Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Choosing a school for one’s child is already a major decision. In the Maldives, this choice becomes even more strategic when it comes to international schools. In an archipelago where public education is strongly marked by the Islamic heritage and where English has become the language of instruction, international institutions have established themselves as gateways to the world, both for expatriate families and for a Maldivian middle class seeking global exposure.
The main international schools are located in Malé and Hulhumalé, with a few institutions in other atolls. They offer various curricula (British, Cambridge, Edexcel, Finnish model) while integrating local instruction in Islam and the Dhivehi language. This article details the institutions and the criteria for making the right choice.
The Maldivian Educational Context and the Rise of International Schools
The Maldivian education system is the result of a blend of Islamic tradition, informal schooling, and “Western-style” schooling. Historically, children attended Makthab schools, as well as Kiyavaage and Madhrasaa-type schools, where they learned the Quran, Dhivehi, basic mathematics, and some Arabic. With the opening of the first Western-style school in Malé in the early 20th century, followed by the generalization of English as the language of instruction from the 1980s onward, the country gradually adopted frameworks closer to international standards.
The Maldivian education system spans 12 years, structured into primary, lower secondary, and higher secondary levels.
In this landscape, private schools gradually adopted Western curricula, often British, with certifications like Cambridge, Edexcel, or the International Baccalaureate. The number of international schools is increasing rapidly, driven by two main factors: the growing presence of expatriates (corporate executives, diplomats, NGO staff) and the aspiration of a segment of the local population to provide their children with an education competitive on the global market.
These schools offer small class sizes, modern facilities, and student-centered pedagogy, but their tuition fees are high and spots are limited, with waiting lists and strict admission criteria.
Billabong High International School: The Cambridge Standard in Malé
Among the most prominent institutions, Billabong High International School stands out as one of the flagships of the Cambridge curriculum in the Maldives. Located on Ameenee Magu, in the heart of Malé, the school is often presented as one of the country’s top IGCSE institutions, with a distinctly international identity yet firmly anchored in the Maldivian context.
The school is a day institution offering a continuous journey from Grade 1 through A-Level. Grades 1 to 4 follow a proprietary curriculum, developed with the international specialist Kangaroo Kids Education Ltd (KKEL). This curriculum is reviewed annually to integrate the latest pedagogical advancements and meet student needs, ensuring a dynamic approach at the primary level.
At the secondary level, the school fully adopts the Cambridge curriculum. From Grades 5 to 8, Billabong High is the only institution in the Maldives to offer the Cambridge Checkpoint program at the lower secondary level, with a formal assessment at the end of Grade 8. For Grades 9 and 10, students follow the two-year Cambridge IGCSE course, before proceeding, for those who wish, to Cambridge AS and A Levels.
The school promotes a holistic education, going beyond exam preparation. This approach combines integrated learning, design thinking, socio-emotional development, and application in real-world situations. The teachers, described as “progressive,” actively use educational technology and differentiation strategies to foster creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and the adoption of a genuine growth mindset.
Contrary to some stereotypes of international schools being completely disconnected from the local context, Billabong High integrates Islam and Dhivehi at the secondary level and provides Quranic instruction up to Grade 5. This articulation between international standards and a local cultural foundation is a strong marker of many Maldivian international schools.
Financially, annual fees range between 2,580 and 4,380 US dollars depending on the level, placing it at the higher end for the country, yet comparable to rates seen in other regional capitals.
Billabong High at a Glance
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | EPSS Building, Ameenee Magu, Malé 20371 |
| School Type | Day school, international |
| Levels Covered | Grades 1 to 12 |
| Main Curriculum | Cambridge (Checkpoint, IGCSE, AS & A Level) |
| Curriculum Partner | Kangaroo Kids Education Ltd (Grades 1-4) |
| Languages & Religion | Instruction primarily in English; Islam and Dhivehi at secondary level; Quran up to Grade 5 |
| Annual Fees | Approx. 2,580 – 4,380 USD |
| Notable Feature | Only school in the country offering Cambridge Checkpoint in Lower Secondary |
Villa International High School: The British Pathway in Higher Secondary
Villa International High School, on Rahdhebai Magu in Machangolhi (Malé), occupies a special position: it is a day school exclusively dedicated to higher secondary, accepting students in Grades XI and XII. Its primary mission is to prepare for British A-Level exams and the Higher Secondary Certificate, following the Pearson Edexcel curriculum, while also being accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education.
The institution is regularly described as one of the most established and respected international schools in the country. Its reputation rests on several pillars: a high academic standard, experienced faculty, a culture supportive of success, and a strong alumni network present in universities and international organizations.
