Acacia International School vs Kampala International School Uganda
Acacia International School and Kampala International School Uganda are both in Kampala, about 6 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE programmes. Acacia International School also offers Bespoke, American and Advanced Placement (AP), and Kampala International School Uganda also offers British and IB. Published annual fees are UGX 26,925,798 - 46,986,683 at Acacia International School and UGX 16,647,325 - 105,433,060 at Kampala International School Uganda, which puts Kampala International School Uganda roughly 65% higher. Acacia International School takes pupils from 3 to 18, and Kampala International School Uganda from 1 to 18. Kampala International School Uganda is the larger school, with around 500 pupils to Acacia International School's 280. Typical class sizes are 22 at Acacia International School and 15 at Kampala International School Uganda.
Bespoke Curriculum, American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), Cambridge IGCSE
Curriculum
British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)
Pupils
Pupils
280
Pupils
500
Typical class size
Typical class size
22
Typical class size
15
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
2012
Opened
1993
Bus service
Bus service
No
Bus service
No
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Located in Kampala, Uganda. The main address is Plot 1222 Zzimwe Road, Kampala, Uganda. The school serves students from Early Years through High School, with a Lakeside Campus development underway to expand facilities.
Levels include Early Years (ages 3–5); Elementary (K5–Grade 5); Middle School (Grades 6–8); High School (Grades 9–12).
Stages
Early Years; Primary School (Key Stage 1; Key Stage 2); IB Diploma
School type
School type
The school is a Christian international day school.
School type
International day school offering the IB Diploma Programme.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
Over 450 students representing 46+ nationalities.
Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Limited support for mild special educational needs; assessed case-by-case with probationary enrollment and an independent assessment; parents billed for the consultant. English language support is available and provided where appropriate.
Additional learning support
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Country affiliation
Country affiliation
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Country affiliation
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Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
Christian
Religious affiliation
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School day structure
School day structure
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School day structure
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Bus service details
Bus service details
There is no school bus service; independent bus companies serve some students and some families carpool.
Bus service details
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Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application & Admissions Fees
- Admissions assessment (English & Mathematics): USD 50 (payable before the assessment). - WIDA MODEL online English proficiency assessment (Grades 6–12, English language learners): USD 40. - Admissions fee: a non-specified Admissions Fee must be paid within two weeks of an offer to secure a place; payment of this fee confirms the student's place. (Exact Admissions Fee amount is listed in the school's full fee schedule.)
Tuition fees (overview by year / term)
- Annual fee range (published): USD 6,000–USD 13,000 per year (this is the published annual range for the 2025–2026 fee materials). The school describes its fees as all-inclusive (see list of included items below). - Detailed, grade-by-grade fee amounts and per-term figures are published in the school's formal fee schedule documents. Those fee-schedule documents contain the full breakdown by year group and by term. The school's published 2025–2026 fee schedule is the most recent detailed schedule available.
What the annual tuition covers (all-inclusive items)
- Field trips, textbooks, stationery, and sports coaching for the International Schools Association of Kampala (ISSAK) league are included in the tuition. For students in Grades 10–12, external examination entry charges are included in the tuition.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Annual payment: The school notes that families can save money by paying annually. - Admissions fee: must be paid within two weeks of an offer to secure the place. - Receipting: bank deposit slips must be brought to the finance office so receipts can be issued and parent accounts updated. - The formal fee schedule documents provide the school's standard billing instalment options and any deadlines (per-term due dates and late-payment conditions). See the school's fee schedule for exact instalment dates and any discounts or penalties.
Boarding fees
- Boarding is not available at present. The school is in the process of developing a Lakeside campus that will include boarding facilities; therefore, there are no current boarding fees.
Other costs or fees
- Uniforms, lunches, and after-school-club charges are billed separately; cash is accepted at the finance office for these smaller payments. Exact uniform and meal prices are set out in the full fee schedule and the school's shop/finance notices. - Special-needs assessment: when an independent special-needs assessment is required, the parents are billed for the cost of that consultant. - Third-child discount: a 30% discount applies for a third child in the same family. - Bursary program: the school operates a limited bursary program for gifted students enrolling in Grades 9 and 10; eligibility and the value of bursaries vary.
