International schools in Albania 2026: fees & curricula

International schools in Albania

The international-school scene is small and concentrated in Tirana. The long-established Tirana International School (an American, college-preparatory school running preK–grade 12, founded in 1991) is the best-known and the most expensive, with fees around €25,000 a year. IB World Schools such as the World Academy of Tirana and Albanian College Tirana teach the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP and Diploma) in English at roughly €9,000–10,000 a year for the primary and middle years. Outside Tirana the choice thins out quickly, so families settling elsewhere often plan around the capital or public schools. Places at popular schools fill up, so apply early.

Public schools and homeschooling

Basic education is compulsory for all children resident in Albania from ages 6 to 16, and public schooling is free. Instruction is in Albanian, so younger children usually adapt fastest while older teens tend to prefer an English-language international school. Access for foreign residents' children is set through Ministry of Education regulations, so confirm enrolment rules with the local education authority. Under Law No. 69/2012, home education is allowed only in exceptional cases defined by the Ministry (for example illness, blood feud, or other circumstances that stop a child attending school) rather than as a general opt-out, and students must still sit standard exams — do not count on homeschooling as a default option.

At a glance

Where it fits in a borderless plan

Schooling can decide whether Albania works for a family move. The low cost of living and English-language IB options in Tirana are a draw, but the thin choice outside the capital is a real constraint. Weigh schools alongside healthcare, banking and how you plan to become tax-resident — the digital nomad visa is one common route in. Compare wider options in our international-schools guide.