ISB Scholarship Programme 2026

The International School of Bucharest (ISB) offers a life‑changing opportunity for academically gifted students in Romania who demonstrate exceptional conduct and financial need. The ISB Scholarship Programme provides full or partial scholarships to external candidates aged 14 and 16, covering the two‑year IGCSE programme (Years 10–11) or the two‑year International Baccalaureate (IB) programme (Years 12–13).

If you are a high‑achieving student in Bucharest who dreams of a world‑class international education but cannot afford private school fees, this scholarship could be your pathway to success. For students exploring similar opportunities across Europe, you can browse fully funded scholarships in Romania for international students to discover additional funding options in the region.

Overview of the ISB Scholarship Programme

The ISB Scholarship Programme is designed to provide access to high standards of education for external candidates who live in Bucharest, thrive academically, and maintain impeccable conduct. The Lumina Board determines the annual budget, and the ISB Scholarship Committee decides the amount awarded to each student after interviews. Scholarships are renewable annually, provided scholars continue to demonstrate academic excellence, a clean disciplinary record, and positive contributions to the school community. The programme reflects ISB’s core values: Learn, Respect, Succeed.

Eligible Candidates

The scholarship is open to external candidates (not currently enrolled at ISB) who are:

• Aged 14 at the start of Year 10 (entering the IGCSE programme)

• Aged 16 at the start of Year 12 (entering the IB programme)

Both full and partial scholarships are available, depending on financial need, academic merit, and the committee’s assessment.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful scholars receive:

• Full or partial tuition coverage for the IGCSE (Years 10–11) or IB (Years 12–13) programme

• Access to ISB’s world‑class facilities, international curriculum, and experienced faculty

• A supportive community that values academic excellence, leadership, and service

• Renewable support each year, subject to continued academic achievement and conduct

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

• Be external candidates aged 14 or 16 at the start of the respective programme

• Demonstrate financial need (parents must fully disclose family income)

• Show excellent academic results (supported by transcripts and online test scores)

• Exhibit impeccable behaviour conduct and alignment with ISB’s core values

• Be prepared to submit all required financial and academic documentation

For students also considering international study options in neighbouring countries, you can explore latest scholarships in Hungary for all nationalities to compare programmes in Central Europe.

Required Documents

Shortlisted candidates must bring the following original documents to the interview:

• Official school academic transcripts for the past 3 full academic years plus the current year (to date)

• Both parents’ income statements for the past three months (salary slips, pension coupons, etc.)

• State allowance for children and any other state allowances (with documentation)

• Rental contract (if income from rental properties applies)

• Notarised declaration from parents stating they have no other financial resources

• If divorced, legal documents proving custody of the child

• Copies of parents’ IDs

• Copies of all siblings’ birth certificates

Failure to provide all necessary documentation by the deadline will result in disqualification.

Minimum Academic Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum online test scores:

• Year 10 applicants: YELLIS score ≥ 130

• Year 12 applicants: IBCE results ≥ 125

Students who have already taken IGCSEs are expected to have achieved at least *6 A or A grades**.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather academic transcripts, financial statements, and all required documentation listed above.

Step 2: Submit Your Application by Email
Send your application to admissions@isb.ro by 6 March 2026. Ensure all materials are included.

Step 3: Shortlisting & Testing
Between 9–13 March, the committee reviews applications. Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview and assessment (online test and written essay) between 16–20 March.

Step 4: Final Selection
The committee announces the winners by 30 March 2026. Selected candidates must sign a contract and complete ISB admission procedures.

Step 5: Annual Renewal
Scholarships are renewed each year based on continued academic excellence, conduct, and updated financial information.

For students seeking other European scholarship programmes, you can review Poland's latest scholarships in 2026 to broaden your search.

Important Dates   

The application deadline is 6 March 2026. After submission, the committee review will take place from 9 to 13 March 2026. Candidates who pass this stage will proceed to tests and interviews scheduled between 16 and 20 March 2026. Finally, the winners will be announced on 30 March 2026.  

Why Choose the ISB Scholarship Programme

The ISB Scholarship Programme offers several compelling advantages:

• Access to an International Curriculum: Study IGCSE and IB programmes recognised by top universities worldwide.

• Holistic Support: Beyond academics, scholars become part of a community that nurtures leadership, service, and personal growth.

• Financial Transparency: Awards are tailored to genuine need, with a clear annual review process.

• Strong Community Ethos: Scholars serve as role models, embodying the school’s values of Learn, Respect, Succeed.

• Strategic Location: Bucharest is a vibrant European capital with rich cultural and educational opportunities.

If you are also considering opportunities in other parts of Europe, you can browse financial aids for students in Europe to discover additional funding sources.

Final Thoughts

The ISB Scholarship Programme is a rare opportunity for motivated students in Bucharest to receive a first‑class international education without financial burden. Whether you are entering the IGCSE years or aiming for the IB diploma, this scholarship recognises academic excellence, financial need, and strong character. With a strict 6 March 2026 deadline, it is essential to prepare your application well in advance. Gather your transcripts, financial documents, and prepare for the online tests and interview. This could be the start of a transformative educational journey that opens doors to universities around the world.

Apply Now for ISB Scholarship Programme