American International School of Guangzhou vs Canadian International School of Guangzhou

	A American International School of Guangzhou Guangzhou, China	C Canadian International School of Guangzhou Guangzhou, China
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year RMB 229,280 - 303,900	Fees / year RMB 188,000 - 258,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 17 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, IB (PYP), Advanced Placement (AP)
Pupils	Pupils 1,079	Pupils 500
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1981	Opened 2012
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location AISG operates two campuses: the Ersha Island campus (Early Years and Lower Elementary, in central Guangzhou's Ersha Island / Yuexiu area) and the Science Park campus (Upper Elementary through Grade 12 in Guangzhou's Science City, Huangpu District). Public transit options and ferry/metro stops serve the Ersha area and the Science Park area is within Guangzhou's technology/Science City district—ask Admissions for typical commute times from your neighbourhood.	Location The school is in Merchant Hill, Panyu District (No.122 Dongyi Road), Guangzhou — about a 20-minute drive from downtown Guangzhou and close to retail and residential areas. Public transport and highway links in Panyu connect the neighbourhood to the wider city; the school website gives the full postal address for visits and enquiries.
Stages	Stages AISG covers Pre‑Kindergarten through Grade 12: Early Years (Pre‑K and Kindergarten) and Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3) are at Ersha; Upper Elementary (Grades 4–5), Lower Secondary (Grades 6–8) and Upper Secondary (Grades 9–12) are at Science Park. The school follows the IB continuum across these divisions.	Stages CIS serves ages 2–18 with divisions for Early Childhood (international kindergarten), Elementary, Junior High (Grades 6–9) and High School (Grades 10–12). The site describes pathways from Pre‑K through the Alberta high‑school program.
School type	School type AISG is a co‑educational, not‑for‑profit international school operating as an independent institution; tuition is reinvested into the school. The school does not offer boarding — students are expected to live with a parent or guardian in Guangzhou.	School type CIS is a co‑educational international school that operates as a day school and offers boarding for secondary students. The boarding programme and dormitory facilities are available to students in Grades 7–12.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support AISG provides a Student Support structure that includes Counseling (available to all students), an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program (Grades 1–10) and a limited Learning Support (LS) program for students with mild learning differences, using individualized plans and a Student Support Team (SST). The handbooks describe RTI/MTSS frameworks, weekly SST meetings and individualized Student Learning Plans.	Additional learning support The school provides English Language Learning (ELL) with graded programs (elementary pull‑out and after‑school sessions, in‑class support in junior high, and credited ESL in high school) and assesses other learning‑support needs on an individual, at‑need basis. Admissions and the ELL pages describe assessment and tailored support arrangements.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation AISG is an independent international school (American in name and offering American/IB pathways) but is not an official representative or arm of any national government; it admits foreign‑passport holders per Chinese regulations.	Country affiliation CIS follows the Alberta (Canada) curriculum and is accredited by the Alberta (Canada) government; it also uses the IB PYP framework in early years/elementary and offers AP courses at senior levels.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation AISG does not have a religious affiliation; its community and policies emphasize inclusivity and prohibit harassment on the basis of religious belief.	Religious affiliation The school does not list any religious affiliation on its public website; information and programme descriptions are secular in nature.
School day structure	School day structure Typical start time across divisions is 7:55am (students are generally asked to arrive 7:40–7:50am). Pre‑K runs roughly 7:55–3:00pm while Grades 1–5 are 7:55–3:10pm (Wednesdays are early‑release, ending about 2:00pm); Secondary also follows the same morning start with the regular day ending around 15:10. Recesses, lunch and staggered dismissals for youngest students are described in the divisional handbooks.	School day structure The school operates full‑day programs (the site specifically notes full‑day Pre‑K and Kindergarten). Specific daily start/end times and break schedules are not published on the public pages; prospective parents are asked to contact Admissions or check the school calendar for division‑specific timetables.
