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🇿🇲 Zambia

Education

Zambia's education options for expat families center around several well-established international schools in Lusaka. These schools follow British, American, or International Baccalaureate curricula and serve the diplomatic, NGO, and corporate expat community.

AISL

Top School

American International School

$5,000–$18,000

Annual Fees

Depends on grade level

IB, British, American

Curricula

At international schools

Sep–Jul

School Year

International schools

Overview

Zambia's education options for expat families center around several well-established international schools in Lusaka. These schools follow British, American, or International Baccalaureate curricula and serve the diplomatic, NGO, and corporate expat community. Fees are lower than East African equivalents, and the schools offer a supportive, multicultural environment.

Key Takeaways

  • American International School of Lusaka (AISL): American curriculum, IB Diploma — the most popular expat school
  • Curriculum continuity: match your current/future country's system — IB is the most transferable globally
  • University of Zambia (UNZA): established 1966 — the country's premier public university
1

International Schools in Lusaka

Lusaka has several well-regarded international schools that cater to the expat community. Most follow either the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, or American curriculum. Class sizes are smaller than typical Western schools, facilities are good, and the multicultural environment is one of the genuine benefits of raising children in Zambia. Many employers include school fees as part of expat packages.

  • American International School of Lusaka (AISL): American curriculum, IB Diploma — the most popular expat school
  • Lusaka International Community School (LICS): British curriculum with IB options — strong academic reputation
  • Rhodes Park School: British National Curriculum — good primary school option, more affordable
  • Baobab College: IB World School — newer, progressive, and increasingly popular
  • French School of Lusaka (Lycée Français): French curriculum for francophone families
  • Fees range from $5,000/year (primary, local international) to $18,000/year (secondary, top-tier)
2

Choosing the Right School

Choosing a school in Lusaka depends on your curriculum preference, budget, location, and how long you plan to stay. Most schools offer waiting lists, so apply 6–12 months in advance. Visit schools during your reconnaissance trip if possible. Many expat families settle near their chosen school to minimize commuting on Lusaka's congested roads.

  • Curriculum continuity: match your current/future country's system — IB is the most transferable globally
  • Location: Kabulonga area is closest to AISL and LICS — reduces daily commute significantly
  • Class sizes: typically 15–25 students — smaller than Western averages
  • Extracurriculars: most international schools offer sports, arts, drama, and community service programs
  • School bus services: available at most international schools — important given Lusaka traffic
  • Apply early: popular schools (AISL, LICS) have waiting lists, especially for mid-year admissions
3

Higher Education & Adult Learning

Zambia has several universities, with the University of Zambia (UNZA) being the most established. For expats seeking professional development or language learning, options exist but are more limited than in larger African cities. Online learning and distance programs are popular alternatives for expats wanting to upskill while based in Zambia.

  • University of Zambia (UNZA): established 1966 — the country's premier public university
  • Copperbelt University: strong in mining engineering and technology — based in Kitwe
  • Cavendish University: private university with business and IT programs
  • Local language classes: community-based Nyanja and Bemba classes available through cultural centers
  • Online learning: reliable internet (especially with Starlink) supports platforms like Coursera and Udemy
  • Professional certifications: ACCA, CFA, and PMP prep courses available through training providers in Lusaka
FAQs

Common Questions — Education in Zambia

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