The facilities match these ambitions: modern classrooms, science laboratories, a well-stocked library, multimedia-equipped rooms, air conditioning, and WiFi. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities – clubs, sports, cultural events – designed to develop leadership, a sense of responsibility, and social skills.
Villa International High School aims to shape responsible global citizens, equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while remaining rooted in Maldivian cultural values. The school offers an inclusive learning environment with a strict anti-bullying policy and provides various support services (counseling, tutoring, university and career guidance), major assets for expatriate families.
Tuition fees are not published online and must be obtained directly from the school, which is common for high-end institutions in the region.
Villa International High School in Brief
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Rahdhebai Magu, Machangolhi, Malé |
| School Type | Co-educational, day, higher secondary (Grades XI-XII) |
| Curriculum | Pearson Edexcel, A-Level + Higher Secondary Certificate preparation |
| Accreditation | Cambridge Assessment International Education |
| Strengths | Strong reputation, high academic level, robust alumni community |
| Facilities | Modern classrooms, science labs, library, multimedia, WiFi |
| Student Services | Counseling, tutoring, guidance, anti-bullying policy |
| Tuition Fees | Upon request from the institution |
Ghiyasuddin International School: Leadership, PPP, and High-Level Sports
Ghiyasuddin International School (GIS), located on Ameenee Magu in Malé, illustrates an interesting hybrid model: that of a former public school built with Japanese aid, later transformed into an international institution under a public-private partnership (PPP). Since 2010, its management has been handled in collaboration with Shri Educare Pvt Ltd, from The Shri Ram Schools network in India.
The school caters to children aged 6 to 16 and follows the Cambridge International curriculum. It proclaims an ambitious vision: to become a benchmark institution for excellence, innovation, inclusion, and leadership. Its motto, “LEARN AND LEAD,” sets the tone: the school aims not only for academic success but also for shaping future leaders aware of their responsibilities.
GIS is the only school in the Maldives officially engaged in the “Leader in Me” program, inspired by Stephen R. Covey’s “7 Habits.” The goal is to infuse a culture of leadership at all levels, with the perspective of attaining “Lighthouse School” status from FranklinCovey.
Gan International School (GIS)
The facilities are particularly rich: a library, mosque, specialized rooms (3D room, Raspberry Pi room), music and art rooms, several laboratories (chemistry, biology, physics, EVS), a computer lab, and a large covered sports hall. The school also has a very strong environmental policy, favoring recyclable materials and discouraging single-use plastics.
GIS collaborates with specialized academies to offer a wide range of structured sports clubs, a unique comparative advantage on the local landscape.
In partnership with Titans Basketball Academy.
Practice of Shotokan style karate.
Table tennis club.
In collaboration with the Track & Field Association.
Diverse martial arts practice.
Badminton club.
In partnership with N Sports Academy.
Strategy and chess club.
Financially, the monthly fees are explicitly communicated, depending on the levels.
Monthly Fees at Ghiyasuddin International School (2025)
| Level (Grade) | Monthly Fees (MVR) |
|---|---|
| Grades 1 – 3 | 4,143 |
| Grades 4 – 7 | 4,022 |
| Grades 8 – 10 | 5,871 |
To these amounts are added an admission fee of 1,000 MVR, a security deposit equivalent to one month’s tuition, as well as a late penalty of about 15.42 MVR per day after the 10th of the month. Textbooks and uniforms are billed separately. The transparency on these elements is appreciated for families who often need to compare several schools before deciding.
The school regularly reports limited availability in certain grades (e.g., only a few spots in Grades 6, 9, and 10 for a given year), indicating high demand pressure.
Ghiyasuddin International School: Profile Summary
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ameenee Magu, Malé |
| Age Range | 6 to 16 years |
| Curriculum | Cambridge International |
| Distinctive Program | “Leader in Me” (Stephen R. Covey), PPP with The Shri Ram Schools |
| Key Facilities | Mosque, multiple labs, Raspberry Pi room, large sports hall |
| Clubs & Sports | Basketball, karate, athletics, badminton, netball, chess, etc. |
| Monthly Fees (Approx.) | 4,022 to 5,871 MVR depending on level |
| Special Feature | Strong leadership culture and affirmed environmental policy |
Lale Youth International School: A Complete Offer from Kindergarten to Grade 12
Lale Youth International School (LYIS), based in Malé (Reethigas Hingun), is one of the few international institutions offering a continuous journey from Kindergarten (Nursery) to Grade 12. The school teaches entirely in English and welcomes students of all nationalities, making it a preferred option for expatriate families seeking continuity without a break between primary and secondary levels.
LYIS follows both the UK National Curriculum and the Cambridge program, ensuring broad compatibility with schools in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia to facilitate mobility. The institution also prepares students for the SAT, an advantage for those aiming for higher education in North America.