Bus service details	Bus service details AISG offers an optional contracted bus service (PK–12); the school arranges and invoices the service on behalf of the bus company and parents pay per semester. Costs are published as a guideline (approximately RMB 9,600–19,200 per school year) and specific routes are not publicly posted for child‑protection reasons—contact Admissions to confirm whether your area is served.	Bus service details CIS offers a paid school bus service with zone pricing (examples listed on the admissions/fees page: a local 5 km zone, within‑Panyu and outside‑Panyu rates are published). Bus routes, fees and pickup areas are arranged through Admissions and are billed as optional extras. For exact routes, stops and current fees, contact the Admissions office.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Enrollment Fees - Non‑refundable application fee: RMB 2,000. - Non‑refundable enrollment (new student) fee: RMB 10,000. - Non‑refundable annual program fee for Grades 11–12: RMB 10,000. Tuition (full detail by year group) - Pre‑Kindergarten: RMB 222,600 per year (approx. RMB 111,300 per semester when semester billing applies). - Elementary School (Kindergarten, Grades 1–5): RMB 247,800 per year (approx. RMB 123,900 per semester). - Lower Secondary (Grades 6–8): RMB 257,250 per year (approx. RMB 128,625 per semester). - Upper Secondary (Grades 9–12): RMB 295,050 per year (approx. RMB 147,525 per semester). Billing schedule and payment terms - Returning students: a non‑refundable deposit of RMB 30,000 per student is required to secure re‑enrolment; the deposit is applied against tuition and has a set due date. Full payment deadlines are specified on the school invoice (full payment examples: May 18 noted as a standard deadline). For new students, full invoice payment is due within 15 calendar days of the invoice date. In case of overdue fees the school may issue a Disenrollment Notice and release the student's place. A fapiao (official receipt) will be issued in the payer's name; fapiao requests are handled via the invoice email. Boarding - Boarding is not offered; AISG operates as a day school across its Ersha and Science Park campuses. Other costs and typical additional fees - Bus transportation (optional, billed per school year or per semester depending on route): RMB 9,600–RMB 19,200 per year. - Extra‑curricular events and trips: RMB 0–RMB 6,500 (varies by event; average cited). - Laptop (Grades 6–12 expected to meet MacBook requirements): RMB 7,000–RMB 8,500 (family cost, not school‑collected). - School lunch (per day): RMB 26–RMB 37. PE uniform pieces: RMB 110–RMB 170. Refund information (fees/refund rules) - Tuition refunds follow the school's published policy: refunds (less the RMB 30,000 re‑enrolment deposit where applicable) are processed if the online Withdrawal Form is received by prescribed cut‑off dates (examples given in the policy for pre‑term and semester withdrawal deadlines). First‑semester tuition is not refundable after the first cut‑off; second‑semester tuition may be refundable if withdrawal is received by the stated November cut‑off. Approved refunds are returned to the original payer. Fee payment options and invoicing - The school issues formal invoices and fapiao; payment instructions and accepted payment methods are provided on each invoice. Parents should follow the invoice details for exact payment channels and remittance information.	Fee details Application fees - Application Processing Fee: RMB 2,000 (non‑refundable). - Enrolment/registration charges reported by school materials and published admissions summaries: Enrolment Fee: RMB 10,000 (one‑time) and Enrolment Deposit (applied as credit to fees): RMB 100,000 (one‑time). Tuition fees (by school year / per semester) - Pre‑Kindergarten / Nursery (age 2–4): RMB 188,000 per year / RMB 97,000 per semester. - Kindergarten to Grade 3: RMB 198,000 per year / RMB 102,000 per semester. - Grade 4–6: RMB 218,000 per year / RMB 112,000 per semester. - Grade 7–9: RMB 238,000 per year / RMB 122,000 per semester. - Grade 10–12: RMB 258,000 per year / RMB 132,000 per semester. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid annually or by semester. A full semester payment is due in advance of attendance for that semester. Mid‑semester starters are billed pro‑rata (month‑by‑month); months are pro‑rated using a 10‑month division and partial months (after the 15th) are treated as half‑months. Families with two or more children or CIEO graduates may be eligible for a 5% discount on basic tuition (exclusions apply). Boarding and transport - Boarding (secondary students only): RMB 35,000 per year. - School bus (annual): RMB 9,800 (within 5 km Merchant Hill); RMB 12,800 (within Panyu); RMB 17,800 (outside Panyu). Other mandatory / optional costs - Meal fees (annual): commonly published figures range (kindergarten/elementary and secondary differ); examples reported: RMB 9,800 per year (meal plan), breakfast/dinner charges for boarding also published separately. - School uniform: approx. RMB 2,880 (new students required). - Bedding (new boarding students): approx. RMB 500–600. - Materials, insurance and experiential learning fees: approx. RMB 7,200 per year (typical itemization). - ELL support: published amounts vary by placement (examples: RMB 10,000–20,000 per term/semester depending on assessment). Refund information - The Application Processing Fee is non‑refundable. The Enrolment Deposit is published as credit toward school fees; other refund details are part of the school's formal fee and refund policy. Fee payment instructions - The school's published policy requires payment in advance of the semester start and invoices/fee statements are issued; payment instructions are supplied with billing. (Tuition currency and specific payment channels are provided on school invoices.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Boarding is available for secondary students (Grade 7–12). The CIS Guangzhou dormitory accommodates 120 students and includes four-bunk rooms, independent bathrooms, and student lounges. The dorm programme offers after-school activities and an evening development curriculum. Boarding expenses are RMB 35,000 per year.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options A daily school lunch program is available; the price range for lunch is RMB 26–37 per day.	Food options CIS Meals provides on-site catering from a Level A certified kitchen. The kitchen uses Metro Supermarket ingredients with daily quality checks. Boarding students have breakfast and dinner on campus on weekdays, in addition to lunch and snacks for all students. Weekly menus are shared with parents, and the meals feature a mix of international and local dishes.
