The German International School Chicago (GISC) is a private, non-profit IB World School that provides students with a bilingual, international education from Preschool through High School.
Quick Facts (2026)
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: Prekindergarten-9
- Enrollment: 196 students
- Yearly Tuition: $20,900
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
German International School Chicago ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-9
Dual Language Immersion Program
Secondary Immersion Language
Other
Year Founded
2007
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Wed. Jun 17, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
196 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
21%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
30 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.:
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
77%
Average Class Size
15 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$20,900
Tuition Notes
Average Financial Aid Grant
$8,700
Admissions Director
Katharina Pohl
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
8 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
18 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Build-a-BotChess
CodingDebate Club
Film MakingFuture City
Magic
Arts and Music Programs:
Art ClubCello
GuitarHip Hop
Music ClassPiano
TheaterViolin
Recreational Athletic Programs:
German Wheel (Rh枚nrad)Yoga
Zumba
School Notes
- School Motto: Give your child the world.
- School Mascot: Gisc Wolf
- The German International School Chicago (GISC) is an independent, non-profit private school offering a bilingual, international education to around 200 students from Preschool through Middle School.
- GISC is expanding into High School, launching Grade 9 in the 2026-2027 school year and adding one grade level each year, with the first graduating class set for 2030.
- With low student-teacher ratios, GISC provides a supportive, individualized environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and global awareness. Students become fluent in German and English and grow into well-rounded, creative, and responsible global citizens.
- GISC welcomes students of all backgrounds and nationalities. The current student body represents over 35 nationalities. GISC fosters open-mindedness, inclusivity, and a strong sense of community.
- GISC is an official German School Abroad (Deutsche Auslandsschule - DAS), IB World School (authorized for the PYP), Accredited Member School of the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS), PASCH Partner School, and DSD School.
- Students without prior knowledge of the German language are welcome to apply through Grade 6 via GISC's Become Bilingual Program (BBP) and Fast Track German Language Program (FTGLP).
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does German International School Chicago cost?
German International School Chicago's tuition is approximately $20,900 for private students.
What schools are German International School Chicago often compared to?
German International School Chicago is often viewed alongside schools like Lycee Francais De Chicago by visitors of our site.
Does German International School Chicago offer a summer program?
Yes, German International School Chicago offers a summer program. Visit their for more information.
What sports does German International School Chicago offer?
German International School Chicago offers 8 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Basketball, Dance, Indoor Soccer, Martial Arts, Soccer, Track and Field and Volleyball. German International School Chicago is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for German International School Chicago?
The application deadline for German International School Chicago is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is German International School Chicago located?
German International School Chicago is located in the Lake View neighborhood of Chicago, IL. There are 4 other private schools located in Lake View.
School Reviews
5 8/3/2024
GISC provides its students a family atmosphere with nurturing teachers caring for their students. The instruction is based on the International Baccalaureate and German and US learning standards. Most importantly, most of the instruction takes place in German -- what a wonderful way to become a global citizen poised for success and a balanced life.
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