Families often compare countries on schools. In practice the answer is usually decided one level down, by the neighbourhood you choose, and sometimes by a rule about where you are allowed to apply from.
Why the address matters#
In many places, public schools serve a defined area, and admission to a particular school can depend on where you live, how long you have lived there, or whether there is room. Rules differ by country, by region and sometimes by school, so we do not summarise them here. What holds across most of them is that renting first and asking questions second can limit your choices.
Questions to ask before you sign a lease#
- Which school serves this address, and how do I confirm that with the school or the local authority?
- Is there a waiting list, and does it open to new arrivals mid-year?
- What does the school expect in documents such as records and immunisation history?
- How are different curricula or year groups handled for a child arriving from another system?
- What are the fees, if any, and what is not covered?
Think about the child, not only the ranking#
League tables and ratings are a starting point and a poor finish. A child moving between systems also needs continuity: language, friends, the age at which subjects change. Talk to schools directly and ask what the first term looks like for a new arrival.
Keep your family's details to what is needed#
You do not need to share your children's personal details to read guides or use our tools, and we keep sensitive family data to a minimum. When a school asks for documents, share them with the school, not with a third-party website.
A sensible order#
- Shortlist cities using jobs and costs.
- Shortlist neighbourhoods using schools and commute.
- Confirm admission rules with the school or authority.
- Only then look at specific homes.