House system	House system —	House system CIS uses a four-house system: Panda, Wolves, Elk, and Dragon. The houses compete throughout the year to win the House Cup, promoting community, belonging, and personal and social development.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a nine-member board of volunteers. The school is a not-for-profit international school in Guangzhou with 100% tuition reinvested.	Governance and ownership CIS Guangzhou is Alberta-accredited by the Government of Alberta and an IB PYP World School. It is a member of ACAMIS and the Canadian Overseas Schools Association Network (COSA). The school delivers the Alberta Curriculum for K-12 and offers Advanced Placement courses.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details AISG delivers an inquiry-based program across its divisions and is an IB World Continuum school authorized to offer the Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. The Early Years (Pre‑K and K) programme is play‑based and framed by the IB PYP and the Creative Curriculum, while Elementary (K–5) follows the IB PYP and is mapped to AERO, Common Core and NGSS standards. Lower Secondary (Grades 6–8) uses AERO and Common Core standards and its academic classes follow the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). Upper Secondary (Grades 9–12) uses AERO/Common Core in Grades 9–10 and moves to the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12; students may pursue the full IBDP and/or the AISG Upper Secondary Diploma and may mix IBDP and AISG course pathways. Across all stages the curriculum is complemented by arts, athletics, co‑curricular activities, English‑as‑an‑Additional‑Language support and in‑school learning support services.	Curriculum details Canadian International School of Guangzhou delivers the Alberta (Canada) K–12 curriculum, integrates the IB Primary Years Programme framework across early years and elementary levels, and offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses in senior high. Early Childhood (ages 2–5) follows a play‑based, IB‑aligned program that also uses Alberta kindergarten outcomes; Elementary (Kindergarten/age 5–Grade 6) teaches Alberta Programs of Study through Units of Inquiry in English language arts, mathematics, science and social studies while also scheduling PE, art, music, Mandarin and IT. Junior High (Grades 7–9) continues the Alberta curriculum with an inquiry approach and provides English Language Learning (ELL) support embedded in core subjects for students who need it. High School (Grades 10–12) follows Alberta senior‑secondary courses; on completion of required credits students receive the Alberta High School Diploma, and AP courses are offered as enrichment (AP Calculus and AP Physics were introduced for 2024–25). Mandarin instruction is provided across divisions in native and non‑native streams, and the school supplements classroom learning with after‑school activities and university‑counselling services to support language development and post‑secondary pathways.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning AISG's guidance program emphasizes positive relationships and guided social-emotional development; the school says counselors use the International School Counselor Association (ISCA) standards and run individual, group, classroom and advisory lessons across grade levels. Early Years guidance focuses on foundational SEL skills (listening, empathy, reading facial/body cues), while Elementary uses the Second Step curriculum for scheduled SEL lessons. In Lower Secondary SEL is supported through a weekly Advisory program and health classes; Upper Secondary counseling is developmental and includes academic advising alongside personal/social support. Counselors also provide parent-education opportunities and collaborate with faculty, EAL and Learning Support teams.	Social & emotional learning CIS describes a formal counselling service that provides group and individual counselling and delivers social‑emotional lessons in the classroom to support students' social and emotional development. The counselling team works with teachers to implement evidence‑based strategies aimed at improving student relationships, behaviour and learning. The school's House system (Panda, Wolves, Elk, Dragon) is explicitly described as promoting belonging, self‑identity, responsibility and positive self‑esteem across sporting, academic and artistic activities. CIS also lists “personal growth & well‑being” among its core competencies within its Alberta/IB‑informed curriculum framework.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AISG states it operates a Learning Support programme across Elementary, Lower and Upper Secondary for students with mild learning differences rather than as a specialist SEN institution. The Learning Support provision combines in-class inclusion, small-group instruction and individual targeted interventions, and each student in the programme has a Student Learning Plan with goals, services and accommodations. The Admissions FAQ asks families to submit existing support plans, IEPs or psych-educational reports so the school can determine if it can meet a child's needs, and it specifies the school's support services are limited. AISG prefers a least-restrictive environment and notes some services (e.g., speech/OT) should be disclosed in advance so placement decisions can be made.	Special educational needs (SEN) CIS states it is an inclusive, non‑selective international school and that learning support for students who require additional help is assessed on an individual, at‑need basis during admissions and thereafter. The admissions information explains the school will determine availability of learning‑support services case‑by‑case rather than listing a published set of specific diagnoses or categories supported. The website does not publish a public list of the exact types of special educational needs it can or cannot accommodate. CIS does not present itself as a specialist SEN institution; instead it describes individual assessment and tailored support where possible.