
Washington International School
A full IB Continuum international school in Washington DC's Tenleytown — 1,000 students from 90+ countries, founded 1966 to serve diplomatic and World Bank families.
AI Fit Summary
Why this school may fit your child: Washington International School pairs a IB academic track with a urban campus and a 1:8 student-teacher ratio. It's a strong consideration for students drawn to US universities (Ivy + research) / International universities pathways.
- Strong fit for US universities (Ivy + research) / International universities pathway
- 1:8 ratio supports individualized attention
- IB curriculum aligns with university aspirations
- Strong day-school pastoral team
Academic overview
WIS was founded in 1966 to serve the diplomatic and international institution community in Washington DC. About 1,000 students aged 3-18 across two campuses (Tregaron and Macomb). Curriculum is the full IB Continuum (PYP, MYP, Diploma) with French and Spanish dual-language tracks starting in Primary. Recent leavers' destinations include Harvard, Brown and Chicago alongside the major US research universities. Published grade-tiered tuition for 2026-27: $34,315 (Preschool) up to $55,780+ (Upper School). The student body is 40%+ non-US-passport-holders. Class size of 16 with a 1:8 student-teacher ratio enables tutorial-style instruction and mentor-led research projects.
Curriculum & subjects
University pathways
Placement score is BestPeopleDo's internal estimate of the school's recent university outcomes (0–100), based on publicly available data and advisor knowledge. Detailed per-cohort offer counts are confirmed during the advisor call.
Fees & scholarships
Estimate the all-in cost
Most families budget against tuition + 10–20% in living, travel and ancillary costs. Adjust the inputs to plan against scholarships, length of stay, and your home currency.
Location
Washington International School sits in Washington, DC, United States — an urban campus. Tap "Request virtual tour" above to have an advisor send walkthrough video links and schedule a live tour.
Admissions process
- 1Inquiry & profile reviewWe share your child's Student Fit Profile with the admissions team.
- 2Application & documentsSchool-specific form, transcripts, recommendations, English test if required.
- 3AssessmentOnline interview, sample lesson, or admissions test depending on the school.
- 4Offer & enrollmentOffer letter, contract, and visa support if needed.
Important dates
FAQ
Is Washington International School a good fit for international families?
Yes. Washington International School actively supports families relocating internationally with visa guidance, language transitions, and pastoral care designed for mobile households.
What does the typical application timeline look like?
Most families start 12–18 months before intended intake. Early application is strongly recommended for boarding.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. Merit-based and need-based scholarships are reviewed annually.
What's the average class size?
Approximately 16 students per class with a 1:8 student-teacher ratio.

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