8,340; Per term (calculated) EUR 4,170.
- Grades 11–12 (IB Diploma Programme):
- New students: Monthly EUR 1,622; Yearly EUR 19,464; Per term (calculated) EUR 9,732.
- Optional Pamoja course fee: EUR 1,700 (listed as an additional optional course fee).

Material and Other Mandatory Charges
- Material fee (paid in full at enrolment; non-refundable):
- Grades 1–10: EUR 192 per year.
- Grades 11–12: EUR 562 per year.
- Shuttle service (limited places; separate shuttle contract required): Monthly EUR 350; Yearly EUR 4,200; Per term (calculated) EUR 2,100.
- Miscellaneous costs: Field trips, overnight trips, special programmes or events and damages to school property are invoiced separately to participating students; daily hot lunch is included in the Afternoon Programme for Grades 1–10 and in IB tuition.
- Parent Association (Förderverein): The school encourages membership/donations to the Förderverein; the Förderverein operates a separate contribution structure for supporters (membership contributions / donation options).

Sibling Discounts
- No discounts are offered on the programme fees for siblings. (Sibling discounts exist in the Parent Association separately.)

Billing Schedule, Contracts, and Payment Terms
- Contracts run on a 12-month basis (01.08 – 31.07). Families remain contractually responsible for payment through the full contract period, including the summer months.
- Cancellation: Contracts may be cancelled with two months' notice in advance of the school half-year dates of 31 January or 31 July. Families who miss the termination deadline for one date are obligated to pay all fees until the next possible termination date; no refunds or discounts are provided for leaving between these two possible termination dates. The school may consider alternate termination dates with sufficient notice.
- The school reserves the right to terminate enrolment for students whose fees are two or more months in arrears.

Payment Methods and Account Details
- Primary payment method: all bank transfers in euros (EUR) via automatic SEPA mandate for families who opt for monthly payments. Notification to change bank details must be received by the 10th of the month. A one-time annual payment may be possible; a nominal discount may be discussed with the school.
- Bank account details (for transfers as published): Deutsche Kreditbank AG (DKB) Schwerin; IBAN: DE35 1203 0000 1020 3759 68; BIC: BYLADEM1001.

Refunds and Non-Refundable Items
- The registration/application fees are non-refundable. Material fees are non-refundable once paid and are due at the start of enrolment. Termination outside the two-month cancellation windows will not automatically result in refunds; fees are payable until the next permissible termination date unless an alternative termination date is agreed.

Boarding
- The school operates as a day school; boarding facilities are not provided. (Boarding classification: day.)

Other Notes on Costs Charged During the Year
- Additional programme-specific or activity-specific charges (e.g., overnight trips, special project costs, replacement charges for damaged technology/resources) will be invoiced separately to participating families. Participation in optional courses or third-party services (for example Pamoja) may carry separate fees.

(For the fee figures and contract/payment terms above, see the school's published Programme Fees document and associated Parent Association materials.)

Curriculum

WABE International School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and a German language track aligned with Schleswig-Holstein's state curriculum. The main language of instruction is English, with German taught in parallel and support for native and non-native speakers. The pedagogy follows Progressive Education, implemented through Project-Based and Social-Emotional Learning, with interdisciplinary courses and student agency in creating their own projects. Primary School integrates English and German literacy, includes play across curricula, and native German instruction is delivered by native speakers following the state curriculum. In Middle School learning is interdisciplinary with depth over breadth, linking subjects (e.g., algebra in Geography; literature in art). The IB Diploma Programme prepares graduates for university study worldwide and is recognized by universities globally; some US universities offer advanced credit for IB courses; native German instruction remains available for native speakers, and German IB exam results have been high with graduates enrolling at German universities.

Student Teacher Ratio

Small class sizes.

Higher Education Progression

IB Diploma graduates are prepared for higher education worldwide; the diploma is recognized by universities globally.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Progressive Education with a holistic, student-centered approach. The program emphasizes Project-Based Learning and Social-Emotional Learning, with interdisciplinary courses that foster self-advocacy and self-determination. Learning is framed as developing skills rather than simply acquiring information, empowering students to unfold their talents as compassionate human beings. The environment supports risk-taking in learning and is a safe, inclusive community that celebrates each student's unique personality.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

An international, diverse and inclusive community.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

All of our students learn English and German in parallel, with support for native and non-native speakers.

