The decision to relocate a family to Monaco is often dependent on one key factor: education. For international families, finding a school that offers globally recognized qualifications, a multicultural environment, and linguistic excellence is non-negotiable.
While the Principality itself is small, the French Riviera provides a compact network of top-tier institutions. This means that families purchasing property in key residential areas like Monte Carlo or Larvotto have several excellent options, both within Monaco and just across the border.
This guide provides a detailed look at the best international schools in Monaco residential hubs, focusing on curriculum, location, and fees for the 2025/2026 academic year.
I. Schools Within the Principality (The Highest Convenience)
For families purchasing property in Larvotto or Monte Carlo, schools within Monaco offer an unrivaled level of convenience. Commuting is eliminated, and children are fully immersed in the local environment.
1. The International School of Monaco (ISM)
Website: https://www.ismonaco.org/
ISM is the flagship international educational institution in Monaco, catering directly to the large expatriate community.
- Location: Since September 2024, ISM has been located in the Larvotto District, situated on the ground floor of the Testimonio II skyscraper. This places it within walking distance of the most luxurious apartments in Larvotto and a short drive from the center of Monte Carlo.
- Curriculum: ISM is an all-through IB World Continuum School, meaning it offers all four International Baccalaureate programmes: the PYP, MYP, DP, and CP. This framework emphasizes inquiry-based learning.
- Academics & Language:
- Primary School (Kindergarten to Year 6): Bilingual education in both English and French.
- Secondary School (Year 7 to Year 13): Curriculum is taught primarily in English, leading to IGCSE and IB qualifications.
- Distinction: ISM has been ranked in the top 10 best private schools in Europe and is known for its high IB pass rate and university placements globally. It is also accredited as an Athlete Friendly Education Centre (AFEC) by the World Academy of Sport.
- Fees (2024/2025): Fees are not publicly listed in full, but the annual range is approximately €25,700 to €32,800. A non-refundable Capital Development Fund Fee of €7,000 is required for new Kindergarten students.
2. The British School of Monaco (BSM)
Website: https://britishschool.mc/
BSM is the Principality’s only British-focused school, specifically delivering the English National Curriculum (ENC).
- Curriculum: Follows the British education system and the English National Curriculum (ENC).
- Focus: It is focused on primary education (Year 1 to Year 6).
- Fees (2025/2026): Tuition fees are approximately €38,500 per student for the full school year, which often includes stationery, learning materials, and school lunches.
3. Lycée Albert 1er & FANB
While state-operated, these schools are often chosen by families seeking deeper cultural integration.
- Lycée Albert 1er: Follows the rigorous French national curriculum (Lycée).
- FANB (François d’Assise Nicolas Barré): A large private institution under contract with the state, offering nursery through lycée, following the French system.
II. Schools in the Nearby French Riviera (The Commuter Options)
For families purchasing larger properties just outside the Principality, such as in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin or even Nice, these established institutions are popular choices. They are easily accessible via the A8 motorway or dedicated school bus routes.
4. International School of Nice (ISN)
Located just five minutes from Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport, ISN is a popular choice for families living in the western parts of Monaco or commuter towns near the border.
- Location: Nice, providing easy access for those purchasing property in areas like Cap d’Ail or Beausoleil. The school provides a bus service.
- Curriculum: ISN is an authorized IB World School offering the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the prestigious IB Diploma Programme (IB DP). It also uses the British IGCSE.
- Accreditation: ISN holds dual American and European accreditation (MSA & CIS).
- Fees (2025/2026): Annual fees for older grades (Grade 11-12) are approximately €24,885. One-time fees, including the Application Fee and Admission Fee, can add significant cost to the first year.
5. Mougins British International School
Situated further west, near the Sophia Antipolis technology park, Mougins School is an option for families who value a large campus and pure British curriculum.
- Curriculum: Offers the world-leading British school programme (A-levels, IGCSE) for students aged 3-18.
- Academic Record: Known for its strong academic record, including a 100% A-level pass rate.
- Access: Highly accessible from the A8 motorway, a key factor for those commuting from Monaco, though it requires a 45-minute drive without traffic.
6. École Montessori Internationale de Nice
For families focused on early childhood development and bilingualism, this school offers an alternative methodology.
- Curriculum: Follows the Montessori methodology.
- Language: Fully bilingual (100% English and 100% French teachers in the classroom daily).
- Ages: Caters to students from 2.5 years to 12 years.
- Fees (2025/2026): Annual fees range from €12,000 to €13,000.
III. Strategic Housing: Proximity and Schools
The choice of school significantly impacts which Monaco residential area is best suited for your family.
| School Choice | Primary Residential Area | Why This Location? |
| ISM | Larvotto, Monte Carlo | The school is located in Larvotto at the Testimonio II complex, offering a zero-commute luxury lifestyle. |
| Monaco State Schools | Fontvieille, La Condamine | Many state schools are scattered throughout the districts, such as École de Fontvieille or École de la Condamine, making them practical for residents of those areas. |
| ISN / Mougins | West Monaco, Cap d’Ail, Beausoleil | These French border towns offer larger property footprints at a lower cost, making the commute worthwhile for the specific curriculum choice. |
Families looking for ultra-luxury residences often prioritize the Larvotto district due to its new buildings and the immediate walking distance to ISM. Those seeking the charm and density of the center often choose La Condamine, which provides great access to local écoles and the Monaco train station for easy transport.
Education as an Investment
For high-net-worth families, the annual cost of international schooling is viewed as an investment in the future of their children, much like the property itself. While fees for institutions like ISM can range up to €32,800 per annum (plus substantial one-time fees), this investment buys access to small class sizes, world-class facilities, and pathways to top universities globally.
The key to a successful relocation is making the school decision first. This choice then dictates the optimal residential location, streamlining the entire property search process.
Considering the financial move? Read our guide on the full application process for Conditions for Obtaining Residency in Monaco.