GISSV German International School of Silicon Valley

GISSV fosters critical and imaginative thinking, a passion for lifelong learning, and an appreciation for cultural diversity. The school emphasizes holistic and individual development, promoting social-emotional competency, artistic expression, and physical motor skills. It maintains a cosmopolitan mindset that values international understanding, intercultural dialogue, and sustainable development.

The school offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum from preschool through grade 12 that is aligned with both German state guidelines (Thuringia) and California state standards. The academic program includes languages (German, English, and options for Spanish/French), mathematics, sciences, social studies, arts, music, physical education, and technology. High school coursework is aligned with UC A–G requirements to support U.S. university admissions.

Graduates earn both the German International Abitur (DIA) and the California High School Diploma, preparing them for university pathways in both the United States and Europe. The school is recognized as an "Excellent German School Abroad" and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Students frequently achieve success in prestigious competitions, such as the national finals of the German STEM competition, Jugend forscht.

The school provides robust language support through dedicated German as a Second Language (DaZ) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Small class sizes, with a maximum of 22 students, ensure an excellent student-to-teacher ratio and personalized attention for individual student development.

GISSV serves students from two to eighteen years old and welcomes families of all cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The primary enrollment period occurs during January and February for the upcoming school year, though new students are accepted throughout the year based on availability. Knowledge of the German language is required for students enrolling after 1st grade, though the school offers a German Fast Track Program for support.

The school operates on a yearly calendar that is subject to change. Families can download the current and upcoming school year calendars directly from the school's website.

GISSV operates two campuses in the San Francisco Bay Area: one in Mountain View (serving Preschool–Grade 12) and one in San Francisco (serving Preschool–Grade 8, with Grade 9 starting in 2027/28). The campuses provide safe, stimulating learning environments equipped with comprehensive science and technology resources. The Mountain View campus also hosts a Saturday School program for the extended community.

The school offers an after-school program and a variety of enriching events that involve students, teachers, and parents. Students participate in activities such as music, sports, and arts, and the school maintains an Eco-School initiative. Additionally, GISSV hosts a summer camp for children ages 5 to 14, which includes a Counselors in Training (CIT) program for high school students.