Mental Wellbeing

The school creates a learning environment where students feel safe and cared for; learning is approached as a courageous, exploratory process. It emphasizes that thinking and growth occur beyond comfort zones and fosters a culture where challenges are invitations to explore, learn, and grow in trust.

Admissions

1. Submit the online Application Form to begin the admissions process. In addition to the form, provide grade‑specific materials: Grades 1–2 require a completed Student Questionnaire and a copy of a valid passport or birth certificate; Grade 2 requires school transcripts or records for the previous year. Grades 3–5 require a Student Questionnaire, a Teacher Reference Letter, transcripts for the previous two school years, and a copy of a passport or birth certificate. Grades 6–10 require a Student Questionnaire, a Teacher Reference Letter, transcripts for the previous two school years, a copy of a passport or birth certificate, and scheduling an admissions evaluation exam. Grades 11–12 require reading the IB Admissions Policy document, a Student Questionnaire, a Teacher Reference Letter, transcripts for the previous two school years, a copy of a passport or birth certificate, and scheduling an IB admissions entrance exam.

Scholarships

IB scholarships are offered as tuition reductions or waivers under guidelines designed to promote access to the IB Diploma Programme. Applications should generally be submitted before the start of the school year for which the scholarship is requested. Eligibility requires that the applicant or their guardians cannot fully bear tuition based on income and assets, and the student has shown either above‑average academic performance in the last two years or notable extracurricular or leadership achievements. The application for the IB Scholarship may be submitted for students in the IB Diploma Programme year; locals and internationals may be eligible; there is no guaranteed entitlement. Applications and required documents include information on financial need, academic and extracurricular achievements, and personal motivation, and may be mailed to WABE International School gGmbH, IBDP‑Scholarship, Eggerstedter Weg 19, 25421 Pinneberg, or scanned and emailed to a designated address. Incomplete applications are not considered. The scholarship reduces or waives tuition fees, with the amount and duration determined individually based on financial circumstances and other factors, and documented in a scholarship contract. Typically the scholarship covers one school year, but may be extended in exceptional cases. A decision is made by a committee in writing; denial does not require justification; retroactive awards are generally excluded, except in cases where full documents were received after the initial submission. Children of staff may be eligible but do not receive preferential treatment. Scholarships are tax‑free where applicable and outlined in the scholarship contract.

Waitlist

The number of available seats in each grade varies year to year. The maximum class size is 25 students. When a grade is full, applications are accepted to the waiting list. Availability changes from year to year, so families should plan accordingly.

View Full Profile

International School of Hamburg

Instructs in English, German

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees €12,790 - 25,190

Type Co-educational

International School of Hamburg (ISH) is a private, independent, non-profit international school in Hamburg, Germany, serving around 730 students from over 55 nationalities. The school offers a continuous international curriculum from Early Years to Grade 12. The Early Years follow the IEYC; the Junior School uses the IPC with cross-curricular units in Science, History, Geography, Art, Technology and International Understanding, supported by specialist teachers in Music, German, Physical Education, Library Skills and ICT. The Secondary School follows the IB framework: MYP for Grades 6–10 and DP and IBCP for Grades 11–12, with French or Spanish starting in Grade 6. The 41,000-square-metre campus includes a 19,000-square-metre building, a Performing Arts Centre with a 400-seat auditorium, a well-resourced library, campus-wide ICT, and science laboratories. ISH emphasizes pastoral care, EAL and Mother Tongue support, and sustainability, including Eco-School accreditation achieved in 2025 and biodiversity projects. ISH also emphasizes pastoral care and language support.

Location

Hemmingstedter Weg 130, 22609 Hamburg, Germany

Stages

Early Years (ECC, ages 3–5) ; Junior School (Grades 1–5) ; Secondary School (Grades 6–12; IB Middle Years Programme 6–10; IB Diploma Programme and IB Career-related Programme 16–18)

Type

Private international school; independent, non-profit association

Pupil Nationality Mix

63 nationalities represented; top nationalities include United States, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, India and South Korea; Germany is the host country.

