Best Schools in Dhaka 2025: The Ultimate Parent’s Guide

Ah, Dhaka. The city of dreams, delicious biryani, and soul-crushing traffic. But for parents, it’s also the city of the annual academic Hunger Games: school admissions. Let’s be real, choosing the best schools in Dhaka for your child feels less like a choice and more like a strategic military operation. You’re juggling curriculums, locations, eye-watering fees, and the opinions of every aunty in your family. Sound familiar? I thought so.

Well, take a deep breath and grab a hot cup of chaa. You’ve come to the right place. I’m here to be your friendly guide, your academic boro bhai, through this bewildering maze. I’ve been through it, I’ve seen friends go through it, and I’ve spent an unhealthy amount of time researching, comparing, and dissecting what makes a school truly great in our chaotic city. This isn’t just another list; it’s your battle plan for the 2025 admission season.

So, are you ready to find the perfect launchpad for your child’s future? Let’s dive in.

Navigating the Dhaka School Maze: An Introduction for 2025 Admissions

First things first: there is no single “best” school. Shocker, I know! The best school is the one that’s the best fit for your child, your family’s values, and your budget. What works for the overachieving debate champion next door might not work for your budding artist or future scientist. The goal for 2025 is to find a place where your child won’t just learn, but will truly thrive.

This guide is designed to cut through the noise. We’ll look at the titans of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge curricula, the powerhouses of the National Curriculum (English Version), and the revered institutions of the Bengali Medium. We’re covering the whole spectrum because excellence in Dhaka wears many different uniforms. Here you can check our latest post about Top 10 Alia Madrasah in Bangladesh.

How We Ranked the Best Schools in Dhaka: Our Transparent Methodology

Before we get to the juicy part—the rankings—let me be crystal clear about how I put this list together. This isn’t some top-secret government formula. It’s a blend of hard data and on-the-ground reality. Here’s what I considered:

1. Academic Excellence: This is a big one. I’ve looked at public exam results (O-Levels, A-Levels, IB scores, HSC/SSC), university placements (where do the graduates end up?), and the overall academic reputation.
2. Faculty and Teaching Quality: A great school is built by great teachers. I’ve factored in faculty qualifications, student-teacher ratios, and the school’s general approach to pedagogy. Are they just lecturing, or are they inspiring?
3. Infrastructure and Facilities: Let’s be honest, modern labs, well-stocked libraries, and decent sports facilities matter. It’s about providing a holistic environment for learning and growth.
4. Extracurricular Activities (ECA): Life isn’t all about textbooks. I gave weight to schools with strong programs in sports, arts, debate, music, and community service. These are the things that build character.
5. Alumni Network and Community: Where do the school’s graduates go? A strong, supportive alumni network is an invaluable asset long after graduation. I also considered the general parent and student community vibe.
6. Word on the Street: I talked to parents, students (both current and former), and educators. Sometimes, the real story of a school isn’t in its brochure but in the shared experiences of its community.

So, this list is a mix of quantitative data and qualitative insights. It’s as comprehensive and unbiased as one person’s dedicated effort can make it. Now, let’s get to the contenders!

Dhaka’s Elite: Top English Medium Schools (International Curriculum)

These are the schools that offer a truly global education, right here in Dhaka. They come with hefty price tags, but they also offer world-class facilities, international faculty, and a direct pipeline to foreign universities. Think of them as the Ivy League of Dhaka’s school scene.

International School Dhaka (ISD)

• The Vibe: The undisputed heavyweight champion. ISD is the go-to for expats, high-flying diplomats, and top-tier Bangladeshi families seeking a pure International Baccalaureate (IB) experience from elementary to high school. The campus in Bashundhara is sprawling and feels more like a small university.
• What Makes It Shine: It’s all about the IB curriculum, which is known for fostering critical thinking and a global perspective. The facilities are second to none—we’re talking swimming pools, state-of-the-art labs, and a diverse student body from over 50 countries. An ISD diploma is a golden ticket to top universities worldwide.
• Perfect For: The student who is self-motivated, globally-minded, and thrives in a diverse, project-based learning environment. And, of course, for families who can afford the premium fees.

Australian International School (AusIS)

• The Vibe: Located in the heart of Gulshan, AusIS offers a friendly, more intimate alternative to the larger international schools. It follows the Australian curriculum, which is known for its balanced approach to academics and personal development.
• What Makes It Shine: The sense of community here is strong. Parents often rave about the supportive teachers and the welcoming atmosphere. It provides a rigorous curriculum that culminates in the ACT (an alternative to the SAT) and a high school certificate recognized globally.
• Perfect For: Students who do well in a nurturing, close-knit community. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a top-tier international education without the sheer scale of ISD.

