
International School of Bologna
Secular, Founded 2004
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Languages
The International School of Bologna is an independent, internationally accredited IB World School serving students from Reception (age 3) through Grade 12. It provides a holistic, inquiry-based education in English within a diverse, multicultural community in Bologna, Italy.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is committed to a holistic, future-focused education that empowers students to become independent, analytical, and creative thinkers. It fosters academic excellence in an inclusive and supportive environment, guided by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile. The school emphasizes inquiry-based learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of compassionate, open-minded global citizens.
Programmes
The school offers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3–12, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11–16, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16–19. The curriculum includes core subjects such as Mathematics, Sciences, Languages, Individuals and Societies, and the Arts (Visual, Music, Performing), alongside DP requirements like Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS). The school is also a Google for Education Premier Reference School, integrating advanced digital learning and AI into its academic framework.
Outcomes
Graduates of the International School of Bologna are prepared for success at universities worldwide, often earning advanced credit. The school’s IB Diploma Programme is highly regarded by leading global universities, with students demonstrating strong research, time management, and self-confidence skills. The school is also recognized as a Google for Education Premier Reference School for its integration of technology and innovation.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides dedicated student support services, including a school counselor and specialized learning support staff. The team includes English Language Learner (ELL) teachers and learning support specialists who work across the Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma programmes to ensure an inclusive environment. These professionals collaborate to meet the diverse needs of all learners within the school community.
Frequently asked questions(6)
- What curriculum does International School of Bologna offer?
- International School of Bologna offers IB PYP, IB MYP and IB Diploma.
- How much is tuition at International School of Bologna?
- Annual tuition at International School of Bologna is €9.9K–€21.9K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does International School of Bologna teach?
- International School of Bologna enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- What accreditations does International School of Bologna hold?
- International School of Bologna holds accreditations including IB and NEASC.
- Is International School of Bologna co-educational?
- International School of Bologna is a co-ed school.
- Where is International School of Bologna located?
- International School of Bologna is an international school in Bologna, Italy.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Reception (Half Day) | 3–4 | €9.9K |
| Reception (Full Day) | 3–4 | €11.3K |
| Kindergarten | 4–5 | €12.2K |
| Transition | 5–6 | €15.2K |
| Grade 1 | 6–7 | €17.9K |
| Grade 2 | 7–8 | €18.3K |
| Grade 3 | 8–9 | €18.3K |
| Grade 4 | 9–10 | €18.3K |
| Grade 5 | 10–11 | €19.6K |
| Grade 6 | 11–12 | €21K |
| Grade 7 | 12–13 | €21K |
| Grade 8 | 13–14 | €21K |
| Grade 9 | 14–15 | €21K |
| Grade 10 | 15–16 | €21K |
| Grade 11 | 16–17 | €21.9K |
| Grade 12 | 17–18 | €21.9K |
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Other fees(9)
| Enrolment fee· Admission Fee for Reception to Grade 5 (new students only, non-refundable) | €1.1K |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee· Admission Fee for Grades 6 to 12 (new students only, non-refundable) | €1.5K |
| Registration fee· Annual Registration Fee for Reception to Grade 10 (returning and new students, non-refundable) | €750 |
| Registration fee· Annual Registration Fee for Grades 11 to 12 (returning and new students, non-refundable) | €1K |
| EAL· Secondary ELL Program - 2 Periods/Weekly (Half ELL Fee) | €1.2K |
| EAL· Secondary ELL Program - 3-4 Periods/Weekly (Full ELL Fee) | €2.4K |
| Meals· Lunch Fee - 5 Days (mandatory up to Grade 5) | €1.6K |
| Meals· Lunch Fee - 3 Days (Tue - Thu) for Grades 6-12 | €1K |
| Meals· Lunch Fee - 2 Days (Mon-Fri) for Grades 6-12 | €675 |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 10%
- Sibling discount: 20%
- Sibling discount: 30%
Admissions
The school welcomes inquiries from prospective families and encourages interested parties to contact the admissions department directly. The admissions office is available for inquiries via phone or email during standard business hours, and families are invited to book a visit to the campus. Prospective parents may also engage with the school community through the Parents Association.
Calendar
The school operates a structured academic calendar that includes holidays, school events, and various activities. The schedule is available to the community through an integrated calendar system, which tracks school trips, the Festival of Hope, and after-school activities. Daily schedules for students typically include morning drop-off, staggered entry, inquiry-based lessons, lunch, and afternoon play or enrichment activities.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in Bologna’s historic center, the campus spans over 2,000 square meters and includes 25 classrooms, science labs, and a theatre. Sports and recreational facilities feature two outdoor playgrounds, a basketball court, and access to an off-site gym. The school also maintains a library and a dedicated dining area (Mensa) for students. A new, larger campus in Zola Predosa is scheduled to open in September 2027.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a wide range of after-school activities (ASAs) and enrichment programmes. Notable co-curricular achievements include the school's participation in the F1 in Schools competition, where students engage in engineering, design, project management, and enterprise tasks. The school also organizes school trips and hosts the Festival of Hope to foster student engagement and community spirit.
Janecke AarnaesHead Of SchoolJanecke Aarnaes serves as the Head of School at the International School of Bologna. She leads the school's mission to provide a holistic, future-focused IB education for students from Reception through Grade 12.
- Rachel BurgessPrimary School Principal & PYP Coordinator
Rachel Burgess is the Primary School Principal and PYP Coordinator at the International School of Bologna.
- Helen ExlerSecondary Principal (G6-9) & MYP Coordinator
Helen Exler serves as the Secondary Principal for Grades 6-9 and is the MYP Coordinator.
- Nazanin NikanjamSecondary Principal (G10-12) & DP Coordinator
Nazanin Nikanjam is the Secondary Principal for Grades 10-12 and the DP Coordinator.
- Filippo TestoniBusiness Manager
Filippo Testoni holds the position of Business Manager at the school.
- Riccardo TestoniMarketing Director
Riccardo Testoni serves as the Marketing Director for the International School of Bologna.
- Pio FabrizianiTechnology Director
Pio Fabriziani is the Technology Director at the school.
IB PYP
NEASC