Local Dutch or international school: How do you make the right choice?

Community

03-09-2026

For many international families moving to the Netherlands, one of the first questions they ask is: Should we choose an international school or a local Dutch school? So sorry, to have to disappoint you, as there simply is no "right" choice. Both types of schools offer high-quality education, but they are designed for different students, families and future plans.

By Ingrid Schmoutziguer, Communications Advisor

Dutch schools follow the national curriculum and teach (primarily) in Dutch. They are an excellent choice for students who are likely to stay in the Netherlands for the long term and who can fully participate in learning through the Dutch language.

International schools, on the other hand, are designed for internationally mobile families. Lessons are taught in English and students learn alongside classmates from many different countries and cultures. Many international schools, including International School Utrecht ISU), offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which is recognised around the world. This means families who are moving again, can easily put their children in another IB school around the world without disrupting their learning.

Starting in a Dutch school

One important consideration for families arriving from abroad is language.

If your child does not yet speak Dutch and is older than 6, they may not be able to enter a mainstream Dutch class immediately. Depending on their age and the municipality where you live, they may first need to attend a taalschool (language school for primary students) or schakelklas (transition class for secondary students). These specialised classes help children develop their Dutch language skills before moving into mainstream education.

For many students, this is a positive stepping stone that supports a successful transition. However, it can also mean an extra change of school before they settle into their long-term learning environment.

International schools teach in English, but more importantly are experts in teaching English as an Additional Language while providing students with the opportunity and confidence to access content in their Home Language(s). At a Dutch International School, all students also have Dutch Language Acquisition classes to help them integrate in Dutch society.

Different educational pathways for secondary students

Another important difference is what happens when students move into secondary education.

In the Dutch education system, students are advised into one of three educational pathways at the age of 12: VMBO, HAVO or VWO, that roughly correspond to vocational, applied and academic pathways. This advice is based on a combination of academic performance, teacher recommendations and national assessments. Each pathway prepares students for different forms of tertiary education and future careers.

For many Dutch families, this system works well and provides education that matches a student's strengths and interests. However, for internationally mobile families whose children may move between countries, understanding how these pathways align with education systems elsewhere can be difficult.

International schools, such as ISU, offering the IB curriculum follow a different route. Students continue within one curriculum framework from primary through secondary education, with internationally recognised qualifications that support entry to universities around the world.

More than language

Many people assume that the main difference between local Dutch schools and international schools is the language of instruction. While that is important, there is much more to consider.

International schools often bring together students from dozens of nationalities. This creates a learning environment where different perspectives are valued, multilingualism is celebrated and students develop the skills to work with people from many different backgrounds. These experiences help prepare our students for an increasingly interconnected world.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer

Every family is different. A school that is perfect for one child may not be the best choice for another.

When choosing between a local Dutch school and an international school, it is helpful to think about questions such as:

How long do we expect to stay in the Netherlands?
Does my child already speak Dutch, or would they first need to attend a language school?
Could we move to another country in the future?
Which curriculum and learning environment will best support our child's future plans?

Taking the time to consider these questions will help you make the decision that is right for your family.

We are here to help

Choosing a school is an important decision, and it is only natural that parents have questions.

If you are considering an international education for your child, our admissions team is happy to discuss your family's situation and explain how ISU supports students from around the world.

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