The Aga Khan School, Dhaka

• The Vibe: A unique blend of international standards and a focus on ethical, pluralistic values. Located in Uttara, the Aga Khan School is part of a global network of schools and is known for its commitment to leadership and community service.
• What Makes It Shine: It offers both the Cambridge (IGCSE, A-Levels) and the IB Diploma Programme, giving students a choice. There’s a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded, socially responsible citizens. The school’s ethos is its biggest selling point.
• Perfect For: Families who value not just academic rigor but also strong moral and ethical development. It’s for the student who wants to be a leader and make a difference in the world.

Sir John Wilson School

• The Vibe: A highly respected institution that has consistently produced fantastic results in the Cambridge O-Level and A-Level examinations. With campuses in Gulshan and Uttara, it has a reputation for being academically focused and disciplined.
• What Makes It Shine: Results, results, results. Sir John Wilson School is a powerhouse when it comes to exam performance. They have a structured, no-nonsense approach to education that prepares students exceptionally well for standardized tests. The teaching faculty is experienced and dedicated.
• Perfect For: The academically driven student who thrives in a structured environment and has their sights set on top universities in the UK, USA, or Bangladesh.

Canadian Trillinium School

• The Vibe: This school brings a slice of Canadian education to Dhaka. Following the Ontario curriculum, it offers a different pathway to a globally recognized high school diploma (the OSSD). It’s known for its student-centric approach and modern teaching methods.
• What Makes It Shine: The Ontario curriculum is less exam-intensive than Cambridge A-Levels, focusing more on continuous assessment, projects, and coursework. This can be a huge plus for students who don’t perform their best in high-pressure final exams. The environment is known to be very supportive.
• Perfect For: Students who prefer a continuous evaluation system over high-stakes final exams and are interested in a North American style of education.

Powerhouses of Academia: Top English Medium Schools (National Curriculum)

Don’t get it twisted—these schools are just as prestigious and academically rigorous as their international counterparts. They follow the National Curriculum in the English version, culminating in the SSC and HSC exams, but many also offer a parallel Cambridge O/A-Level track. They are the breeding ground for BUET, IBA, and Dhaka Medical College toppers.

Mastermind English Medium School

• The Vibe: An academic juggernaut. Located in Dhanmondi, Mastermind is almost legendary for its O-Level and A-Level results. The atmosphere is competitive, intense, and geared towards high achievement. Getting in is tough, and the workload is demanding.
• What Makes It Shine: Their track record is undeniable. Year after year, Mastermind students dominate the list of world and country-high achievers in the Cambridge exams. The school has a formula for academic success, and it works.
• Perfect For: The highly ambitious, competitive, and resilient student. If your child thrives under pressure and wants to be surrounded by the best and brightest, this is the place.

Scholastica School

• The Vibe: One of the oldest and most established English medium schools in Dhaka. With multiple campuses in upscale areas like Gulshan and Uttara, Scholastica is known for its well-rounded education that balances academics with a huge emphasis on extracurriculars.
• What Makes It Shine: Scholastica’s strength is its holistic approach. It’s not just about grades; it’s about building confident, articulate individuals. They have fantastic facilities and a vast array of clubs, from drama and music to Model UN.
• Perfect For: The all-rounder. The student who wants to excel in the classroom but also wants to be the star of the school play or captain of the basketball team.

Sunbeams School

• The Vibe: A school with a soul. Sunbeams, with its campuses in Dhanmondi and Uttara, has a reputation for fostering a more liberal, creative, and intellectually curious environment. It’s academically strong but with a less intense, ‘pressure-cooker’ feel than some of its rivals.
• What Makes It Shine: The quality of teaching and the intellectual atmosphere are top-notch. Sunbeams encourages students to think for themselves and question the world around them. It produces graduates who are not just smart, but also interesting and thoughtful.
• Perfect For: The independent thinker, the creative soul, the future writer or artist who also happens to be brilliant academically.

Maple Leaf International School

• The Vibe: A veteran in the English Medium scene with a long history of producing excellent results. Maple Leaf has a more traditional, disciplined approach to education. With campuses in Dhanmondi and Uttara, it’s a well-oiled machine for academic success.
• What Makes It Shine: Consistency and experience. Maple Leaf has been doing this for a long time, and they know how to prepare students for the O and A-Level exams. It’s a reliable choice for parents who value structure and proven results.
• Perfect For: Students who benefit from a structured, disciplined environment and are focused on achieving top grades in their board exams.

