American International School - Riyadh

The school is committed to cultivating inquisitive, independent, and resilient learners who inspire positive change in their communities. Its educational approach is based on research-driven learning principles that emphasize active, thinking-based learning within reciprocal relationships. The school fosters a collaborative culture where education extends beyond information recall to stimulate critical thinking and lifelong learning.

The school offers an enriched American curriculum modeled on AERO and Common Core State Standards, with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme available for students in Grades 11 and 12. The academic programme is designed to encourage creative thinking, critical reasoning, and effective communication across all subject areas. Instruction is provided by a highly qualified faculty, many of whom hold Master’s degrees or advanced teaching certifications.

Graduates of the school are accepted into top-tier colleges and universities across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Middle East, including institutions such as Yale, Stanford, MIT, McGill, and King’s College London. Students pursue diverse fields of study, ranging from the natural sciences and engineering to fine arts, law, and entrepreneurship. The school maintains a strong record of academic success, with graduates frequently receiving significant scholarship awards.

The school provides support for students through an English Language Learners (ELL) programme and additional learning strategy services. These services are provided based on assessment results and teacher recommendations, and may involve additional fees. The school does not offer a dedicated special needs programme for students with significant learning requirements, nor does it provide a gifted and talented programme.

The school operates a rolling application process, with applications for the following academic year opening on August 1st. Prospective families must submit comprehensive documentation, including previous school records, standardized test results, and immunization records, before being considered for admissions testing. Applicants for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 2 must complete on-site assessments, while students in Grades 3-12 may be eligible for remote testing or exemptions based on specific criteria. Admission decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, subject to class size limitations and the school's ability to meet the student's needs.

The school follows a North American-style academic calendar that runs from August to early June, totaling 176 instructional days. The schedule includes a fall break in October, a winter holiday around the New Year, and a spring break in February.

Located in North Riyadh, the school features a purpose-built, state-of-the-art campus designed to support modern learning and student wellbeing. The facilities include specialized teaching and learning spaces, an assessment lab, dining halls, and extensive sports and activity areas. The campus environment incorporates natural elements, including plants and various live animals, to support student curiosity.

The school provides a wide range of extracurricular opportunities designed to nurture student growth beyond the classroom. These include athletics and activities across the elementary, middle, and high school divisions, as well as the "Week Without Walls" programme. Students are encouraged to pursue their passions and strengths through these diverse offerings.