History and Overview
The International School of Milan (ISM) was founded in 1958, making it one of the longest-established international schools in Italy. Over the decades it has grown into a landmark institution for international education in the Milan area. Today ISM is part of the Inspired Education Group, a global network of premium schools. It was the first school in Italy to offer the complete IB Continuum — Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme — providing a seamless educational journey from age 3 to 18 under a single pedagogical framework.
IB Programmes and Curriculum
ISM delivers all three IB programmes. The PYP (ages 3–11) uses inquiry-based, transdisciplinary learning to develop curiosity and international-mindedness from the earliest years. The MYP (ages 11–16) builds on this foundation with eight subject groups and the Personal Project, preparing students for the rigour of the Diploma Programme. The DP (ages 16–18) is where ISM's academic reputation shines brightest: students choose six subjects, complete the Extended Essay and TOK, and fulfil CAS requirements. ISM students consistently achieve strong IB Diploma results, with many going on to top universities in the UK, USA, Italy and beyond.
Campus and Community
Located in the Baranzate area just north-west of Milan's city centre, ISM's campus features modern facilities including science laboratories, a library, art studios, sports facilities and dedicated spaces for early years learning. The school hosts over 900 students representing more than 60 nationalities, creating a truly multicultural environment where English is the language of instruction and diversity is part of daily life. The international community is one of ISM's greatest strengths, helping students develop the global perspective that is central to the IB philosophy.
Why Choose This School
ISM stands out as the first and one of the most experienced IB Continuum schools in Italy, with over six decades of history. The complete PYP–MYP–DP pathway means students never face the disruption of changing educational systems. The extraordinary diversity of the student body — over 60 nationalities — creates an immersive international experience. Membership in the Inspired Education Group provides access to global resources, exchange programmes and enrichment opportunities. For families seeking a well-established, fully international IB education in Milan, ISM is a natural choice.
I have worked with many ISM students over the years and know the school's programmes, deadlines and assessment expectations in detail. If your child attends ISM and needs support in Maths, Physics, Chemistry or any STEM subject, get in touch for a personalised plan.
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Read articleWhat it costs
A programme for each situation
A repeated year at an international school typically starts at $30,000. That is what these programmes are measured against.
$100 an hour, the same for every student, every subject and every format, and the same however you buy.
The path to the target grade
For a grade that has to move by the end of the year, not by next week.
20 hours · $2,000
Exam preparation
For a fixed date: the IGCSE or IB session, or the weeks before mocks.
10 hours · $1,000
Catching up and realigning
For one specific gap: a topic that never landed, or the first weeks after a change of curriculum.
5 hours · $500
One lesson at a time costs the same. What a programme adds is a target agreed at the start, a slot held for you, and the grade followed over time.
Book an assessment session
A 30-minute one-to-one session to assess the student’s level, discuss goals and see if we’re a good fit.
Limited spots available for the October/November session