American International School Riyadh and British International School Riyadh are both in Riyadh, about 11 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes. American International School Riyadh also offers American, and British International School Riyadh also offers British. Published annual fees are SAR 63,164 - 117,812 at American International School Riyadh and SAR 49,095 - 107,933 at British International School Riyadh, which puts American International School Riyadh roughly 15% higher. Both take pupils from 3 to 18. British International School Riyadh is the larger school, with around 2,052 pupils to American International School Riyadh's 1,550. Both keep typical class sizes around 24.
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American International School Riyadh
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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British International School Riyadh
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year SAR 63,164 - 117,812 | Fees / year SAR 49,095 - 107,933 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type — | Type — |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum | Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils 1,550 | Pupils 2,052 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 24 | Typical class size 24 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened — |
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Bus service
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Bus service — | Bus service — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location AIS-R is located in North Riyadh, adjacent to the Al Bustan Village Compound (Exit 5). The campus is connected to Al Bustan by an internal gate, allowing residents to walk or bike to school in about 10 minutes. It is roughly 20 minutes from Riyadh's airport and the downtown area. | Location British International School Riyadh operates across seven campuses in Saudi Arabia, including three in Riyadh: Al Hamra, Diplomatic Quarter, and Al Waha. In Riyadh, Al Hamra is located at 2786 Ibrahim Mubarak Said Ad Dusari in the Gharnatah District; the Diplomatic Quarter campus is at 3586 Alradaef Street, Al Safarat District; and Al Waha sits at 2822 Muhammad Ali Janah Street in the Gharnatah District. These campuses are part of one not-for-profit British international school network and offer cross-campus collaboration for families living in and around Riyadh. |
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Stages
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Stages AIS-R serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, organized into Elementary (Pre-K to Grade 5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). | Stages BISR is an all-through school for ages 3–18, with nurseries through Year 12 on its Riyadh campuses. The Diplomatic Quarter campus offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for the 16–18 age group, while other campuses follow the English National Curriculum with GCSE and A‑Level pathways. |
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School type
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School type AIS-R is an independent, non-profit, co-educational day school. It offers an enriched American curriculum and is IB Diploma Programme authorized; it is NEASC and CIS accredited. | School type The school is co-educational (mixed-gender) and operates as a day school. Boarding is not offered. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix AIS-R represents students from more than 60 countries; the top nationalities are American, Saudi Arabian, and Canadian. The school reports over 65 nationalities represented in its student body, with local Saudi students forming a minority of the student body (local ~12%, international ~88%). | Pupil nationality mix The student body comprises students from over 90 nationalities. The most common nationality is not published, and exact local-to-international ratios are not publicly disclosed; the school presents a highly diverse international mix. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support AIS-R provides a school-wide Student Success framework with Learning Support teachers, English as an Additional Language (ELL) staff, and counselors operating in a tiered model. The admissions process notes that AIS-R does not provide a formal Special Needs program for significant learning needs, though support is provided within the program parameters. | Additional learning support Limited support for Additional Learning Needs (SEN). The school runs a Student Services programme with capacity for mild to moderate needs (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, autism) and offers limited EAL support. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation The school follows an American curriculum and is an IB World School; it is accredited by NEASC and CIS. | Country affiliation BISR is a British international school overseas and is accredited as a British School Overseas (BSO) and by the Council of International Schools (CIS). |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated; AIS-R operates as a secular international school. | Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation stated for the school. |
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School day structure
