
Hsinchu American School
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
Hsinchu American School is a co-educational, college-preparatory international school serving grades 1 through 12 in Hsinchu, Taiwan. It provides an American-based curriculum designed to prepare students for success at top universities worldwide.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that promotes academic excellence, innovation, and character development. It emphasizes the cultivation of life-long learners, critical thinkers, and global citizens. The institution prioritizes a family-like atmosphere where students are encouraged to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Programmes
The school offers an American-based curriculum for university-bound students, utilizing a rotating A/B day block schedule where students take eight year-long classes. The academic program includes a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, such as Calculus AB/BC, Biology, Computer Science A, Physics C, Physics 2, Psychology, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Seminar, and World History. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation across all grade levels.
Outcomes
The school is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) for grades 1-12, ensuring that credits are accepted by universities worldwide. Graduates have been accepted into prestigious institutions in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Taiwan. The school does not rank students and utilizes a weighted GPA system for AP and honors courses.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio to foster an inclusive environment. Teachers are dedicated to facilitating the academic and personal growth of each individual student, placing them at the center of the classroom experience.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Hsinchu American School offer?
- Hsinchu American School offers Advanced Placement.
- How much is tuition at Hsinchu American School?
- Annual tuition at Hsinchu American School is NT$ 430k–NT$ 490k. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Hsinchu American School hold?
- Hsinchu American School holds accreditations including WASC.
- Is Hsinchu American School co-educational?
- Hsinchu American School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Hsinchu American School located?
- Hsinchu American School is an international school in Hsinchu, Taiwan.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1-5 | 6–11 | NT$ 430k |
| Grade 6-8 | 11–14 | NT$ 470k |
| Grade 9-12 | 14–18 | NT$ 490k |
Other fees(13)
| Application fee· Entrance Fee (Includes testing, credit evaluation, and/or interview) for new students | NT$ 5k |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee· Capital Fee: Per Child (For 1 Child). For more than 1 child, it is NT$180,000 per family. For new students. | NT$ 100k |
| Registration fee· Annual Registration Fee | NT$ 40k |
| Registration fee· Annual Facility Fee | NT$ 40k |
| Materials· Annual Student Council Fee | NT$ 3k |
| Registration fee· Annual Parent Association Fee | NT$ 3k |
| Materials· Annual Student Activities Fee | NT$ 9k |
| Materialssemester· Grade 1-5 Books & Software Fee | NT$ 19.6k |
| Materialssemester· Grade 6-8 Books & Software Fee | NT$ 17.8k |
| Materialssemester· Grade 9-12 Books & Software Fee | NT$ 24.4k |
| Mealssemester· Fall Lunch Fee | NT$ 16.6k |
| Mealssemester· Spring Lunch Fee | NT$ 17.0k |
| Bus / transportsemester· Route-based Fare. Door-to-door transportation service. Fares vary by route. One-way and round-trip options available. | — |
Admissions
The school accepts applications for students in grades 1 through 12. The admissions process includes testing, credit evaluation, and/or an interview. Prospective families are encouraged to attend open house events to learn more about the school's community and educational offerings.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic calendar that includes a rotating A/B day block schedule for classes. Families can access and download the current academic calendar, including specific dates for the school year, via the school's website.
Facilities
About the campus
Located within the Chung Hua University campus, the school occupies a 21,500-square-meter site. The campus features modern classrooms, science and computer laboratories, art and music studios, and a library. Athletic facilities are available to support the school's sports programs and student physical development.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a variety of activities, including the Student Council, Model United Nations, the World Scholar's Cup, and student publications. The school also maintains an active athletics program featuring sports such as basketball, volleyball, and swimming, with opportunities for inter-school competitions and tournaments. Additionally, students engage in community service initiatives, such as volunteering with local social welfare organizations.






- Derek KensingerPrincipal
Derek Kensinger serves as the Principal of Hsinchu American School, where he oversees the institution's commitment to academic excellence and student well-being. He emphasizes the school's WASC accreditation and its focus on providing a distinctive, American-based educational experience.
- Marie-Louise BurdenVice Principal
Marie-Louise Burden serves as the Vice Principal of Hsinchu American School.
Advanced Placement
WASC