Additional learning support

English as an Additional Language (EAL) support

Country affiliation

Germany

School day structure

The school offers English-language curricula for students from age 3 to 18. The majority of co-curricular activities run from 15:00 to 16:30, with After School Care available until 18:00.

Bus service

Three school buses run by HVV serve the outer Alster region and Hafen City; buses stop at regular stops and are available to students in Grades 1–12. Cost and route information differ each year. Hamburg resident students travel free across the HVV regional network (as of 1 Sep 2024).

Application fee

- Application Fee per child: EUR 500. The Application Fee is due at registration and is non-refundable.

Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts)

- Early Years 1: EUR 12,790.
- Early Years 2: EUR 13,790.
- Early Years 3: EUR 15,680.
- Grades 1–2: EUR 20,050.
- Grades 3–5: EUR 21,240.
- Grades 6–8: EUR 22,760.
- Grades 9–10: EUR 24,230.
- Grades 11–12: EUR 25,190.

Per-term / instalment detail and two-instalment option

- Standard payment: the full annual Tuition Fee is payable in advance, at the latest by 1 August (for students who start in August).
- Two-instalment option (surcharge applies): it is possible to pay in two instalments for which there is a surcharge equal to 5% of the annual Tuition Fee (i.e., total payable becomes 105% of the Tuition Fee). First instalment: 60% of the Tuition Fee (plus any Campus Development Fee levied that year) due by 1 August. Second instalment: 45% of the Tuition Fee due by 1 January. The surcharge of 5% applies to the overall two-instalment option.

- Instalment component examples (showing 60% and 45% components and the 5% surcharge amount). First instalment = 60% of the annual Tuition Fee (plus Campus Development Fee if applicable); second instalment = 45% of the annual Tuition Fee. The separate 5% surcharge amount is shown as an additional charge on top of these instalments.
- Early Years 1 (EUR 12,790): 60% = EUR 7,674.00; 45% = EUR 5,755.50; 5% surcharge = EUR 639.50 (total if using two-instalment option = EUR 13,429.50).
- Early Years 2 (EUR 13,790): 60% = EUR 8,274.00; 45% = EUR 6,205.50; 5% surcharge = EUR 689.50 (total = EUR 14,479.50).
- Early Years 3 (EUR 15,680): 60% = EUR 9,408.00; 45% = EUR 7,056.00; 5% surcharge = EUR 784.00 (total = EUR 16,464.00).
- Grades 1–2 (EUR 20,050): 60% = EUR 12,030.00; 45% = EUR 9,022.50; 5% surcharge = EUR 1,002.50 (total = EUR 21,052.50).
- Grades 3–5 (EUR 21,240): 60% = EUR 12,744.00; 45% = EUR 9,558.00; 5% surcharge = EUR 1,062.00 (total = EUR 22,302.00).
- Grades 6–8 (EUR 22,760): 60% = EUR 13,656.00; 45% = EUR 10,242.00; 5% surcharge = EUR 1,138.00 (total = EUR 23,898.00).
- Grades 9–10 (EUR 24,230): 60% = EUR 14,538.00; 45% = EUR 10,903.50; 5% surcharge = EUR 1,211.50 (total = EUR 25,441.50).
- Grades 11–12 (EUR 25,190): 60% = EUR 15,114.00; 45% = EUR 11,335.50; 5% surcharge = EUR 1,259.50 (total = EUR 26,449.50).

Campus Development Fee

- Campus Development Fee (non-refundable and payable over two years when applicable): Year 1 at ISH = EUR 6,500; Year 2 at ISH = EUR 2,500. For students returning after an absence of one year or longer, prior payments are credited to this total. Departing students who have attended the school for two months or less in the year of their departure pay only half the Campus Development Fee levied in that school year.

Sibling discount

- For families with three or more children enrolled simultaneously: third child (lowest grade) receives a 10% reduction of the annual Tuition Fee; fourth child and any additional children receive a 15% reduction of the annual Tuition Fee.

