102: Why European schools might be better than American ones
Thinking of Moving Abroad? Why European Schools Might Be the Smarter Choice
If you’ve ever wondered why European schools might be better than American ones, or just how they differ, then this blog post is for you. We’ll cover what makes Europe’s approach to education different — and why it might be the better choice for your family (or future family!) abroad.
How European Schools Differ From American Schools
Education systems in Europe vary by country, but several key differences stand out:
- Earlier specialization. In countries like Germany and Austria, students choose academic or vocational tracks as early as age ten.
- Shorter summers, more holidays. Breaks are spread throughout the year for better balance.
- Private schools may not always mean “better academics”; often they’re chosen for specific curricula (British, American, religious, or bilingual).
Local Public Schools in Europe
Public schools provide really strong education in Europe. Sometimes they are even more rigorous than any private or international school.
Cost: Free
Language: Most are taught in the local language, though some offer bilingual or English-support programs.
Integration: Ideal for families planning to stay long-term and/or those who want their kids to have deeper cultural immersion.
Pros:
- Free
- Strong academics
- Excellent for learning the local language!
- Builds local friendships and connections
Cons:
- Language barriers, especially at first
- Curriculum may feel strict or unfamiliar
International Schools in Europe
International schools cater to expat and globally mobile families. They follow U.S., British, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula and teach primarily in English. If I were to have kids of my own abroad, I would highly consider this route if I had the resources to do so!
Pros:
- English-speaking environment
- Easier academic transition for American students
- Consistent curriculum for families who move frequently – other international schools will probably follow a similar curriculum
- Strong community among international families. These schools tend to attract kids from all over the world, so if you want your kids to have exposure to many different kinds of people and cultures, this might be a great fit.
Cons:
- Expensive tuition (€8,000–€25,000 per year)
- Limited local cultural immersion – it will mostly attract people from outside of the local country
- Competitive admissions and waiting lists
Best for:
Families who relocate often or have older children preparing for college in the U.S. or internationally.
Private and Bilingual Schools
Private and bilingual schools offer a balance between local and international systems. They often follow national curricula but teach in both English and the local language. Private schools might also be faith based or specialized.
Pros:
- Smaller class sizes
- Bilingual education
- Greater cultural integration than international schools
- Often less expensive than full international options
Cons:
- Tuition fees (€4,000–€15,000 per year)
- There might be admission exams or language requirements
- Limited availability outside large cities
Homeschooling and Online U.S. Programs
Some expat families use accredited online U.S. programs such as K12 or Laurel Springs. While homeschooling might seem like a good option for your family, I’d make sure it is legal in the country you are moving to. Homeschooling laws in Europe differ widely — from fully legal to completely banned.
Pros:
- Flexibility for travel and relocation
- Consistent U.S. curriculum
- Works well for short-term or worldschooling families
Cons:
- Legal restrictions in some countries
- Limited socialization opportunities
- May not meet local university entry standards
Best for:
Families who move often or have children with unique learning needs.
Higher Education in Europe
Europe is also a great option for higher education. Public universities offer top-quality degrees, sometimes at a fraction of the cost of U.S. schools.
Pros:
- Affordable or free tuition
- High academic standards
- English-taught programs
- Opportunity for a work visa after graduation
American students can often graduate with minimal or no debt — while gaining international experience and language skills that sets them apart. A win-win!
Choosing the Right School for Your Family
Choosing the right school depends on your child’s age, adaptability, and how long you plan to stay abroad. Of course, you know your kids best, but I’ve provided a quick guide below as a general rule of thumb to help you choose the school that’s best for your kids!
Quick guide:
- Ages 3–8: Local or bilingual schools for language immersion
- Ages 9–14: Bilingual/Private or international schools for balance
- Ages 15–18: International or U.S.-based online programs for college prep
Key factors to consider:
- Length of stay abroad
- Budget
- Language goals
- Curriculum flexibility (U.S., British, IB)
- Social and emotional adjustment
Final Thoughts
There are so many great education options in Europe — from free public schools to elite international programs. The best fit depends on your goals, your child’s age, and your long-term plans.
Start your research early, especially for visa requirements and school waiting lists. But know that your children can absolutely thrive academically, socially, and culturally while living abroad!
If you’re still deciding where your family might fit best, take my free quiz to find your ideal European country and city. It’s the first step toward finding the perfect place to live and learn abroad.
Want a complete roadmap? Listen to Episode 80: How to Move to Another Country From America — A Step-by-Step Guide to Moving to Europe. It walks you through country selection, visas, housing, jobs, and the exact timeline to follow so your move is organized and stress-free.
