What is the school year calendar in Iraq?

Most international schools follow a September to June academic year, similar to Middle Eastern and European schedules. Some American-curriculum schools may vary slightly. Summer break typically runs from mid-June through August.

Are international school places competitive?

Less so than in UAE or Qatar. Most schools have availability for mid-year enrollment, especially outside peak registration periods (April–June). Premium schools like ISC-Erbil and GUS may have waitlists for popular grades.

Do international schools provide transportation?

Yes, most international schools in both Baghdad and Erbil offer bus services for an additional fee ($500–$1,500/year). This is particularly important in Baghdad where independent school transport can be complex.

Can my children learn Arabic at international schools?

Yes — Arabic is typically offered as a required or elective subject at all international schools in Iraq. Kurdish is also offered at schools in Kurdistan. Some schools offer bilingual tracks for families wanting deeper language immersion.

Is homeschooling an option in Iraq?

Homeschooling is practiced by some expat families, particularly those in areas without international schools. There are no specific Iraqi laws prohibiting homeschooling for foreign families, though it lacks formal recognition. Online curricula from US and UK providers work well with stable internet.

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🇮🇶 Iraq

Education

40+

International Schools

Across Iraq

$3,000–$15,000

Annual Tuition

Depending on school

IB, British, American

Curricula

In major cities

Stirling Schools

School Network

40+ campuses nationwide

Last updated: March 2026

Overview🏙️Baghdad 🏰Erbil

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Overview

Iraq's education landscape for expat families centers on international schools in Baghdad and Erbil. The Kurdistan Region offers the widest selection, with British, American, IB, and German curriculum schools available in Erbil alone. Tuition ranges from $3,000–$15,000/year — significantly cheaper than comparable schools in the UAE or Qatar. Public schools are Arabic/Kurdish-medium and not typically used by expat families.

Key Takeaways

International schools available in Baghdad, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Basra, Duhok, and Kirkuk
International School of Choueifat – Erbil (ISC-Erbil): SABIS curriculum, established 2006, strong academic reputation
Global United School (GUS): IB authorized, founded 2014, based on tolerance and international-mindedness

Education Options for Expat Families

Expat families in Iraq have a growing selection of international schools, particularly in Erbil and Baghdad. The sector has seen significant investment, with Stirling Education operating 40+ campuses across six cities. Quality varies widely — top-tier schools offer excellent facilities and accredited international curricula, while newer or smaller schools may lack experienced teachers.

International schools available in Baghdad, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Basra, Duhok, and Kirkuk
Major curricula: International Baccalaureate (IB), British (IGCSE/A-Level), American
Stirling Schools: largest network with 40+ campuses across six Iraqi cities
Tuition: $3,000–$8,000/year for mid-tier; $10,000–$15,000/year for premium schools
Class sizes: typically 15–25 students; smaller than equivalent schools in UAE
Language of instruction: English, with Arabic and Kurdish as additional subjects

International Schools in Erbil

Erbil offers the best selection of international schools in Iraq, benefiting from Kurdistan's stability and growing expat community. Schools here serve families from the diplomatic, NGO, oil, and business communities.

International School of Choueifat – Erbil (ISC-Erbil): SABIS curriculum, established 2006, strong academic reputation
International Maarif Schools Erbil: IB authorized, Turkish-backed, cultural focus and strong community
CADMUS International School: SABIS network, expanding from KG1 to Grade 6 and beyond
Stirling Schools Erbil: British curriculum, multiple campuses across the city
Top 10 private schools in Erbil include bilingual options in English, Arabic, and Kurdish
Most schools offer bus services, after-school activities, and modern facilities

International Schools in Baghdad

Baghdad's international school options have expanded significantly in recent years, though the selection is smaller than Erbil's. The International School of Choueifat – Dream City and Global United School are the leading choices for expat families.

Global United School (GUS): IB authorized, founded 2014, based on tolerance and international-mindedness
International School of Choueifat – Dream City: SABIS network, strong academics in a secure compound
Stirling Schools Baghdad: British curriculum, multiple campuses
Baghdad International School: serves the diplomatic and international community
Security is a key consideration — most families choose schools with transport services and secure compounds
Tuition in Baghdad tends to be slightly higher than Erbil for comparable quality

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