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language AISG publicly describes an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme that provides extra language support in the regular classroom using an inclusion model and is offered across divisions to help students access the curriculum. The Admissions process may include EAL testing for non-native English speakers, and placement in the EAL programme is limited and determined by principals and counselors. AISG notes EAL support is normally provided through in-class support and small-group instruction, with formal EAL places available through qualification and placement procedures. For Grades 11–12 the school expects students to be proficient in English for the DP; placement and availability are handled case-by-case.	English as an additional language CIS operates a defined English Language Learning (ELL) programme for students who do not speak English as a first language, with stated provision for Grades 2–9 and an ESL credited course option in High School. The ELL page describes leveled reading materials and assessments 2–3 times per year, elementary pull‑out and after‑school sessions (noting nine periods per week at elementary level), in‑class support in Junior High, and credited ESL courses in High School. The school says ELL is designed to develop both social and academic English and to remove barriers so students can access the Alberta curriculum when ready. The website therefore does publicly describe specific EAL/ELL provision and staffing structure.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing AISG's Student Counseling programme frames wellbeing as integral to academic success and provides counselor-led individual and group meetings, classroom lessons and advisory activities to support students' mental and social health. The school follows ISCA-aligned, evidence-based counselling standards and offers parent-education sessions as part of its preventative approach. AISG runs an anti-bullying No Bully System (Solution Coaches and Solution Teams) and provides age-appropriate anti-bullying education and staff training to reduce harm and build peer support. The school's reporting and school-climate work (e.g., ‘Active in Care' improvements cited by the school) are presented as part of ongoing efforts to monitor and improve student wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing CIS's counselling service describes whole‑school wellbeing initiatives intended to promote compassion, leadership and resilience, and offers both group and individual counselling to support students' mental health. The counselling team states it provides classroom social‑emotional lessons, supports teachers with evidence‑based strategies, and runs parent/caregiver workshops to help families support student wellbeing. Boarding and student services pages also reference attention to students' psychological and social development in the boarding context. These statements on the website outline the school's publicly stated approach to mental wellbeing but do not publish clinical protocols or detailed therapeutic qualifications for staff.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding AISG's Child Protection statement says the school prioritises prevention and protection in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and PRC laws, and bases definitions on WHO guidance. The school publishes a Child Protection policy with required staff reporting procedures, annual employee training, routine background checks and a Child Protection Committee led by a Child Protection Coordinator. The site names the Child Protection Coordinator and designated officers (for example Jamie Robb; Eileen Rueth; DJ Macpherson; Tania Mansfield) and explains reporting, investigation and record-keeping responsibilities. AISG states failure to report suspected abuse may result in disciplinary action and that the school will communicate confirmed incidents to receiving schools when students transfer.	Safeguarding The school's public website describes student wellbeing, counselling services and boarding safety in broad terms but does not publish a clearly labelled child‑protection or safeguarding policy that is publicly accessible. The site includes a privacy policy and a menu link for "School Policies," but a distinct, named safeguarding/child‑protection policy is not available on the pages reviewed. For specific details about safeguarding procedures, reporting lines, or staff safeguarding roles you will need to contact the school directly via the admissions or contact details provided on the site.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Ersha Island campus serves Early Years (Pre-K to Grade 3) and Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3). Science Park campus serves Upper Elementary (Grades 4–5) and Secondary (Grades 6–12). The campuses provide dedicated Early Years classrooms, a three-story Elementary building overlooking an outdoor courtyard, and natural daylight classrooms with 1:1 iPads from Grade 1. The central library houses over 20,000 books and a maker-space with 3D printers, drones, and programming tools. For recreation and community life, there are playgrounds for younger and older students, an outdoor basketball court, an air-conditioned gym with a full-size basketball court, and an air-conditioned multi-purpose room for dining, assemblies, concerts, and performances.	Facilities overview Located at Merchant Hill, Panyu District, Guangzhou, the CIS Guangzhou campus was built in 2018 as a purpose-built, safe international campus. It reflects Canadian and Chinese roots and serves a global student body. It is approximately a 20-minute drive from downtown Guangzhou. The campus houses spaces to support learning, arts, and student life, including a Learning Commons, library, indoor gymnasium, indoor swimming pool, track and field, auditorium (W Hall), science lab, and Picasso Art Studio. It also includes an Early Years Play Facility, an ECE Building, and dormitories. Dormitory accommodation is available for middle and high school students.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Ersha Island campus features an air-conditioned gym with a full-size basketball court and a multi-purpose room for extracurricular activities. Early Years have a dedicated playground and Elementary have additional playground structures, plus an outdoor basketball court for outdoor play. An air-conditioned multi-purpose room serves the cafeteria, assemblies, concerts, and performances.	