The London school landscape
London has the world's deepest international school market by number, and the most diverse by national curriculum. The flagship American schools are The American School in London (ASL) in St John's Wood and ACS International (Cobham, Hillingdon, Egham). Top IB schools include The International School of London (ISL), Southbank International School, Halcyon London International, and TASIS England.
Since January 2025, all UK private school fees attract 20% VAT. International schools are no exception. We display fees as quoted by each school, but all London quotes here include VAT. Some non-domiciled families now compare US-style international schools (which historically priced lower) with traditional UK independents on a more level footing.
Confused by VAT on London school fees?
Our 2025 VAT impact guide explains exactly how the new tax affects international and independent school fees, and which schools have absorbed it.
Most popular neighbourhoods for families
St John's Wood and Regent's Park are the heart of expat family life with ASL nearby. Hampstead and Highgate appeal to families seeking village-feel London. Notting Hill, Holland Park and Chelsea are the premium central options. Wimbledon, Putney and Richmond offer green-space family living. Cobham, Hertfordshire and Surrey commuter towns host the larger US-style campuses. Read our neighbourhood guide to living in St John's Wood with international schools. For a riverside village with a strong run of independent and international schools, read our guide to living in Barnes with international schools.
