Public system (local languages)

High standards, well-funded, where Luxembourgers generally send their kids. Primary school is taught in German, secondary in French; by the end of it, students are expected to be fluent in four languages. (If it sounds daunting, it is: but that’s true for everybody, locals included.)

Public system (English track)

Many public schools have introduced English streams in recent years, notably the Lycée Michel Lucius and the Athénée de Luxembourg. This might be a good choice for students who (would) struggle with languages, or who are not planning to stay in the country for very long.

Music conservatories (honorable mention)

Luxembourg has three music conservatories, one each in Luxembourg City, Esch and the north (Diekirch/Ettelburck). Music education in the country focuses strongly on theory, tending to give students good footing when continuing their studies abroad.

European schools

There are accredited European schools with English tracks in Junglinster, Luxembourg City, Mersch and Mondorf (not all of them cover all school levels, however). Like the Luxembourgish system, they are well-funded and have high standards.

Private schools

The best known private schools for English-speakers are probably the International School of Luxembourg (fees: €20k/year) and St. George’s (€16k), followed by Over the Rainbow (€15k). Unlike in some other countries, private status is no guarantee of superior funding or quality. (This is only a cultural observation, not a comment on the quality of education.)

This article first appeared in the 2024-2025 Paperjam Expat Guide.