Other costs and ancillary fees

- The annual Tuition Fee includes mandatory overnight and day trips, membership in the ISH Association, and one copy of the yearbook per child. School materials for Early Years are included; with the exception of Early Years, school materials such as paper and pencils are not included in the annual Tuition Fee.
- Additional charges that may be invoiced separately to participating students: college testing, external testing and IB examinations, non-mandatory school day and sport trips, graduation expenses, After School Activities, After School Care, intramural and NECIS sports.
- Lost school books: invoiced at replacement value plus a handling fee of EUR 10 per book not returned.
- School bus fee: determined according to the number of students using the bus and invoiced separately.
- Fees for self-taught and mother-tongue language courses, school photos, and hot lunches are invoiced and paid directly to the service provider.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Due dates: all tuition and fees for students starting in August are payable in advance, at the latest by 1 August. For students who start during the school year, payment is due at the school start or within two weeks after the invoice date. Past-due accounts incur a late fee of 5% per annum above the base rate of interest. All parents are liable for fee payments on the due date regardless of third‑party (company) agreements, and parents are liable for all bank charges incurred.
- Two-instalment option: available only for families with a signed contract by 1 December; first instalment (60% of Tuition Fee plus Campus Development Fee, if applicable) due by 1 August; second instalment (45% of Tuition Fee) due by 1 January. For contracts signed after the school year start and before 1 December, the first instalment (60% plus Campus Development Fee if applicable) is due within two weeks of the invoice date and the second instalment by 1 January. A surcharge of 5% of the annual Tuition Fee applies to this two-instalment option.

Pro-rating and refunds (tuition refund rules)

- Pro-rating on late enrolment (percentage of Tuition Fee chargeable when a student joins after the school year start):
- September: 100%
- October: 95%
- November: 85%
- December: 75%
- January: 65%
- February: 55%
- March: 45%
- April: 35%
- May: 25%
- June: 15%
- Refundable percentage on early departure (percentage of Tuition Fee refundable when a student leaves during the school year; written notification of withdrawal must be given by the legal guardian at least two full months to the end of the month to qualify):
- September: 70%
- October: 60%
- November: 50%
- December: 40%
- January: 30%
- February and later months: 0% refund.
- General refund rule: fees are non-refundable with the exception of the Tuition Fee in the case of early departure, which is refundable according to the pro‑rata schedule above. The Application Fee and Campus Development Fee are non-refundable except as specifically set out for returning students or short-term attendance in the Campus Development Fee clause.

Boarding fees

- The school operates as a day school; there are no boarding facilities or boarding fees.

Fee payment options and bank details

- Payments are accepted by bank transfer in EUR to the account details provided for the school. The school provides two bank accounts for EUR transfers; bank transfer payments should include the child's name and invoice/account numbers in the payment reference. Parents are liable for any bank charges. The bank details are:
- Hamburger Volksbank eG — Kontonummer: 3289109 — IBAN: DE79 2019 0003 0003 2891 09 — BIC: GENODEF1HH2.
- Deutsche Kreditbank AG — Kontonummer: 1020262572 — IBAN: DE20 1203 0000 1020 2425 72 — BIC: BYLADEM1001.

Legal and additional notes on non-payment

- ISH reserves the right to dismiss or request the withdrawal of a student if school fees are not paid in accordance with ISH financial regulations. The place of jurisdiction for disputes is Hamburg, Germany.

Curriculum

The school provides a continuous international curriculum from Early Years to Grade 12. The Early Years follows the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), with Early Years 3 introducing Foundations phonics, Reader's and Writer's Workshop, and Math in Focus. The Junior School (Grades 1–5) uses the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) with cross-curricular IPC units in Science, History, Geography, Art, Technology and International Understanding; there are specialist teachers in Music, German, Physical Education, Library Skills and ICT, and a Wellness program including Mindfulness and digital citizenship. The Secondary School (Grades 6–12) follows the International Baccalaureate framework: the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10 and the IB Diploma Programme (DP) and IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) for Grades 11–12; French or Spanish begins as a third language in Grade 6, and a strong pastoral care program supports students through tutor groups. Language support is provided through Mother Tongue and English as an Additional Language (EAL) provisions to help students access the curriculum.