Sports facilities The campus supports a comprehensive athletics program. An indoor gymnasium, an indoor constant-temperature swimming pool, a track and field facility, and a basketball court are on campus. A fitness center is available for student use. CIS participates in Grizzlies Athletics and offers after-school athletic programs and events.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Early Years are housed in a dedicated building, and Elementary is in a three-story building with classrooms overlooking an outdoor courtyard. All classrooms are well-lit with natural daylight and equipped with TVs with touch screens, flexible furniture, and 1:1 iPads from Grade 1. The central library contains over 20,000 books, and a maker-space provides 3D printers, drones, and programming tools.	Academic facilities Academic spaces include a Learning Commons and a library, plus a science lab and Picasso Art Studio. The Early Years Play Facility and the ECE Building support early childhood learners.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Facilities support extracurricular activities with an air-conditioned gym for sports, a multi-purpose room for clubs and events, and a maker-space for hands-on projects. The central library and maker-space support student-led clubs and projects, and the multi-purpose room hosts dining, assemblies, concerts, and performances.	Extra curricular facilities After School Activities (ASAs) are offered to students. The dorm program includes a Dorm English Activities Programme to help dorm students practice English.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Established in 1981, AISG began as an embassy school and is recorded on the school website as the first international school in southern China. What started with seven students from the U.S. Consulate in a room at the Dong Fang Hotel has grown into a Pre‑K–12 school serving more than 1,000 students from dozens of nationalities across two campuses. AISG operates as a non‑profit institution and states that tuition is reinvested into school operations and facilities rather than distributed as profit.	History Canadian International School of Guangzhou (CISGZ) opened in 2012. The school is part of the Canadian International Educational Organization (CIEO) network, a group that operates multiple international education institutions in the Greater Bay Area and beyond. In 2016 CIS underwent inspection by the Alberta (Canada) Ministry of Education and gained Alberta accreditation, a milestone in its development. Since then the school has expanded its programs and facilities while maintaining links with CIEO and sister institutions.
Community	Community AISG describes its community as a diverse, family‑style network of students, caregivers, faculty, and staff that participates in both schoolwide and cultural events. Signature community events include an annual International Day (caregiver country booths, food, and student performances) and celebrations tied to host‑country culture such as Chinese Culture Day; the school also marks observances like the International Day of Peace and UN Day. Student‑led initiatives and the school's Global Citizenship/E service programs further connect AISG to local and international causes.	Community CIS describes itself as a truly international community, with families and staff from more than 45 nationalities and regular partnerships with consulates, local chambers and multinational organisations for cultural learning. The school site highlights recurring community events such as International Day and a Winter Festival, plus public music concerts and athletics occasions that involve students and the wider Guangzhou community. CIS also operates a four-house system (Panda, Wolves, Elk, Dragon) used across sporting, academic and artistic activities to build belonging and peer support.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The AISG PTA is presented as a volunteer parent body focused on building community and partnering with faculty and families to support student wellbeing and engagement. The PTA runs orientation for new students and parents, organizes teacher appreciation activities, supports Elementary, Lower and Upper Secondary sporting events, and coordinates community social events. One of the PTA's flagship undertakings is organizing the school's International Day—running country booths, food stalls and coordinating student and consulate performances—which the school news coverage highlights as a major annual event. The PTA also supports International Day book sales and partners with student Global Citizenship groups that host booths to raise funds and awareness for their causes. The PTA page lists current PTA leadership and provides a point of contact for parents who want to volunteer or join specific event teams.	Parent teacher association CIS runs a Parents Advisory Council (PAC) that follows the Joyce Epstein model of parent engagement, organising activity across six areas: communication, volunteering, decision‑making, collaborating with community, learning at home and parental training. The school appoints parent representatives, provides an annual list of volunteer opportunities, and schedules lectures and information sessions on topics such as subject choices and university pathways. PAC activities include training sessions for parents (described as ‘parental training' or parent‑effectiveness workshops) and guidance on using local community resources to support student learning at home. The PAC is positioned as a formal channel for parent input and for coordinating volunteers and parent education across the school year.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual AISG offers the International Baccalaureate Continuum, including the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. Learning is holistic and personalized, with academic rigor and wellbeing as priorities to prepare students for university and life. The Social Practice Program provides upper secondary students with a minimum one-week, mentor-guided experience to connect classroom learning with real-world impact. Career Pathways & Lifelong Skill Development connects students with mentors and career pathways, including a Career Fair.	Academic & intellectual The school uses the Alberta (Canada) Curriculum for Kindergarten through Grade 12, with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework supporting ECE and Elementary, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses offered. The Alberta Curriculum is taught in English, and CIS is the first Alberta-accredited K-12 international school monitored by both Canadian and Chinese authorities. The Alberta Diploma is awarded upon graduation.