American Overseas School of Rome vs Rome International School

	A American Overseas School of Rome Rome, Italy	R Rome International School Rome, Italy
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €13,000 - 28,300	Fees / year €10,500 - 27,755
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE
Pupils	Pupils 620	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 16	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1947	Opened 1988
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The American Overseas School of Rome is located at Via Cassia, 811, 00189 Roma RM, Rome, Italy. The campus sits in a residential area surrounded by a natural reserve and spans six acres with multiple outdoor learning spaces. Facilities include a large quad, two playgrounds, a soccer field, two outdoor basketball courts, two outdoor volleyball courts, two tennis courts, and an outdoor amphitheater. The campus houses 55 classrooms, an indoor gymnasium, a full-time health clinic, and a large cafeteria with indoor and outdoor dining areas.	Location Via Guglielmo Pecori Giraldi, 137, 00135 Rome, Italy. The RIS Rome campus sits in Monte Mario Natural Reserve in north-west Rome, close to the city centre, on more than 3 hectares of natural parkland.
Stages	Stages Pre-K (ages 3–5), Elementary School (ages 3–11), Middle School, High School.	Stages Early Years (ages 2-5); Elementary School (ages 5-11); Middle School (ages 12-14); High School (ages 14-18). The school offers the IB Primary Years Programme and the IB Diploma Programme, together with Cambridge IGCSE.
School type	School type Independent, co-educational international school offering Pre-K through 12.	School type IB World School offering the IB Primary Years Programme and the IB Diploma Programme, and Cambridge IGCSE.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The community includes peers from over 55 nationalities; 30% of families are Italian, and 70% are international.	Pupil nationality mix 60+ nationalities represented.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and Learning Support are available; School Counseling and College Counseling are provided.	Additional learning support In very special circumstances, external support for the student is guaranteed, which may be provided as additional tutoring at home or continuous support in normal lessons by a qualified specialist.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation United States; the school offers an American PreK-12 program.	Country affiliation Italy
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational.	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Pre-K typical day runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., with a morning meeting at 9:00 a.m., a snack at 10:00 a.m., lunch at 12:15 p.m., and a rest period followed by dismissal at 3:15 p.m.	School day structure The school day starts at 08:30. The campus has three lunchrooms serving organic lunches; Middle and High School have a self-service lunchroom.
Bus service details	Bus service details AOSR provides a bus service across Rome. Morning pickups range from 7:00 to 8:15 a.m.; afternoon departures include an Early Bus at 3:40 p.m. and a Late Bus at 5:15 p.m. Registration options are Full-Year Service or One-Way; fees are €3,500 for round trip and €2,500 for one-way.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / New‑student fees - Capital Assessment Fee (one‑time, per new family): € 5,500. - Registration Fee (one‑time, per new student): € 800. - Senior (Grade 12) new‑student fee (one‑time): € 1,500. - The Capital Assessment Fee is non‑refundable, is not prorated by entry date, and is waived for families enrolling only in Pre‑K; returning families re‑enrolling after more than 12 months must pay the Registration Fee. Annual tuition by year group (amounts per student, EUR) - Pre‑Kindergarten (Age 3 & 4): € 13,000. - Kindergarten (Age 5): € 17,500. - Grades 1–3: € 21,000. - Grades 4–5: € 21,500. - Grades 6–8: € 24,200. - Grades 9–10: € 27,500. - Grade 11: € 28,000. - Grade 12: € 28,300. Per‑term / instalment detail (by year group) Billing options used by the school include semester billing (semesters are billed and must be paid in full) and an optional 3‑installment plan for tuition and transportation; the 3‑installment plan divides annual tuition and transportation into three equal payments and carries a service charge of € 500 (families with a child(ren) enrolled at AOSR for at least three years are exempt