Oxford International School

• The Vibe: Another academic heavyweight, OIS has a strong reputation for discipline and outstanding O/A Level results. It’s known for its rigorous academic program and a strong focus on preparing students for competitive university admissions both at home and abroad.
• What Makes It Shine: Like its peers, OIS is a results-driven institution. They have a laser focus on the curriculum and ensure that students are thoroughly prepared. The school has multiple campuses, making it accessible to a wider range of students.
• Perfect For: The diligent and hardworking student who is aiming for a string of A*s and wants a school with a proven track record of getting them there.

Pillars of Tradition: Top Bengali Medium Schools

These are the institutions that have educated generations of leaders, thinkers, and innovators in Bangladesh. They are fiercely competitive, incredibly prestigious, and offer an outstanding education at a fraction of the cost of their English medium counterparts. Never underestimate the power and prestige of these schools.

Viqarunnisa Noon School and College

• The Vibe: An iconic, all-girls institution that is a household name in Bangladesh. Known for its academic rigor, discipline, and a legacy of producing some of the country’s most successful women. The main campus at Baily Road is a landmark.
• What Makes It Shine: Its legacy and its results. Viqarunnisa consistently ranks among the top schools in the country for SSC and HSC results. The sense of pride and sisterhood among its students, known as ‘VNSCians’, is incredibly strong.
• Perfect For: Ambitious and hardworking girls who want to be part of a proud tradition of female excellence and are aiming for top spots in public universities.

Ideal School and College, Motijheel

• The Vibe: The boys’ school equivalent of Viqarunnisa in terms of reputation and results. Ideal is a massive institution known for its discipline, competitiveness, and an almost factory-like efficiency in producing top-ranking students.
• What Makes It Shine: Unparalleled success in public exams. Ideal students regularly secure top positions in the SSC and HSC merit lists. It’s a highly sought-after school for parents who prioritize academic achievement above all else.
• Perfect For: Boys who are self-disciplined, can handle a highly competitive environment, and have the goal of getting into premier institutions like BUET or DMC.

Rajuk Uttara Model College

• The Vibe: A relatively newer institution compared to the others on this list, but it has quickly risen to become one of the most prestigious schools in the country. With a modern campus and a reputation for excellent management and results, it’s the top choice for many living in the Uttara area.
• What Makes It Shine: Its meteoric rise and consistent excellence. RAJUK has a reputation for being well-managed, less politically influenced, and focused purely on education. It achieves outstanding results in both SSC and HSC year after year.
• Perfect For: Students looking for a modern, well-administered Bengali medium school with a stellar academic record.

Holy Cross Girls’ High School

• The Vibe: Run by Roman Catholic nuns, Holy Cross is renowned for its emphasis on discipline, moral values, and academic excellence. It’s a school that builds character as much as it builds intellect. The environment is strict but incredibly nurturing.
• What Makes It Shine: The values-based education. Students of Holy Cross are known for their discipline, integrity, and command of English, even within the Bengali medium framework. It offers a truly holistic education.
• Perfect For: Girls whose parents want a strong emphasis on moral and ethical development alongside top-tier academics in a disciplined environment.

Notre Dame College

• The Vibe: The gold standard for higher secondary (college level) education in Bangladesh. Notre Dame is legendary. Getting in is brutally competitive, but the two years spent here are transformative. It’s known for its exceptional faculty, disciplined environment, and a focus on creating well-rounded, ethical leaders.
• What Makes It Shine: Everything. The quality of teaching is unparalleled. The discipline is legendary. The extracurricular clubs are fantastic. A ‘Notre Damian’ is recognized for life, and its alumni network is arguably the most powerful in the country.
• Perfect For: The brightest and most dedicated male students who have aced their SSC exams and are ready for the most rigorous and rewarding two years of their academic life.

At-a-Glance: Feature Comparison of Dhaka’s Top 15 Schools

Feeling a bit dizzy with all the options? I get it. Let’s break it down with a simple table to give you a bird’s-eye view.