The local dimension is not forgotten: Dhivehi, Islam, and the Quran are included in the curriculum, a sign of the will to integrate the values and language of the host country. Uniforms are mandatory, in line with Maldivian school culture.
Fees, expressed in dollars, range between 135 and 175 USD per month, making it a relatively more affordable international option than some competitors targeting a very affluent clientele.
Lale Youth International School: Key Facts
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Reethigas Hingun, Malé |
| Levels Covered | Nursery to Grade 12 |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Curricula | UK National Curriculum + Cambridge |
| Local Instruction | Dhivehi, Islam, Quran |
| External Exams | SAT in addition to Cambridge exams |
| Monthly Fees | Approx. 135 – 175 USD |
| Student Body | Open to all nationalities |
MAPS International High: The Edexcel Pathway for Years 11 and 12
MAPS International High occupies a niche similar to Villa International High School: exclusively higher secondary (Grades 11 and 12). Located on Janavaree Magu in Malé, the school specializes in preparation for GCE Advanced Levels and Edexcel international diplomas.
This institution is a logical destination for students who have already followed a Cambridge or Maldivian national track and are seeking high-level specialization for university. It offers the classic A-Level track as well as Edexcel International Diplomas, thereby broadening subject combinations and possible profiles, especially for students interested in business, science, or technology studies.
Like other schools in this segment, MAPS International High does not publish its fees in detail, inviting families to inquire directly. This lack of public transparency is compensated for, for local families, by a better oral knowledge of the institution’s reputation and positioning.
MAPS International High in Summary
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | H. Vaifilaa-aage, Janavaree Magu, Malé |
| Levels Covered | Grades 11 and 12 |
| Exams Prepared | GCE A-Level, Edexcel A-Level, Edexcel International Diplomas |
| Positioning | Post-secondary specialization school |
| Tuition Fees | Upon request from the institution |
The British School Maldives and Finland International School: Two European Approaches
While most international schools in the Maldives rely on the British or Cambridge frameworks, two institutions stand out for their more distinct identity: The British School Maldives (often simply called The British School) in Hulhumalé, and Finland International School Maldives.
The British School Maldives offers a complete British National Curriculum, from primary to secondary. The ambition is to deliver, in an island context, an education equivalent to that of an independent school in the United Kingdom, with an emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. The school offers a wide range of subjects (English, math, science, humanities, arts) and strongly emphasizes music, drama, and club activities.
The facilities match this positioning: modern classrooms, science laboratories, a library, a computer room, and sports facilities. A dedicated early years unit welcomes the youngest, allowing families to enroll children very early and see them progress in the same environment through secondary. Accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education, the school ensures international recognition of the exams prepared.
Finland International School Maldives applies a child-centered educational system inspired by the Finnish model. It prioritizes cooperative pedagogy, co-teaching, and cross-curricular themes, focusing on well-being, the joy of learning, and autonomy. Assessment is less focused on standardized exams and more on the overall development of the student, offering an alternative to the Maldivian school tradition described as more exam-oriented.
These two institutions illustrate the growing diversification of the international offer in the Maldives: beyond the dominant British/IGCSE model, alternative European models are carving out a space, attracting parents sensitive to specific educational philosophies.
AJIAL International School and Schools with a Strong Islamic Foundation
The rise of international schools does not mean the abandonment of religious values in education. On the contrary, some institutions seek to articulate international academic rigor and a robust Islamic identity. This is the case with AJIAL International School.
Born from a Kuwaiti concept, AJIAL School aims to shape a generation of Maldivians who are open to the world while remaining rooted in Islamic values (faith, respect, integrity, unity). Its unique program is trilingual: English, Arabic, and Dhivehi. This enables students to master the local language (Dhivehi), a major international language (English), and the language of religious heritage (Arabic).
The school advocates a kind of “positive collision” between Islamic culture and Western cultures, to the benefit of the students. This positioning attracts mainly Maldivian families seeking a modern education but concerned with preserving a strong religious identity in daily school life.
Other schools, like Ahmadhiyya International School, convey a similar message. From alumni and teacher testimonials, it’s understood that the institution, present for over fifteen years, combines academic rigor (solid O’ Level results) with an emphasis on discipline, moral values, and the pedagogical freedom of teachers to choose the best methods.
Iskandhar School: Between National Curriculum and International Practices
Not all “top schools” necessarily identify as fully international. Iskandhar School, for example, is first and foremost a Maldivian school recognized by the Ministry of Education but incorporating many international practices and references. The institution offers a blend of the national curriculum and British influences, with a strong focus on the holistic development of students (intellectual, emotional, social).
