Sarajevo offers a range of public, private, and international kindergartens and schools, each reflecting different languages and educational philosophies. For expat families, international options like QSI , CIFS and Internationale Deutsche Schule are especially popular for their bilingual programs and globally aligned curricula. Local private schools such as Kinderhaus , Montessori House, Richmond Park International School, Maarif International School and Bloom also welcome international families, providing instruction through bilingual formats.
Daycare Centers: Standalone daycare centers are rare; early childhood care is typically integrated into kindergartens or preschools. Most programs require full-time enrollment, though some allow half-day options or early pick-up.
Limited Outdoor Space at Schools: International schools in Sarajevo offer rich and diverse learning environments, but there are some noticeable differences compared to what families may be used to elsewhere. One of the main challenges is space – outdoor areas are often limited, and during winter, high levels of air pollution can keep children indoors for extended periods. While some schools do organise offsite activities, indoor time and restricted physical movement are still common.
This can come as a surprise to families accustomed to international school campuses with expansive facilities like gyms, running tracks, tennis courts, swimming pools, and large gardens. The contrast – especially when paying similar tuition fees – can lead to dissatisfaction and higher turnover, with some families choosing to relocate their children to schools in other countries offering more comprehensive campus amenities.
Lunch Options: Some schools offer paid lunch plans, while others allow students to bring meals from home. However, nutritious options are often limited, with fast food–style meals still commonly served. Considering how public schools in many parts of the world have been adopting healthier standards for quite a long time; such as seasonal, farm-to-table menus with calorie counts – it’s clear that many schools here have some catching up to do. If meals are being charged at restaurant-level prices, families should expect thoughtfully prepared, healthy food that meets modern nutritional standards. It’s an issue that deserves attention.
Use of Electronic Devices :While technology can support learning when used appropriately, in some schools, screen time during the day feels excessive – especially when devices are used not just for classwork but also for entertainment or free time. Not all schools have clear or consistent policies on device usage, which can lead to confusion or overuse. If you’re mindful of screen time for your child, it’s a good idea to ask schools directly about their electronics policy and how they integrate technology into the school day.
After-School Activities and Support: While some schools do offer after-school activities, many of these programs can feel limited in variety, not always well-organized, and often come with a high price tag. Additionally, options like after-school homework help or extended care, commonly available in other countries to support working parents, are largely unavailable in most schools here. Summer camps are also not widely offered, leaving families with fewer structured options during school breaks.
School Administration & Communication: The administrative staff at most schools are generally helpful. However, with only a few international schools in Sarajevo, limited competition can occasionally result in stricter policies and less personalised communication. While some schools are responsive and adaptable, others tend to follow more standardised approaches.
Parent networking & Community Building: Parent networking and community-building are not strong in many schools, and new families, especially expats, may find it challenging to connect with others or feel fully integrated. This can be particularly tough in an international setting, where community support matters.
False bomb threats: False bomb threats targeting schools do occur from time to time in Sarajevo, often believed to be prank calls made by teenagers. When this happens, schools take immediate action – evacuating students and staff, and notifying parents through calls or messages. While the police treat these threats with full seriousness, the incident continues periodically. That said, Sarajevo – and Bosnia overall – remains one of the safest places to live.
School Terms and Holidays: Despite a few challenges, international schools in Sarajevo offer meaningful opportunities. With a bit of research and awareness, families can find a learning environment that fits their child’s needs and supports their international journey.Most schools and preschools in Sarajevo operate on a school year schedule starting mid-August or early September and ending in June. Short breaks occur in December and April, with a few international schools offering flexible enrolment dates and holiday programs to suit working parents. Make sure to check the school calendars to make your plans accordingly!
Inclusive Education & Support for Diverse Learners
All children deserve access to inclusive, high-quality education tailored to their individual learning and developmental needs. In Sarajevo, however, structured support for students with additional or diverse learning needs is limited – especially within international and private school settings. Most schools do not have full-time learning support teams, and services like speech therapy, educational psychology, or special education are rarely integrated into the school day
In contrast, many international schools around the world offer strong inclusion programs, individualised learning plans (ILPs), and multidisciplinary staff to ensure every student receives academic and emotional support.
For families in Sarajevo who require more flexible or supportive learning environments, online schooling may be a valuable alternative. Options like BINA offer fully accredited IB programs delivered virtually, with scheduling that aligns well with the Bosnian time zone for children aged 4 to 12 . These platforms provide continuity, international standards, and in some cases, more personalised attention for students with learning differences or mobility challenges.
For additional local support and assessments, it was recommend to check EDUS; we were told that this organization provides expert guidance and resources for children with developmental and learning needs.
School Visits, Enrolment and the EMIS (Education Management Information System)
Visiting Schools Before Enrolling: Most kindergartens, preschools, and schools in Sarajevo are open to welcoming parents for visits, offering a chance to explore the learning environment and understand their educational approach. For private and international schools, it’s best to contact each school directly to arrange a tour, inquire about fees and availability, and learn what documents are required.
