What are the best international schools in Mauritius?
Direct Answer
Northfields International School, Lycée Labourdonnais, and Clavis International Primary are the three most prominent international schools, offering British, French, and IB curricula respectively.
Overview
Mauritius has a growing number of international schools catering to the expat community. Most are concentrated in the north and central plateau areas. The choice between them often comes down to curriculum preference (British, French, or IB), your child's existing schooling background, and proximity to your home.
Northfields International School — Grand Baie
Northfields is the largest and most established British-curriculum school in Mauritius. It offers the Early Years through to A-Levels (Cambridge International). The school has a strong international student body and a reputation for good pastoral care. Annual fees: approximately MUR 210,000–250,000 per year depending on year group. Waiting lists for some year groups are common, particularly at junior level.
Lycée Labourdonnais — Mapou
The leading French-curriculum international school. It follows the French National Education programme through to the Baccalauréat. Strong academic results and well-regarded in the French-speaking expatriate community. Suited to families planning to return to France or French-speaking countries. Annual fees are similar to Northfields.
Clavis International Primary School — Moka
Follows an inquiry-based, IB-inspired curriculum for primary and middle school years. Popular with parents seeking a more progressive pedagogical approach. Smaller class sizes than Northfields. Located in the Moka district near Wellkin Hospital and several PDS developments.
The International School of Mauritius (ISM) — Réduit
ISM offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) from the Primary Years Programme through to the IB Diploma. It is academically rigorous and suitable for globally mobile families.
State schooling
Mauritius's state school system is funded by the government and teaches in English and French. State schools are free and generally competent at the primary level, though the system is highly exam-focused. Some expat families use state schools at primary level while relying on tutors for supplementary support.
Admissions timeline
Apply as early as possible — often a year in advance for popular year groups. Most schools require a copy of the previous school report, an assessment, and proof of the parent's residence permit.