from the € 500 fee). Semester amounts (equal half of the annual tuition, shown per student): - Pre‑K: € 6,500 per semester. - Kindergarten: € 8,750 per semester. - Grades 1–3: € 10,500 per semester. - Grades 4–5: € 10,750 per semester. - Grades 6–8: € 12,100 per semester. - Grades 9–10: € 13,750 per semester. - Grade 11: € 14,000 per semester. - Grade 12: € 14,150 per semester. Three‑installment plan (three equal payments of the annual tuition, shown per student; a € 500 service charge applies to this plan unless exempted): - Pre‑K: three payments of approximately € 4,333.33. - Kindergarten: three payments of approximately € 5,833.33. - Grades 1–3: three payments of € 7,000.00. - Grades 4–5: three payments of approximately € 7,166.67. - Grades 6–8: three payments of approximately € 8,066.67. - Grades 9–10: three payments of approximately € 9,166.67. - Grade 11: three payments of approximately € 9,333.33. - Grade 12: three payments of approximately € 9,433.33. Optional / other fees and regular ancillary charges - International Baccalaureate (IB) Program fee (charged to IB candidates, per year): € 1,500. - Advanced Placement (AP) exam fee (per exam): € 150. - Bus service (optional): Round trip € 3,500; One way € 2,500. Partial use of the bus service is not allowed; routes and seats are managed by the Bus Coordinator. Lunch is not included in tuition for Grades 4–12 and is paid directly to the caterer; lunch is included for Pre‑K through Grade 3. After‑school activity fees and exam fees are additional. - The instalment plan does not apply to the Registration and Capital Assessment Fees, nor to IB, AP, or After School Activity fees. - The school does not require a uniform. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices for returning students are issued in April/May and are payable on or before the due date(s) shown on the invoice. Semesters are expected to be paid in full on the dates indicated on the invoice. - Late payment policy: a penalty charge of 1% per month applies to outstanding balances after 30 days; parents/legal guardians remain liable for any outstanding balances and associated late charges. Bank handling charges must be borne by the remitter. - Late re‑enrollment: returning students re‑registering after 5 March may be charged a late re‑registration fee of € 150 per student. - For students entering mid‑year: if a student enters in the second semester, 50% of the tuition fees plus all other fees and charges are payable. Semesters are not prorated. Refund and withdrawal terms - No reimbursement is made for a current semester because of a student's absences, withdrawal, suspension, or expulsion; semesters are paid in full and are not prorated. - If a student withdraws before the beginning of school, a 90% refund of tuition will be made. - If a student cannot attend the second semester and the school is notified by November 30, AOSR will reimburse 50% of the annual tuition. Notifications should be sent to the school's designated leaving contact. Official transcripts and records are released only after all financial obligations have been met. Payment methods and practical payment details - Acceptable payment methods include checks (Euros or U.S. dollars), wire transfers (Euros or U.S. dollars), and cash up to € 5,000 in compliance with Italian law; bank charges are the payer's responsibility. For wire transfers, include the Family Code and the student's last name on the transfer and send a copy of the payment receipt to the school cashier. - Credit and debit card payments are handled via third‑party payment processors used by the school; specific card acceptance and any processing fees are managed through those processors. Boarding / residential provision - The school operates as a day school; boarding or room‑and‑board services are not applicable. Other important financial notes - The instalment plan carries a € 500 service charge unless a family qualifies for the exemption. Families remain responsible for all charges until paid in full; the school reserves the right to deny classroom attendance or re‑enrollment for unpaid invoices. Official payment details (bank account and invoice references) and the billing office email address are provided on invoices; parents/legal guardians are responsible for ensuring third‑party payers meet AOSR payment terms.	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Admission Fee (one‑time, “una tantum”): - Early Years: EUR 500. - Elementary (Year 1–6): EUR 1,000. - Middle & High School (Year 7–13): EUR 2,000. - Registration Fee (annual): - Nursery to Year 9: EUR 610 per year. - Year 10 to Year 13: EUR 715 per year. Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts, Euros) - Early Years (annual tuition): - Nursery & Kindergarten: EUR 10,500 per year. Lunch fee (annual): EUR 1,355. - Transition: EUR 11,480 per year. Lunch fee included in Early Years lunch rate: EUR 1,355. - Elementary School (annual tuition): - Year 1: EUR 16,240 per year. Lunch fee (annual): EUR 1,550. - Year 2: EUR 18,080 per year. Lunch fee (annual): EUR 1,550. - Year 3 / Year 4: EUR 20,665 per year. Lunch fee (annual): EUR 1,550. - Year 5 / Year 6: EUR 21,350 per year. Lunch fee (annual): EUR 1,550. - Middle School (annual tuition): - Year 7 / Year 8 / Year 9: EUR 24,140 per year. Lunch fee (annual): EUR 1,550. - High School (annual tuition): - Year 10 & Year 11: EUR 26,160 per year. Lunch fee (annual) Years 10–12: EUR 1,550. - Year 12 & Year 13: EUR 27,755 per year. Lunch fee (annual) Year 13: EUR 1,355. Billing schedule and how annual tuition is collected (instalments and lunch billing) - Tuition instalment schedule (three instalments): - First instalment: 25% of annual tuition at the time of (re-)enrolment. - Second instalment: 50% of annual tuition by August 31 (due date for the second payment). - Third instalment: 25% of annual tuition by November 30. - For an annual tuition amount X the three payments therefore are: 25% of X, 50% of X, and 25% of X due on the dates above. - Illustrative instalment amounts (examples by year group): - Nursery/Kindergarten (EUR 10,500): First EUR 2,625.00 · Second EUR 5,250.00 · Third EUR 2,625.00. - Transition (EUR 11,480): First EUR 2,870.00 · Second EUR 5,740.00 · Third EUR 2,870.00. - Year 1 (EUR 16,240): First EUR 4,060.00 · Second EUR 8,120.00 · Third EUR 4,060.00. - Year 2 (EUR 18,080): First EUR 4,520.00 · Second EUR 9,040.00 · Third EUR 4,520.00. - Year 3/4 (EUR 20,665): First EUR 5,166.25 · Second EUR 10,332.50 · Third EUR 5,166.25. - Year 5/6 (EUR 21,350): First EUR 5,337.50 · Second EUR 10,675.00 · Third EUR 5,337.50. - Year 7/8/9 (EUR 24,140): First EUR 6,035.00 · Second EUR 12,070.00 · Third EUR 6,035.00. - Year 10/11 (EUR 26,160): First EUR 6,540.00 · Second EUR 13,080.00 · Third EUR 6,540.00. - Year 12/13 (EUR 27,755): First EUR 6,938.75 · Second EUR 13,877.50 · Third EUR 6,938.75. - Lunch fee billing (annual lunch fee is listed separately): - Early Years lunch fee EUR 1,355 per year; Elementary to Year 12 lunch fee EUR 1,550 per year; Year 13 lunch fee EUR 1,355 per year. Lunch fees are billed as follows: 50% by August 31 and 50% by November 30. Example: For a EUR 1,550 lunch fee the two payments are EUR 775.00 and EUR 775.00. Discounts and sibling reductions - A 4% discount on the tuition fee is applied if the full annual tuition is paid in a single annual payment by the school's payment plan date. Sibling reductions are available: 10% reduction for the second child, 20% for the third child, and 40% for the fourth or subsequent children. Boarding fees - Boarding fees are not applicable: Rome International School operates as a day school and no boarding fee line items are published. Other costs and additional fees - Mandatory/exam fees (additional to tuition): - Cambridge Checkpoint Exams (Year 9): EUR 80 per subject (payable in the exam billing month). - IGCSE exam fees (Year 10 and 11): EUR 140 per subject (payable in the exam billing month). - IB exam fees (Year 13): EUR 1,400 per student (payable on presentation of the exam application). Re‑takes and re‑marks are charged separately and may be confirmed for specific academic years. - Costs explicitly excluded from published tuition: didactic visits and educational trips, external exam fees beyond those listed above, school uniforms, textbooks for Middle and High School (parents purchase from specialist providers), pre- and post-school care, school bus service, extracurricular activities, and Summer Camp. These items are charged separately. - “Bring a friend” and similar promotional reductions may be offered from time to time; any such reductions are applied according to the school's current offers. Refund information - The school's publicly posted fee information and tuition terms list instalment schedules, discounts and excluded costs but do not publish a single, explicit general refund policy for all fee types in the same fee summary. Specific conditions on refunds, withdrawal consequences and any pro‑rata