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International Schools in Kathmandu, Nepal

Edited by · B2C Marketing Manager

About international schools in Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu’s international schools are a mixed sector that commonly offers Cambridge (IGCSE/A-Level), International Baccalaureate and, alongside those, English-medium versions of regional curricula such as Indian CBSE or Nepal’s national syllabus, so parents can usually find both British-style and IB options. Instruction is predominantly in English, with Nepali taught as a compulsory subject in many schools and some schools operating bilingual programmes in early years. Fees vary widely - from lower-cost, locally oriented English-medium schools up to international schools whose prospectuses report annual tuition in the mid-thousands to low-ten-thousands of US dollars - and additional examination or registration charges (IGCSE/IB/A-Level) are common. The academic year in Nepal generally begins in mid-April (Baisakh), most schools open admissions around the Chaitra - Baisakh period (mid-March to April) though some upper-secondary programmes have different start months (for example IB/Diploma and +2 intakes), and many schools also keep some places open year-round for mid-year entries.

Compare 11 international schools in Kathmandu, Nepal. Filter by curriculum, fees, location, and more to find the right international school now.

At a glance 11 schools
Schools listed
11
Curricula
13
Most common curriculum
IB (PYP) (4 schools)
Average school size
667 pupils
Largest by enrolment
Ullens School
Oldest
Lincoln School - Kathmandu (1954)
With boarding
5
View by curriculum (4)
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FAQs for Nepal

Which international curricula will my child find in Kathmandu and how do they differ?
You will commonly find Cambridge (International Primary/IGCSE/A-Level) and the International Baccalaureate (PYP/MYP/DP) alongside English-medium versions of national boards such as CBSE and Nepal’s curriculum. Cambridge programmes are subject-based tracks with external IGCSE/A-Level examinations, while the IB is a continuum emphasising inquiry, critical thinking and an assessed Diploma in the final two years; national boards tend to follow local assessment and university pathways. Choosing between them depends on whether you prioritise external exam credentials, a transnational university preparation route, or alignment with local higher-education requirements.
How much do international schools in Kathmandu typically cost?
Tuition varies a lot between schools and by year group: some locally focused English-medium schools charge relatively modest fees, while established international schools commonly charge several thousand US dollars a year, with some prospectuses showing mid-range to low-ten-thousand figures for older year groups. On top of base tuition expect entrance, registration and external exam fees (IGCSE/IB/A-Level) which are charged separately and can be significant. Always ask any school for the current total cost schedule for your child’s year group and whether extracurriculars, transport and exams are included.
When should we apply and what is the admissions rhythm in Kathmandu?
Most schools follow the Nepali school calendar, with the academic year starting in mid-April and new-year admissions commonly opening in the Chaitra - Baisakh window (roughly mid-March to April), although some private schools also accept applications earlier or keep places for mid-year entry. Upper-secondary programmes such as IB Diploma or some +11/+12 tracks may start on different months (for example an August intake), so check each school’s published calendar and whether they run waiting lists or rolling admissions. Government guidance published recently has reinforced a mid-April session start, so expect school notices and orientations around that time.
What language(s) will my child be taught in and will Nepali be required?
Most international schools in Kathmandu use English as the primary medium of instruction, and they normally include Nepali as a language subject; some schools list both English and Nepali officially and offer Nepali language lessons or mother-tongue support. Schools commonly provide alternatives or language support for students who are new to Nepali, but parents of non-Nepali speakers should check on English as an additional language (EAL) provision and whether Nepali classes are compulsory for progression or local examinations.
What practical checks should relocating parents make when choosing a school in Kathmandu?
Confirm the school’s curriculum and any official authorisations or examination centre status (IB authorisation, Cambridge affiliation or recognised national board), review safeguarding and child-protection policies, and ask about language support for non-Nepali speakers and special-education services if needed. Also compare the full fee schedule (tuition plus exam, transport and activity costs), class sizes, teacher qualifications and university-counselling or transition support for the destinations you expect your child to aim for. Visiting the campus, meeting the admissions or academic leads and asking for a recent academic calendar and sample reports will help you assess day-to-day fit.
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