The German International School Washington D.C. is a private, co-educational institution with more than 500 students in preschool through 12th grade, set on a quiet campus in Potomac, Md. Representing more than 20 different nationalities, our student body is truly international, united by a shared interest in German language and culture.
The only full-time German day school in Washington, we offer rigorous academics in a warm, multicultural setting. Graduates receive the globally recognized German International Abitur (DIA) as well as a high-school diploma from the state of Maryland.
We have two academic focus areas: foreign languages and science.
Students gain fluency in at least two languages and achieve mastery of biology, chemistry, and physics. Our teachers prize critical inquiry, teaching students how-not what-to think.
The German International School is accredited by the German Ministry of Education and approved by Maryland Department of Education.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Top Ranked MD School
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: Prekindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 508 students
- Yearly Tuition: $26,510
- Acceptance rate: 80%
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
German International School Washington Dc ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Maryland for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
Student Body
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
Year Founded
1961
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
Student Body
Total Students
508 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
5%
State avg.: 38%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
56 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
98%
Average Class Size
18 students
Number of AP Courses
9 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
BiologyCalculus AB
ChemistryEnglish Language and Composition
English Literature and CompositionFrench Language and Culture
German Language and CulturePhysics B
Spanish Language
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
No uniforms
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$26,510
Tuition Notes
Tuition listed is for Grades 10-12. Rates depend on the child's age and grade. Financial aid is available.
Acceptance Rate
80%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Jeannette A. Dubrey
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
7 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
7 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
GymnasticsKarate
Club or Organization:
ChoirDrama Club
Model UNScience
Yearbook
School Notes
- The German International School Washington is an independent pre-kindergarten through 12th grade school of more than 500 students.
- We deliver a rigorous bicultural curriculum leading to the German International Abitur (DIA) and the U.S. High School Diploma.
- Our graduates leave our school with a solid preparation for university work and beyond and attend prestigious international, American and German higher education institutions. Dedicated to the development of globally-minded students, fostering independence, creativity and critical thinking, the German International School places strong emphasis on foreign languages and natural sciences.
- Knowledge of German is not required for admission through lower Elementary School.
- By 6th grade, students are fluent in German and English, and on their way to mastering a third language.
- Our science program starts in 4th grade and our teachers are committed to inspiring all students to apply scientific methods.
The German School is one of over 140 recognized German Schools Abroad worldwide, and approved by the Maryland State Department of Education.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Alumni have been accepted to prestigious universities worldwide, including Harvard University and Yale University. -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does German International School Washington Dc cost?
German International School Washington Dc's tuition is approximately $26,510 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of German International School Washington Dc?
The acceptance rate of German International School Washington Dc is 80%, which is higher than the national average of 78%.
Who are famous alumni from German International School Washington Dc?
German International School Washington Dc famous alumni include: Alumni have been accepted to prestigious universities worldwide, including Harvard University and Yale University..
Does German International School Washington Dc offer a summer program?
Yes, German International School Washington Dc offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does German International School Washington Dc offer?
German International School Washington Dc offers 7 interscholastic sports: Alpine Skiing, Basketball, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is German International School Washington Dc's ranking?
German International School Washington Dc ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Maryland for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees and Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for German International School Washington Dc?
The application deadline for German International School Washington Dc is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Calendar
View the German International School Washington Dc yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:
Event
Date
Herbstferien / Fall Break
October 06, 2025 (Monday)
Tag der Offenen Tür im Kindergarten / Preschool Open House
November 14, 2025 (Friday)
Thanksgiving Ferien (keine Schule) / Thanksgiving Break (no school)
November 24, 2025 (Monday)
Tag der Offenen Tür im Kindergarten / Preschool Open House
April 17, 2026 (Friday)
Erster Tag der Sommerferien / First Day of Summer Break
June 25, 2026 (Thursday)
School Reviews
5 10/6/2012
Both our children are at the preschool (2 and 4 years old). We are very happy at the school and would like our children to continue at the school through high school. The teachers are extremely well qualified and caring. We also like the emphasis on science, foreign language acquisition and an overall international education.
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