Refund information
- The public admissions and fee-overview material does not list a detailed refund policy in the summary information. The school's full fee schedule provides the specific refund, withdrawal, and cancellation terms (including any forfeiture of the Admissions Fee or terms for pro-rated refunds). Consult the school's formal fee schedule or the finance office for precise refund rules and any applicable deadlines.
Fee payment options (accepted methods and bank details)
- Bank deposit (US$ only). Deposit slips must be brought to the finance office for a receipt. Account name: Acacia Education Services Limited; Bank: Stanbic; Account Number: 9030015341377; Branch: Forest Mall, Kampala. - Check: accepted in US$ or UGX (make payable to Acacia Education Services). - Wire transfer (US$ only): Stanbic Bank Ltd; Swift: SBICUGKX; Sort Code: 040147; Account Name: Acacia Education Services Ltd; Dollar Account Number: 9030015341377. - Cash: accepted only at the finance office for smaller items (e.g., after-school clubs, uniforms, lunches). Tuition payments should be made at Stanbic Bank as per the school's instructions.
Summary of what I located and what remains to be extracted
- Located and confirmed: admissions-assessment fees (USD 50; WIDA MODEL USD 40), published annual fee range (USD 6,000–USD 13,000 for the 2025–2026 materials), which items are included in tuition, the lack of current boarding, the third-child discount (30%), bursary availability for Grades 9–10, accepted payment methods, and bank account details. - Remaining detail required by your brief that is contained in the school's formal fee schedule but was not extractable in this summary: the full, grade-by-grade tuition figures (showing per-term and per-year amounts for each specific year group), the precise Admissions Fee amount, the explicit per-item charges for uniforms/meals if any, and the school's detailed refund/cancellation timetable and penalties. Those items are published in the school's formal fee schedule documents for 2025–2026.
Contact for finance queries: finance@acaciaschool.org (use this address for precise per-grade figures, admissions fee amount, the current academic-year fee schedule, and full refund terms).
Fee details
Application / Enrolment fees - Enrolment fee for Early Years (KG & Reception): USD 580. A top-up of USD 2,630 is applied when a pupil moves into Year 1, yielding the full enrolment charge for Early Years → Year 1 entry. - Enrolment fee for Year 1 through IB2 (one-time): USD 3,200 (presented as the standard enrolment/entrance charge for Year 1–IB2). - A separate school statement of financial terms also records an enrolment amount of USD 2,350 to be paid on the day of enrolment and notes this fee as non-refundable; this figure appears alongside the other published enrolment amounts.
Tuition fees — Term fees (per term) - Kindergarten 1–3: Tuition USD 1,540; Lunch USD 430; Total per term USD 1,970. - Reception: Tuition USD 3,870; Lunch USD 440; Total per term USD 4,310. - Year 1 & 2: Tuition USD 7,030; Lunch USD 550; Total per term USD 7,580. - Year 3–6: Tuition USD 7,680; Lunch USD 550; Total per term USD 8,230. - Year 7–9: Tuition USD 8,830; Lunch USD 600; Total per term USD 9,430. - Year 10: Tuition USD 8,830; lunch is optional at USD 600 — total per term USD 8,830 (without lunch) or USD 9,430 (with lunch). - Year 11: Tuition USD 13,225 per term; lunch optional at USD 600 — total per term USD 13,225 (without lunch) or USD 13,825 (with lunch). Year 11 is payable in two half-yearly payments (school notes the payment frequency for Year 11). - IB1 (Year 12): Tuition USD 14,630 per term; lunch optional at USD 600 — total per term USD 14,630 (without lunch) or USD 15,230 (with lunch). IB1 is shown as payable in two half‑yearly payments. - IB2 (Year 13): Tuition USD 14,630 per term; lunch optional at USD 600 — total per term USD 14,630 (without lunch) or USD 15,230 (with lunch). IB2 is shown as payable in two half‑yearly payments.
