Choosing an international school in Florence: IB or French curriculum

Florence’s two profiled international schools lead to different leaving qualifications. International School of Florence, or ISF, offers the IB Diploma or an American high-school diploma. Lycée Victor Hugo follows French programmes through the French baccalauréat.

A family expecting to stay in Italy should also compare local state and paritaria schools. Neither international route should be selected only because it uses English or French in the early years.

The location changes with age at ISF

ISF’s Junior School serves Early Years through Grade 5 at Villa le Tavernule on Via del Carota in Bagno a Ripoli. Grades 6–12 attend Villa Torri di Gattaia below Piazzale Michelangelo.

For siblings on both campuses, check two journeys and collection times. The school describes a private bus, but a route name is not a confirmed stop near a future home.

The academic path includes the IB Primary Years and Middle Years Programmes. At 16–18, pupils can pursue the IB Diploma or an American diploma. Primary pupils study in English and Italian, with an optional Italian equivalency programme. Ask whether that option prepares this child for the expected Italian transition.

Victor Hugo provides French continuity

Victor Hugo is on Via della Scala near Santa Maria Novella. It serves pupils from maternelle through terminale, with French, Italian and English introduced in the early years.

It leads to the French baccalauréat, not an IB Diploma. It is the clearer match for a child already established in the French system. Ask what language support a newcomer receives at the intended grade.

Compare fee years and upfront charges

ISF’s 2026–27 fees range from €14,950 for standard Early Years to €26,420 for the standard Diploma years. Employer-paid “corporate” rates are higher. Application costs €500, while the non-refundable initial entrance fee is €7,800.

The first ISF tuition instalment was due 15 July 2026; the second is due 30 September. A late entrant should obtain a revised invoice rather than assume the ordinary schedule.

The Victor Hugo tuition regulation reviewed is for 2025–26. Request a 2026–27 or 2027–28 schedule before comparing it with ISF. Also ask about first registration, renewal, meals, examinations and withdrawal notice.

Choose ISF for an IB or American pathway when its two-campus geography works. Choose Victor Hugo for French-system continuity in central Florence. The Florence hub and Italy guide continue the search.

Friendly orientation, not formal admissions advice. Always confirm dates with the school.