Steeped in a strong history of immigration, Chicago has a large foreign-born population that continues to flourish today. As a result, many international schools have opened in the Chicago area. Expat families, especially those who don't plan on living in Chicago permanently, often prefer to send their children to international schools rather than local schools. These schools teach curricula from around the world, often in the home language of their sponsoring country.

International schools are a great way to meet other expat families with a similar background. Though they can be expensive, they usually offer a correspondingly high quality of education.

Below are some of Chicago's most prominent international schools.

International schools in Chicago

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, International Primary Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.nordangliaeducation.com

GEMS World Academy Chicago

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.gemschicago.org

German School of Chicago

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 14
Website: www.germanschoolchicago.com

Lycée Français de Chicago

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.lyceechicago.org