International Schools in Lusaka 2026
Updated March 2026 · 8 schools compared
Compare Lusaka's international schools — fees, curriculum (IB, British, American, French), grade levels, and additional costs. Essential guide for expat families and Zambian parents.
School Comparison
| School | Curriculum | Annual Fee | Grades |
|---|---|---|---|
| American International School of Lusaka (AISL) MSA-accredited, $7,000 one-time admission fee + $750/yr capital levy | American (AP) | $7,700 – $24,800 | Pre-K – Grade 12 |
| Lusaka International Community School (LICS) Cambridge-affiliated, $1,000 holding deposit, BYOD from Year 4 | British (Cambridge) | $1,760 – $5,700 | Early Years – A-Level |
| Rhodes Park School K13,000–K27,000 per term (3 terms), CIE supplementary K3,500–K5,000 | British (Cambridge/CIE) | K39,000 – K81,000 | Reception – Grade 12 |
| French School of Lusaka (Lycée Français) AEFE member, bilingual program | French National | $3,500 – $7,000 | Maternelle – Terminale |
| Baobab College Modern campus, holistic approach | British (IGCSE/A-Level) | $4,000 – $12,000 | Reception – Year 13 |
| Lechwe International School Family-run, small class sizes | British (IGCSE) | $2,500 – $6,000 | Pre-School – Grade 9 |
| Heritage International School Christian ethos, college prep | American/IB | $3,500 – $9,000 | Pre-K – Grade 12 |
| Chengelo School (Mkushi) Boarding school, 2.5hrs from Lusaka | British (IGCSE/A-Level) | $5,000 – $10,000 | Year 7 – Year 13 |
Additional Costs
Registration / Application Fee
One-time, non-refundable
$100 – $500
Capital Development Levy
Infrastructure and building fund
$500 – $2,000/yr
School Bus Transport
Depends on distance from school
$50 – $200/mo
School Lunch Program
Hot lunch, snacks included
$30 – $100/mo
After-School Activities
Sports, music, drama, clubs
$50 – $200/term
School Uniform Set
Full set including PE kit
$100 – $300
Textbooks & Materials
Some schools include in fees
$100 – $500/yr
Examination Fees (IGCSE/IB)
External exam registration
$500 – $1,500
International Education in Lusaka
Lusaka has a growing international school sector serving the diplomatic community, NGO workers, business expatriates, and increasingly, Zambian middle-class families seeking globally recognized qualifications.
Curriculum Options
The British (Cambridge) system dominates, with IGCSE and A-Level qualifications recognized worldwide. The IB Diploma (offered at LICS) is the most internationally portable qualification. The American AP system (AISL) is preferred by families targeting US universities.
Key Considerations
Beyond fees, consider class sizes (typically 15–25 students vs 40+ in government schools), teacher qualifications (mix of expatriate and local teachers), extracurricular programs (sports, arts, Model UN), and university placement records. Campus visits and trial days are standard practice before enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best international school in Lusaka?
AISL (American) and LICS (IB) are considered the top-tier schools with the highest fees and strongest reputations. Rhodes Park and Baobab College offer excellent British curriculum at lower cost. The "best" school depends on your priorities: curriculum preference (American/British/IB/French), budget, location, and your child's needs.
How much do international schools cost in Lusaka?
Fees vary enormously. LICS (Cambridge) ranges from $1,760 (Early Years) to $5,700 (A-Level) per year. AISL (American) charges $7,700–$24,800 per year plus a one-time $7,000 admission fee. Rhodes Park charges K13,000–K27,000 per term (approx K39,000–K81,000/year). Add $1,000–$3,000 for transport, uniforms, activities, and exam fees. Total annual cost per child ranges from $3,000 to $28,000+.
What curriculum do international schools in Lusaka follow?
Schools offer four main curricula: American (AISL — AP exams), International Baccalaureate (LICS — IB Diploma), British (Rhodes Park, Baobab — IGCSE/A-Levels), and French (Lycée Français — Baccalauréat). The British IGCSE system is most common in Zambia. IB Diploma is recognized globally for university admissions.
Can Zambian children attend international schools?
Yes, international schools accept both expatriate and Zambian students. Some schools reserve a percentage of places for Zambian nationals. Financial assistance and scholarships are available at some schools — inquire directly. Many middle-class Zambian families choose international schools for the smaller class sizes and broader curriculum.
When should I apply to international schools in Lusaka?
Apply 6–12 months in advance for the best chance of admission, especially at popular schools like AISL and LICS. The academic year starts in August/September for most international schools (unlike January for Zambian schools). Waiting lists are common for lower grades. Applications typically require academic records, references, and an assessment.