Discover The Top International Schools For Expat Famalies In Cairo, Egypt
Cairo isn’t just Egypt’s capital — it’s a lively, welcoming city that’s become a true international hub for families from all over the world. With its rich culture, affordable cost of living, and excellent international schools, Cairo offers a balanced lifestyle that’s both educational and exciting.
From American and British to French, German, and Canadian curricula, Cairo’s schools provide globally recognized education in safe, modern campuses. Whether you’re staying for a few years or settling long-term, your children can thrive academically and socially in this vibrant city.
Cairo American College (CAC) – Maadi
Curriculum: American | IB Diploma | AP
Grades: Pre-K to Grade 12
Website: cacegypt.org
Founded in 1945, Cairo American College (CAC) is one of Egypt’s most respected international schools. Known for its strong academics, diverse student body, and excellent extracurricular programs, CAC delivers a world-class American education that prepares students for top universities worldwide.
Why Families Love CAC?
- Accredited by Middle States Association and CIS
- Over 60 nationalities represented
- Exceptional sports, music, and arts programs
- Strong parent and alumni community
Location: Maadi — a secure, green, and family-friendly neighborhood in South Cairo.
Maadi British International School (MBIS)
Curriculum: British | iGCSE
Grades: Early Years to Year 11
Website: mbisegypt.com
MBIS offers a warm, community-centered British education that focuses on each child’s potential. With small class sizes and personalized attention, it’s a top choice for young expat families who value a nurturing environment.
Highlights
- Rated “Excellent” by the UK Independent Schools Inspectorate
- Strong Special Educational Needs (SEN) support
- Friendly international parent network
- Smooth transition to top British secondary schools
Location: Zahraa El Maadi — close to embassies and expat housing compounds.
The British International School in Cairo (BISC) – Beverly Hills
Curriculum: British | iGCSE | A-Levels
Grades: Early Years to Year 13
Website: bisc.edu.eg
BISC is one of the most prestigious British schools in Egypt. With highly qualified British teachers, a beautiful campus, and an outstanding reputation for academic excellence, it’s ideal for families seeking the UK curriculum in a multicultural setting.
Why Families Choose BISC?
- Outstanding A-Level and university guidance
- Excellent arts, sports, and leadership programs
- Prestigious international reputation
- Supportive and inclusive community
Location: Beverly Hills, Sheikh Zayed — perfect for families living in West Cairo or 6th of October.
Lycée Français du Caire (LFC)
Curriculum: French National | Baccalauréat
Grades: Preschool to Grade 12
Website: lfcaire.org
Lycée Français du Caire (LFC) delivers an authentic French education accredited by the French Ministry of Education. It’s ideal for French-speaking families or anyone seeking a bilingual learning experience that encourages global citizenship.
What Makes LFC Special?
- Official French government accreditation
- Bilingual teaching: French, English, and Arabic
- Academic excellence and cultural depth
- Easy transition for students relocating from other French schools abroad
Campuses: Maadi, Zamalek, and New Cairo.
Misr American College (MAC) – New Maadi
Curriculum: American | Massachusetts Standards | AdvancED Accredited
Grades: Pre-K to Grade 12
Website: mac-orouba.com
Misr American College (MAC) combines a U.S.-based curriculum with local values, offering a well-rounded education for both Egyptian and expat families. It focuses on STEAM education, creativity, and strong character development.
Why Parents Recommend MAC
- Accredited by Cognia (AdvancED)
- Encourages innovation through STEAM learning
- Safe, inclusive school culture
- Bilingual enrichment programs
Location: New Maadi — easy access from Maadi and Zahraa.
British Columbia Canadian International School (BCCIS) – New Cairo
Curriculum: Canadian (British Columbia)
Grades: K–12
Website: bccis.ca
BCCIS brings the Canadian education system to Cairo, focusing on critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and digital literacy. Certified by the British Columbia Ministry of Education, it’s a top choice for families considering future studies in Canada.
Highlights
- Officially certified Canadian school
- Multilingual programs in English, French, and Arabic
- Emphasis on STEM and innovation
- Welcoming, multicultural community
Location: New Cairo — near embassies and modern residential compounds.
Malvern College Egypt (MCE) – Katameya
Curriculum: British | iGCSE | A-Levels | IB Diploma
Grades: 3–18
Website: malverncollege.edu.eg
As a sister school of Malvern College UK, MCE offers the best of British education right in Cairo. It blends academic rigor with personal growth and leadership development, preparing students to thrive anywhere in the world.
Why Families Choose MCE?
- Managed by Malvern College UK
- Modern, state-of-the-art campus
- Focus on global citizenship and resilience
- Dual pathways: A-Levels and IB Diploma
Location: Katameya Heights, New Cairo.
Deutsche Evangelische Oberschule (DEO) – Dokki
Curriculum: German | Abitur
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Website: deo.edu.eg
Founded in 1873, DEO Cairo is one of the oldest and most respected German international schools in the region. It offers bilingual programs and strong academic pathways to German and European universities.
Highlights
- German & English bilingual curriculum
- Highly qualified native German teachers
- Direct university pathways to Europe
- Excellent reputation among European expat families
Location: Dokki — central Cairo.
How to Choose the Right School in Cairo
When selecting a school, keep these points in mind:
- Curriculum: Choose one that aligns with your child’s future studies (IB, A-Levels, AP, or French Bac).
- Location:
- Maadi – calm and green, great for young families.
- New Cairo – modern compounds near embassies and businesses.
- Sheikh Zayed – quiet suburban living in West Cairo.
- Community: Schools like CAC, MBIS, and BCCIS are known for diverse, welcoming expat communities.
- Fees: Expect tuition between $15,000 and $35,000 per year depending on school, facilities and curriculum.
- Visit the Campus: Always schedule a school tour — meet the teachers, see the classrooms, and check extracurricular options.
Where to Live Near Top Expat Schools?
- Maadi: Family-friendly, leafy neighborhood close to CAC, MBIS, and LFC.
- New Cairo: Modern, secure, and full of gated communities near MCE and BCCIS.
- Sheikh Zayed / 6th of October: Spacious and quiet, ideal for families near BISC and German schools.
Conclusion
Cairo offers an incredible variety of international schools for expat families — each providing quality education, strong values, and a sense of belonging. Whether you prefer an American, British, French, German, or Canadian system, you’ll find a school that fits your child’s needs and your family’s lifestyle.
Your children can get a world-class education — and you can enjoy living in one of the most fascinating cities in the Middle East.