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts, athletics, and activities are integral to AISG's educational experience. The Arts program offers opportunities to develop creativity and appreciation for the arts. AISG provides a broad range of after-school activities, including the Elementary After School Activities (EASA) program offered by teachers, coaches, and community volunteers.	Arts & creative The school supports arts and creative expression through its broad program, including performing arts and creative activities integrated into the curriculum across divisions.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language AISG has a truly international environment with 50+ nationalities represented among students. The school emphasizes global citizenship and related programs as part of its learning culture. English is the language of instruction, and the admissions process includes English language support testing (EAL) for non-native English speakers.	Cultural & language Mandarin language instruction is provided daily, and the program includes English-language immersion across early years and primary years with explicit Mandarin integration in the elementary division and beyond.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies AISG offers a wide range of clubs and after-school activities across arts, athletics, and academics. The Elementary After School Activities (EASA) program provides opportunities across physical, arts, academics, and community areas in a supervised, low-ratio setting.	Social & hobbies After-school activities and athletics are offered, including Grizzlies Athletics and various after-school programs.
Community & service	Community & service Community service and global citizenship are embedded in AISG's culture, with thousands of student-service hours and programs that address local and global challenges. The Global Citizenship Education program and student-led initiatives empower learners to impact communities.	Community & service The school emphasizes a holistic education with a focus on global citizenship and community engagement as part of its Alberta-IB framework.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Student leadership is cultivated from early years, with a focus on agency, innovation, and collaboration. Programs like Social Practice and the Career Fair connect students with mentors and career opportunities. The University Counseling framework supports college pathways and university resources for students.	Leadership & professional The school employs professionally trained teachers, many with Alberta Education certifications, supporting a structured K-12 program and university pathways.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing A culture of belonging is emphasized through student and caregiver engagement, with counseling services available for safeguarding, wellbeing, and post-graduation planning. AISG maintains a No Bully policy and a focus on safe, inclusive community spaces. The campus environment includes dedicated spaces for wellbeing and student support across both Ersha Island and Science Park campuses.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus emphasizes safety and a caring international community, with a strong focus on well-being and personal growth within the Alberta-IB curriculum.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches in English.	Language provision The school uses English as the main language of instruction. English Language Learning (ELL) supports students in developing English proficiency. Mandarin is taught as part of the language and culture curriculum with native-speaker and non-native speaker classes across Early Childhood through Grade 9; Mandarin is optional in the Alberta High School Curriculum and counted as 5 credits in Grade 10-12. Mandarin classes are scheduled as 2 sessions per week in Early Childhood, 5 sessions per week from Kindergarten to Grade 9, and 5 sessions per week in Grades 10-12 at 80 minutes per session. The curriculum integrates Chinese Language and Culture and aligns with the IB Primary Years Programme framework for Elementary education.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards • China School Award — Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (British Chamber of Commerce in China) — AISG reports that it won this DEI award, which recognizes school-level initiatives that promote inclusivity across an international K–12 community. • GBA School Awards — Judges' Choice Award (21st Century Learning, GBA School Awards 2025) — AISG reports winning the Judges' Choice Award at the Greater Bay Area School Awards; the award is a school-level recognition presented at that regional ceremony. • Forbes China / Hurun Education rankings (2025) — AISG reports external rankings by Forbes China (International School Annual Selection) and Hurun Education that place the school highly nationally and as #1 in Guangdong / South China in their 2025 lists; these are third‑party rankings published about the school on AISG's website.	Awards Only awards explicitly shown on the school website in the past five years (awards granted to the school itself): • China Schools Awards — "Enterprise and Employability" award (2024) — CIS reports it was the winner of the China Schools Awards Enterprise & Employability category (school news post dated 1 March 2024); the award recognises institutional commitment and innovation in preparing students with employability skills. • China Schools Awards — "Science and Technology" category (2023) — CIS reports winning the Science & Technology category at the 2023 China Schools Awards; this is presented on the same school news item as a national‑level recognition for the school in science/technology provision. (Background: the school site also posts recognitions and rankings — for example a 2025 Forbes China schools item and other news — but where the site labels a school‑level "award" within the last five years, the two China Schools Awards entries above are the items explicitly described as awards to the school on the official website. )