Student Teacher Ratio

6.5:1

Exam Results

ISH IB Diploma Programme results 2024 show an average DP score of 32.1 out of 45, with an average DP class grade of 5.08 out of 7 and an average grade across all subjects of 5.09 out of 7. 55% of DP students scored more than 30 points. 100% of CP Diploma recipients were awarded the CP Diploma. 85% of ISH graduates matriculated at colleges and universities worldwide.

Higher Education Progression

85% of ISH graduates matriculate at colleges and universities worldwide. Destinations span Europe, North America, Asia and Australia, including universities such as the University of Antwerp, KU Leuven, McGill University, University of Toronto, Hamburg School of Business Administration, TU München, and the University of Edinburgh.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Student Support Services Team (SSST) screens, determines services, and monitors referred students with significant social, emotional, behavioural, or academic differences. Following a referral, SSST members assess the student's needs through consultation, observation, and testing, and provide a team recommendation regarding the required support. The department comprises Learning Support, School Counselling, College Counselling, on-site occupational and speech therapists, School Nurses, and liaises with outside specialists to provide a broad range of services. Counselling services include support of the pastoral care program, behaviour management support, individual personal counselling, group counselling, social skills training, and group guidance lessons in classrooms, with parent consultations and staff in-service as part of the programme. The aim is to promote student well-being and healthy adjustment across the school community.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The Learning Support program strengthens academic skills within the context of a student's emotional, social, and cognitive development. Services are provided after referral and may include remedial and compensatory instruction, skill development, re-teaching, and content support. MYP and DP students may be eligible for inclusive assessment arrangements. There are two on-site speech therapists and an occupational therapist available. The SSST liaises with outside specialists and therapists to provide a wide array of services for ISH families.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is the main language of teaching and learning at ISH. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports non-native English speakers across grade levels, coordinating with classroom teachers to integrate content. The EAL department operates in both the Junior School and the Secondary School, with Junior School EAL Services using a mixed pull-out and push-in model for Group A Beginner English Language Learners and Group B Intermediate learners, and advanced learners in a monitor group receiving in-classroom support. Secondary School EAL supports students to progress toward mainstream classes. German, French, and Spanish are offered as Modern Foreign Languages.

Mental Wellbeing

Pastoral care and counselling are central to ISH wellbeing. The SSST provides school counselling in the Junior School and the Secondary School, with a collaborative process to define and follow through with a personal improvement plan. Counselling services include support of the pastoral care program, behaviour management support, individual personal counselling, group counselling, social skills training, and group guidance lessons in classrooms, plus parent consultations and staff in-service. The team provides on-site occupational and speech therapists and School Nurses to support mental health, and liaises with outside specialists as needed.

Safeguarding

Child protection and safeguarding are top priorities. ISH is in strict compliance with German law and follows international best practices to ensure child safety.

Admissions

ISH has an ongoing admissions process with mid‑year entry possible. An inquiry submitted via the online form starts the process to arrange a campus visit or a call and is not a formal application for admission. An online application follows the inquiry. Admissions Officers are Margaret Metzler and Karolin Mutzel.

Scholarships

ISH offers a Financial Aid (FinAid) program to help families cover tuition. Eligibility is based on income and assets; the top gross income threshold for a one‑child family is €150,000, with asset‑based adjustments increasing the tuition amount. Full tuition may be charged for higher income or asset levels, according to the 2024–2025 Schedule of Fees. Applications are considered after a formal admission offer is made; families request a financial aid form from finaid@ishamburg.org, review eligibility, and submit a single PDF application signed by both parents. School fee reductions are granted for one year and must be reapplied annually; approval is provisional until the previous year's tax return is submitted.

View Full Profile

École Francaise de Hambourg

Instructs in French

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees €6,210 - 11,700

Type Co-educational

Located in Hamburg’s Lokstedt district, École Française de Hambourg (EFHH) serves students from age three through eighteen. The school follows the French National Education curriculum, leading to the Diplôme National du Brevet and the French Baccalaureate. A defining feature of the primary years is the Parity Bilingual Stream, where students receive equal instruction hours in French and German. The campus at Hartsprung features specialized science laboratories, a dedicated multimedia library (BCD/CDI), and indoor sports facilities. A unique initiative at EFHH is the "Sextant" program, which provides individualized guidance for students planning higher education pathways in France, Germany, or other international destinations. As part of the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) network, the school maintains a specific focus on linguistic integration. Facilities include a daily canteen service providing hot meals and a private bus network for student transportation across the city.