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School day structure AIS-R follows a North American-type school year, starting in August and finishing in early June. Administrative offices run 8:10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday and 8:10 a.m.–4:00 p.m. on Thursdays; there is a winter holiday around New Year, a fall break in October, and a spring break in February. The first day of the 2025-26 school year was August 19, 2025. | School day structure Most campuses run a day that starts around 07:45 and finishes around 16:00, with breaks and a lunch period. At the Diplomatic Quarter campus, students may bring lunch or use catering options where available. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details AIS-R does not offer bus transportation. Parents are responsible for providing transportation for their children; campus access is controlled by AIS-R IDs for safety. | Bus service details School transport is organized and run by the residential compounds in Riyadh. Families should register for transportation with their compound management; BIS does not operate a dedicated in-house bus fleet. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Annual tuition — 2025–2026 (by grade band, Saudi Riyal) - Early Years (base tuition): SAR 54,925.00. VAT (15%): SAR 8,238.75. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 63,163.75. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 32,731.88. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 30,431.88. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 28,462.50. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 26,462.50. - KG II – Grade 5 (base tuition): SAR 90,347.00. VAT (15%): SAR 13,552.05. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 103,899.05. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 53,099.53. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 50,799.53. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 46,173.50. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 44,173.50. - Grades 6–8 (base tuition): SAR 93,454.00. VAT (15%): SAR 14,018.10. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 107,472.10. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 54,886.05. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 52,586.05. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 47,727.00. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 45,727.00. - Grades 9–12 (base tuition): SAR 102,445.00. VAT (15%): SAR 15,366.75. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 117,811.75. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 60,055.30. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 57,756.45. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 52,222.00. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 50,223.00. Application, capital and registration fees (new students) - Application Fee (non-refundable, non-transferable): SAR 4,903.60 (includes 15% VAT) or SAR 4,264 (0% VAT). This fee is required for each child at every grade level and must be paid when submitting application documents. - Capital Fee (one-time, non-refundable): PreK–Grade 8: SAR 17,776.70 (incl. 15% VAT) / SAR 15,458 (0% VAT). Grade 9–12: SAR 25,745.05 (incl. 15% VAT) / SAR 22,387 (0% VAT). These fees are applied at initial enrollment to support campus maintenance and technology. - Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable): SAR 16,550.80 (includes 15% VAT) / SAR 14,392 (0% VAT). This covers costs related to adding and maintaining a new student in school systems. Seat deposit and re-enrolment rules - Seat Deposit (to secure a place): SAR 12,450 plus 15% VAT (SAR 1,867.50) for non-Saudi nationals; 0% VAT applies for Saudi nationals when National ID is provided. The seat deposit is credited toward first-semester tuition. The seat deposit is refundable only until April 27, 2025 and non-refundable thereafter for the 2025–26 enrolment process; unclaimed guaranteed seats will revert to the wait pool and the student withdrawal process may begin April 3, 2025. - Re-enrolling students may have reduced or adjusted capital/registration charges depending on how recently they were enrolled (details and timing adjustments apply). Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed in two semesters. Enrollment-date billing (quarter system) for the 2025–26 school year specifies required payment percentages depending on when the student is enrolled into the school term: - 1st Quarter (Aug 19–Oct 23): 100% of first and second semester tuition payment due. - 2nd Quarter (Nov 2–Jan 15): 65% of first semester and 100% of second semester tuition payment due. - 3rd Quarter (Jan 18–Apr 2): 100% of first semester tuition payment due. - 4th Quarter (Apr 5–Jun 1): 65% of first semester tuition payment due. - Tuition and fees are payable in Saudi Riyal (SAR) only. Parents remain ultimately responsible for payment regardless of employer arrangements. Potential additional fees and examples - Test rescheduling fee (applicant): SAR 937.25 (includes 15% VAT) / SAR 815.00 (0% VAT). - Learning Strategies (LS) Fee (when additional learning support is required): Elementary SAR 10,390.25 (incl. VAT) / Middle & High SAR 10,746.75 (incl. VAT). - English Language Learners (ELL) Fee (when required): Elementary SAR 10,390.25 (incl. VAT) / Middle & High SAR 10,746.75 (incl. VAT). - ALPS (optional after-school Arabic program) Fee: SAR 7,503.75 (incl. 15% VAT). - IB