Panama has more than 20 international and bilingual private schools, concentrated in Panama City — mainly in Costa del Este, Clayton/Ciudad del Saber and the north corridor. Families can choose among full International Baccalaureate curricula (International School of Panama, Metropolitan School of Panama), US curriculum (Balboa Academy), British (King's College Panama) and French AEFE (Lycée Français International de Panamá, formerly Lycée Paul Gauguin), plus bilingual local-international hybrids. Annual tuition ranges roughly from $5,000 at bilingual private schools to $20,000+ at top international schools, plus entrance or capital fees; amounts change yearly, so verify directly with each school. Two calendars coexist: the international one (August-June) at most international schools and the local Panamanian one (March-December, regulated by MEDUCA) at local private schools. Waitlists are common at the most sought-after schools — apply early. The Ciudad del Saber area is especially popular with international families.