Location

Located in Hamburg, Germany. The address is Hartsprung 23, 22529 Hamburg. Telephone: +49 (0)40 790 147 0. Email: secretariat@efhh.de.

Stages

Kindergarten and Elementary (Maternelle and Élementaire).

Type

French international school.

Country affiliation

France (AEFE network).

Boarding Arrangements

After-school care is available every afternoon and during school holidays. Morning supervision is from 7:00 to 8:00. After-class supervision runs from 13:15 to 16:00 (13:00 on Fridays) with 13:15–15:00 devoted to meals, recreation, and time for homework, and 15:00–16:00 for activities. Evening supervision is from 16:00 to 18:00.

Food Options

Meals are served daily in the cantine as part of the after-school program, with lunch provided during the 13:15–15:00 period.

Governance and Ownership

The school is part of the AEFE network and is governed by a Comité de Gestion and a Conseil d'École.

Application and registration fees
- First-time registration (droits de première inscription): EUR 220 for the first child, EUR 140 for the second child, EUR 90 for the third child and each following child. These registration fees are payable at the time of enrolment and are non‑refundable.

Deposit (arrhes) for nursery/maternelle
- After an offer of admission to the maternelle/Kita, a deposit of EUR 350 per child is due within three weeks; this deposit is applied during the child's first year of attendance against the family participation amount. Failure to pay the deposit within the deadline may result in cancellation of the place.

Tuition fees — Maternelle / Kita (2025–2026)
- The nursery (maternelle) fee structure is split into two components: the family's remaining charge under the city of Hamburg Kita‑Gutschein (Reste à charge — RàC) and the specific programme fees charged by the school.
- The school's programme fees for the École Maternelle range between EUR 1,056 and EUR 2,436 per year depending on the child's Kita‑Gutschein and hours of care. The RàC set by the city of Hamburg can vary (examples published show RàC values between approximately EUR 48 and EUR 2,448 per year depending on family income and hours). The total annual amount payable by a family is therefore the sum of the RàC and the school's programme fee. Payment is collected by monthly direct debit before the 5th of each month.

Tuition fees — École élémentaire (CP–CM2), academic year 2025–2026
- Annual tuition (frais de scolarité) standard rates for 2025–2026:
- 1st child: EUR 1,530 per year.
- 2nd child: EUR 1,377 per year (10% sibling reduction).
- 3rd child and subsequent children: EUR 1,147.50 per year (25% sibling reduction).
- The elementary tuition covers school fees, on‑time curricular outings, and exercise books and workbooks provided by the school; some activities (class trips, optional projects) may generate additional, separate charges.
- Billing schedule: elementary tuition is payable in 10 monthly instalments. Modalities: payment by direct debit (prélèvement automatique) or bank transfer, before the 5th day of each month.

Billing schedule and payment terms (general)
- Regular tuition and care fees are billed and collected monthly by direct debit before the 5th of each month; elementary families may also pay by bank transfer. Bank account information for transfers is provided by the school (Commerzbank Hamburg; IBAN and BIC shown in the school's practical information). Notice periods for contract termination apply and differ by service (see below).

After-school care (GBS) and cantine costs
- GBS (périscolaire) monthly maximum tariffs (examples for the school year):
- 07:00–08:00: EUR 30 per month.
- 13:00–16:00: free for Hamburg‑domiciled children; EUR 140 per month for non‑Hamburg domiciled children.
- 16:00–17:00: EUR 30 per month.
- 17:00–18:00: EUR 30 per month.
- Holiday care: 1 week holiday care (08:00–16:00) shown as EUR 7.50/month equivalent (EUR 90/year); 07:00–18:00 week shown as EUR 10/month equivalent (EUR 120/year); families may reserve up to 15 weeks of holiday care per year and specific billing rules apply.
- Cantine (school lunches) is managed through the school's catering partner and ordered via the SAMS‑ON system; meal payments in SAMS‑ON are handled by PayPal or bank transfer according to the provider's procedures. Reductions and subsidies for GBS and lunch may be available depending on family income and sibling rules.

