Top 359 public schools abroad

• Financial accessibility,
• Favorable learning environment,
• Building strong friendships,
• Multinational school community,
• Wide range of extracurricular activities,
• Study of several foreign languages,
• Up-to-date curriculum,
• High student performance on standardized exams,
• Use of modern technologies and innovative methods in the educational process,
• Highly qualified teachers from across Europe who hold relevant educational qualifications and experience,
• An engaging and innovative approach to education, where students from different cultures learn together, developing international communication skills,
• Safe and welcoming environment.

All public schools in Europe differ — each country has its own education system and curriculum that has developed over centuries, which is why studying at secondary schools in different countries abroad looks different. The following organizations are responsible for the development of teaching:

• UNESCO,
• the Council of Europe,
• the United Nations.

The European school system most often consists of three stages:

• Primary school — for pupils aged 6 to 11,
• Middle school — for students aged 12–15,
• Senior school — from 16 to 19 years old.

From 16 to 18 years old, students who have chosen the university path remain at schools abroad. Those wishing to obtain a profession receive a certificate and enroll in courses. Foreign children may join the educational process at any year, if the chosen school allows it.

The top public schools in Europe include educational institutions that are:

• Co-educational,
• Girls only,
• Specialized,
• Boys only,
• Day schools,
• Semi-boarding schools,
• Boarding schools,
• Religious.

School education abroad — commonly offered study programmes:

• BTEC,
• A-Level,
• Transition Year,
• International Foundation,
• Secondary and senior school classes in English, German, French and other languages (national programmes).

The curriculum offers students a wide range of subjects, providing them with a well-rounded education and more time to reflect on what they want to do with their lives. Preparation for studying at public schools abroad includes:

• The national language of the country,
• World languages,
• Mathematics,
• Literature,
• History,
• Geography,
• Art,
• Music,
• Physical education.

The best public schools in Europe offer a wide range of additional subjects aimed at uncovering students' abilities and giving expression to their creative and sporting talents. In addition to compulsory subjects, the following are available at all levels, for example:

• Drawing,
• Sculpture,
• Acting,
• Singing,
• Photography,
• Video editing,
• Various martial arts,
• Volleyball,
• Tennis.

Examinations are taken at the end of each period. Transition between educational levels happens automatically.

Preparation for studying at public schools abroad is designed to reduce the gap between the education systems of different countries. During this period, children go through an adaptation process, which will allow them to fully dedicate their time to studying on international programmes in the future. The best age for moving to a school abroad is generally considered to be 10–14: at this stage, students already have their own character and independence, and it will be easier for them to accept the rules and traditions of another country. Daily language practice in class and during free time will allow them to quickly improve their academic knowledge, make friends, and communicate with teachers.

Most foreign students develop communication skills in the new language and apply them in their studies already in their first year of living at a school abroad. Over time, the benefits of a multilingual approach will be felt across all areas of learning, as students acquire the necessary cognitive skills.

Studying at public schools gives students the opportunity to subsequently enroll at any foreign university of their choice. Most universities prefer to admit students who hold a certificate or diploma from a European secondary school. If students plan to pursue higher education outside their home country, studying on internationally recognised programmes will ease the admissions process.

European schools that educate international students foster a strong community that helps students from different countries feel at home in a welcoming environment. The best institutions among the top public schools in Europe sometimes offer full-board accommodation, a wide range of engaging activities, sports facilities, and swimming lessons.

To send your child to public schools in Europe for foreigners, several points must be taken into account:

• First of all, decide on the country of residence, the study program, and its duration,
• If the foreign language proficiency is insufficient, start preparation with short-term courses that will help improve language skills and adapt to the new place,
• Carefully and within the specified deadlines, prepare the package of documents for obtaining a student visa and enrollment,
• Plan for all upcoming expenses for the study program, additional clubs and activities, and excursions,
• Purchase health insurance.

The general package of documents for enrollment in public schools in Europe includes:

• Passport and a copy of it,
• Photos of the required format,
• Completed application form with personal data,
• Interview via Skype,
• Certificate of foreign language proficiency level,
• School transcript,
• Reference letter from teachers, class teacher,
• Motivation letter,
• Portfolio,
• Medical record extract.

Additionally, the school may offer entrance testing in a foreign language, mathematics, and other subjects.