International School · Day School · Through School (K-12)
British School Manila
Manila, Philippines
Last updated: Jun 25, 2026
The British School Manila (BSM) is a prestigious non-profit international day school founded in 1976 in Bonifacio Global City, Manila, serving approximately 978 students aged 3–18 from over 52 nationalities. BSM follows the adapted English National Curriculum through Key Stages, Cambridge IGCSE and IB Diploma, consistently achieving above-world-average IB results (average 36 points in 2024). With a sprawling 3-hectare campus, 180+ weekly co-curricular activities, and accreditation by CIS, WASC and COBIS, BSM is widely regarded as the premier British international school in Southeast Asia. The school's ethos centres on holistic development, small class sizes, and empowering students to become confident global citizens.
- Curriculum
- A-Level / IB Diploma / IGCSE
- Annual Tuition
- ₱264,090.00 - ₱697,155.00(2024-2025)
- Students
- ~978
- Nationalities
- 52+
Overview
British School Manila is an international A-Levels, IB Diploma Programme, IGCSE school for ages 2–18 in Manila, Philippines. Founded in 1976, it has approximately 978 students from 52+ nationalities. The language of instruction is English, with EA...
At a Glance
IB Diploma Class of 2024 achieved average score of 36 points (world avg ~30), with 23% scoring ≥40 points and one perfect 45
International campus with 978 students from 52+ nationalities, serving expatriate, diplomatic, and local Filipino families
All applicants take mandatory English assessment; multi-hour entrance exams for Years 3+ with full-morning exam plus interview for Year 7+
Annual tuition PHP 264,090–697,155 depending on year level, plus PHP 339,450 non-refundable entrance fee and PHP 30,000 application fee
Suited for internationally mobile families prioritizing rigorous British curriculum (IGCSE + IB Diploma) with small class sizes and university pathways to UK/US institutions
Tuition & Fees
Annual Tuition
₱264,090.00 - ₱697,155.00(2024-2025)
Application Fee
₱30,000.00
Est. First Year Total
₱727,155.00
Approximate values based on ECB reference rates (Jul 13 – 17, 2026). Actual amounts may vary.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
1Taguig Scholarship Programme
Need-BasedCurriculum & Academics
Languages of Instruction
Languages of Instruction
Compulsory / Optional
Subjects Offered
15 subjectsIB Diploma(13)
IGCSE(2)
Accreditations & Memberships
4 accreditationsOutcomes & Results
100%
University acceptance
University Destinations
Admissions
Admissions Overview
BSM is open to students of all nationalities aged 3–18. All applicants must demonstrate age-appropriate English proficiency and sit an entrance assessment tailored to year group (observation/informal for Early Years; multi-hour written test for Years 3–6; full-morning exam plus short interview for Year 7 and above). A wait-pool operates when year groups are full, with priority given to diplomats, alumni children, and siblings. Applications can be made year-round with priority deadlines in mid-January for Year 7 and Year 12 entry.
Requirements
Primary (Years 3–6)
English Requirement: Intermediate English
Application Fee: 30,000
Early Years (Nursery – Year 2)
English Requirement: Basic English
Application Fee: 30,000
Secondary (Year 7 and above)
English Requirement: Advanced English
Interview Required (In-person)
Application Fee: 30,000
Key Dates
The academic year begins in August. Exact date varies each year.
School Life
- Term system
- 3-term
- Uniform
- Required
- Lunch
- cafeteria
Support & Wellbeing
- Learning support
- Yes
Co-curricular Activities
29 activitiesTeam Sports(4)
Grades: Secondary
Individual Sports(2)
Grades: Primary · Secondary
Music(2)
Grades: Primary · Secondary
Drama & Theatre(1)
Grades: Primary · Secondary
Academic Clubs(1)
Grades: Secondary
STEM(3)
Grades: Primary · Secondary
Service & Leadership(1)
Grades: Secondary
School-specific(15)
Grades: Primary · Secondary
Facilities
10 facilitiesSports & Athletics(3)
Academic Facilities(3)
Dining(1)
School-specific(3)
Location & Access
Getting There
School Bus
BSM operates its own school bus service covering Bonifacio Global City, Makati, Ortigas and Alabang (4 routes). Annual bus fees apply; details on request.
Coverage Areas: Bonifacio Global City, Makati, Ortigas, Alabang
Campuses
Main Campus
British School Manila - Main Campus
36th Street, University Park, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
Schoozy Insights
Above-World-Average IB Results and Holistic British Curriculum
BSM's Class of 2024 averaged 36 IB points vs a world average of ~30, with 23% scoring 40+ and one perfect 45.
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Academic Excellence at BSM
The British School Manila has established itself as one of Southeast Asia's top-performing British international schools. Its academic programme spans the full English National Curriculum, from Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through Key Stages 1–5, with Cambridge IGCSE examinations in Years 10–11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Years 12–13. A-levels are also offered as an alternative at Sixth Form.
IB Diploma Results (Class of 2024)
- Average score: 36 points (world average ~30)
- 23% of candidates scored 40 or above
- One student achieved a perfect 45
- The 2024 cohort was the joint-largest in school history
These figures place BSM comfortably above global norms and on par with leading IB World Schools internationally.
