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Dutch International Primary Schools (DAIS) explained

A state-subsidised network of primary schools in the Netherlands offering English-medium education to expat children at low fees. DAIS schools exist in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Eindhoven, Utrecht and other Dutch cities.

What DAIS is

A state-subsidised network of primary schools in the Netherlands offering English-medium education to expat children at low fees. DAIS schools exist in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Eindhoven, Utrecht and other Dutch cities.

How it works financially

Tuition at DAIS schools is roughly EUR 4,500 to 7,500 per year, against EUR 15,000 to 25,000 at full-fee international primary schools. The Dutch government subsidises the difference.

Eligibility

Families must be in the Netherlands on a temporary expat basis (typically via employer-sponsored work permit). Permanent residents and Dutch citizens are not generally eligible. See Amsterdam DAIS eligibility for the specifics.

Curriculum

Most DAIS schools deliver an IPC (International Primary Curriculum) or similar adapted programme, with English as the language of instruction and Dutch as a subject.

Transition to secondary

DAIS covers primary only. At Year 7 (Group 8 in Dutch terminology), families transition to a Dutch state secondary, a Dutch international secondary, or a full-fee international school. See the Dutch international school stream.

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