Accreditations	Accreditations • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) — WASC is a U.S.-based regional accrediting body; AISG's WASC accreditation is a routine external quality-assurance process that validates the school's educational programme and continuous-improvement plans (AISG reports a mid-cycle review and a reaffirmation through the current accreditation cycle). • International Baccalaureate (IB) authorizations — AISG is authorized by the IB to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP) (authorizations in place since 2004) and has recently received authorization for the Middle Years Programme (MYP), making AISG an IB Continuum School; IB authorizations indicate the school meets IB standards to deliver those specific programmes.	Accreditations • Alberta (Canada) Government — Fully accredited by Alberta Education; this means CIS is approved to deliver the Alberta (Canadian) curriculum and its Alberta high‑school credential is issued under Alberta Education standards, which matters for recognition by Canadian and many international universities. • IB PYP World School — Authorised to deliver the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) for early childhood and elementary; this indicates the school has met IB requirements for the PYP framework and related standards for teaching and learning. • SAT Test Centre (College Board) — CIS is listed by the school as a testing centre that works with the College Board to administer SAT exams; being a test centre provides on‑campus access to SAT administration for students applying to U.S. universities. • ACAMIS membership — Member of the Association of China and Mongolia International Schools (ACAMIS); membership connects CIS with a regional network of international schools for interschool events, competitions and professional development. • COSA membership — Member of the Canadian Overseas Schools Association (COSA) Network; this affiliation links CIS with other schools that use Canadian curricula for sharing best practice and professional opportunities. Note (program, not an accreditation): CIS also publicises offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses (AP Calculus and AP Physics for 2024–25) as an academic enrichment pathway; this is a program offering rather than a formal accreditation listed on the school site.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Prepare: Before you start the online application, review AISG's Grade Placement Guide and the Statement of Community so you understand typical age-based placement and the school's expectations; gather the Required Documents (passports, previous school records, medical records, any IEPs or therapy reports) so the Admissions Office can process your file without delay. Note AISG accepts only foreign passports (students holding Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan passports are eligible; PRC passports are not), so check passport eligibility before applying. There is a non‑refundable application processing fee (RMB2,000 / ~USD300) charged per child with each application, so have payment ready when you submit. 2. Apply: Complete and submit the online application form and upload the prepared documents; the Admissions Office will keep in regular contact and update you on each step of the process. Payment of the application fee is required to trigger further steps (for example, the school will confirm assessment dates once the application and fee are received). If your child has received learning or behavioral support in the past, include all learning support plans, IEPs, therapy reports or medical evaluations so AISG can assess whether it can meet your child's needs (the Learning Support program exists but has limited resources). 3. Review (assessments and placement): Once AISG has a complete application, the Admissions Office, the relevant grade‑level principal and counselors will review the file to determine placement; non‑native English speakers are likely to have English as an Additional Language (EAL) screening as part of the review. For applicants residing in Guangzhou, the school typically invites students with complete applications to attend in‑person admissions testing; AISG publishes recommended application timelines and typical group assessment windows by grade (for example, many grade assessments and interviews are scheduled between March and April—see grade‑specific timelines). Spaces for assessments are limited and are scheduled after your application and fee are received, so apply early if you are targeting a particular intake or assessment window. 4. Response and enrollment: After review and any required testing, AISG will inform you of its decision and next steps; AISG begins offering seats (seat assignment) in early April and monitors seat availability throughout the year. For families who accept an offer, note the financial commitments required: a non‑refundable enrollment fee is charged for new students (RMB10,000 for the 2026–2027 school year) and returning students typically pay a non‑refundable deposit (RMB30,000) by the school's specified deadlines; full tuition payment dates and deposit deadlines are listed in the school's Terms and Conditions. If you accept an offered seat, be prepared to follow the invoice/payment timelines to secure enrollment.	Admissions 1. Initial enquiry and eligibility check — Contact the Admissions Office to begin. Parents should confirm eligibility (CIS accepts students who hold foreign passports, including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) before completing the online application form; if you are unsure, ask Admissions so you do not complete unnecessary paperwork. You can request a campus tour or an online information session — tours are available year-round but appointments are recommended. 2. Complete the application and gather documents — Fill in the school's Application Form (the site links to the online form) and prepare required documents: a recent photo, the student's passport information page, both parents' passport copies, and school records (current year and previous full-year reports and any standardized test results). Note the non‑refundable application processing fee (stated on the admissions page) is required when you submit — this fee covers review, one test and an interview. Keep certified/translated copies ready if your documents are not in English. 