Tuition fees — Annual fees (per year) - Kindergarten 1–3: Tuition USD 4,600; Lunch USD 1,240; Total per year USD 5,840. - Reception: Tuition USD 11,560; Lunch USD 1,300; Total per year USD 12,860. - Year 1 & 2: Tuition USD 21,060; Lunch USD 1,600; Total per year USD 22,660. - Year 3–6: Tuition USD 23,010; Lunch USD 1,600; Total per year USD 24,610. - Year 7–9: Tuition USD 26,450; Lunch USD 1,760; Total per year USD 28,210. - Year 10: Tuition USD 26,450 per year; lunch optional USD 1,760 — total per year USD 26,450 (without lunch) or USD 28,210 (with lunch). - Year 11: Tuition USD 26,450 per year; lunch optional USD 1,760 — total per year USD 26,450 (without lunch) or USD 28,210 (with lunch). Year 11 payment frequency is listed as two half‑yearly payments in the published schedule. - IB1 (Year 12): Tuition USD 29,250 per year; lunch optional USD 1,760 — total per year USD 29,250 (without lunch) or USD 31,010 (with lunch). IB1 is shown as payable in two half‑yearly payments. - IB2 (Year 13): Tuition USD 29,250 per year; lunch optional USD 1,760 — total per year USD 29,250 (without lunch) or USD 31,010 (with lunch). IB2 is shown as payable in two half‑yearly payments.
Transport (bus) fees - Bus fee per term: One‑way USD 495; Two‑way USD 680.
Billing schedule and payment terms - Some year groups (Year 11 and the two IB years) are shown as payable in two half‑yearly payments; other year groups are presented with term and annual totals so fees are billed on a term or annual basis as indicated. - All fees must be paid by the published due date; parents must pay fees for the next term before the last day of the current term. Outstanding accounts may result in exclusion from class or withholding of official documents. - External examination fees (IGCSE and IB) are billed separately and must be paid prior to exam registration.
Boarding fees - Boarding is not available at this school; there are no published boarding fees.
Other costs and charges - Lunch: lunch fees are shown separately for each year group and may be optional for some grades (Year 10, Year 11, IB1, IB2 show optional lunch at the published rate). These lunch charges are included in the term and annual totals where noted. - Enrolment / admission-related top‑ups and staged enrolment charges (Early Years top‑up to Year 1, and the larger single enrolment charge for Year 1–IB2) are published as set amounts under the enrolment section. - External examination fees (IGCSE and IB) and other exam‑related charges are billed separately. - Co‑curricular clubs and activity sessions may charge separately; the school's published CCA guidance specifies that fees for CCA blocks are non‑refundable if a pupil cannot attend all sessions. - International trips and optional excursions are described as part of the school programme; such trips are typically charged separately from tuition and will appear as additional costs when offered. - Uniform costs are not listed in the published fee schedule and are not given as fixed amounts in the publicly available fee documents. Parents should expect separate uniform purchases or charges arranged through the school or approved suppliers.
Refunds and cancellation policy - Fees once paid are non‑refundable. The published financial agreement states that if a child is absent for more than three weeks or withdraws from the school, no refund will be issued. If a child is asked to leave for disciplinary reasons, no fees will be refunded.
Fee payment arrangements and contact for payment instructions - The school's financial terms state that payment is to be made to the Bursar's office; parents are required to follow the school's invoicing and bursar procedures and to settle all outstanding fees by the due dates. Specific bank account details or card/payment processor details are not published on the fee schedule pages; contact the Admissions or Office email addresses for the school's accepted payment methods and bank details. - Admissions and finance contact details published with the fee materials: admissions@kisu.com and office@kisu.com; Admissions phone +256 752 711882.
