OUR INTELLIGENCE

Market intelligence

Because we have been collecting and analysing international schools data for more than 30 years, ISC Research is able to produce a broad range of valuable intelligence reports.

PUBLICATIONS

International schools market reports

Whether you need global intelligence to inform your strategy, market-specific intelligence to find out more about a targeted segment, commercial intelligence to adjust your plans, or specialist intelligence to learn more about practices and market needs, we offer a broad range of off-the-shelf reports based on in-depth research. And if you need something more tailored to your needs, we also produce bespoke reports.

How administrative edtech solves problems and poses challenges for international schools

TitleAPRIL 2024

Edtech is no longer a ‘nice to have’ for international schools, it is embedded in every aspect of school operations, supporting both administrative and pedagogical needs. Explore the role that edtech plays in international education and how it ... Read more

Curricula reports 2023

TitleMARCH 2024

The Curricula - Global Overview 2023 and Curricula - Global Overview by Age Range 2023 reports present a comprehensive analysis of the international schools market, focusing on key global curricula and frameworks such as the International ... Read more

Age range and demographics 2023 report

TitleFEBRUARY 2024

This report aims to provide insight into the age range and demographics of international schools worldwide. Understanding these aspects is crucial as they not only reflect the current state of the market but also hint at potential opportunities ... Read more

What data tells us about the international schools market

TitleFEBRUARY 2024

The international school market is growing. In the last 5 years, the number of schools has increased by 8% and the number of students attending by 10%. This equates to a rise in fee income of over $9 billion globally. Read more

Edruptors 2023: international education influencers of the year

TitleJANUARY 2024

Find out who's been recognised as an Edruptor of 2023. Our white paper includes a list of international education influencers who share good practice and social media advice for their peers. Read more

International Schools in South Korea Report

TitleFEBRUARY 2024

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in South Korea, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International Schools in Japan Report

TitleFEBRUARY 2024

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Japan, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International Schools in India Report

TitleJANUARY 2024

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in India, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

Thailand Market Intelligence Summary

TitleJANUARY 2024

Access must-know data and intelligence to inform your marketing and development strategy. Our commercial intelligence report provides condensed, yet essential research into the international school market in Thailand. Read more

International teacher recruitment and retention 2023

TitleNOVEMBER 2023

This specialist report analyses conversations with international school leaders and teachers over the past two years, on the shifts in teacher recruitment and retention patterns. Read more

International Schools in Hong Kong Report

TitleMARCH 2024

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Hong Kong, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International Schools in Thailand Report

TitleDECEMBER 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Thailand, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International Schools in Malaysia Report

TitleDECEMBER 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Malaysia, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International online schools

TitleOCTOBER 2023

In recent years, many brick and mortar schools are making the leap from traditional in-person classrooms to blended learning. Learn more about the unprecedented growth of the online schools market. Read more

International Schools in Singapore Report

TitleNOVEMBER 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Singapore, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International Schools Global Market Overview 2023

TitleAUGUST 2023

This report aims to equip you with valuable insights into the shifting market landscape that influences the development and growth of international schools. Read more

Europe Intelligence Report

TitleAUGUST 2023

The report compiles comprehensive research into the international schools market to inform strategic plans required by leadership teams, consultants or investors, and to identify development opportunities. Read more

Europe Market Intelligence Summary

TitleJULY 2023

Access must-know data and intelligence to inform your marketing and development strategy. Our commercial intelligence report provides condensed, yet essential research into the international school market in Europe. Read more

South-Eastern Asia Intelligence Report

TitleJULY 2023

The report compiles comprehensive research into the international schools market to inform strategic plans required by leadership teams, consultants or investors, and to identify development opportunities. Read more

China Market Intelligence Summary

TitleJUNE 2023

Access must-know data and intelligence to inform your marketing and development strategy. Our commercial intelligence report provides condensed, yet essential research into the international school market in China. Read more

UAE Market Intelligence Summary

TitleJUNE 2023

Access must-know data and intelligence to inform your marketing and development strategy. Our commercial intelligence report provides condensed, yet essential research into the international school market in the UAE. Read more

International Schools in the Netherlands Report

TitleAPRIL 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in the Netherlands, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

Listening to international student voices

TitleAPRIL 2023

International schools are recognised for the globally minded thinking they develop within students, but are they valuing the student voice to inform change within their community? Explore the outcomes of our research in this specialist report. Read more

International Schools in Qatar Report

TitleFEBRUARY 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Qatar, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

Why more international schools keep opening

TitleFEBRUARY 2023

As new international schools keep opening year on year, we've explored the macro and micro-environmental factors influencing growth in the international schools market. Read more

Where is the international schools market growing?