Iskandhar promotes innovation, creativity, critical thinking, and values of respect, responsibility, and integrity. The school has modern facilities comparable to international standards: science labs, an art center, sports facilities, and computer rooms. It also implements safety and anti-bullying policies and offers guidance and counseling services.
For local families seeking a compromise between a strong national foundation and exposure to international standards, institutions like Iskandhar School can be an interesting alternative to classic international schools.
Tuition Fees: An Inescapable Reality
One point clearly emerges from the overview: studying at an international school in the Maldives represents a significant investment. Even if not everything is always public, available data allows for an estimate of the order of magnitude.
For Billabong High International School, annual fees range between 2,580 and 4,380 USD, equivalent to several hundred dollars per month. Lale Youth International School positions itself slightly lower, with monthly fees of 135 to 175 USD. At Ghiyasuddin International School, monthly fees are 4,022 to 5,871 MVR depending on the level, to which must be added registration fees, security deposits, books, uniforms, and possible late penalties.
FISM (Finland International School Maldives) applies progressive tuition fees in MVR, exceeding 8,000 MVR/month for primary and nearing 12,000 MVR for Grade 10. These rates, even in an institution considered “accessible,” indicate that this type of education is primarily intended for affluent households or expatriates whose fees are often covered by their employer.
Beyond tuition fees alone, families must generally anticipate other expenses: registration or exam fees, uniforms, transportation, extracurricular activities, field trips, IT equipment, etc. Annual increases (3 to 8% in many international systems) must also be taken into account.
How to Choose Among the Best International Schools in the Maldives?
Faced with this varied offer – pure Cambridge, Edexcel, British National Curriculum, Finnish model, bilingual schools with a strong Islamic identity – the question is not just which is “the best” school, but especially which is the best for a given child, a family’s trajectory, and a future project.
Several key criteria emerge from recommendations and international practices:
Accreditation is a first benchmark. The presence of labels like Cambridge Assessment International Education, Pearson Edexcel, Council of International Schools (CIS), International Baccalaureate (IBO), or NEASC provides a guarantee of program quality and diploma recognition. Villa International High School and The British School Maldives, for example, highlight their Cambridge accreditation, while others refer to Edexcel.
The choice of international school curriculum is crucial. The British model (IGCSE/A-Level) is very widespread and well recognized, especially in Commonwealth universities. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program prioritizes inquiry, cross-disciplinarity, and research. The Finnish model, meanwhile, emphasizes student autonomy and well-being. For a mobile child, the portability of the curriculum is a particularly important criterion to consider.
The profile of the teaching staff also plays a crucial role: qualification level, international experience, team stability, pedagogical freedom. In testimonials like those from Ahmadhiyya International School, the possibility for teachers to adopt effective methodologies without excessive pressure from administration appears as an asset.
A site visit is essential to assess the state of classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and digital integration. Institutions such as Ghiyasuddin International School, Villa International High School, or The British School Maldives illustrate this commitment through significant investments in their physical resources.
Extracurricular activities constitute another indicator of the quality of the school experience. Sports and arts clubs, community service activities, competitions, debates, music, or theater reinforce the development of non-academic but essential skills: leadership, teamwork, social responsibility.
The school climate and institutional culture should not be overlooked. Anti-bullying policies, inclusion, diversity, relations with families, attention to special needs are all dimensions to explore during visits and exchanges with other parents.
Finally, practical and financial constraints – location, commute time, direct and indirect costs, seat availability, admission priorities – often decide the matter. Some schools establish priority orders for applicants (children of staff, siblings of already enrolled students, alumni of partner schools, etc.), which can complicate access for newly arrived families.
An International Education in a Changing Archipelago
The best international schools in the Maldives are not simple copies of foreign models transplanted onto paradise islands. On the contrary, they reflect a shifting balance between educational globalization and local specificities. English reigns as the language of schooling, Cambridge, Edexcel, or British frameworks structure the programs, but Islam, Dhivehi, and strong community values continue to permeate school life.
Whether one opts for a giant like Billabong High International School, a post-secondary specialist like Villa International High School or MAPS International High, a hybrid model like Ghiyasuddin International School, a school with a reinforced Islamic identity like AJIAL International School, or even an original pedagogical project like the Finnish one, the important thing remains to align three elements: the child’s profile and needs, the family’s educational project, and the type of international exposure sought.
In a country with a literacy rate close to 99% and where primary schooling is largely assured, these international institutions now constitute the laboratory for a new generation of Maldivians – and children from elsewhere – called to navigate as easily in the alleys of Malé as in the lecture halls of foreign universities. For families ready to invest in this type of path, the Maldives now offer a palette of options that has little to envy compared to major regional capitals, provided one is well-informed, visits, and questions each school before making a choice.
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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.