Diploma Programme assessment fees: 92 Euros per IB course (Euro equivalent in SAR charged; non‑Saudi students also assessed 15% VAT). - Miscellaneous program costs may apply (examples: Week Without Walls trips, sports trips, PE uniforms, IB exams, dining hall services, remote testing proctoring, yearbook, etc.). Refunds and refund conditions - Tuition refunds are allowed only when all of the following apply: 1) written withdrawal notice is provided to the school prior to the stated deadline; 2) the student did not attend school at any time during the semester; and 3) the student has already paid some or all of the tuition due for that semester. - Seat deposit is refundable only up to the deadline stated above for the 2025–26 cycle (April 27, 2025); tuition for semester one (due Aug 4th) was refundable, minus seat deposit (and VAT), until August 19, 2025 (first day of classes) and non-refundable thereafter for that enrolment period. The school's policy also specifies there will be no refunds, discounts, or partial payment arrangements if the government orders distance or hybrid learning during the school year. Boarding - Boarding is not listed or charged on the school's tuition and fees schedule; AIS-R operates as a day school for the 2025–26 tuition schedule. No boarding fees are published. Fee payment options and banking details - Preferred payment method: direct wire transfer to the school's bank account. School fees are payable in SAR only. Debit and credit card payments are not accepted. Bank account details are provided to families for application fee and other fee payments, and each family receives a unique IBAN on invoices to help with allocation. All bank processing charges are the payer's responsibility; parents should quote the student's name and invoice number when making payments. | Fee details Tuition fees (per year and per term) - Foundation 1 (Foundation): Annual (excl. VAT) SR 42,691; VAT 15% SR 6,404; Annual (incl. VAT) SR 49,095; Termly (incl. VAT) SR 16,365. - Foundation 2 (Foundation): Annual (excl. VAT) SR 57,821; VAT 15% SR 8,673; Annual (incl. VAT) SR 66,494; Termly (incl. VAT) SR 22,165. - Key Stage 1 (Year 1 & 2): Annual (excl. VAT) SR 60,071; VAT 15% SR 9,011; Annual (incl. VAT) SR 69,082; Termly (incl. VAT) SR 23,027. - Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6): Annual (excl. VAT) SR 66,200; VAT 15% SR 9,930; Annual (incl. VAT) SR 76,130; Termly (incl. VAT) SR 25,377. - Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9): Annual (excl. VAT) SR 72,717; VAT 15% SR 10,908; Annual (incl. VAT) SR 83,625; Termly (incl. VAT) SR 27,875. - Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11): Annual (excl. VAT) SR 88,186; VAT 15% SR 13,228; Annual (incl. VAT) SR 101,414; Termly (incl. VAT) SR 33,805. - Key Stage 5 (Years 12 & 13): Annual (excl. VAT) SR 93,855; VAT 15% SR 14,078; Annual (incl. VAT) SR 107,933; Termly (incl. VAT) SR 35,978. Application and one-off/ancillary fees - Application fee (new students at Al Hamra, Al Waha and Diplomatic Quarter campuses): non‑refundable SR 575 (inclusive of VAT). Not applicable to BAE schools. - Assessment fee: non‑refundable SR 1,150 (inclusive of VAT); payable by bank transfer. - Registration fee (new students): single non‑refundable fee SR 11,500 (inclusive of VAT). Re‑registration required (fee payable again) if a student has been away from school for three clear terms. - Capital Development Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable for new students at non‑BAE campuses and for students moving from BAE schools): SR 11,500 (inclusive of VAT). - Seat deposit: single refundable deposit SR 5,000 (no VAT). Refund conditions: refunded when the family no longer has a child at the school provided one month's written notice during term time is given to the Registrar and all issued school IDs (including those issued to family helpers/drivers) are returned. - Resource deposit: single refundable deposit SR 1,500 (no VAT) (applies to the eldest child only). Repaid less deductions for damaged or lost school resources when the family no longer has a child at the school. - Sibling discount: SR 1,000 per term discount for the third child; SR 1,500 per term for the fourth and any subsequent children. - External examination fees (GCSE, AS/A‑level etc.): candidates pay their own entry fees plus a fair share of administrative costs (invigilation, courier, moderation). Costs for approved access arrangements are shared equally among candidates. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition fees are invoiced per term in advance (invoices issued towards the end of the preceding term). Parents are required to pay the term tuition by the due date stated on the invoice. - As part of onboarding, a virtual account is allocated by the finance team and tuition fees should be transferred into that virtual account (bank transfer). Assessment fees are explicitly payable by bank transfer. Failure to pay fees or failure to return for the commencement of the new academic year will result in the student being deemed to have left the school; re‑entry requires completion of initial registration procedures. Boarding - No boarding provision applies; the school operates as an international day school. There are no boarding fees. Other costs and typical additional charges - Uniform: full school uniform is required. Uniform guidance is published and uniform is available