2023 Best International Baccalaureate Schools in the Washington, D.C. Area

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  25 reviews

Parent: Rochambeau follows the French curriculum, most classes are taught in French, but it is more an international school with IB options. Our daughters have had classmates from endless countries (around 70 represented). It prepares our children to live with others that have different cultures, languages, experiences, and religions ... in other words, it prepares them for their multicultural future. Studying at Rochambeau can be challenging at times, because of the high academic level of the French system, but this high amount of work will also depend on the (many) options that are offered. All of this is also balanced by a great School's sports teams program which is a fantastic experience for our children. Lastly, my husband studied there in high school in the early 90s and he still has many friends that he still sees regularly. So your children will create lifetime bonds with an international community.... Read 25 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,149

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  585 reviews

Senior: There wasn’t any bad parts about going to Richard montgomery. I like that there are always somewhere, where you can fit in. The sports on the other hand are decent.... Read 585 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,410

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  450 reviews

Senior: B-CC is a pretty above average school I’d say. My time here was alright, honestly. I enjoyed the amount of activities here, honestly there’s something for everyone and I find that pretty nice! Academics are pretty good and rigorous however I think the culture here can get a bit stressful for any student who cares about going to college. From my personal experience, I found it hard to connect with some of my wealthier peers, many here come from families who have enough money to not have to worry about the price of anything really. Teachers were definitely my favorite part of the whole experience next to the amount of things you can get involved in.... Read 450 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,270

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Olney, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  205 reviews

Alum: Good Counsel is a great academic institution that provides a diverse culture for learning, growth, and engagement. The teachers and administrators are enthusiastic, compassionate, and passionate about what they do. The administration ensures that class sizes are kept small for great student to teacher ratios. They have great clubs for students to become involved in; like the Entrepreneurship Club, the Key Club, Robotics, just to name a few. The cafeteria food was delicious and varied. They offer competitive (championship teams) and non competitive sports activities; football, swimming, lacrosse, soccer, baseball, softball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, rugby, and water polo to name a few. GC has a great IB program and a strong college prep and AP program too. I was very prepared for college and did very well making the Dean's List during my freshman year at a top ten university. Thank you GC!... Read 205 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,255

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Arlington Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  568 reviews

Junior: I really like Washington-Liberty because it is such an inclusive school. Students of many different race, ethnicities, religions, etc can all find ways to be involved in this school. There are many clubs and programs that Washington-Liberty offers where students can actively participate in. If you're struggling in school, teachers at Washington-Liberty will help support you all the way through. That's also one of the good things about the school. There are many teachers and mentors (possibly students), who are there to guide you if you ever need any kind of support. Everyone is super nice and respectful and would be glad to help in any way they can!... Read 568 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,436

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  17 reviews

Parent: My daughter has been attending BISW since nursery due to our well regarded public school remaining close during the pandemic. We’re in Primary now and we simply love the school and have no plans to leave despite having a local and good public option. Staff at BISW are competent, kind, responsive and the school is well organized. Clear and constant communication from teachers and administrators is the norm. The curricula is strong and very focused on child literacy. My child is thriving. As others have mentioned, the facilities are not grand, but given the small classes and school size they certainly make good use of the space. Classrooms are well appointed. A new gym being built. I feel that there is PLENTY of racial and ethnic diversity, since BISW attracts embassy and international families. I’ve met people from all around the world.... Read 17 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 510

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Falls Church City Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  170 reviews

Senior: My high school experience can be summed up as relatively enjoyable for a school. Despite the global pandemic, classes kept up through innovative technology. Often, the teachers are understanding and acknowledge that there are other parts to high school than their classes, which allows for a more balanced work load. Overall, the administration ensures a proper upkeep in safety, the sports are entertaining and inclusive to all genders, and there are many academic options provided for the students.... Read 170 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 859

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  369 reviews

Junior: I've been a student at George C. Marshall High School for almost three years. Throughout these years I've grown a great deal and my experience has been unique. This school is a very prestigious high school that's very focused on not just the aspects of education but sports, diversity, involvement, and culture. Even during the pandemic when schools were online, this school remained focused on our involvement not just in education but to feel a sense of belonging by creating various clubs. Not only that the school prides itself on its ability to make each and every school feel like the belong, they've accommodated to many students needs based on their religion, identity, and requests. These are only a few of the many wonderful features this school has had to offer.... Read 369 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,103