Other possible costs
- Occasional and itemised additional costs may be charged separately: class trips or residential trips, some extracurricular activities, materials for special projects. The elementary programme states that most textbooks/workbooks are provided, but class trips or projects may incur extra charges. The maternelle programme may involve programme‑specific charges depending on the chosen Kita‑Gutschein/hours.

Uniforms and compulsory clothing
- No compulsory school uniform is listed in the published practical fee and registration materials for the school; nothing is specified as a mandatory uniform charge in the school's fee and inscription pages. (School may issue guidance on practical clothing for activities where relevant.)

Boarding / residential provision
- Boarding is not applicable: the school operates as a day school (maternelle and élémentaire) with no boarding fees indicated.

Refunds and cancellation terms
- Registration fees (droits de première inscription) are definitive and non‑refundable. Arrangements state that registration fees and, where specified, deposits are retained in the event of cancellation.
- Notice periods for contract termination (examples):
- Maternelle/Kita: a 12‑week notice period applies from signature of the care contract.
- Elementaire: three months' notice (calendrical) from the end of the month in which the removal notice is sent.
- GBS (périscolaire): written resignation with two months' notice before the end of the school year.
- Situations where refunds or reductions apply (for example, city Kita subsidies or family income‑based reductions for GBS/cantine) are governed by the Kita‑Gutschein rules and the school's published reduction policies.

Accepted payment methods and billing routes
- Standard tuition and care fees: monthly direct debit (prélèvement automatique) is the primary collection method; bank transfer is accepted for elementary tuition. School banking details (Commerzbank Hamburg, IBAN, BIC) are published in the school's practical information.
- Cantine (meals) payments are processed through the SAMS‑ON system and may be made by PayPal or by bank transfer according to the catering provider's payment options.
- For some services, invoices and billing modalities differ (e.g., Kita‑Gutschein handling for maternelle co‑funding).

Sibling discounts and financial aid
- Elementary sibling discount: 10% reduction for the second child and 25% for the third child and subsequent children (elementary only). Maternelle/Kita fees depend on the Kita‑Gutschein and family circumstances; families may apply for AEFE bursaries where eligible. GBS and canteen subsidies or reductions may apply according to income and sibling rules.

Summary (practical points for parents)
- Elementary annual tuition example: EUR 1,530 (first child), billed in 10 monthly instalments; sibling discounts apply. Registration fees at enrolment are EUR 220/140/90 by order of children and are non‑refundable. Maternelle fees combine a city Kita‑Gutschein remainder plus a school programme fee (programme fees shown between EUR 1,056 and EUR 2,436 for 2025–2026); monthly direct debit is used for collection. After‑school care, holiday care and canteen are charged separately according to published GBS tariffs and the catering provider's ordering/payment system. Contract termination requires advance notice (maternelle: 12 weeks; élémentaire: three months; GBS: two months before end of school year).

Curriculum

The school follows French national education programs under the AEFE framework, with instruction in French. It comprises a Maternelle and an Élémentaire, welcoming children from age 3; the Maternelle provides daily exposure to German and, from Grande Section, German classes to prepare for CP. The Élémentaire is organized in cycles: Cycle des apprentissages fondamentaux (CP, CE1, CE2) to learn reading, writing and mathematics, and Cycle des approfondissements (CM1, CM2) with history, geography, sciences and technology. German is taught daily in Élémentaire (five German lessons plus two Sachkunde per week) and English is taught weekly (CP–CE2: one lesson; CM1–CM2: one lesson plus two with the English teacher). A 2023–2028 school project has been adopted.

Higher Education Progression

After elementary, students can enroll in the Lycée Franco-Allemand (LFA) for secondary education in Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein.

Gifted and Talented

All elementary teachers are trained to identify and support high‑potential students.

Admissions

1. The dossier is submitted online on Eduka for Maternelle/Kita admissions. The school reviews all applications. After acceptance, you will receive an email with the link to complete the full enrollment dossier.

2. Age and entry for Maternelle: Children who are 3 years old in the calendar year 2025 may enter Petite Section from the start of the 2025/2026 school year on September 3, 2025. New: children who turn 3 between January 1 and June 30 may join Toute Petite Section (TPS) on their birthday, and they move to Elementaire at their third birthday in the German system. If a child comes from a Krippe group, progression to EFH aligns with German age-based transitions.