TitleFEBRUARY 2023

This exclusive white paper explores where growth is occurring within today’s international schools market. Read more

South Korea Market Intelligence Summary

TitleJANUARY 2023

Access must-know data and intelligence to inform your marketing and development strategy. Our commercial intelligence report provides condensed, yet essential research into the international school market in South Korea. Read more

Edruptors 2022: international education influencers of the year

TitleJANUARY 2023

Find out who's been recognised as Edruptors of 2022. Our white paper includes a list of international education influencers who share good practice and social media advice for their peers. Read more

International Schools in UAE Report

TitleMAY 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in UAE, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International Schools in Saudi Arabia Report

TitleAPRIL 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Saudi Arabia, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International Schools in Vietnam Report

TitleMARCH 2024

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Vietnam, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

International school governance practices

TitleOCTOBER 2022

This specialist report highlights changes in governance practices in international schools in 2022, but also calls for further support of the school community. Read more

International Schools in China Report

TitleAUGUST 2022

The report compiles comprehensive research into the international schools market to inform international schools and education investors for strategic plans, and to identify opportunities for development or expansion. Read more

What makes the international schools market different?

TitleAUGUST 2022

How do English-medium international schools differ from domestic K-12 educational offerings and what does that mean for school admissions and education suppliers? Read more

Western Asia Intelligence Report

TitleAUGUST 2022

The report compiles comprehensive research into the international schools market to inform strategic plans required by leadership teams, consultants or investors, and to identify development opportunities. Read more

Eastern Asia Intelligence Report

TitleAUGUST 2022

The report compiles comprehensive research into the international schools market to inform strategic plans required by leadership teams, consultants or investors, and to identify development opportunities. Read more

International Schools Annual Market Report

TitleAUGUST 2022

A trusted reference for data, trends and intelligence on the global international schools market in 2022. Read more

The Online International Schools Report

TitleJUNE 2022

Although not new, online schools have gained popularity through the COVID-19 pandemic. As brands have established themselves within the international schools market, our team has delved into the specific nature of online schools in this report. Read more

International Schools in Egypt Report

TitleMARCH 2023

The report provides an in-depth analysis of international schools in Egypt, including data and detailed intelligence gathered from our Field Research experts. Read more

Future of Assessment in International Schools

TitleMARCH 2022

This exclusive specialist report highlights the latest trends in K-12 international schools assessment and includes advice from experts and case studies highlighting opportunities and challenges. Read more

Edruptors 2021: the top international education influencers of the past year

TitleJANUARY 2022

Who are the opinion shapers within international education today? ISC Research has explored this question for the first time, identifying the key education influencers followed on social media platforms by people around the world. Read more

Positioning Report

TitleAVAILABLE TO ORDER

A comprehensive analysis of your school’s competitive positioning based on the very latest data and intelligence collected by ISC Research directly from international schools. Read more

Purchasing plans: the decisions international schools make and how

TitleNOVEMBER 2021

This white paper summarises the outcomes of our research into the ways international schools make purchasing decisions, and provides education suppliers with insights to develop a strategic approach. Read more

The International School Student Profile

TitleNOVEMBER 2021

Based on research conducted with international school students, alumni and staff over the summer, this report explores the profile of students that international schools attract and how this has resulted in market shifts. Read more

International Schools Intelligence Report

TitleAVAILABLE TO ORDER

Identify opportunities in your target market. This bespoke report compiles the latest data and analysis of international schools within your chosen segment. Read more

Recruitment and CPD in international schools

TitleOCTOBER 2021

ISC Research explored international school staff recruitment and continuous professional development through research conducted with international schools, recruiters and providers. Learn the outcomes in our exclusive specialist report. Read more

International school college counsellors share views on student pathways to higher education

TitleSEPTEMBER 2021

This white paper complements our latest research report on the pathway from international schools to higher education by sharing the views of international school college counsellors on the research results. Read more

The Pathway from International School to Higher Education

TitleSEPTEMBER 2021

Research on the impact of recent macro-environmental factors on the international school student pathway to higher education, exploring changes institutions have made to their undergraduate admissions processes. Read more

Benchmarking Report

TitleAVAILABLE TO ORDER

Find out where your school stands in relation to other international schools to strengthen your market position and refine your school’s key selling points. Read more

Teaching and learning in international schools

TitleJULY 2021

ISC Research has conducted research into teaching and learning practice within international schools to identify if it will experience noticeable shifts within the next two years due to the impact of COVID or other factors. Read more

The growing demand for international schools within a mid-market fee point

TitleMAY 2021

Our team has done further research to help you better understand this growing segment of the global international schools market.  Read more

Wellbeing in international schools

TitleMARCH 2021

A report highlighting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the wellbeing of students and staff in international schools. Read more

Why parents select an international school and the impact of COVID-19 on school choice

TitleFEBRUARY 2021

This white paper explores the common reasons why parents select an international school for their child and the impact of COVID-19 on their selection. Read more

Why and how independent schools open sister schools overseas and what next for this education sector?