refunds are set out in the enrolment/contractual documentation and the school's formal policies and parent handbook. Parents should expect the enrolment fee/admission fee to be treated as non‑recurring and to review the enrolment contract for the school's precise refund and withdrawal conditions. Fee payment options and practical notes - Payment methods accepted: bank transfer, cheque, credit card or cash (within legal limits). VAT: published tuition amounts are VAT exempt under the relevant Italian decree. Fees cover tuition from September to June as per the school calendar; compulsory lunch fee is listed separately. Additional services and items listed above are charged separately.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement No uniform is required.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Hot lunch options with a rotating weekly menu, à la carte snacks and drinks, and vegetarian meals; allergy-sensitive options; younger students can pre-order; meals are prepared on-site by a professional catering company with Mediterranean staples; indoor and outdoor seating; weekly menus are shared via the Pedevilla portal; cultural food days.	Food options Three canteens cater for different age groups and serve nutritious and balanced meals; the lunch service is mandatory for all students; Middle and High School have a self-service lunchroom; Early Years and Elementary students enjoy a fresh, seasonal fruit break each morning; menus accommodate dietary, religious and ethical requirements; there is a focus on a balanced diet using seasonal and organic produce.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership AOSR is a non-profit, independent international school governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board is responsible for the school's strategic direction and financial oversight, does not manage daily operations, and works closely with the Head of School.	Governance and ownership RIS Rome is a member of Globeducate.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school teaches an international curriculum guided by three pillars: personalized learning, active engagement, and a future-ready approach. The Elementary program uses inquiry-based learning to foster curiosity and foundational skills, while Middle School develops independence and critical thinking, and High School offers rigorous pathways to university. The High School provides International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) programs to support college readiness.	Curriculum details RIS Rome is an IB World School and a Cambridge IGCSE examination centre. The Primary Years Programme is offered in the Early Years and Elementary, integrated with the Italian curriculum. The Middle Years Programme (ages 12–14) leads to the Cambridge IGCSE (ages 14–16). The High School offers the IB Diploma Programme with equivalency to the Italian Maturità. RIS Rome is the only school in Rome authorised to offer the PYP and the IB Diploma Programme. The Italian Ministerial Curriculum is also offered in Early Years, Elementary and Middle School (Licenza Media), with some hours for Italian language study; all Year 11 students study Cambridge IGCSE Italian, while Italian A and Italian B options apply in the Diploma.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Elementary class sizes average 15 students per class from Pre-K through Grade 5, with two sections per grade level.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results In 2025, Terza Media exams achieved a 100% pass rate, with several perfect scores.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression The school has graduates who attend Università Bocconi, University of Hong Kong, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, King's College London, University of Cambridge, and Yale University.	Higher education progression RIS Rome provides university preparation and guidance through a Careers and University Counsellor. The university application process is a two-year exercise with workshops, one-to-one meetings, university fairs and lectures. Students receive personalised support to identify study areas and career ambitions and to select universities worldwide; recent destinations include the University of St Andrews, Imperial College London, the University of Bath, the University of Warwick, LUISS, the University of Exeter, and others. Students applying to universities in Europe, the USA, Canada or the UK receive tailored assistance.