Quick Comparison Table: Fees vs. Curriculum vs. Location

School Name	Primary Curriculum	Approx. Annual Fees (BDT)	Key Locations
International School Dhaka	IB	2,500,000 – 3,500,000+	Bashundhara R/A
Australian Int’l School	Australian / IB	1,500,000 – 2,500,000+	Gulshan
The Aga Khan School	Cambridge / IB	800,000 – 1,800,000+	Uttara
Sir John Wilson School	Cambridge (O/A Levels)	600,000 – 1,200,000+	Gulshan, Uttara
Canadian Trillinium School	Ontario (OSSD)	1,000,000 – 2,000,000+	Gulshan
Mastermind School	Cambridge (O/A Levels)	400,000 – 800,000+	Dhanmondi
Scholastica School	Cambridge (O/A Levels)	400,000 – 800,000+	Gulshan, Uttara, Mirpur
Sunbeams School	Cambridge (O/A Levels)	400,000 – 800,000+	Dhanmondi, Uttara
Maple Leaf Int’l School	Cambridge (O/A Levels)	300,000 – 700,000+	Dhanmondi, Uttara
Oxford International School	Cambridge (O/A Levels)	300,000 – 700,000+	Dhanmondi, Gulshan
Viqarunnisa Noon School	National (Bengali)	30,000 – 60,000	Baily Road, Dhanmondi, etc.
Ideal School & College	National (Bengali)	30,000 – 60,000	Motijheel
Rajuk Uttara Model College	National (Bengali)	40,000 – 70,000	Uttara
Holy Cross Girls’ School	National (Bengali)	25,000 – 50,000	Tejgaon
Notre Dame College	National (Bengali)	50,000 – 80,000 (For 2 years)	Motijheel

Disclaimer: Fees are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on grade level, hidden costs, and annual revisions. Please confirm directly with the schools.

Choosing by Area: Best Schools in Gulshan, Dhanmondi, Uttara & Beyond

Let’s be practical. Dhaka traffic is no joke. The location of your child’s school will dictate a huge part of your daily life. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Gulshan / Banani / Baridhara: This is the hub for top-tier international and English medium schools. Your best bets are Australian International School, Sir John Wilson School, Canadian Trillinium School, and Scholastica. The diplomatic zone location means security and accessibility are high, but so are the fees.
• Dhanmondi: The traditional heart of English medium education. It’s home to academic powerhouses like Mastermind, Sunbeams, and Maple Leaf. It’s a vibrant, student-filled area with a slightly more competitive and classically academic vibe.
• Uttara: This planned suburb has become a major educational hub. You have the best of all worlds here: The Aga Khan School, Sir John Wilson, Scholastica, Sunbeams, and the Bengali medium giant, Rajuk Uttara Model College.
• Motijheel / Old Town: This area is the stronghold of the legendary Bengali medium institutions. Ideal School and College and Notre Dame College call this commercial district home. The focus here is pure, unadulterated academic rigor.

How to Choose the Perfect School for YOUR Child

Okay, you’ve seen the list. Now comes the hardest part: making the choice. My advice? Forget the rankings for a second and focus on your child.

Assessing Your Child’s Learning Style and Personality

Is your child a self-starter who loves projects and open-ended questions? An IB school like ISD or Aga Khan might be a fantastic fit. Do they thrive on structure, clear goals, and a bit of healthy competition? A Cambridge-focused school like Mastermind or Sir John Wilson could be perfect. Are they creative, introverted, and need a nurturing environment? Perhaps Sunbeams is the answer. Be honest about your child’s personality. Forcing a creative, free-spirited kid into a high-pressure, results-only factory can be a recipe for disaster.

National Curriculum vs. Cambridge/IB: Making the Right Choice

This is the million-taka question. There’s no wrong answer, only a different path.

• International (Cambridge/IB): This path is geared towards students aiming for higher education abroad. The curricula are globally recognized, focus on critical thinking and application, and often provide a smoother transition to Western universities. However, it can be more expensive and sometimes feel disconnected from the local context.
• National (Bengali/English Version): This curriculum is robust, rigorous, and specifically designed to prepare students for the hyper-competitive public university admission tests (like for BUET, medical colleges, DU). It’s incredibly affordable and provides a strong foundation in core sciences and maths. Graduates absolutely can and do go abroad for university, but it might require a little more prep work for things like the SATs.

The choice depends on your long-term goals. Do you see your child studying at MIT or Oxford? Or are you aiming for a top spot at BUET? Your answer will point you in the right direction.