IGCSE Performance (2025 Results)
- 100% of Year 12 IGCSE candidates earned at least five A–C grades, meeting and exceeding the UK national benchmark
- This reflects strong teaching quality and curriculum alignment across Secondary
Teaching Philosophy
BSM employs an inquiry-based, student-centred approach across all year groups. Mixed-ability classes are standard, with tutors and subject specialists supporting personalised learning. The Senior School in particular emphasises critical thinking, independent research and preparation for university-level study.
University Outcomes
Virtually all BSM graduates proceed to university — the school reports 100% university acceptance in recent cohorts. Graduates matriculate to top institutions in the UK (Russell Group), the USA (selective universities), Canada, Australia and beyond. UK, USA and Canada are cited as the top three destination countries. While the school does not publish Oxbridge or Ivy League counts publicly, its IB average alone signals consistent placement at competitive institutions.
Holistic British Education: Mission, Values and Positive Education Framework
BSM's mission centres on empowering global citizens through British values, with Respect, Integrity and Kindness as core pillars.
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BSM's Educational Philosophy
The British School Manila's entire educational programme is anchored in a clearly articulated purpose:
"The British School Manila provides an outstanding holistic British international education, empowering students to flourish as global citizens with the skills, understanding and values to make a positive contribution to our world."
This mission, published on the school's official Guiding Statements page, shapes every aspect of campus life — from curriculum design to pastoral care.
Core Values
BSM's three core values are:
- Respect — for self, others and the environment
- Integrity — honesty and accountability in all actions
- Kindness — compassion within the school community and beyond
These values are embedded in daily routines, assemblies, house activities and the school's approach to discipline and recognition.
Student Flourishing Model
The school articulates that its students should be:
- Happy
- Healthy
- Reflective
- Resilient
- Confident
This five-part flourishing model underpins the Positive Education framework BSM has adopted in its pastoral and well-being programmes — a research-backed approach that blends academic rigour with social-emotional development.
Holistic Development in Practice
BSM's philosophy is not limited to academic achievement. The school runs 180+ weekly after-school activities across five strands (Sports & Recreation, Arts & Culture, STEM & Innovation, Science & Entrepreneurship, Social & Service), providing every student with opportunities to discover passions, build character and contribute to their community. The Taguig Scholarship Programme further reflects BSM's commitment to social responsibility, extending access to outstanding local students from public schools.
The friendly, family-like atmosphere the school cultivates — emphasised across its official communications — translates into strong community bonds between students, staff and parent body.
Diverse International Community and the Taguig Scholarship Programme
Over 52 nationalities make up BSM's ~978-student body, while the Taguig Scholarship bridges BSM with the local Philippine community.
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A Truly International Community
With students from over 52 nationalities and approximately 978 enrolled pupils, the British School Manila is one of the most internationally diverse schools in the Philippines. The student body includes:
- Expatriate children of multinational company employees
- Children of diplomats and embassy staff
- Returning Filipino families
- Local Filipino families seeking an international education
This diversity enriches classroom discussions, cultural events and the school's co-curricular life.
The Taguig Scholarship Programme
Since 2006, BSM has partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) Taguig to run the Taguig Scholarship Programme — one of the school's most distinctive community initiatives:
- A small number of outstanding students from public high schools in Taguig and Pateros are selected annually (typically 3–5 new scholars per year; 20+ on programme at any time)
- The scholarship is fully funded, covering: tuition, school supplies, meals, transport and uniforms
- It is merit-and-need based — candidates must demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need
- Scholars participate fully in BSM's IB Diploma or A-level programme and proceed to university
This programme exemplifies BSM's commitment to its host community and to widening access to world-class education in the Philippines.
Parent Community and Governance
BSM is governed by a 12-member Board of Governors (chaired by Tim Daniels), operating under British Education, Inc. — a non-profit structure that reinvests surpluses into campus facilities and programmes. The parent community is active, with Parent Teacher Association involvement in school events and fundraising.
The school's location in Bonifacio Global City, Metro Manila's international business hub, means it is well-placed to serve the city's large expatriate and diplomatic community.
Modern 3-Hectare BGC Campus with World-Class Facilities
BSM's Bonifacio Global City campus spans 3 hectares with a Creative Arts Centre, two pools, two football fields and recently refurbished facilities.
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Campus & Facilities
The British School Manila occupies a 3-hectare campus in University Park, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) — one of Manila's most modern and well-connected districts. The school moved to this purpose-built site in 2002 and has continued investing in facilities ever since.
