Fettes College offers an outstanding academic environment with a global outlook. Known for its rigorous curriculum and exceptional extracurricular facilities, it prepares students for top universities worldwide. A premier choice for families seeking a holistic British education in Edinburgh.
Best International Schools in Edinburgh - June 2026
Prestigious co-educational boarding and day school.
Details
- Year Founded: 1870
- Employees: 200-500
- Price Range: $$$$
- Phone: +441313322281
- Email: admissions@fettes.com
About the Company
Pros
- World-class facilities
- Strong academic reputation
Cons
- High tuition fees
- Highly competitive admission
Leading independent boarding school for boys.
Details
- Year Founded: 1833
- Employees: 150-300
- Price Range: $$$$
- Phone: +441313122200
- Email: admissions@merchiston.co.uk
About the Company
Merchiston provides a distinctive educational experience with a strong focus on character development and academic excellence. Its international boarding community fosters a supportive atmosphere, making it a top-tier choice for families looking for prestige and tradition in Scotland.
Pros
- Strong pastoral care
- Excellent sports programs
Cons
- Single-sex environment
- Limited campus access
Scotland's largest all-girls independent school.
Details
- Year Founded: 1888
- Employees: 100-250
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +441313118000
- Email: admissions@stgeorges.edin.sch.uk
About the Company
St George's offers a dynamic learning environment where girls are encouraged to thrive academically and personally. With a diverse international student body, the school emphasizes leadership and innovation, ensuring students are ready for the global stage.
Pros
- Empowering environment
- Strong academic results
Cons
- Single-sex education
- Busy campus location
Historic school offering a challenging curriculum.
Details
- Year Founded: 1824
- Employees: 200-400
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +441315564603
- Email: admissions@edinburghacademy.org.uk
About the Company
The Edinburgh Academy provides a rich academic heritage paired with modern teaching methods. The school creates an inclusive community that values both personal achievement and social responsibility, making it a highly respected institution in the heart of the city.
Pros
- Central location
- Rich history and tradition
Cons
- Smaller campus size
- Limited boarding capacity
Inclusive co-educational day school with diverse programs.
Details
- Year Founded: 1741
- Employees: 400-600
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +441314477931
- Email: admissions@gwc.org.uk
About the Company
George Watson's College is celebrated for its diverse and comprehensive curriculum. The school fosters a culture of curiosity and excellence, providing students with the skills and confidence to excel in a multicultural world. A great choice for balanced development.
Pros
- Diverse subject range
- Excellent arts facilities
Cons
- Large class sizes
- Competitive enrollment
Independent school known for academic rigor and values.
Details
- Year Founded: 1628
- Employees: 300-500
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +441312297263
- Email: admissions@george-heriots.com
About the Company
George Heriot's offers a distinctive educational experience based on strong philanthropic foundations. Students benefit from a rigorous academic program and a supportive community, helping them grow into well-rounded individuals prepared for global challenges.
Pros
- Strong community values
- Academic prestige
Cons
- High demand for spots
- Historical building constraints
Part of a family of independent schools in Edinburgh.
Details
- Year Founded: 1855
- Employees: 500-800
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +441313111000
- Email: admissions@esms.org.uk
About the Company
ESMS provides a vibrant environment with a unique cooperative structure. It combines traditional values with modern global perspectives, ensuring that every student is challenged and supported throughout their academic journey in a diverse classroom setting.
Pros
- Great school network
- Well-rounded curriculum
Cons
- Logistically complex campus
- Large student body
Focused on language and international education.
Details
- Year Founded: 1929
- Employees: 20-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +441312253802
- Email: info@basilpaterson.co.uk
About the Company
Basil Paterson provides a specialized and international-focused approach to education. With small class sizes and a concentration on linguistic excellence, it serves as a great bridge for international students looking for a tailored learning experience in Scotland.
Pros
- Small class sizes
- Linguistic focus
Cons
- Limited facility size
- Niche curriculum
Scotland's oldest boarding school, highly international.