3. Arrange assessment and interview — After submission you will be scheduled for an admissions assessment and an oral interview; these are conducted in English and are used to determine grade placement and any language support needs. If you are outside Guangzhou the assessment and interview can be scheduled online; follow the instructions Admissions provides so your child is prepared (timing, platform, and materials). Expect the school to test English and, where relevant, to assess academic levels against the Alberta curriculum. 4. Learning support / ELL assessment — If the assessment indicates the student needs English Language Learning (ELL) or other additional learning support, the school will evaluate needs individually and may make ELL a condition of entry (especially above Grade 2). Parents should ask in advance about ELL costs, frequency, and how ELL lessons are scheduled relative to mainstream classes. If your child has documented learning support needs, disclose these early so CIS can confirm whether appropriate services are available. 5. Offer, acceptance and securing placement — Once assessments and document checks are complete, CIS will issue written notification of the outcome (offer or otherwise). To secure a confirmed place the FAQ states families must complete tuition payment — parents should clarify whether this means a deposit or full payment and ask for the exact invoice and payment deadlines. Ask Admissions for the written offer's conditions (start date, grade placement, any conditions such as continuing ELL). 6. Fees, payment timing and mid‑term starts — Tuition can be paid annually or by semester; fees are inclusive of experiential-learning fees, tests, materials and insurance, and the school invoices pro‑rata for students starting mid‑semester (monthly or half‑month rules apply as specified). Parents should request the full tuition table and a written copy of the school's refund and withdrawal policy before paying to make sure they understand deadlines and any penalties. Also note optional miscellaneous fees (boarding for Secondary students, bus fees) are charged separately. 7. Arrival and orientation — Arrange a campus visit or orientation before your child's first school day where possible; the Admissions Team normally arranges a meeting with a relevant head of school or teaching staff during visits. If you are relocating from overseas, inform Admissions early so they can accept documents by email and schedule an online interview if needed. For visa purposes the school can provide a “future student letter of enrolment” only after tuition fees have been paid; CIS does not provide visa‑application services.
Scholarships	Scholarships AISG has offered an IB Secondary School Scholarship for the 2026–2027 cohort (announcement on the school website). That scholarship is targeted at new students entering Grade 9 or 10, requires the student to reside in Guangzhou with a caregiver or legal guardian, and is limited to families who are self‑payers or partial self‑payers; applicants must meet standard AISG admissions requirements and hold a foreign passport. The program is described as merit‑and‑need based, competitive, and limited in number (the announcement stated up to five scholarships awarded annually), with a potential up to four‑year renewal based on conditions such as maintaining good academic standing; the announcement also referenced the scholarship value (noted as ¥1.3M+ when counted across the award period) and included an application deadline (the post cited Jan 30 for that cycle). The school's public materials do not present a broad, ongoing general financial‑aid program beyond this named scholarship announcement, so for current availability, application windows, selection criteria, or any other scholarships you should contact AISG Admissions directly.	Scholarships CIS publishes a formal Academic Scholarship Programme (2025–2026) on its website. The programme includes several categories: (a) a high‑value “Million RMB Scholarship” tied to Grade 12 graduates who receive offers from certain elite universities (Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, Oxford, Cambridge — the page describes awards up to one million RMB); (b) a Tuition Scholarship that can cover full tuition for high‑performing students entering Grade 10; and (c) an Excellence Scholarship recognising new and current students for academic achievement, leadership and contribution in areas such as STEM, arts and service. The scholarship announcement asks new families to contact Admissions for details and current students to speak with their Learning Partner (LP), so application procedures, eligibility criteria, selection timelines and award amounts appear to be managed directly by the school rather than through an open online application form; parents should contact Admissions to request the official scholarship guidelines and any deadlines.
Waitlist	Waitlist AISG operates a waitlist. If your child qualifies for admission but there are no seats available in the desired grade or program, the school will place the student on its waitlist and offer seats to waitlisted students as they become available according to AISG's admissions criteria. You must submit a complete application and your child must meet admissions criteria before AISG will add them to the waitlist; if AISG cannot offer a place for the academic year applied for, families must submit a new application for the following year (with updated documents and payment of the application fee). AISG also monitors seat availability throughout the year and begins offering seats in early April, so applying earlier improves your chances of receiving an offer rather than remaining on the waitlist.	Waitlist The school's public admissions pages (Admissions and FAQ) do not describe a formal waitlist or centralised ‘pool' system; instead CIS accepts applications year‑round and emphasises that offers are made subject to seat availability. Parents are explicitly advised to apply as early as possible because seats in each grade are limited, and the FAQ notes that placement is secured by completing tuition payment — which implies places are allocated on a first‑come/confirmed‑by‑payment basis rather than by an automatic ranked waitlist. If you need to know whether CIS will hold your application on a waiting list or maintain a priority order for late applicants, contact Admissions directly (phone, WeChat or email) to request the school's local practice for your child's grade.
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