The Washington DC public school system of education is among the most reputable in the nation. Expat students are eligible to attend schools within school zone boundaries, although attending a school outside of this is possible following an application. Both Maryland and Virginia have their own school systems that are separate from DC's.

Among the top-rated public schools are Banneker Senior High School, Capital City PCS and Deal Junior High School. Other top schools are Eagle Academy PCS, Deal Junior High Schools and Eaton Elementary School.

Many expats also choose to send their children to private schools in Washington DC. The Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington (AISGW) is a collection of 84 accredited private schools in the DC area. The most elite private schools can cost over $26,000 a year, although many others are less than half that cost.

There are also a number of international schools that can continue overseas curriculum.