Bahamas (BS)

An English-speaking Caribbean archipelago close to Florida, known for high-end tourism, no personal income tax, strong financial services, second-home communities, turquoise water and very high island living costs.

Capital: Nassau

Region: Americas

Language: English

Currency: BSD ($)

Cost of living: Expensive (index 75)

Emergency: 911

Education & Schools

Schools, universities, and language courses in Bahamas.

👶 Childcare & Kindergarten

Daycare / preschool BSD 500-1,500+ depending island and quality

Age: 0-5

Apply directly with birth certificate, immunisation records and emergency contacts.

⏱️ Nassau premium preschools fill early.

Nanny BSD 1,000-2,500+ plus payroll/NIB considerations

Age: 0-12

Use references, police check and written employment terms.

🏫 Schools

Primary school Free

Primary school

Ages: Approx. 5-11 · Language: English

Public or private school application with birth certificate, passport/permit, immunisation and previous records.

Public schools are available, but many expat families use private or international-style schools.

Secondary school Free

Junior/Senior High School

Ages: Approx. 11-18 · Language: English

Apply with transcripts, exam records, passport/permit and interview/placement assessment where required.

Curriculum continuity matters for families moving onward to US, UK or Canadian systems.

International Schools

Popular private options include Lyford Cay International School, St Andrew's International School, Windsor School and other private academies. Fees can range from several thousand to over BSD 25,000/year.

University

Tuition fee

University of The Bahamas and private/overseas programmes vary by residency and programme.

Semester fee

Programme dependent; budget for books, transport and housing.

Student visa

Foreign students need the appropriate Immigration permission unless covered by a remote-study or residence route.

Health insurance

Private medical insurance is strongly recommended for international students.

Application process

Apply directly with certified transcripts, passport, references and immigration status.

🗣️ Language Courses

English support

Provider: Private tutors/schools · Duration: Flexible · Levels: All levels

BSD 40-100/hour

English is the official language.

Bahamian Creole/culture orientation

Provider: Community tutors and cultural programmes · Duration: Flexible · Levels: Beginner conversation

Varies

Useful for local integration.

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