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  563 reviews

Junior: This is only my second year, and I've had nothing but good memories. All the teachers, students, and courses are amazing. It's also an IB school so that's a bonus, as my first year as an IB student has been amazing. I'm not good with transitions, but my first year at Robinson last year was one of my favorite school years because of the friendly atmosphere everywhere I go. There are also so many programs to be a part of and makes everyday full of new adventures. There is some trouble in certain areas, but it's nothing you wouldn't see at other schools. Overall, I feel safe and included at Robnison.... Read 563 reviews

• grade A

• Students 3,780

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Falls Church City Public Schools, VA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  1 review

Middle School Student: I really liked the experience, the environment was very welcoming and everyone was kind. It was easy to talk to teachers and the faculty and staff were always ready to help with anything. The school had many activities for students to be involved in and had something that everyone could join.... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 597

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Falls Church City Public Schools, VA•

• 3-5

• grade A

• Students 534

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  539 reviews

Sophomore: South Lakes has an amazing community in which learning is really prioritized. It has a great performing arts department and the IB Diploma Program is there as well. IB provides for a lot of cool discussions on the thinking process, but there is a heavy push from the school to take a full IB Diploma. It is a very work heavy track and not a great fit for all, yet the strong encouragement to take IB classes remains the same from student to student. The teachers I have had have been amazing especially during Covid-19. They are understanding and Supportive and are a huge help to students. My teachers have made it a goal to make me succeed and it shows in their teaching. One thing I would recommend with taking classes, is to take personal finance over the summer! There are so many fun classes and awesome teachers to have, that getting that class out of the way so super helpful!... Read 539 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,593

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  437 reviews

Junior: You could say that my school is considered average when you look it up online and see the reviews. Some reviews I find make me feel happy about the school and some reviews make me feel bad about the school. When I started my year there in-person, there was a mixture of a clean/comfortable and a filthy environment there. Air conditioning was moderated to keep students comfortable throughout the year and seeing a presence of insects in the building were quite rare. Aside for the positive aspects, bathrooms and classroom corners can be dirty, but you could see that in almost all high schools. Despite taking part on my school's honor society and athletics, there wasn't any other extracircular activities that would interest a person like me. I wished there was a technology or outdooring club there at my school for me to attend. Regarding the staff, they were pretty okay. They all treated me with respect and offered me help whenever I needed. With that, I was able to pass my classes.... Read 437 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,436

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Washington, DC•

• Public School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  38 reviews

Sophomore: Good school! Lots of diversity, good teachers. Encourages a safe, healthy, and kind environment. However, there is too much staff turnover. I went my entire freshman year without an English teacher at all.... Read 38 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,442

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• District of Columbia Public Schools, DC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  324 reviews

Freshman: Banneker is a great school, as there are many academic opportunities one can take for getting into college or other post-secondary options. The work can get challenging at times, but it pushes students to do their best and challenge themselves to pursue their interests. Advanced students also get a lot of options, like pursuing AP courses along with IB courses. The diversity is great here at this school too, with many students sharing a cultural experience that is not often found in America. Banneker is a unique school, where students are able to both be supported by staff, and find new ways to reach and surpass their limits.... Read 324 reviews

• grade A

• Students 549

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  362 reviews

Senior: What I liked about Albert Einstein high school is the diversity that it has not only with the students but with the teachers as well. Also I loved the different academy is that they offer like Finance, VAPA (Visual Arts Performing Art), VAC (Visual Art Center) and many more. What could of been better were the participation of the students especially during sports because people would always go to football, soccer games, basketball to show support but never to other things like how the school also offers the swim and dive, bocce and wrestling or how we put on chorus concert or band/orchestra/jazz concerts and even dance concerts in the winter and spring but people don’t go to show school spirit. That in my opinion we need a little of work on.... Read 362 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,921

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  497 reviews

Junior: Overall, Springbrook High School (especially the IB program offered to select students on entry and available for any student after acceptance) offers a fantastic opportunity for personal and educational growth. Not only does the IB program enrich your education, but it allows you to take classes that directly challenge your understanding of knowledge and belief itself. In addition, Springbrook High School provides a wide selection of extracurricular activities, ensuring that students will always have an opportunity to work on their social and physical well-being. While many advancements could be made regarding school-advertised databases and resources, along with parental involvement, if you are a student seeking an experience that will prepare you for the critical thinking skills necessary in college, the IB program offered at Springbrook High School is a top recommendation on my list.... Read 497 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,694

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  345 reviews

Junior: Edison has been a place where I have learned to communicate with all sorts of people, pushing me beyond my limits. They have helped me overcome my fear of meeting new people. The community is very diverse, which makes the environment so much fun.... Read 345 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 2,151