Notes on inconsistencies in published enrolment figures - The school's published materials include more than one enrolment figure: the Fees Structure shows Early Years as USD 580 (with top‑up) and USD 3,200 for Year 1–IB2, while the Agreement of Financial Terms and Conditions page records an enrolment fee amount of USD 2,350 payable on the day of enrolment. These differing published figures should be clarified with school admissions or the Bursar's office when arranging enrolment and payment.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
Uniforms are available through the Uniform Shop. Uniform Shop Opening Times: Monday to Friday 7.30am–8.45am and 2.15–3.45pm; Saturdays 9.00am–11.00am; or by appointment.
Food options
Food options
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Food options
Lunches are provided and compulsory for all students up to and including Year 9. Students in Year 10 and above may opt to eat school lunches or may provide their own. The lunch menu is rotated throughout each term and includes vegetarian options on Wednesdays.
House system
House system
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House system
All students are allocated a house: Bwindi, Otukei, Kibale, Semliki and compete in inter-house events.
Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Kindergarten to Grade 8 follows the Core Knowledge scope and sequence in most subjects. This is a Classical curriculum developed in the United States for a diverse, international classroom. World history is studied through Story of the World, and Mathematics follows Singapore Math. In Grades 9–10, students prepare for Cambridge IGCSEs, with Bible, Physical Education and a Service Project component. In Grades 11–12, Acacia offers an American curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses, culminating in an American High School Diploma with AP.
Curriculum details
The school follows the National Curriculum for England with modifications for the Ugandan setting.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
Class sizes are kept small with a soft cap of 22 students per class, rising to 24 in consultation with the homeroom teacher.
Student teacher ratio
There are 32 certified teachers and over 450 students, giving an approximate student–teacher ratio of about 14:1.
Exam results
Exam results
Cambridge IGCSE results (Grade 10) 2025: 109 exam entries; 100% pass rate; 92% achieved 5 A–C including English and Mathematics. AP results (2025): 90% of AP exams scored 3 or higher; 16 AP subjects offered; 8 AP Scholars; 5 AP Scholars with Distinction; 1 AP Scholar with Honor; 1 AP International Diploma; 1 AP Capstone International recipient.
Exam results
The IB Diploma Programme is offered at KISU. DP results have steadily improved, and the school underwent an IBO review in 2018 that commended its Diploma Programme. To begin the full Diploma Programme, students must achieve a grade B or higher in their IGCSE for Higher Level subjects and a grade C or higher for Standard Level; for Physics or Mathematics at Higher Level, an A is required. There are three DP pathways: the full Diploma Programme, a trial Diploma, and IB Courses certificates.
Higher education progression
Higher education progression
Graduates are prepared for higher education globally, with readiness for universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, and Africa.
Higher education progression
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Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
The school offers a limited bursary program for gifted students enrolling in 9th and 10th grade.
Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
Acacia supports social-emotional development within a Christian community. Early Years emphasizes social-emotional competence as part of a nurturing environment. Middle School describes a holistic approach that nurtures students intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. The curriculum includes Bible study and weekly chapel, which contribute to spiritual and emotional wellbeing. The school aims to balance academics with character formation and pastoral care.
Social & emotional learning
The school is a learning community that cares about all stakeholders and puts the interests of children at the centre. It develops resilient and self-confident learners and is enriched by its international-mindedness. It nurtures intellectual curiosity and encourages students and teachers to be reflective, critical thinkers. It develops the whole person and cultivates highly effective communicators who are creative, critical and analytical thinkers, prepared to lead tomorrow's world.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Acacia provides limited support to students with mild special educational needs. During admissions, identified learning needs are considered on a case-by-case basis. Special needs students are initially enrolled on a probationary basis. An independent assessment by a recommended special needs consultant is billed to the parents. The child's progress and the school's capacity to provide for their needs are re-evaluated annually.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school aims to be inclusive and welcomes students with Special Educational Needs when their needs can be catered for and effectively supported. The Learning Support Coordinator and other relevant staff discuss each individual case, and former school records and tests are required to provide details of any previous learning support or clinical assessment.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
English language learners in Grades 6–12 must complete the WIDA MODEL Online English Proficiency Assessment. English language support is available where appropriate.