TitleNOVEMBER 2020

Independent schools in the UK and United States are looking at diversification for alternative sources of income, one of which is foreign development. Read more

Inclusion in International Schools

TitleAUGUST 2020

This report uncovers research into inclusion in international schools over a period of 4 years. It sheds light on current inclusion practices, and provides understanding of how the international schools market has been adapting to the needs of ... Read more

Analysis of the historic response of the international schools market to local and global crises

TitleAPRIL 2020

In the light of COVID-19, this white paper highlights how the international schools market responded in times of crisis. Read more

Governance in international schools

TitleNOVEMBER 2019

ISC Research collaborated with the Principals Training Center to produce this first research published in 2019 into governance practices within international schools. Read more

DATA APPLICATION

You can't have intelligence without data

The comprehensive research presented in our market intelligence reports relies on the international schools data continuously collected, verified and analysed by our expert team. 

RESEARCH

Schools included in our research

For our market research purposes, we include a privately operated international school if the school delivers a curriculum wholly or partly in English to some or all of its students between 3 and 18, in a country where English is not an official language.

or;

If a school is in a country where English is one of the official languages, it offers a curriculum other than the host country’s national curriculum wholly or partly in English to some or all of students between 3 and 18.

PROCESS

Process and
quality control

We collect international schools market intelligence to complement the raw data we capture throughout the year. Our Field Research team both maintains close relationships with international school leaders and refers to local trusted sources for qualitative research purposes. They gather information on national education systems, government regulations and policies, growth areas and new developments. The raw data and intelligence is then verified and analysed to produce the most reputable, current and comprehensive research on the international schools sector. 

The journey to elevate student voice
Listening to international student voices, April 2023 report (ISC Research survey to educators and administrators)

  • Expression: students offer opinions 11% 11%
  • Consultation: students take surveys and provide feedback 14% 14%
  • Activism: students identify problems and generate solutions 17% 17%
  • Participation: students attend activities with role in decision making 19% 19%
  • Partnership: students collaborate with teachers and learners 19% 19%
  • Leadership: students guide groups as leaders of change 19% 19%

MEET THE TEAM

Teams involved

Felie Arago
Felie Arago

Job title - Data Researcher

Before joining ISC Research, I ran my own small souvenir printing business. I also had experience working for a call center, a financial institution, and a telecommunications company in the Philippines. I am a wife to my supportive husband ... View profile

Tony Atkinson
Tony Atkinson

Job title - International Field Researcher

I have joined ISC Research as a Consultant responsible for field research activities in China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea and Thailand. My journey into this role is fueled by an unwavering passion for international education, with a ... View profile

Linda Bonney
Linda Bonney

Job title - Head of Desk-Based Research

I have worked for ISC Research since 2006 as a researcher and I now head up our team of desk-based researchers. I work closely with the field researchers and data analysts, as well as our desk-based team, quality checking the data we collect. I ... View profile

Ethel Borbolla
Ethel Borbolla

Job title - Data Researcher

Prior to joining ISC Research, I worked as an Independent Contractor in US-based companies, with the role focused on project coordination. I was also part of a medical insurance company in Qatar for over five years, handling prior ... View profile

Emman Burgonia
Emman Burgonia

Job title - Reports and Data Executive

I started my career in 2018, and I have been involved in research since then. Prior to joining ISC Research, I worked as an associate consultant in an accounting firm and a project manager in a management consulting firm. I have a background in ... View profile

Joanna de Jesus
Joanna de Jesus

Job title - Data Researcher

Before joining ISC Research, I worked as a Cabin Crew in Dubai for 8 years. I also have experience with job website, telecommunication, and at a publication company in the Philippines. I’m very happy to start my journey with ISC Research as ... View profile

Constance Evans
Constance Evans

Job title - Finance Executive

I started working as the Head of Finance for ISC Research in April 2020 and have really enjoyed learning more about International Schools. Prior to working for ISC Research I ran an Accountancy/Bookkeeping business with my husband Neil for ... View profile

Sheila Ferrer
Sheila Ferrer

Job title - Data Researcher

I have been an Educator for children with Special Needs for 20 years now and taught in Singapore, Indonesia and Philippines before I joined ISC Research. As I embark in this different career as a Data-Based Researcher, I am looking forward to ... View profile

Nicola Grafton
Nicola Grafton

Job title - Senior Data Researcher

My role within ISC Research involves collating school data and creating a comprehensive foundation of data to inform our report writers. My career has predominantly been within the airline industry and my past and current experience has ... View profile

Georgina Jones
Georgina Jones

Job title - Head of Reports

I joined ISC Research in 2015 as part of the Reports Team and now lead that team; project managing the entire range of reports that ISC Research produces for our clients. This includes overseeing quality control, data verification, and product ... View profile