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  377 reviews

Junior: Seneca Valley High School is a very diverse and amazing school. It's very easy to get involved with the school and the teachers there are amazing. They motivate you, persuade you and push you to be your best self. They are also great with having one on one time with students. The environment overall is very safe with the students, staff and administration. Their sports teams and clubs make it worthwhile. You get to meet amazing people and start friendships that have a positive impact on your life. They also have a variety of clubs, so anyone can be interested. In Addition at Seneca Valley they have an International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. This helps extraordinarily with college readiness as these classes can be very challenging. Additionally, they have many choices of classes and it helps you for the real world. Furthermore they have career programs like the Medicine Program, engineering program, child development and more! My experience at Seneca Valley will be one to remember.... Read 377 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,652

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  472 reviews

Senior: I like the diversity and immense exposure to different cultures here at Annandale. This school is fill with people with different backgrounds and heritages, that is encouraged to be expressed at Annandale. This makes my experience here very inclusive and interesting by immersing students in first hand experience with different cultures. Apart from the diversity here, Annandale is filed with creative people that makes the school lively and eventful. The school is decorated with art work and paints from the art students that created a positive atmosphere and encourages freedom of expression. Along with this the student are allowed to be open with the fashion and the halls are filled with students wearing all types of styles, again embracing one's self expression. I think this school is so great because of the students and teachers who all individually bring their own creativity, culture, and personalities that in return gives to school life.... Read 472 reviews

• grade B

• Students 2,233

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  274 reviews

Junior: I liked going to a school where I felt valued as a student. I felt like the teachers at Lewis really cared about my education and pushed me to move further in my education. The student body is also nice because it is so diverse. I've met many new people at this school with bright and interesting opinions. Being enrolled at Lewis High School has allowed me to develop a strong understanding of inclusivity and open-mindedness. It's important to hear out other viewpoints from other people because it can benefit you and the greater good of the group. Students are taught to work and communicate well with each other which has provided me with the ability to form meaningful and deep connections with friends. As a result of being enrolled at Lewis, I feel as though I am a more caring, bright, and accepting student!... Read 274 reviews

• grade B

• Students 1,773

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Prince William County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  331 reviews

Senior: I chose to attend Stonewall Jackson High School because of the IB program and the diversity. Stonewall is the most diverse high school in PWC and I love that. I have met people from all over the world and from so many different cultures. My experience at SJ has been mostly positive, I have met some great people here that I now consider very close friends. I have had some amazing teachers and an excellent counselor. I am a rising senior so my experience isn't over it but so far I have enjoyed attending this school. The IB program is very rigorous but honestly worth it because of all the information that you learn, it helps you understand the world better and takes a deeper dive into history compared to regular classes. Art club is an awesome club, which I am a member of, it is ran by our awesome art teachers and its a fun thing to do after school. Many students and I here used their voice to be heard during our school name change, we are now the Unity Reed Lions. Go Lions!... Read 331 reviews

• grade B

• Students 2,769

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  419 reviews

Junior: I've been having a great time at Watkins Mill. I think they have great teachers, who, in my opinion, actually want to teach students and love teaching. They also have great students who help one another to succeed in their education rather than creating an environment of merely "competition" with other students. However, I feel as though, Watkins Mill can benefit from more school spirit and student participation which can help enhance Watkins Mill students' high school experience all together.... Read 419 reviews

• grade B

• Students 1,597

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  404 reviews

Senior: Justice High school was the best and was impressed with the level of education provided. Teachers at Justice are highly qualified and dedicated to providing the best assistance to the student. Many use innovative and fun teaching methods to make learning fun and interactive. Extracurriculars such as sports, clubs, and learning programs have been a strong point for Justice as they offer various services for students. The school also has a strong focus on student well being and provides support services for students who struggle with academic or personal issues. Guidance counselors are always there for me and the students as well as also there for peer support groups and mentorship. Overall, I really enjoyed my time and experience at Justice High School and would recommend it to someone who is looking for good mentorship and a well rounded education system. It offers a wide the range of extracurricular activities for students to explore their interest and develop new skills.... Read 404 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 2,256

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  333 reviews

Junior: Mount Vernon High school is an immensely diverse school with students and staff from all backgrounds in the DC Maryland Virginia area (DMV). Many students and staff in the school are also bilingual which makes the school an even better resource for those who have just arrived to the country and are beginning to learn the english language. There is a plethora of adults in the building that students are able to confide in. Mount Vernon has outstanding sports teams and coaches, coaches at this school still make sure that a students priority is their academics and further motivate them to do well. When exciting events come around students at this school know how to create an exciting atmosphere for others. During time periods like this you can here music as you're approaching the school cafeteria and students dancing, or singing while others are buying tickets for an upcoming event.... Read 333 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 2,013

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1