GEMS American Academy - Qatar
Part of GEMS Education, Founded 2014
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
GEMS American Academy Qatar is a highly-rated, international American curriculum school serving students from Pre-K to Grade 12. It is a GEMS Education flagship school in Qatar, known for its commitment to high-quality, affordable education and a diverse student population.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is committed to an educational excellence plan that focuses on real-world problem solving, cultural competency, and cross-cultural understanding. It aims to empower students to become self-directed, next-generation leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs through a "doing-by-learning" approach. The school emphasizes a supportive, vibrant community that prioritizes student-centered decision-making and academic, social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
Programmes
The school offers an enriched American curriculum, culminating in the American High School Diploma. The Early Years program (Pre-K and KG1) utilizes a play-based approach grounded in the Creative Curriculum, while the Middle School (Grades 6–8) provides a holistic program. The High School (Grades 9–12) offers an academically challenging pre-university pathway, including over 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses audited by the College Board.
Outcomes
GAAQ reports a 100% university acceptance rate, with graduates attending prestigious universities worldwide. The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and has received the Qatar Green Building Council’s Sustainability Award. It is also recognized as a "Top Ten International School in Qatar" and holds the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains an Upper School Counseling Department and a health clinic to support student well-being. A dedicated team of educators is committed to student care and support, ensuring a secure and successful environment for all learners.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does GEMS American Academy - Qatar offer?
- GEMS American Academy - Qatar offers Advanced Placement.
- How much is tuition at GEMS American Academy - Qatar?
- Annual tuition at GEMS American Academy - Qatar is QAR 35.2K–QAR 59.7K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does GEMS American Academy - Qatar hold?
- GEMS American Academy - Qatar holds accreditations including NEASC.
- Where is GEMS American Academy - Qatar located?
- GEMS American Academy - Qatar is an international school in Doha, Qatar.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| KG1 - KG2 | — | QAR 35.2K |
| 1 | — | QAR 41.5K |
| 2 | — | QAR 43K |
| 3 | — | QAR 43.5K |
| 4 | — | QAR 46.2K |
| 5 | — | QAR 47.5K |
| 6 | — | QAR 48.8K |
| 7 - 9 | — | QAR 54.5K |
| 10 - 12 | — | QAR 59.7K |
Other fees(4)
| Registration fee· PRE K – KG2 Registration Fee | QAR 3.2K |
|---|---|
| Registration fee· Grades 1 – 12 Registration Fee | QAR 3.5K |
| Placement test· No assessment fee for Pre-K, KG1, and KG2 students | QAR 200 |
| Materials· Annual stationery fees. Parents can opt to pay this or provide every item on the required list. | QAR 1K |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 15% - 25%
Admissions
GEMS American Academy Qatar (GAAQ) admits students from Pre-K to Grade 12 in accordance with GEMS policies and Qatar Ministry of Education (MOE) regulations. The admissions process is managed through a virtual center, and prospective families are encouraged to book campus tours. Registration for the 2025–2026 academic year is currently open, with specific age requirements and grade placement guidelines in place.
Calendar
The school provides academic calendars for the 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 academic years, which are available for download in PDF format. These documents outline the key dates and terms for the school year.
Facilities
About the campus
The school operates from a brand-new, 20,000-square-meter purpose-built facility in Al Wukair. The campus features state-of-the-art learning environments, including a music production studio and an aquaponic greenhouse. Outdoor and environmental facilities include a fish and turtle pond, palm trees, and areas dedicated to sustainability initiatives.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a variety of student clubs and organizations, emphasizing that extracurricular participation is as important as academic performance. Athletics are available for upper-elementary, middle, and high school students through interscholastic and after-school programs, including membership in the Qatar Private Primary Schools Sports Association (QPPSSA), Qatar United English Speaking Schools (QUESS), and the Schools Olympic Program (SOP). Additionally, students can participate in arts, global citizenship initiatives, and the high school Spanish publication, El Periódico. Student leadership opportunities are available through the Student Council, which includes roles such as President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Communications Lead.
Dr. Susan BordenHead of School/CEODr. Susan Borden serves as the Head of School/CEO of GEMS American Academy Qatar, where she leads a supportive and vibrant community focused on student growth, collaboration, and achievement.
Advanced Placement
NEASC