to order online via the official supplier Zaks (costs are charged separately at point of purchase). - Transport: school bus services are organised and operated by residential compounds; families register for bus transport through their compound management office and associated transport charges apply through those providers. - After‑school activities and external enrichment: some activities are delivered by external providers and may carry additional fees payable to those providers. Refunds and non‑refundables (summary) - Non‑refundable: application fee, assessment fee, registration fee, capital development fee. - Refundable: seat deposit (SR 5,000) and resource deposit (SR 1,500) are refundable subject to the stated conditions and less any deductions for damaged or missing resources. VAT and exemptions - VAT is applied at 15% where indicated in the fee breakdown. Saudi nationals are eligible for VAT exemption where applicable; families who believe they are eligible should contact the school finance department for assistance. Payment methods accepted (summary) - Tuition and other charges are paid by bank transfer into the allocated virtual account established by the school finance team. Assessment fees are payable by bank transfer. Specific campus onboarding provides the virtual account details. No other payment methods are specified in the fee and admissions information provided. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement AIS-R uses a school-wide dress code that includes a school polo shirt as part of the daily uniform. High school dress requirements indicate a AIS-R polo shirt and long pants may be required for attire; a PE uniform is required for physical education. The on-campus Eagle's Nest store sells Middle School PE uniforms and other uniform items, and houses-specific attire such as house shirts may be available for purchase on campus. | Uniform requirement Students are required to wear full school uniform. Uniforms can be ordered online via Zaks and delivered anywhere in Saudi Arabia; there is also a BIS uniform shop at Al Hamra (to the right of the main gate) and a campus store at the Diplomatic Quarter, with an additional in-person option at Atyaf Mall. Opening hours for the Al Hamra store are 7:30–8:30 and 14:30–15:30, Sunday–Thursday. |
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Food options
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Food options Dining Hall services are available for snack breaks and lunch. Lunches and snacks are purchased using funds loaded to the student ID via a cashless system, with supervision in the dining area; AIS-R is not allergen-free due to outsourced caterers, so dietary accommodations may be limited. | Food options Primary students generally bring their own lunch. In Senior at Al Hamra and Al Waha there are two lunch options: Paul's (open to KS3, 4 and Sixth Form) and a pop-up canteen; at Diplomatic Quarter there is no onsite cafeteria but a preordered catering option is available; at Tabuk campus students may bring lunch or choose from the Al Fresco restaurant's school lunch menu (to be ordered and paid weekly in advance). |
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House system
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House system AIS-R operates a house system; middle school students have house shirts, and some house-based dress items are available through the Eagle's Nest store on campus. | House system BISR runs a four-house system: Blunt Scorpions, Doughty Falcons, Palgrave Leopards and Pitts Vipers. The house system provides formal leadership roles (House Captains and House Leaders) and regular inter-house events, with an emphasis on values such as fair play, teamwork, citizenship, self-discipline, initiative, perseverance and resilience. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership AIS-R is an independent, non-profit school licensed to operate by the Saudi Ministry of Education. It is governed by a seven-member self-perpetuating Board of Trustees, which selects a Superintendent to manage day-to-day operations. The AIS-R Association includes registered parents and community members, and the board governs strategic policy and long-term viability. | Governance and ownership BISR is a not-for-profit school administered by a Board of Governors. All revenue from school fees is reinvested into student learning, including staffing, resources and campus facilities, under the oversight of the Board and the Director of Schools. The school operates across seven campuses in Saudi Arabia and its governance focuses on safeguarding, finance, staffing and premises in line with regulatory requirements. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The American International School - Riyadh offers an enriched American curriculum for Pre-K through Grade 12. The campus is purpose-built in North Riyadh. The school is accredited by NEASC and CIS and is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12. The curriculum is modeled on the US State Department Standards (AERO), Common Core State Standards, and selected National Association Standards. The academic year runs from September to June with 176 instructional days. | Curriculum details British International School Riyadh (BISR) operates across two Riyadh campuses, Al Hamra (nearly 2,000 students) and Diplomatic Quarter (DQ) (about 850), serving ages 3–18. At Al Hamra, the youngest learners follow the Early Years Foundation Stage, Years 1–9 use an adapted English National Curriculum, Years 10–11 offer GCSEs, and Years 12–13 offer A-Levels. At the Diplomatic Quarter campus, the curriculum combines the English National Curriculum in early years, then IGCSE in Years 10–11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Years 12–13, with vocational pathways available post-16. In the Primary phase, the school uses a concept-based English National Curriculum framework with core subjects (English, Maths, Science, Computing), a Theme block (History/Geography/Global Citizenship), Physical Education, Art/Design Technology, Music, and Modern Foreign Languages (French and Arabic). The IB Diploma Programme has been offered at DQ since 2022, reflecting the school's international accreditation. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression The school reports over 300 university acceptances. It represents more than 65 nationalities and had over 140 graduates in the 2024–2025 school year. | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented AIS-R does not provide a Special Needs Program for significant learning needs nor a gifted and talented program. | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning AIS-R supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through a school-wide counseling program; high school counselors support students' academic, social and personal development, and a Guidance curriculum guides relationships, planning, and life skills across grade levels. | Social & emotional learning SEL is embedded through a whole-school Wellbeing Pillar and a weekly PSHE program in the Primary School. PSHE uses the PSHE Association Scheme of Work and develops resilience, self-esteem, risk-management, teamwork and critical thinking. The Zones of Regulation framework is used to help children identify and regulate their emotions. The pastoral team, including a Primary School Counsellor, provides additional wellbeing support. Counselling is offered as brief interventions aligned with safeguarding, and the school emphasizes wellbeing as part of learning. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) AIS-R offers Learning Support for mild to moderate learning needs, but there is no dedicated Special Needs Program, and AIS-R is not a specialist SEN institution. | Special educational needs (SEN) The school can support students with mild to moderate additional needs. Supported conditions include dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD and autism. Support is delivered by Learning Support and EAL colleagues, with learning plans and regular parent communication. Places in the Student Services programme are limited by capacity. The school is not described as a specialist SEN institution in its published materials. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language AIS-R provides an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program for qualified Elementary School students (KG2–Grade 5); EAL focuses on listening, speaking, reading and writing, with EAL teachers co-teaching with homeroom teachers and partnering with families. | English as an additional language The school provides limited EAL support for students at an early stage of English. Enrollment requires age-appropriate fluency in English. EAL support is delivered in collaboration with Learning Support colleagues and involves partnership with parents. There is no dedicated full EAL program described; support is limited. EAL matters are addressed in partnership with parents through EAL and Support for Learning. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing AIS-R maintains a Mental Health Protocol as part of its Child Safeguarding framework, with staff training and counselors providing mental health support to students. | Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is a core focus under the Wellbeing Pillar and PSHE. Zones of Regulation is used to help students identify and regulate emotions. The school maintains a strong pastoral team and a Primary School Counsellor to provide additional support. Wellbeing is integrated with learning, enrichment and wider life across BIS Riyadh. The Vision and Values emphasise happiness, healthy lifestyle and inclusive community as part of wellbeing. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding AIS-R has a comprehensive Child Safeguarding Policy based on international law, Council of International Schools standards, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; the policy is complemented by a Child Safeguarding Education Program with staff training and parent education sessions, and maltreatment reporting is defined and acted upon. | Safeguarding Safeguarding is supported by a dedicated Safeguarding Team and governance oversight. The Board includes a designated Safeguarding Governor and a Safeguarding Committee. Counselling works closely with the safeguarding team to provide brief, goal-centered interventions. Parent forums and workshops are used to communicate safeguarding matters to families. The Board of Governors is responsible for safeguarding and ensuring compliance with regulations. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview AIS-R's campus is built for learning and is state-of-the-art. It includes ultramodern STEM facilities, robotics and science labs; spaces for music, arts, and language learning; grass playing fields for sports; and a 700-seat performing arts theater. | Facilities overview British International School Riyadh operates across three Riyadh campuses: Al Hamra, Diplomatic Quarter, and the newly opened Al Waha campus. Al Waha provides expansive classrooms, dedicated music and drama spaces including a 750-seat auditorium, and state‑of‑the‑art laboratories. It also offers extensive aquatic and outdoor sport facilities, including an 8‑lane, 25‑metre swimming pool with a learner pool, and an all‑weather sport dome with a full‑size 11‑a‑side pitch plus four 7‑a‑side pitches. The Al Hamra campus features large flexible learning spaces, art rooms, a range of laboratories, a swimming pool, and a comprehensive PE programme with a fitness suite, dance studio, sports hall, gymnasium and astro turf pitch. The Diplomatic Quarter campus provides a library, laboratories, a swimming pool, medical rooms and computer labs to support learning across key stages. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Sports are played on grass fields on campus. | Sports facilities Across the Riyadh campuses, BISR offers extensive sports facilities. Al Waha features an all‑weather sports dome with full‑size pitches, four 7‑a‑side pitches, two sports halls, outdoor courts for tennis, volleyball and basketball, a dance studio, climbing walls and a gym, plus an 8‑lane, 25‑metre swimming pool and a learner pool. Al Hamra provides a fitness suite, a dance studio, a sports hall, a gym, and a multi‑purpose astro turf pitch, along with a swimming pool. The Diplomatic Quarter campus includes dedicated sports facilities as part of its modern complex. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities AIS-R offers an enriched American curriculum. The school is NEASC and CIS accredited and IB authorized. It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. The curriculum is modeled on the US State Department Standards (AERO), Common Core Standards, and selected National Association Standards. The Diploma Programme core includes Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and a Creativity, Activity, and Service program; DP students study six subjects across groups. | Academic facilities Academic facilities across BISR include libraries and laboratories across campuses, with state‑of‑the‑art science, food technology, and art and design laboratories. The Al Waha campus offers expansive classrooms and dedicated laboratories to support science and technology work, while Al Hamra provides art rooms and laboratories and flexible learning spaces. The Diplomatic Quarter campus includes a library and computer labs to support digital and research skills. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities AIS-R provides a generous range of extracurricular opportunities that nurture growth beyond the classroom. After-school activities broaden experiences and promote values such as responsibility, honesty, perseverance, and teamwork. The Diploma Programme emphasizes CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) as part of its core. Week Without Walls is part of AIS-R's activity program. | Extra curricular facilities Musical and performing arts spaces are a core feature, with dedicated music rooms and a 750-seat auditorium at Al Waha and drama studios; arts spaces are supported by well‑equipped art rooms. A broad co‑curricular programme includes a strong PE and performing arts offering, with a gym, fitness suite and dance studio, and climbing facilities across campuses. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History AIS-R was founded in 1963 in Riyadh to provide an American-oriented international education. In 2023, AIS-R celebrated its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of operation and growth. The school operates on a purpose-built campus in the north of Riyadh. It is accredited by NEASC and CIS and is an IB World School authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. AIS-R earned CIS Global Citizenship Certification for its intercultural learning initiatives and global-minded curriculum. | History The British International School Riyadh opened in September 1979 as the Riyadh Continental School to provide a British education for expatriate families, with support from the British Embassy and local banks. In March 1981 it was incorporated into the Saudi Arabian International Schools and renamed the British International School Riyadh. The school moved to the Rawdah site in 1982 due to rising student numbers, and in September 1995 it relocated to a purpose-built campus adjacent to the Al Hamra Compound in northern Riyadah. GCSE provision began in 2002 (Year 10) with Year 11 following in 2003, and the Sixth Form opened in September 2004, inaugurated by Prince Charles (now King Charles). From 2020 the BIS network expanded with new campuses and joining affiliations, including Al Saqr and Al Sharq openings, culminating in a large relocation to the Al Waha campus in 2025 as part of alignment with Vision 2030. |
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Community