For expat families, it’s highly recommended to visit both the country and prospective schools in person before making a final decision! Ideally before the school year ends. This allows for a clearer picture of the school setting, staff, and community. Keep in mind that schools typically close for summer holidays, and their staff may not be available during that time, which could limit your ability to schedule a visit or get timely responses. Planning ahead can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth transition.
Understanding the EMIS Application Process
Some schools use the Education Management Information System (EMIS), a centralized online platform where parents can apply for a spot. For applications, you’ll typically need to submit several documents, including proof of residence and your child’s birth certificate. EMIS opens for applications several times a year, with specific deadlines posted on the Ministry of Education’s website. The selection process is based on a point system, where each child is assigned points according to various criteria, such as whether one or both parents are employed, the family’s place of residence, or if a sibling is already enrolled at the school. When there are more applicants than available spots, priority is given to the children with the highest number of points
To enrol via EMIS, your child will need to have a social security number (which is generally available to you on application, once you have residency), however you can contact EMIS support (via their website), and they may give you an alternative solution.
List of International / Mixed (Bosnian and Int. Curriculum) Schools
QSI International School of Sarajevo
QSI offers an American-style curriculum for children aged 3 to 18, including the Frog Street program for preschool and AP courses in high school. English is the primary language, with foreign language options in French, German, and Bosnian. With around 170 students from 25 nationalities, QSI uses a mastery-based approach and offers small class sizes, counseling, transportation, lunch and snacks, and after-school programs. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association.
International French School CIFS of Sarajevo
CIFS follows the French national curriculum and offers instruction primarily in French, with some English and Bosnian. It serves children from ages 2.5 to 18, with a structured weekly schedule and optional before- and after-school care. The school has 266 students and is accredited by the French education inspectorate for Southeast Europe. It promotes a secular, multilingual, and intercultural learning environment, offers after-school activities like arts and piano, and operates a holiday leisure center. Transportation is available across Sarajevo, and meals are provided. Non-French speakers are accepted up to Grade 5; Grade 6 requires B1 French.
International German School Sarajevo (IDSS)
IDSS offers preschool through Grade 9 based on the German curriculum, with instruction in German, Bosnian, and English. The school emphasises a holistic, learner-centred approach, small class sizes (max 15). It includes hands-on programs, extracurricular clubs, after-school care, summer school, on-site kitchens, a library, green spaces, and parent engagement through scheduled visits.
Kinderhaus
Kinderhaus uses the Montessori approach and offers education in English, Bosnian, and German for children aged 2 to 6. The school promotes a healthy lifestyle through yoga, outdoor time, and practical workshops like vegan cooking. An in-house chef prepares healthy meals, and the school emphasises environmental awareness.
Montessori House
Montessori House offers a trilingual preschool program (English, Bosnian, and German) for children aged 1 to 6. Each teacher speaks only one language to encourage immersion. The school emphasizes respect, independence, and freedom within limits, with a large outdoor area for free play. School and office hours run from 07:30 to 17:00.
Discover Me Academy
Discover Me Academy provides a Montessori-based nursery and preschool program for children aged 1 to 6. Classes are divided by age group, with dedicated educators and assistants. The facility includes 500 m² of indoor space, a secure yard, and easy access with street-side parking. Instruction is in English, with a focus on exploration and independence. School hours are 07:30 to 17:30.
Richmond Park International School
Richmond Park offers early childhood and K–12 education through a play-based and Cambridge-integrated curriculum in English. With over 400 students from 29 nationalities, it encourages hands-on learning and extracurricular engagement across arts, sports, and STEM. The school includes campuses in Tuzla, Bihać, and Zenica and offers on-site meals and flexible tuition payment options.
Maarif International School
Maarif follows the Canton Sarajevo curriculum blended with Cambridge Assessment International education, offering instruction in English, Bosnian, and Turkish for students aged 3 to 18. With 700 pupils (40% international), the school features diverse clubs, including programming, sports, and art. It has a strong support team for students with learning needs and facilities like a library, lab, cinema hall, and indoor/outdoor play areas. No school transport is available.
Bloom School
This school follows the Canton Sarajevo curriculum with a Montessori approach and offers instruction in both Bosnian and English. It accepts children aged 2–19 (preschool to high school, though high school is currently closed). Enrolment is open year-round and done directly with the school. Hours are 08:00–16:00. Tuition can be paid in instalments, with sibling and full-payment discounts. The school focuses on holistic development, serves on-site meals, offers French as a second language and provides transport within Sarajevo for an extra fee.
PPU Smart vrtić predškolsko
This preschool is located in Grbavica and follows the Canton Sarajevo curriculum. Instructions are in Bosnian (so perfect if you are wanting your little one to learn the Bosnian language), however English can be spoken with parents. It accepts children from as young as 1. The building is modern and has been specifically designed to be a preschool. There are multiple outdoor areas (including a large, grassed area), a small gymnasium under the school and a private parking garage entrance for school drop-off. At the time of this post, the website is under construction, however the preschool offers tours to those interested where they can provide more information.