International Schools in Panama: Full Guide for Expats in  2026

Education and finding the right international schools in Panama are some of the main considerations for expats relocating to the country with their families. These institutions offer American, British, and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula, as well as bilingual (English/Spanish) programs. Most of these schools are in the capital – Panama City. They offer higher academic standards than the country’s public school system, with multicultural learning environments, making them highly sought-after by the expat community in Panama.  

This post will highlight some of the top international schools in Panama and provide tips on how to choose the right one.  

International Schools in Panama – Key Takeaways

Most of the top international schools in Panama are located in Panama City, offering American, British, IB, French, and International curricula with English as the primary language of instruction. 

Annual tuition ranges from B/.6,705 to B/.24,269 (equivalent to USD), with The Casco School and Lycée Français being some of the most affordable and King’s College at the upper end. 

International schools in Panama offer full-day instruction, smaller class sizes, and globally recognized international curricula, unlike public schools, which follow a national curriculum with split-day sessions. 

The International School of Panama (ISP) is the only non-profit, independent international school in the country and is widely regarded as one of the top institutions for expat families living in Panama. 

When choosing a school, consider the curriculum, language of instruction, accreditation, extracurricular acticlic 

vities, and tuition costs. 

As Panama continues to attract a large number of expats, demand for international schools in the country keeps growing. Many schools in Panama are accredited by international bodies such as the International Baccalaureate Organization, Cambridge Assessment International Education, and AEFE (French network). This ensures students receive globally recognized qualifications and can easily transition to universities worldwide. For foreigners considering a Panama Golden Visa, finding appropriate and high-standard education for your children will not be a problem.  

Here are 8 of the best international schools in Panama for expats in no particular order.  

1. International School of Panama (ISP) 
   • City: Panama City 
   • Curriculum: IB 
   • Language of instruction: English  
   • Ages: 3 to 18 
   • Leaving qualifications: IB Diploma, SAT, ACT, TOEFL 
   • Yearly fees: B/.9,999 – B/.18,938 

The International School of Panama (ISP) is the only non-profit, independent international school in Panama. It offers a multicultural learning environment from early childhood learning to high school, preparing kids for university worldwide.  

2. Balboa Academy 
   • City: Panama City 
   • Curriculum: American 
   • Language of instruction: English  
   • Ages: 3 to 18 
   • Leaving qualifications: AP, SAT, PSAT 
   • Yearly fees: B/.9,063 – B/.15,941 

Balboa Academy is a private academy, offering students both US and Panamanian diploma programs from Kindergarten to Year 13. This school provides students with a global perspective on education, opening doors to top-tier universities worldwide.  

3. Metropolitan School of Panama 
   • City: Panama City 
   • Curriculum: IB 
   • Language of instruction: English  
   • Ages: 3 to 18 
   • Leaving qualifications: IB Diploma 
   • Yearly fees: B/.12,382 – B/.20,430 

The Metropolitan School of Panama is one of the leading international academic institutions in the country. This school offers a world-class academic program for children from Early Childhood 3 to 12th Grade.  

4. Oxford International School 
   • City: Panama City 
   • Curriculum: International 
   • Language of instruction: English & Spanish  
   • Ages: 3 to 18 
   • Leaving qualifications: SAT 
   • Yearly fees: Undisclosed by school 

The Oxford International School (OIS) is a private institution that offers a bespoke learning approach to students from Early Childhood to high school. Its curriculum prioritizes innovation and technology, preparing students for a rewarding higher learning experience worldwide.  

5. King’s College – The British School of Panama 
   • City: Clayton 
   • Curriculum: British & IB 
   • Language of instruction: English 
   • Ages: 2 to 18 
   • Leaving qualifications: IGCSE & IB 
   • Yearly fees: B/.8,213 – B/.24,269 

King’s College is a world-renowned academic institution and the first British curriculum school in Panama. This institution offers a diverse and inclusive learning environment for students from Pre-Nursery division to Sixth Form. 

6. The Casco School 
   • City: Panama City 
   • Curriculum: British 
   • Language of instruction: English & Spanish 
   • Ages: 3 to 17 
   • Leaving qualifications: IGCSE, A-Levels 
   • Yearly fees: B/.7,972 – B/.9,029 

The Casco School is a boutique British school in Panama, offering an internationally-minded and caring learning environment for students from pre-school to sixth form. With a rigorous curriculum, students are well-equipped for higher learning in global institutions.  

7. The Oxford School 
   • City: Panama City 
   • Curriculum: British 
   • Language of instruction: English  
   • Ages: 3 to 18 
   • Leaving qualifications: IGCSE, A-Levels 
   • Yearly fees: B/.12,408 – B/.20,473 

The Oxford School provides a holistic educational experience for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. This school is committed to following the National Curriculum of England and the University of Cambridge International Examinations, preparing students to get into great universities worldwide.  

8. Lycée Français International de Panama 
   • City: Panama City 
   • Curriculum: French 
   • Language of instruction: French, English, Spanish 
   • Ages: 2 to 18 
   • Leaving qualifications: French Baccalaureate and Brevet 
   • Yearly fees: B/.6,705 – B/.9,408 

The Lycée Français International de Panama is a plurilingual school, offering a highly multicultural learning experience supervised by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. This school provides classes from kindergarten to 12th grade.  

• International Baccalaureate (IB): An inquiry-based, intercultural curriculum that prepares students for universities worldwide. Schools like ISP and the Metropolitan School of Panama offer the IB Diploma as a leaving qualification. 
• American Curriculum: Follows a US-style college preparatory structure, offering AP, SAT, and PSAT qualifications. Balboa Academy offers both US and Panamanian diploma programs. 
• British Curriculum: Follows the English National Curriculum with IGCSEs and A-Levels. Schools like The Casco School, The Oxford School, and King’s College follow this pathway. 
• French Curriculum: Offers the French national curriculum, leading to the French Baccalaureate and Brevet. The Lycée Français International de Panama delivers this program under the supervision of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. 
• International Curriculum: A bespoke approach drawing from multiple educational traditions rather than following a single framework. The Oxford International School follows this model. 

When assessing different international schools in Panama, you should consider the following factors:  

• Curriculum and future university pathways: Choose a school that offers a curriculum that matches your child’s future university plans.  
• Language of instruction: You want a school that primarily teaches in your language so your kid does not struggle. 
• Academic recognition and accreditation: Ensure the school you choose is accredited and recognized by the appropriate international bodies.  
• Extracurricular activities: Most international schools in Panama offer a wide range of extracurricular activities such as swimming, football, etc. This is important for a well-rounded learning experience.  
• Tuition fees and additional costs: Choose the school whose annual fees align the most with your budget.  

Bonus tip: If you’re moving to Panama with your family, working with a Panama immigration lawyer can help you with a smooth transition into living and schooling in the country.