English as an additional language
Many local and international prospective students may enter with English as an Additional Language (EAL). In these cases, students are assessed on their English language proficiency and potential to learn. Admission is on a case-by-case basis, and depending on ability, students may receive in-class support or be withdrawn from certain lessons for additional help. The school offers English and French language classes.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Acacia emphasizes mental wellbeing through social-emotional development and spiritual formation. Early Years focuses on social-emotional competence in a nurturing environment. Middle School nurtures the whole person—intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually—through Bible study and chapel. High School includes spiritual life with chapel leadership and service projects, reinforcing wellbeing and purpose.
Mental wellbeing
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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding
There is a designated safeguarding lead structure within the school. Zoe Wise is Head of Primary and Designated Safeguarding Lead, and Robert Buga serves as Head of IT and Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy Head of Secondary, ensuring safeguarding and child protection responsibilities are actively supported.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
The Lakeside Campus will provide purpose-built spaces that enable students to thrive academically, spiritually, and socially. Planned facilities include modern classrooms and science laboratories; dedicated high school learning spaces; arts, music, and creative studios; sports and physical education facilities; chapel and spiritual formation spaces; and community and gathering areas. Each space is designed to serve both present students and future generations. The Lakeside Campus Capital Campaign aims to raise USD 12 million to fund land development, construction, and essential learning infrastructure. Since 2012 Acacia International School has provided Christ-centered education in Kampala.
Facilities overview
The school has four science labs in Secondary and a separate science resource room with a full-time lab technician. There are three computer labs and smart boards in most classrooms. The school provides three music rooms and three performance areas. The campus includes an indoor sports hall, an outdoor basketball court, a 25-metre eight-lane competition swimming pool, two libraries, and a five-acre playing field.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
Sports and physical education facilities are included as planned facilities for the Lakeside Campus.
Sports facilities
The main sports are football, basketball and volleyball for both boys and girls. Championships in swimming, athletics and cross-country are offered at primary and secondary levels. KISU competes in the ISSAK league. The campus has an indoor sports hall and an outdoor basketball court to support these activities.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
Modern classrooms and science laboratories are planned, along with dedicated high school learning spaces.
Academic facilities
In Secondary, there are four science labs and a dedicated science resource room with a full-time lab technician. Primary science is taught within the topics studied. There is a LEGO Studio with LEGO robotics equipment for learning. Two libraries serve Early Years/Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2/Secondary, with around 27,000 books. Art and Design facilities include specialist art rooms for Primary and Secondary, an additional studio and a kiln for clay work; Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design and IB Visual Arts are offered.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Arts, music, and creative studios are planned as part of the Lakeside Campus to support extracurricular activities.
Extra curricular facilities
Students participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including outdoor education and international trips to destinations such as the UK, France, Italy, Switzerland, Singapore and Dubai, as well as visits across Uganda and East Africa. An annual ski trip to Europe is a highlight. These activities support a holistic approach to education and foster community involvement. The school also hosts various events and clubs as part of the extracurricular program.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Acacia International School opened in August 2012 in Kampala with 17 students. It launched the Senior School for Grades 5–8 in August 2014 and sat its first Cambridge IGCSE exams in May 2015, followed by its first A‑level exams in May 2018. In October 2018 it received dual accreditation from ACSI and MSA, and in June 2019 it celebrated its first graduation. The Lower Junior School was added in October 2019, and between 2021 and 2023 the Lakeside Campus expanded to 44 acres with AP exams starting in June 2023; today Lakeside Campus construction continues as the school grows into a multi-campus institution.
History
Established in 1993 with 67 students. It has grown steadily and now serves over 450 students representing 46+ nationalities. The program is designed to enhance a student's self-confidence and independence. State-of-the-art facilities include four science labs, three computer labs, three music rooms, three performance areas, an indoor sports hall, outdoor basketball court, a 25-metre eight-lane pool, two libraries, smart boards in most classrooms and a five-acre playing field. Students participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including outdoor education and international trips to the UK, France, Italy, Switzerland, Singapore and Dubai, with an annual ski trip to Europe.