Beyond Academics: The Importance of Extracurricular Activities

Don’t sleep on this! A school’s culture is defined by what happens outside the classroom. Look at the clubs, sports teams, and arts programs. Does the school have a strong debate team? A thriving music program? A football field that’s actually green? These activities teach teamwork, leadership, and resilience—skills that are just as important as knowing the periodic table. A school like Scholastica is famous for this, but even a disciplined place like Notre Dame College has over 20 active clubs.

Budgeting for 2025: A Realistic Look at School Fees and Hidden Costs

Let’s talk money. The fee difference between curricula is massive. Bengali medium schools are incredibly affordable, while top-tier international schools can cost more than a university education abroad. But don’t just look at the tuition fee.

Ask about the hidden costs: admission fees, session charges, development funds, book costs, uniform costs, field trip fees, and ECA fees. These can add up significantly. Create a realistic budget for the entire academic year, not just the monthly tuition. It’s better to choose a school you can comfortably afford for the long haul than to stretch your finances to the breaking point.

The 2025 Admission Gauntlet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, deep breaths. Here’s your action plan for tackling the admission process.

Key Admission Timelines and Deadlines to Watch

• September – November: This is prime research time. Shortlist schools, visit their websites, and attend any open houses or virtual tours they offer.
• October – December: This is typically when application forms are released for the January session (both English and Bengali medium). Keep a close eye on school websites and newspaper announcements. Deadlines are strict!
• December – February: This is admission test and interview season. It’s a hectic time, so be prepared.
• August – September: For schools following an August-June academic year (like some international schools), the process will start earlier, around February-April.

My advice: Create a spreadsheet with school names, application deadlines, and test dates. Stay organized!

Preparing Your Child for Admission Tests and Interviews

For younger kids (Nursery to Grade 1), the ‘test’ is usually an informal assessment of basic motor skills, color/shape recognition, and social interaction. Don’t stress them out! The interview is often more for the parents.

For older kids, the tests will be formal and subject-based (usually English, Math, and Bangla). Get sample questions from the school if possible. The interview will assess their confidence, communication skills, and general awareness.

The Golden Rule: Don’t over-coach. The goal is for the school to see your child’s genuine abilities and personality. A happy, confident child will always do better than a stressed, over-rehearsed one.

Essential Documents Checklist for a Smooth Application

Have these ready in a folder to avoid last-minute panic:

• Child’s birth certificate (both English and Bangla versions if possible)
• Passport-size photos of the child and both parents/guardians
• Parents’ National ID (NID) cards
• Previous school’s report cards and transfer certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of address (utility bill, etc.)
• Photocopy of child’s passport (especially for international schools)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dhaka Schools

What are the average annual school fees in Dhaka’s top schools?

It varies wildly. For top Bengali medium schools, you’re looking at a very manageable BDT 30,000-80,000 per year. Top English medium (National Curriculum/Cambridge), it’s a significant jump to BDT 300,000-800,000+ per year. For the elite international schools (IB/Australian), you’re entering a different stratosphere: BDT 1,500,000 to over 3,500,000 per year.

When is the best time to start the admission process for the 2025 academic year?

The best time to start your research is right now! Seriously. For the application process itself, for schools starting in January, you should be on high alert from September/October of the previous year. For schools starting in August, begin your process in January/February.

Is the Bengali Medium curriculum a good option for higher studies abroad?

Absolutely, yes! It might require a bit more self-study for standardized tests like the SAT or preparing a portfolio, but thousands of students from Bengali medium backgrounds excel in top universities all over the world. A strong academic foundation is universal, and institutions like Notre Dame and Viqarunnisa provide exactly that. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

How do I verify a school’s accreditation and reputation?

For international curriculum schools, check if they are accredited by recognized bodies like the IB Organization (for IB), Cambridge Assessment International Education (for O/A Levels), or relevant educational boards (like the Ontario Ministry of Education for CTS). For all schools, check their affiliation with the Dhaka Education Board. Beyond that, talk to current parents and alumni—they are your best source of real-world information.

Final Thoughts: Making the Best Decision for Your Family’s Future

Phew! We made it. I know this is a mountain of information, and the decision feels monumental. Because it is.

But remember, this isn’t about getting your child into the school with the most bragging rights. It’s about finding a community where they will feel happy, challenged, and supported. It’s about finding a place that sparks their curiosity and gives them the tools to build an amazing future.

Trust your gut. Involve your child in the decision if they’re old enough. And know that no matter which of these fantastic schools you choose, you’re giving your child a great start in life.

Good luck with the 2025 admission hunt! You’ve got this.