Data & Trends

In 2025, international school growth is accelerating beyond established hubs. New opportunities are emerging in Kazakhstan, Bulgaria, Romania, Colombia, and Kenya, where economic change, policy support, and shifting family aspirations are driving demand.

While data continues to inform strategic decisions, it is the strength of relationships that will shape the future of international education. Drawing on insights from ISC Research’s Annual Conference 2025, this article explores global market shifts, evolving school priorities, and the growing impact of student-centred practice.

In the shifting international schools landscape, relationships – with external organisations, parents as engaged stakeholders, and among staff – are emerging as a key factor in maintaining market competitiveness. In this article, we explore three common challenges faced by international schools worldwide, and how building meaningful relationships can help address them.  

A significant milestone in international education has been reached with the announcement that Bedford School, a prestigious UK institution, will launch its first overseas campus in Mohali, India, in April 2026. ISC Research is proud to have facilitated the landmark partnership between Bedford School and the Doon International Education Society.

How can international schools close the skills gap and prepare students for success in a rapidly changing job market? Explore innovative approaches from ABA Oman International School, The Global College, and Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG.

As families around the world prioritise innovative, high-quality education, international schools are placed at the forefront of global educational trends. The latest data from ISC Research reveals sustained growth in the sector, including rising school and student numbers, increasing staff recruitment, and higher total annual fee income.

The United Nations has issued a global teacher shortage alert, with a record number of teachers leaving the profession and subsequently threatening the stability of the world’s 14,457 international schools. Considering this, ISC Research explores the extent to which high-quality CPD can improve retention and recruitment rates in schools.

ISC Research explores the key factors behind East Asia’s falling growth rates in the international schools market, and the possible impacts this may have on Asia’s leading status in global education.