French International School of Oregon provides an exceptional independent school education through the dynamic convergence of language immersion and the IB World School framework.
On a beautiful, 15-acre campus in Portland, a global mindset contributes to the school's collaborative, inquiry-based approach to learning, its open-minded community of families, and the deep value it places on a diversity of experiences and cultures starting from the earliest ages.
Using language as a powerful tool for learning, French International educates students from a global perspective that prepares them to engage with inclusivity, achieve with integrity, and excel with distinction.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked OR School
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
- Enrollment: 571 students
- Yearly Tuition: $20,383
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: Feb. 1 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
French International School of Oregon ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Oregon for:
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-8
Dual Language Immersion Program
Secondary Immersion Language
Other
Year Founded
1979
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
571 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
22%
State avg.: 25%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
69 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
75%
Average Class Size
15 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Feb. 1 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$20,383
Tuition Notes
TPS-PK half day: $19,160 / PS-K full day: $23,120 / 1st-5th: $23,660 / 6th-8th: $27,130
Summer Program Cost
$350
Summer Program Cost Notes
activity/materials fees apply
Admissions Director
Kate Sandgren
Admissions Associate
Abri Boyd
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
17 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Homework Help, Math, Robotics, Science, Speech and Debate, Writing
Club or Organization:
Ceramics, Chess, Coding, Cooking, Dance, Drama, Game Design
Arts and Music Programs:
Art, Music
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Gymnastics, Parkour
Club or Organization:
Ceramics, Chess, Coding, Cooking, Dance, Drama, Game Design
Arts and Music Programs:
Art, Music
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Gymnastics, Parkour
School Notes
- The application must be submitted by February 1 for priority consideration. After February 1, French International accepts applications on a rolling basis, The application process and frequently asked questions are available here.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does French International School of Oregon cost?
French International School of Oregon's tuition is approximately $20,383 for private students and $350 for summer students.
Does French International School of Oregon offer a summer program?
Yes, French International School of Oregon offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does French International School of Oregon offer?
French International School of Oregon offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is French International School of Oregon's ranking?
French International School of Oregon ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Oregon for: Largest student body and Most extracurriculars offered.
When is the application deadline for French International School of Oregon?
The application deadline for French International School of Oregon is Feb. 1 / rolling (applications are due on Feb. 1 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is French International School of Oregon located?
French International School of Oregon is located in the Northwest Portland neighborhood of Portland, OR. There are 4 other private schools located in Northwest Portland.
School Reviews
5 2/28/2020
Our son entered FAIS in 6th grade for Middle School and is currently a 7th grader. From the Open House we first attended and thereafter, we've been nothing but impressed. At the Open House, teachers were present and shared with us about their courses and teaching approach. They then got so excited talking to each other about how they collaborate on the IB curriculum they eventually had to be light-heartedly "shushed" so the presentations could continue! It was awesome. And we quickly saw the teachers truly walked their talk as our son went through 6th grade. The curriculum is challenging, global and engaging. Class sizes are small and the teachers really get to know your kid and support them. Administration is open and receptive and the school does a great job of providing opportunities for FAIS families to get to know each other. Our son is socially and academically engaged and loves being on the school soccer, basketball and track teams. He's happy. We parents are happy. We all wish it went through high school!
5 12/9/2018
My husband and I feel so reassured that our children (enrolled in both elementary and middle school) are well prepared for future academic success. Nothing equals foreign language immersion taught by native speakers, within the IB framework, from Pre-School through Grade 8. Individuation and small group enquiry based learning permeate everything from PE to Music, Art, Language classes and Math and Science. The dedicated teaching staff definitely guide the students towards becoming passionate worldly life long learners!
5 11/2/2018
Every time I'm on the school campus and see and hear about the projects that the kids have done, in all grades, I'm astounded. The way the teachers link the curriculum through all subjects including math, science, PE, English, French, music, art, etc... makes me wish I could attend school here. I feel lucky that my kids go to FAIS and I know they do too. They actually tell me how much they like their school on a regular basis!
5 10/6/2018
FAIS has a great learning and social environment. Our son started in middle school (Gilkey) and is challenged by the IB program. The global community of students is also very positive for him. There are many extracurricular activities, sports, and social activities offered and the community is very welcoming. If you are looking for smaller class sizes, fantastic language program, and highly engaged teachers - FAIS is it.
5 10/6/2018
As a private school with a great student teacher ratio, this school isn't as expensive as others in its class. It also has a fantastic teacher retention history and they all are quite happy to stay and teach until they retire. My daughter graduated from both the lower school and the middle school and went on to get easy A's in public school. Now my son is loving being in classes that are small and well structured with no one getting out of hand to ruin the learning experience for every one else! Oh, and my daughter is fluent in French and Spanish as a result of attending the best language school in Oregon.
5 8/12/2018
FAIS is an outstanding school in Portland. Our experience at the elementary school and middle school have been beyond our expectations. Our two boys have embarked on projects in GIS, the human body, architecture, art, theatre, climbing, and mathematics that have stimulated learning that has extended beyond the school environment. The teachers are excellent. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program empowers them to be well-rounded students of life. The community is welcoming and supportive.
5 1/14/2017
Our daughter attended FAIS and Gilkey from fourth through eighth grades, coming from a French immersion school in Maryland. At FAIS the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program prepared her for the IB program at the International School of Geneva (ECOLINT), where she earned an IB Diploma with top grades. Her studies in French and Chinese at Gilkey paved the way for Spanish, Latin and Greek at ECOLINT and at the University of California, Santa Cruz. I would send her to FAIS/Gilkey again in a heartbeat.
5 7/24/2015
This is an exceptional school that produces remarkably well-rounded students. My son is still in grade school, and can read and write English and French fluently. But perhaps less expected, the science program is stellar as well. My child surprised our pediatrician with his knowledge of how the human body works. All this without sacrificing art, music, or P.E. A really great school!
Endorse French International School of Oregon. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
U.S. Private Schools: A Guide for International Students
Dive into the nitty-gritty of attending U.S. private schools as an international student. From tackling the admissions maze to conquering the TOEFL, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through visa hurdles, financial realities, and even virtual campus tours. Buckle up for an insider's look at making your American education dreams a reality!
Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.