Community
Community
Acacia International School is a Christian international school in Kampala, Uganda, offering education from Early Years through High School. The school aims to nurture academic excellence, strong character, and a deep sense of purpose in an environment that reflects the love, joy, and peace of Christ. Parents choose Acacia for a Christ-centered approach to learning and character formation, internationally recognised academic pathways, dedicated teachers who know each student well, and a warm, engaged, and diverse school community.
Community
KISU is a supportive community that nurtures students in intellectual, talent-oriented and ethically built ways. The school uses a holistic approach to education and encourages active involvement in community-building initiatives. Decades of building trust and meaningful partnerships with neighbouring schools, along with extensive community consultation, help the school reflect and serve the wider community. The school serves over 450 students from 46+ nationalities.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
The Acacia Parents Council (APC) is the voice of the parents at Acacia and was previously called the PTA; all parents are welcome to participate. The APC leadership aims and meetings can be learned about by contacting parentcouncil@acaciaschool.org. Parents in Prayer meet every Friday at 8 am at the Junior School reception area to pray for the school, students and staff. A weekly newsletter is sent to parents, and downloads for parents include the Parent Handbook, Club Handbook, Acacia Calendar, and Pick Up Authorization Form.
Parent teacher association
The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) at KISU supports school activities and helps bridge the relationship between parents and teachers. PTA members note the staff's duty of care across the various hats and roles they play. Parents describe a culture that embodies diversity and inclusion and value after-school activities such as skating, baking and MUN. The school offers multifaceted extracurricular experiences that contribute to a healthy balance between academic and non-academic life. Students in the IB Diploma Programme report strong support from teachers in a fostering, engaging environment.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
Acacia International School provides education from Early Years through High School with a coherent academic pathway. It offers Cambridge IGCSEs for Grades 9–10 and the American High School Diploma with Advanced Placement for Grades 11–12. Recent results include a 100% IGCSE pass rate and 90% of AP exams scoring 3 or higher, with multiple AP Scholars, AP Scholars with Distinction, and International Diploma recipients. The program prepares students for university, leadership, and life within an international community, supported by dedicated teachers who know each student well.
Academic & intellectual
IB Diploma Programme is offered. IGCSE Art and Design (Cambridge – 0400) and IB Visual Arts are taught, with an additional Art room in Secondary used as an IGCSE/IB Studio and a kiln for clay work. There are two specialist Art and Design teachers, one in Primary and one in Secondary.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
The Lakeside Campus will include arts, music, and creative studios. These facilities will support arts education and creative expression.
Arts & creative
Two specialist Art and Design teachers, one in Primary and one in Secondary, are supported by dedicated art rooms. IGCSE Art and Design (Cambridge – 0400) and IB Visual Arts are offered, with the Secondary Art room used as an IGCSE/IB Studio. A kiln is frequently used for both Primary and Secondary clay work. Art and Design lessons develop practical, technical and critical skills and use arts language.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Acacia is a Cambridge International School, accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and the Middle States Association, and licensed by the Ugandan Ministry of Education. The school draws a diverse student body from 31 nations. Bible teaching is integrated into the curriculum and students attend weekly chapels; the school is independent and not affiliated with any denomination; all teaching staff are Christians and the school welcomes students from other faith backgrounds. English language support is available for English Language Learners in Grades 6–12, and English language proficiency is assessed as part of admissions via the WIDA MODEL.
Cultural & language
The school has 46 nationalities represented. It offers international trips to the UK, France, Italy, Switzerland, Singapore and Dubai, as well as visits across Uganda and East Africa. An annual ski trip to Europe is a highlight. MUN is among after-school activities.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Students swim once per week and may join the swimming club to compete with other international schools. The school participates in the International Schools Association of Kampala (ISSAK) league, with sports coaching provided through the athletics program.
Social & hobbies
More than 30 clubs are offered after school. The main sports are football, basketball and volleyball, with championships in swimming, athletics and cross-country. After-school activities also include karate, cricket, ballet, inline skating, gymnastics, table tennis, baking and Zumba.
Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
KISU emphasizes community-building initiatives as part of its holistic approach to education. The school fosters involvement in community projects through its extracurricular activities and school events.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Acacia educates servant leaders for Christ and integrates faith with learning. It emphasizes Christ-centered education, character formation, leadership development, and close partnerships with families. Our High School pathway combines rigorous academics with leadership preparation, including AP and the American Diploma, to equip students for university pathways and future leadership roles.
Leadership & professional
IB Diploma Programme is offered. A Head Boy position is noted for 2024 (DP1 student), indicating leadership opportunities for students. The DP pathway is described by a student as challenging and growth-oriented.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Bible teaching is integrated into the curriculum and students attend weekly chapels. The school fosters a warm, engaged, and diverse community that partners with families to support student well-being. The Lakeside Campus plan includes chapel and spiritual formation spaces to support faith development and overall well-being.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
KISU emphasizes holistic development through sport and clubs. There are more than 30 clubs after school, including football, basketball and volleyball, with championships in swimming, athletics and cross-country. Facilities include a 25-metre eight-lane swimming pool, an indoor sports hall, an outdoor basketball court and a five-acre playing field.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
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Language provision
The school uses English as the language of instruction. The curriculum integrates the British and international education systems, transitioning from an English National Curriculum adapted for our setting in Primary to IGCSE and the International Baccalaureate Programmes in Secondary. French is taught as a weekly specialist subject in Key Stage 1. Cambridge Assessment English affiliations support English language development in Early Years.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
ACSI Accredited; MSA Accredited
Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Step 1: Visit the School (Recommended). Visiting before applying is encouraged for families in Uganda. The visit helps families assess fit with Acacia's rigorous academics, Christ-centered approach, and sense of community.
Step 2: Submit a Complete Application. A complete online application includes the online application form, student health form, a parent essay, the most recent school report, a copy of the student's passport or Ugandan birth certificate, and a passport‑size photo. Incomplete applications cannot be reviewed.
Step 3: Admissions Assessments. Short-listed students take English and Mathematics admissions tests (USD 50). English Language Learners in Grades 6–12 must complete the WIDA MODEL English proficiency assessment (USD 40).
Step 4: Admissions Decision. The Admissions Committee reviews completed applications and communicates decisions within two weeks of completion (August intake: applications due in March; decisions issued in April). Mid-year admissions are considered as they are received.
Step 5: Confirmation of Place. Upon an offer, families must pay the Admissions Fee within two weeks to secure the student's place. Early application does not guarantee placement, and the school does not maintain a long-term waiting list.
Admissions
1. Step 1: Parents ask for an application pack, complete it, and return all required documents. Incomplete applications are discarded after 30 days. Applications are reviewed to assess the student's ability to succeed in an English-language environment, taking into account prior academic records and developmental history. The application must include all documents outlined in the procedure to be processed. 2. Step 2: Admissions invites the family for a campus tour, an interview, and interactions or assessments with the student. For grades 10–12, discussion may include IGCSE or IB options. Interviews may be conducted face-to-face or online, and English and Math assessments may be used as part of placement. Parents are interviewed to ensure understanding and alignment with the school's mission and policies. 3. Step 3: Admissions informs the family of the decision. The final admission decision rests with the Director. Accepted students are placed in the appropriate grade level if space allows; accepted conditionally are monitored and may be promoted or required to repeat a year. A waiting list is used when the grade level is full, with priority to the earliest completed application; if a seat is not found within the year, parents may apply for the following academic year; the option to decline is issued if the applicant does not meet requirements.
Scholarships
Scholarships
A limited bursary program is available for gifted students enrolling in 9th and 10th grade, for families with financial needs.
Scholarships
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Waitlist
Waitlist
Early application does not guarantee placement, and the school does not maintain a long-term waiting list.
Waitlist
Waiting list is used when a grade level is full but admission requirements are met. Priority on the waiting list goes to the earliest completed application. If a seat is not found within the current academic year, parents may apply for the following academic year by contacting the admissions office by the beginning of May. Applications do not automatically roll over to the next academic year.