3. Kita-Gutschein and funding: The City of Hamburg provides Kita-Gutschein subsidies for the Maternelle/Kita program. The remaining charge is determined by the city administration and ranges between €48 and €2,448 per year depending on income. The annual cost for the program (before Kita-Gutschein) can be €1,056 to €2,436, with the exact remainder determined by the Kita-Gutschein outcome. If no Kita-Gutschein is available, families should consult local services for possible partial funding. In addition, the fees and childcare costs are tax-deductible as the school operates as a non-profit entity.

4. Inscription fees and payment: A one-time inscription fee is payable at enrollment: €220 for the first child, €140 for the second, and €90 for the third and subsequent children; these fees are non-refundable and are due again if a former student re-enrolls after leaving for more than 12 months. Fees are payable by direct debit before the 5th of each month. The general terms apply to childcare contracts.

5. AEFE and internal scholarships: In addition to Kita-Gutschein support, families may apply for AEFE scholarships if the child has French nationality or for the school's internal scholarships for other nationalities. The AEFE scholarships are awarded by a commission and benefit eligible children for the school year; applications are separate from enrollment and follow the AEFE scholarship cycle. Details and procedures are available through the AEFE framework and the school's EDUKA/administrative contacts.

6. Dossier for Elementary (CP to CM2): Dossier d'inscription is completed online on Eduka. Entry to CP requires mastery of the French language, as French is taught as the language of instruction from CP to CM2.

7. Tuition and fees for École Élémentaire: Annual tuition for 2025-2026 is €1,530 for the first child, €1,377 for the second child, and €1,147.50 for the third child and following. Tuition is payable in 10 monthly installments.

8. Discounts and materials: A 10% discount applies to the second child and a 25% discount applies to the third and each additional child (the eldest is considered the first child). Textbooks are provided by the school, and tuition includes school-time field trips and exercise books; additional trips may incur extra charges. Inscription fees are €220 for the first child, €140 for the second, and €90 for the third and following; these are non-refundable and apply again if a student re-enrolls after more than 12 months.

9. After-school arrangements: Information about after-school care for elementary students is on the dedicated page of the site, and covers registration and program details.

Scholarships

AEFE scholarships: The first period of the 2026/2027 scholarship cycle is open. Applications must be completed online or submitted to the social services office at the Berlin consulate by February 16, 2026. Scholarships can be awarded to children from families with insufficient resources to cover tuition in nursery, primary, and secondary levels. For nursery, children must have reached age 3 by December 31, 2025. Scholarships are allocated based on family financial and asset situations and are paid directly to the school. The allocations are decided by a commission twice a year (spring and autumn). Applications are independent of school enrollment. For the 2026/2027 period, online submission via SCOLAIDE is required, with tutorials available for account creation and application submission. Late submissions may be rejected.

Internal scholarships of the association: Families who cannot apply for AEFE scholarships may apply to the association for partial or full tuition waivers. This application can be submitted during enrollment or re-enrollment via EDUKA or by contacting the accounting department by email.

These are the two scholarship avenues available to families at École Française de Hambourg.

View Full Profile

Compare International Schools in Hamburg, Germany

Location

Stages

Type

Pupil Nationality Mix

Country affiliation

School day structure

Food Options

Governance and Ownership

Curriculum

Student Teacher Ratio

Higher Education Progression

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Mental Wellbeing

Admissions

Scholarships

Waitlist

Location

Stages

Type

Pupil Nationality Mix

Additional learning support

Country affiliation

School day structure

Bus service

Food Options

Governance and Ownership

Curriculum

Student Teacher Ratio

Exam Results

Higher Education Progression

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Mental Wellbeing

Safeguarding

Admissions

Scholarships

Location

Stages

Type

Country affiliation

Boarding Arrangements

Food Options

Governance and Ownership

Curriculum

Higher Education Progression

Gifted and Talented

Admissions

Scholarships

Filters

Currency

Annual fees

Children's Ages

Curriculum offered

Brand

Preschool

Primary

Secondary

Pre-University

National Curriculums

Other Approaches

Language of instruction