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Community AIS-R's community includes students, parents, faculty, and staff from more than 50 nationalities. It is governed by a Board of Trustees and emphasizes intercultural understanding, reflected in the 'Where We Belong' theme and CIS Global Citizenship Certification. Regular community forums and gatherings, including the Eagle Community Exchange, invite feedback from the AIS-R Association. The Social Committee and intercultural activities offer opportunities for cultural and social engagement across the school year. | Community BISR is a not-for-profit, seven-campus, co-educational school in Saudi Arabia, serving around 3,000 students aged 3–18 from more than 90 nationalities and employing over 530 staff. The school supports a broad co-curricular programme that includes house events, student leadership, service learning and residential trips. The community is spread across seven campuses, united by a common mission and shared educational philosophy. Active parent involvement through campus PTAs also plays a key role in the school's community life. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association AIS-R's parent involvement centers on the AIS-R Association and the Parent-Teacher-Student Organization (PTSO) that coordinate family engagement and activities. The AIS-R Association comprises registered community members—parents, educators, and Board members—serving to support the school and providing a channel for feedback and updates, including annual presentations at the Eagle Community Exchange. The PTSO organizes two major events each year: Family Fun Day and the Intercultural Festival, bringing together students, families, and staff across grade levels. The Social Committee runs events such as fun runs, cultural celebrations, movie nights, souq visits, scavenger hunts, and live music to promote community and intercultural exchange. Parents participate in regular Coffees and other forums, enabling dialogue with teachers and administrators. The AIS-R Foundation supports family involvement by funding initiatives that enhance campus life and learning environments. | Parent teacher association Each BISR campus has an active Parent Teacher Association that works to organise events and activities to reinforce the school community and provide extra opportunities for students. The PTA helps give parents a voice to offer fresh insight and contribute to continuous improvement, and it invites involvement from families at the campus level. Parents can contact their campus PTA to get involved, and the PTA pages outline visit and admissions-related information for families considering joining the school community. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The school offers an enriched American curriculum with an international perspective for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The academic year runs from September to June with 176 instructional days. The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. | Academic & intellectual The Diplomatic Quarter campus offers English National Curriculum, IGCSE, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for students aged 3–18. The Early Years Foundation Stage is provided, with progression through primary and senior levels. GCSE, A-Level, and BTEC qualifications are available on other BIS campuses. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative AIS-R has a 700-seat performing arts theater on campus. The school emphasizes music, arts, and language opportunities as part of its comprehensive program. Students engage in drama and visual arts as part of their learning experiences. | Arts & creative Al Hamra campus provides dedicated art spaces described as creative sanctuaries. The campus supports arts and creative pursuits through these facilities and related programmes. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language AIS-R provides an intercultural learning environment with a diverse student body. The Circle of Nations area on campus highlights international perspectives. AIS-R has Global Citizenship Certification awarded by CIS. The school is an IB World School authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme. | Cultural & language English is the language of instruction across BIS campuses. The English National Curriculum is used on multiple BIS campuses. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies AIS-R offers a wide variety of after-school activities and athletics. Sign-ups are conducted through Powerschool, and activities run in 8- to 10-week seasons with opportunities to travel for competitions. The school participates in local, GCC, and international tournaments and conferences. | Social & hobbies Journeys is the enrichment programme featuring outdoor learning and trips. The Outdoor Learning Team curates journeys within Saudi Arabia and internationally. |
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Community & service
