Why Parents Are Choosing the British International School of Stockholm Over Stockholm International School

When it comes to selecting the best international school in Stockholm for their children, parents often compare the British International School of Stockholm (BISS) and Stockholm International School (SIS). While both schools offer high-quality education, there are key reasons why many families are choosing BISS over SIS.

1. British Curriculum vs. International Baccalaureate

One of the primary reasons parents prefer BISS is its **British curriculum**, which is renowned for its structured and well-rounded approach. BISS provides the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the option to pursue the **International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma** in later years. This dual offering allows students to benefit from the best of both worlds – a solid British academic foundation and the globally recognized IB program.

SIS, by contrast, exclusively offers the **IB curriculum** from early years through to the diploma program. While the IB is highly respected worldwide, the choice of curriculum at BISS gives parents the flexibility to choose the path that best fits their child’s learning style and future ambitions.

2. Smaller Class Sizes and Personalized Attention

Parents consistently cite the **smaller class sizes** at BISS as a major advantage. With a lower student-to-teacher ratio, BISS is able to offer more individualized support, fostering a nurturing learning environment where each student’s needs are carefully addressed. This is especially beneficial for younger children and students who may require extra help with English as a Second Language (ESL).

While SIS also offers a supportive learning environment, the larger class sizes in some cases may not provide the same level of personalized attention.

3. Comprehensive ESL Support

With Stockholm’s international community rapidly growing, many children attending these schools do not speak English as their first language. BISS stands out for its **robust English as a Second Language (ESL) program**, which is designed to help non-native speakers improve their proficiency quickly. The school offers small group sessions and one-on-one support, ensuring students are fully integrated into the mainstream curriculum.

SIS also provides language support for students, but BISS’s emphasis on individualized ESL programs has made it the go-to option for many expat families.

4. More Competitive Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are always a consideration, and parents often find BISS to be more cost-effective compared to SIS. BISS offers annual tuition starting at around **SEK 160,000** for younger students, while the fees for older students go up to **SEK 220,000**. By comparison, SIS tuition fees can range from **SEK 260,000 to SEK 290,000**, making BISS a more affordable choice without sacrificing educational quality.

5. Community and Campus Environment

BISS is known for its warm, close-knit community and emphasis on a balanced education. The school encourages strong parental involvement and fosters a welcoming, inclusive environment that many families value highly. Additionally, BISS’s campus offers extensive outdoor spaces and facilities designed to promote both academic learning and physical activity.

SIS, while located more centrally in Stockholm, may not offer the same level of outdoor facilities. However, its proximity to the city center and diplomatic hubs appeals to families working in these sectors.

Conclusion

While both the British International School of Stockholm and Stockholm International School offer strong educational programs, parents frequently choose BISS for its British curriculum, personalized learning experience, comprehensive ESL support, and more affordable tuition fees. These factors make BISS the preferred choice for families looking for a top-tier international education in Stockholm.

For more details, explore the offerings at [BISS](https://bisstockholm.se) and [SIS](https://stockholmis.se).