Sports Facilities
- Indoor multi-purpose sports hall — basketball, volleyball, badminton (large gymnasium)
- Covered outdoor court — roofed hardcourt for additional sports and activities
- Two football pitches — full-sized grass/astroturf, used for training and FOBISSEA-level competition
- Two swimming pools — one competition-size, both terrain-level and outdoor
Arts & Culture
- Creative Arts Centre (opened 2019) — purpose-built glass-fronted building designed by Lor Calma & Partners, featuring:
- Music practice rooms
- Drama studio
- Dance studio
- Gallery atrium
- Used for Drama Club, Ballet, String Orchestra and school productions
Academic Facilities
- Library / Learning Resource Centre (opened 2014) — modern library with media and computer lab
- Science Laboratories — refurbished in 2024; separate labs for Physics, Chemistry and Biology
- ICT Suite (El Nido cluster) — updated computer labs with modern hardware (renovated 2024)
Dining
- FoodiE Bistros — separate cafeteria-style dining for Primary and Senior students, refurbished in 2024
Other
- EYFS outdoor playgrounds
- Hardcourt tennis and net sport courts
- Art workshop rooms
- School shop
The campus atmosphere is described as friendly and family-like, with open green spaces and modern shared areas that encourage student interaction across year groups. Recent capital investments (2024 refurbishments) signal continued commitment to maintaining world-class learning environments.
Pastoral Care, Positive Education and Comprehensive Student Support
BSM's multi-disciplinary Student Support Team, Positive Education framework and anti-bullying policies create a holistic well-being environment.
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Pastoral Care at BSM
BSM places student well-being at the heart of its educational model, running a comprehensive pastoral system from Early Years through Year 13.
Student Support Team
The school operates a multi-disciplinary Student Support Team that includes:
- Full-time school counsellors (grade-level pastoral leads)
- Learning support specialists
- Speech and language therapists
- Occupational therapists
- A school nurse on staff
Every new student is assigned a mentor or buddy to ease their transition into the school community — a particularly important feature given BSM's mobile, international student body where families join and leave throughout the year.
Positive Education Framework
BSM has formally adopted a Positive Education approach in its pastoral programme. Rooted in evidence-based positive psychology, this framework aims to cultivate:
- Emotional resilience
- Growth mindset
- Healthy relationships
- Sense of purpose and engagement
This is woven into form-time sessions, PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education), and whole-school events.
Learning Support
The Learning Support Department provides tailored assistance for students with special educational needs (SEN) across all year groups (Early Years to Year 13). Support is delivered through:
- In-class differentiation
- Small-group withdrawal sessions
- 1:1 specialist support
EAL (English as an Additional Language) support is also available and is assessed upon entry for non-native English speakers.
Safeguarding
BSM has a dedicated safeguarding department and robust anti-bullying and child protection policies. These are regularly reviewed against international best practice standards, consistent with the school's CIS and COBIS accreditation requirements.
About the School
- Established
- 1976
Mission
The British School Manila provides an outstanding holistic British international education, empowering students to flourish as global citizens with the skills, understanding and values to make a positive contribution to our world.
Educational philosophy
BSM provides an outstanding holistic British international education, empowering students to flourish as global citizens. The school follows the English National Curriculum and offers Cambridge IGCSE and IB Diploma programmes. It emphasizes inquiry-based learning, student well-being through Positive Education, and character development so that every student is happy, healthy, reflective, resilient and confident.
Core values
Respect, Integrity, Kindness
History
BSM was established in 1976 in the old Union Church building with only 36 students. It expanded through the 1980s (relocating to Paranaque), hosted the first FOBISSEA games in 1992, and added secondary education (Key Stage 3) in 1997. The school moved to its current Bonifacio Global City campus in 2002 and gained IB authorization in 2003. BSM became the first school in the Philippines accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) in 2007. It celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2016 and has continued to grow to nearly 1,000 students from over 52 nationalities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What curriculum does British School Manila teach?
British School Manila offers A-Levels, IB Diploma Programme, IGCSE and UK National Curriculum.
Is British School Manila an IB World School?
Yes, British School Manila is an IB World School offering the IB Diploma Programme.
How much is annual tuition at British School Manila?
Annual tuition at British School Manila ranges from PHP 264,090 to PHP 697,155 (PHP), depending on the grade level.
What additional fees should I budget for at British School Manila?
In addition to tuition, British School Manila charges a registration fee of PHP 30,000.
What are the admission requirements for British School Manila?
BSM is open to students of all nationalities aged 3–18. All applicants must demonstrate age-appropriate English proficiency and sit an entrance assessment tailored to year group (observation/informal for Early Years; multi-hour written test for Years 3–6; full-morning exam plus short interview for Year 7 and above). A wait-pool operates when year groups are full, with priority given to diplomats, alumni children, and siblings. Applications can be made year-round with priority deadlines in mid-January for Year 7 and Year 12 entry.
Where is British School Manila located?
British School Manila is located in Manila, Philippines.
What ages does British School Manila accept?
British School Manila accepts students from age 2 to 18.
How many students attend British School Manila?
British School Manila has approximately 978 students from 52+ nationalities.
Does British School Manila provide EAL/ESL support?
Yes, British School Manila provides EAL (English as an Additional Language) support.
Does British School Manila have a school bus?
Yes, British School Manila offers a school bus service with 4 routes. BSM operates its own school bus service covering Bonifacio Global City, Makati, Ortigas and Alabang (4 routes). Annual bus fees apply; details on request.
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Last updated: Jun 25, 2026
Sources: the school's official website, accreditation bodies (e.g. IBO, CIS), and public records.