Top International Schools in Mauritius

Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias

Mauritius, with its white sandy beaches and idyllic lifestyle, is attracting more and more expatriate families seeking a new adventure in the tropics. However, children’s education remains a major concern for these transitioning families. Fortunately, the island offers a range of quality international schools, allowing young expatriates to continue their education in a multicultural and stimulating environment. In this article, we provide a detailed overview of the best international schools in Mauritius, along with practical tips to best prepare your expatriation budget.

The Jewels of International Education in Mauritius

1. Le Bocage International School

Address: Moka, Mauritius Annual Cost: approximately €8,000 to €12,000 depending on grade level

Le Bocage International School stands out for its holistic educational approach and commitment to academic excellence. Located in the lush district of Moka, this school offers a serene and stimulating learning environment.

  • World-renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) program
  • Small class sizes for personalized follow-up
  • State-of-the-art sports facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool
  • Strong emphasis on foreign languages and extracurricular activities

Le Bocage International School distinguishes itself through its innovative pedagogical approach, combining academic rigor and personal development. Students are encouraged to become open-minded and responsible global citizens. The school welcomes children from kindergarten through high school, offering valuable educational continuity for expatriate families.

2. Northfields International High School

Address: Labourdonnais Village, Mapou, Mauritius Annual Cost: approximately €7,000 to €11,000 depending on grade level

Northfields International High School is renowned for its academic excellence and dynamic multicultural environment. Located in the north of the island, it benefits from an exceptional natural setting.

  • British curriculum and preparation for IGCSE and A-Level exams
  • Focus on leadership development and entrepreneurship
  • Rich and varied extracurricular activities program
  • Modern infrastructure including science and technology laboratories

Northfields stands out for its educational approach focused on the overall well-being of the student. The school encourages academic excellence while emphasizing the development of social and emotional skills. Students benefit from a stimulating international environment, effectively preparing them for the challenges of the modern world.

3. Lycée La Bourdonnais

Address: Forest Side, Curepipe, Mauritius Annual Cost: approximately €6,000 to €9,000 depending on grade level

Lycée La Bourdonnais is the reference institution for French-speaking families in Mauritius. Accredited by the French Ministry of Education, it offers quality education from elementary through high school.

  • Official French program, allowing easy integration into the French educational system
  • Bilingual French-English instruction
  • Excellent results on the French baccalaureate
  • Strong French and international community

Lycée La Bourdonnais distinguishes itself through its commitment to academic excellence and the promotion of French culture. The institution offers a rich multicultural environment, preparing students to become open and adaptable global citizens. Modern infrastructure and qualified teaching staff contribute to creating an optimal learning environment.

Investing in the Future: Budget to Plan for an Expatriate

International education in Mauritius represents a significant investment for expatriate families. Beyond tuition fees, it’s crucial to consider other expenses related to education and daily life on the island.

Tuition Fees: As previously indicated, annual costs generally range between €6,000 and €12,000 per child, depending on the school and grade level. It’s important to note that these fees often increase with the child’s age.

Registration Fees and Deposits: Most international schools require one-time registration fees (between €500 and €1,500) as well as a refundable deposit (approximately €1,000).

School Supplies and Uniforms: Plan an annual budget of approximately €500 to €1,000 per child to cover books, supplies, and school uniforms.

School Transportation: If you opt for a school bus service, budget between €500 and €1,000 per year per child, depending on distance.

Extracurricular Activities: Schools typically offer a wide range of activities. Budget approximately €500 to €1,000 per year per child for these activities.

Housing: Rents near international schools are often higher. Plan a monthly budget of €1,500 to €3,000 for a family home in a sought-after neighborhood.

Health Insurance: International health coverage is essential. Budget approximately €3,000 to €5,000 per year for a family of four.

Cost of Living: Beyond education-related expenses, an expatriate family should plan a monthly budget of approximately €2,000 to €3,000 to cover daily expenses (food, entertainment, transportation).

In summary, an expatriate family with two children enrolled in an international school in Mauritius should plan an overall annual budget of approximately €70,000 to €100,000, including tuition fees, housing, and daily expenses.

Good to Know:

Some employers offer expatriation packages including an allowance for children’s education. Don’t hesitate to negotiate this point during your recruitment or transfer to Mauritius.

Tips for Successful Integration into the Mauritian Education System

1. Plan Ahead for Registration: The best international schools are in high demand. Start your process at least one year in advance to maximize your chances of securing a spot.

2. Visit the Institutions: If possible, organize visits to schools that interest you before making your decision. This will help you better understand the atmosphere and philosophy of each institution.

3. Involve Your Children: Depending on their age, include your children in the decision-making process. Their buy-in to the project will greatly facilitate their adaptation.

4. Prepare for Language Transition: If necessary, consider support classes in English or French to facilitate your children’s integration.

5. Networking: Join expatriate groups on social media to exchange tips and experiences about international schools in Mauritius.

Mauritius offers a quality educational framework for expatriate families, with reputable international schools offering globally recognized programs. Although the financial investment is significant, it guarantees your children a high-level education in an enriching multicultural environment. By carefully planning your budget and choosing the institution best suited to your needs, you’ll lay the foundation for a successful expatriation for the entire family.

Good to Know:

Some international schools in Mauritius offer merit scholarships or financial aid. Don’t hesitate to inquire with the institutions to learn about available options.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.

About the author
Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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