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Community & service The Social Committee organizes events such as cultural celebrations and family activities, and the PTSO hosts major events each year. Counseling services and social-emotional learning are provided across all divisions. AIS-R Foundation supports the school's mission and community initiatives. | Community & service Pastoral Care & Safeguarding provides wellbeing and safeguarding support. A dedicated Student Services team includes counsellors, EAL specialists, and learning-support staff. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional AIS-R is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees and led by a Superintendent and an AIS-R Leadership Team. The school operates as an independent, non-profit institution licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Education. It maintains NEASC and CIS accreditation and IB authorization. | Leadership & professional The Diplomatic Quarter campus is led by Principal Anna Power. A leadership team supports primary and senior sections across the campus. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Counseling services and social-emotional learning are provided across divisions. Athletics and after-school activities are considered integral to student well-being. The campus includes facilities such as a 700-seat performing arts theater to support student wellness and enrichment. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Pastoral care and safeguarding underpin student wellbeing. Enrichment activities are designed to support physical and mental health. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision AIS-R has a World Languages program aligned to ACTFL standards. World Languages is integrated as a formal part of the curriculum. The school uses an enriched American curriculum and offers the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11-12. | Language provision The school teaches in English, following the English National Curriculum. World Languages offered include Arabic, French and Spanish, with language study introduced in primary and continued at secondary levels. In the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, Group 2 language options include Arabic B SL/HL, French B SL/HL, and Spanish ab initio SL or Spanish B SL/HL. A carousel of world languages is available in Years 5 and 6 to allow students to choose a language for secondary school. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards N/A | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS), and it is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. The school has also been awarded CIS's Global Citizenship Certification. | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Start the online application. AIS-R uses rolling admissions and accepts applicants throughout the current school year; the application period for the following year begins August 1. Begin by completing the online application, paying the non-refundable application fee, and uploading required documents. Required documents include the student's passport photo page, both parents' passport photo pages, iqama, immunization record, all records from previous schools in English (including the final report card and the current year-to-date report card), standardized test records if requesting an entrance test exemption (required for applicants in Grades 3-12 not residing in Saudi Arabia), and, if applicable, special education/IEP/504 records. If the student is a Saudi national, provide the Family Book and the Ministry of Education approval letter. 2. File review. After the application is fully submitted with the fee, the AIS-R Admissions Office reviews the applicant file. A file will not be approved for testing if the application or records are incomplete, or if prior information indicates a significant concern. The applicant is notified by the Admissions Office when the review is complete. 3. Admissions testing and English language assessment. Applicants proceed to admissions testing as part of the process; testing may be exempt for some applicants in Grades 3–12 who have MAP/PSAT/SAT results. English language proficiency is evaluated as part of placement for all applicants. 4. Final review and grade placement. After testing, the final application review determines grade placement, with consideration of English language needs and course requests for Grades 9–12. AIS-R aims to place students in appropriate levels and programs aligned with policy and space availability. Families are notified of placement decisions. 5. Mid-year enrollment and next steps. AIS-R supports mid-year enrollment with applicable procedures and calendar alignment. 6. Wait pool and enrollment decisions. Admissions decisions are subject to academic entrance requirements and class size limits set by the Board of Trustees. AIS-R reserves the right to limit enrollment and to deny an application if it does not align with admissions policy; decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. The applicant wait pool is used to manage opportunities as spaces become available. 7. Next steps and contact. Apply online, book a campus tour, and coordinate with the Admissions Office for scheduling and next steps. 8. Additional notes. The admissions process includes consideration of English language proficiency, mid-year enrollment feasibility, and course requests for upper grades, with final decisions communicated to families as soon as they are ready. Citations: AIS-R Admissions page; AIS-R contact and admissions information; AIS-R Community/About pages. | Admissions — |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships AIS-R awards scholarships; over $5.5 million in scholarships have been awarded. | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist AIS-R uses a rolling admissions process with a applicant wait pool to manage placements as spaces become available. Decisions follow class size limits and admissions policies, and applicants may be notified of changes in status as vacancies arise. | Waitlist — |
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