Details
- Year Founded: 1827
- Employees: 150-250
- Price Range: $$$$
- Phone: +441316534400
- Email: admissions@loretto.com
About the Company
Loretto School blends tradition with a forward-thinking international mindset. Located just outside Edinburgh, it offers a complete boarding experience that fosters independence, confidence, and academic success for students from around the globe.
Pros
- Full boarding tradition
- Beautiful campus
Cons
- Commute from city center
- Traditional grading focus
Premier independent school for girls.
Details
- Year Founded: 1694
- Employees: 200-400
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +441313111000
- Email: admissions@esms.org.uk
About the Company
Part of the ESMS family, The Mary Erskine School excels in providing a challenging, high-quality education for girls. Its focus on academic achievement and personal growth within a globalized community makes it a standout choice for international families.
Pros
- Excellent academic record
- Strong pastoral support
Cons
- High tuition costs
- Competitive entry process
Specialized school for musically gifted children.
Details
- Year Founded: 1880
- Employees: 50-100
- Price Range: $$$$
- Phone: +441315387766
- Email: info@stmarysmusicschool.co.uk
About the Company
A unique institution for talented young musicians, offering a top-tier academic curriculum alongside world-class musical training. Its international appeal draws students from all over the world, creating a high-achieving and creative community.
Pros
- Specialized music focus
- Highly talented peers
Cons
- Strict entry requirements
- Niche focus
Alternative education with an international perspective.
Details
- Year Founded: 1939
- Employees: 50-150
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +441313373410
- Email: info@edinburghsteinerschool.org.uk
About the Company
Edinburgh Steiner School offers a holistic, arts-rich education that prioritizes personal development and critical thinking. Its unique approach attracts international families seeking a departure from traditional state-curriculum testing methods.
Pros
- Holistic approach
- Creative curriculum
Cons
- Different from mainstream
- Limited exam preparation
Top-performing public secondary with international outreach.
Details
- Year Founded: 1964
- Employees: 100-200
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +441314778100
- Email: admin@currie.edin.sch.uk
About the Company
While a state school, Currie High offers impressive academic standards and welcomes international engagement. Its focus on student attainment and diverse extracurricular activities provides a solid foundation for local and global students alike.
Pros
- High academic standards
- Inclusive community
Cons
- Public school limitations
- Standardized curriculum
One of the oldest schools in the UK with high standards.
Details
- Year Founded: 1128
- Employees: 150-250
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +441313362261
- Email: admin@royalhigh.edin.sch.uk
About the Company
The Royal High School holds a prestigious history and provides a comprehensive curriculum. Known for its strong academic discipline and broad range of subject offerings, it remains a respected choice for families seeking traditional values in a modern public setting.
Pros
- Historical reputation
- Wide curriculum
Cons
- Large student cohorts
- Public school environment
Consistently top-ranked state school for academic success.
Details
- Year Founded: 1904
- Employees: 100-200
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +441312299703
- Email: admin@boroughmuir.edin.sch.uk
About the Company
Boroughmuir High is renowned for its outstanding examination results and high-quality teaching. It attracts students from diverse backgrounds, providing a competitive, intellectually stimulating environment that prepares them for top university success.
Pros
- Top exam results
- Modern facility
Cons
- Highly oversubscribed
- Academic pressure
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
What curriculum do international schools in Edinburgh offer? Most schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British-based curricula.
Are international schools in Edinburgh expensive? Fees vary significantly depending on the institution and boarding options, but they are generally considered premium investments.
Do international schools offer language support? Yes, most schools provide EAL (English as an Additional Language) programs for non-native speakers.
Is the admission process competitive? Admission can be competitive; it is recommended to apply well in advance of the 2026 academic year.
Do these schools accept local students? Yes, international schools in Edinburgh welcome both expatriate and local students.
How do I choose the right school? Consider factors like academic philosophy, location, extracurricular offerings, and your child's specific learning needs.