Sam Jones
Sam Jones

Job title - Report Writer

I joined ISC Research in 2015 as a data researcher, searching for first-hand information from schools and becoming very familiar with the information we keep and how we use it. In 2019 I moved onto the reports team, where I now analyse, ... View profile

Paola Leyson
Paola Leyson

Job title - Field Research Administrator

Before joining ISC Research, I worked for international schools in Qatar, mainly in admissions and administrative support. I also had experience working for an oil & gas company and an advertising company. I lived in Qatar for 11 years and ... View profile

Sophia Lippeatt
Sophia Lippeatt

Job title - Operations Executive

I recently joined ISC Research as Operations Executive, where I’ll be helping optimize day to day operations. I’ve held internship positions in all types of organizations, from embassies, to global corporations, to startups, and have found I ... View profile

Rosaida Loredo
Rosaida Loredo

Job title - Data Researcher

As a new addition to the Data Research Team, my task includes collecting and checking important information for the database. And before joining ISC Research, I worked as a School Administrator and Head Preschool Teacher for a private preschool ... View profile

Candy Lu
Candy Lu

Job title - China Research Coordinator

Prior to joining ISC Research, I worked for TMF group for 3 years as the office manager where I oversaw all the North China offices’ administrative requirements and led a number of integration projects for company merger and acquisition. I also ... View profile

Alison Martin
Alison Martin

Job title - Data Researcher

Prior to joining ISC Research, my work experience was always administration based, with a significant proportion of this being in Human Resources although most recently working for Swindon Council updating data held by children’s centres. I ... View profile

Elena Mora
Elena Mora

Job title - International Schools Field Researcher

I have joined ISC Research as a consultant to support the field research team in Europe and Latin America. My job consists of connecting with school leaders and other stakeholders and collect key data and intelligence about the international ... View profile

Abhishek Pandey
Abhishek Pandey

Job title - Field Researcher - India

I have joined ISC Research as a consultant to support the field research team in South Asia. As part of my role, I connect with stakeholders from the international schools and gain insights to determine the market trends in South Asia. I have ... View profile

Rhea Marie de Pedro
Rhea Marie de Pedro

Job title - International Schools Research Assistant

I was living in Bangkok, Thailand, when I joined ISC Research in 2013 as part of the Schools Team and Sales & Business Development Team. As a Coordinator, I mainly do Data collection and Researching, and I work closely with other teams ... View profile

Kateryna Repina
Kateryna Repina

Job title - International Schools Research Assistant

I joined ISC Research in 2017 as a Data Researcher. I enjoy using my skills to contribute to the company's research and intelligence work. I hold a Master’s degree in journalism and spent four exciting years working as a correspondent in a ... View profile

Devon Sansom
Devon Sansom

Job title - Data Researcher

I began working for ISC Research in 2019 as a data researcher. My role involves collecting data for ISC Online and keeping the calendar of events up to date. I am currently a university student and enjoy competing in triathlons. View profile

Zoe Shakespeare
Zoe Shakespeare

Job title - Operations Director

I have over 20 years of customer service and operational leadership, both in the UK and Europe, and always with an international context. I've worked in the ISC Research Head Office since 2014, providing training and expertise on the ISC ... View profile

Janelle Torres
Janelle Torres

Job title - Research Manager - South East Asia

My career journey started in writing and shifted to education. Being an educator with specialization in early childhood education since 2009, my career led me to varied teaching opportunities in the Philippines and in Singapore. Prior to ... View profile

Sami Yosef
Sami Yosef

Job title - ​Head of Global Research

With over a decade in the international education sector, I am honoured to take on the role of Head of Global Research. My journey with the team began in 2013, contributing to the Reports and Field Research teams until 2018. Subsequently, I ... View profile

TESTIMONIALS

Feedback from our clients

OUR SERVICES

Services tailored to your needs

For Schools

Whether you wish to grow your community, develop your peer network, keep informed of best teaching and learning practice, or refine your development strategy, we will adapt our data subscription services and market intelligence reports to your needs.

For Education Suppliers

Develop your marketing and business development strategy with reliable and trusted market data and intelligence to inform your segmentation, lead generation, content marketing, community and relationship building. 

For Educational Investors

Overcome the challenges faced in your search for a school partner. We will support you through every step of your selection process, providing you with historic and current market data and intelligence, as well as expert advice.

For Higher Education

Enhance your market knowledge to build strong relationships with international schools. Identify influential organisations and contacts to recruit good fit international students, in terms of language and independent learning skills and mobility aspirations.

GET IN TOUCH

Let's discuss your needs

We are dedicated and committed to supporting the broader international schools community by providing data, trends and intelligence. Since 1994, we have guided schools with their growth plans, informed investors on new school development, helped universities to engage with international schools, and advised education suppliers that are supporting the market.