International or Dutch education The Hague region

Tips for finding a school

If you are confused about which school to send your children to, there is plenty of help available. The Municipality of The Hague has its own Scholenwijzer (‘school picker’) tool available online. There are also lots of education consultancies you can approach for help. We would always recommend visiting a school or attending an open day, too. 

Some points to consider when selecting a school: 

  • Some schools may have a waiting list for admission. Some international schools and newcomer classes for Dutch schools often have waiting lists. Do consider alternative options before you move. Your children need to go to school within 5 days of arrival.  

 

  • Length of stay: If you intend to stay only a few years before you move to a new country you may consider international schools as they teach in English and their curriculum is recognized worldwide. For some government-funded schools you may need to prove you are only here temporarily.  If you consider staying in the Netherlands for a longer period you may want to consider Dutch schools as it helps with your integration and saves a lot of money.  

 

  • Finances: Dutch schools only ask for parental contributions to cover events and activities. International school fees range between 4.000 and 25.000 euros a year. Your salary and the contribution of your employer may determine what type of school to choose.  

 

  • Integration: opting for a Dutch school enables your children to learn Dutch and befriend local children, which helps integrate into the local community. Choosing an international school means the children may learn only a little bit of Dutch and befriend other international children.   

 

  • Location: most of the schools have excellent public transport connections, though you may prefer your children to go to one within walking or biking distance. Most Dutch and international parents live relatively close by the school of their children. Apply to the school first before determining the area you want to live.   

 

  • Qualification(s): the International Baccalaureate or European Baccalaureate are widely accepted in universities worldwide. National qualification systems (such as that from the Netherlands or the US) may require a bridging programme to be completed before university admission in other countries. Transition to another school abroad may be difficult depending on the school system and language taught.  

 

  • Curriculum: The Dutch school system offers a wide variety of religious and philosophical teaching foundations. Even international schools can be based upon a different curriculum.   

 

If you'd like more information about finding a school in The Hague, check out our information pages on the school system, international schools, Dutch government schools, and tertiary education