International and French Schools in Mauritius 2026: The complete guide for expat families

Schooling is one of the most decisive criteria for families considering a  move to Mauritius . The island offers a relatively wide range of private establishments, from French schools accredited or partnered with the AEFE to British institutions preparing students for IGCSE and A-Levels, as well as International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes. The final choice will depend on the family’s long-term educational plans, preferred residential area and overall budget. 

The private education system in Mauritius is structured around three broad categories. 

French-curriculum schools follow the programmes of the French national education system and prepare students for the  brevet and then the French baccalauréat. They are particularly suitable for families who may return to France or another French-speaking country, or who simply wish to maintain continuity with the French system. These schools are generally less expensive than premium English-speaking establishments. 

British or international-curriculum schools teach primarily in English and prepare students either for Cambridge examinations (IGCSE followed by A-Levels) or for the International Baccalaureate. They offer broad access to universities in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Australia, and attract many non-French-speaking expatriate families as well as bilingual households. 

Finally, some schools offer  bilingual or mixed pathways , with reinforced teaching in both languages. This can be an attractive compromise depending on the children’s profiles. 

Key schools by area 

North (Grand Baie, Mapou, Trou aux Biches, Pointe aux Canonniers) 

The North concentrates a large share of the expatriate community and has a dense school offering.  École du Nord , located in Mapou, provides a French curriculum from preschool to lower secondary and remains the reference for many French-speaking families living in Grand Baie and the surrounding area. 

Northfields International School is one of the best-known international institutions on the island. It covers the full pathway from early years through to the end of secondary education, offering both British and IB programmes. Its fees rank among the highest on the island. 

More recently,  Saint Exupéry International School in Grand Baie has developed a bilingual and international option that is attracting a growing number of families. 

West (Tamarin, Black River, Flic-en-Flac, Cascavelle) 

The West Coast appeals to families seeking a more nature-oriented and lifestyle-focused environment.  École Paul et Virginie in Tamarin offers a French curriculum from preschool to primary level and is highly regarded by families living in the area. 

For English-medium primary education,  Telfair International Academy is a solid option. At secondary level,  Westcoast International (Cambridge / IB) allows students to continue their education without necessarily having to travel to the centre of the island. 

Centre (Moka, Curepipe, Quatre Bornes, Ebène) 

The central plateau hosts several historic and well-regarded establishments.  Lycée La Bourdonnais , an AEFE partner school, offers a complete pathway from preschool to the end of secondary education and remains a reference for many French families. 

Lycée des Mascareignes , located in Moka, focuses on upper secondary (from  seconde to  terminale ) and provides a more modern setting.  École du Centre and  Collège Pierre Poivre cover preschool and lower secondary in the French curriculum. 

On the international side,  Le Bocage International School is one of the most recognised IB schools on the island. 

Indicative tuition fees for 2026 

Fees vary significantly according to level, establishment and, in some international schools, the student’s nationality. Below are approximate annual ranges: 

In addition to these amounts, families should generally budget for registration or first-enrolment fees (often between 20,000 and 100,000 MUR), a refundable deposit, school transport, uniforms, books and extracurricular activities. 

French schools normally apply the same fees regardless of nationality. Some international schools, however, differentiate between “Mauritian” and “expatriate” rates, which can represent a significant difference. 

How to choose the right school 

The choice of school goes well beyond tuition fees. Several criteria deserve careful attention. 

Language of instruction and long-term plans form the starting point. A family that may return to France or another French-speaking country will usually prefer the French curriculum. Conversely, a pathway oriented towards English-speaking universities will point towards a British or IB programme. 

Residential area then plays a decisive role. Daily commuting time has a major impact on family organisation. Many families choose the school first and then the neighbourhood, or the reverse, while aiming to keep travel times reasonable. 

The  overall budget must include not only tuition but also transport, activities and any additional costs. Finally, places in the most sought-after schools are limited. It is strongly recommended to begin the application process six to twelve months in advance and to attend open days in order to form a concrete impression of the atmosphere and educational approach. 

Points to watch 

Tuition fees generally increase with the level of education, particularly in international schools at secondary level. Some institutions apply different rates according to nationality, which should be checked from the first contact. 

The school calendar (usually starting in August or September) and enrolment procedures vary from one establishment to another. French families may, subject to means testing, benefit from AEFE scholarships, which can significantly reduce the cost in network schools. 

Frequently Asked Questions about International and French Schools in Mauritius 

What are the main French schools in Mauritius? 

École du Nord (North), Lycée La Bourdonnais and Lycée des Mascareignes (Centre), as well as École Paul et Virginie (West) for primary level, are among the most popular with French-speaking families. 

How much does an international school cost in Mauritius in 2026? 

Families should generally budget between €4,000 and €12,000 per year depending on the level and school, excluding registration fees, transport and activities. 

Should the school be chosen according to the residential area? 

Yes. The North, West and Centre each have their own reference schools. Daily commuting time remains a decisive factor for family quality of life. 

Are qualifications obtained in Mauritius recognised? 

Yes. The French baccalauréat as well as Cambridge and IB qualifications are widely recognised internationally. 

When should the enrollment process begin? 

Ideally six to twelve months before the start of the school year, especially for the most popular schools that manage waiting lists. 
 

Property Mauritius assists many clients in choosing their place of residence while taking into account proximity to schools and the overall family project. 

Contact Property Mauritius Agency in Pointe-aux-Canonniers for a personalised discussion about your relocation plans.