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 The school has a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program that helps students build empathy, resilience, and interpersonal skills.	Social & emotional learning RIS Rome embeds social and emotional learning across the whole school through a Wellbeing programme that aims for every student to feel valued, safe, happy and to have a strong sense of belonging. The wellbeing approach is based on Positive Psychology principles, represented by the PERMAH model (Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment and Health). The programme involves a whole-school commitment with age-appropriate wellbeing activities, bi-annual student and staff surveys, and a dedicated staff wellbeing team that meets each half term to plan and monitor action. It includes half-termly wellbeing assemblies, regular staff training, parent workshops, and Globeducate-wide initiatives such as the Body Confidence programme. Student wellbeing ambassadors (Years 7–13), a Listening Centre, and two school psychologists support students, with PHSE lessons and a strong emphasis on student voice and pastoral care.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Support Department assists students who qualify for the program and need additional academic support.	Special educational needs (SEN) In very special circumstances, families may be informed that a student can be accepted into Middle School only if external support for the student is guaranteed, which may include additional tutoring at home or continuous in-class support provided by a qualified external specialist (RIS Srl).
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The EAL program supports non-native English speakers through personalized instruction and collaborative learning.	English as an additional language Nursery, Kindergarten and Transition use English as the first language, with English as the primary language of instruction across the school; the admission policy also assesses suitability for English as an Additional Language (EAL). Where needed, EAL support lessons are offered within the normal timetable, and extra English support during and after school hours can be provided at parental expense. All students take a third language (French, Spanish or Chinese), Italian is taught as part of the curriculum, and there is preparation for Italian Licenza Media exams in Middle School.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing AOSR provides emotional and academic guidance through trained counselors.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is a core part of RIS Rome's culture. The Wellbeing programme is grounded in Positive Psychology with the PERMAH framework and focuses on helping students develop positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, accomplishment and health. The school surveys students and staff, has a 12-member wellbeing team, and runs termly wellbeing themes and assemblies. It provides a Listening Centre, Counselling services, and weekly wellbeing activities, supported by two school psychologists and a dedicated safeguarding structure. Globeducate wellbeing resources and webinars support staff and families, and a student wellbeing ambassador program helps lead assemblies and peer support.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The Policies page includes a Whistleblowing Directive (English Version), along with AOSR Photo and Video Policy and Video Surveillance Policy.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a priority at RIS Rome. All teachers complete comprehensive mandatory safeguarding training, and a dedicated safeguarding team is in place to support students and staff. Globeducate's Safeguarding and Welfare Officer provides oversight, and RIS adheres to Globeducate safeguarding policies (Nos 10a–e), covering child protection, ICT acceptable use, safer recruitment, risk assessments and whistleblowing. Welfare and counselling are available, with confidential counselling, a self-referral option, and guidance for medical and mental health concerns. RIS also participates in safeguarding initiatives such as Safer Internet Week, the Body Positivity Project and Anti-Bullying Week.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus occupies 2.5 hectares (roughly 6 acres) on Via Cassia, in a natural reserve, and includes an American-style gymnasium. Six acres of green space support outdoor learning and play, with a large outdoor quad, two playgrounds, one soccer field, two outdoor basketball courts, two outdoor volleyball courts, and two tennis courts. Two new buildings are part of the Piano Casa master plan—the Middle School Commons and the Performance Center—along with a renovated amphitheater and updated libraries, with completion planned for 2027. The campus houses 55 classrooms, each equipped with a projector and LCD panel and/or touch-screen TV, four middle/high school science labs, and libraries with about 25,000 volumes. Advanced technology spaces include a design lab with two 3D printers and laser cutters and a newly built computer lab for programming, coding, and graphic design; the campus also features a high-speed wireless network, a health clinic with a full-time nurse, an indoor coffee/snack bar, and a large cafeteria with indoor and outdoor seating.	Facilities overview Immersed in the natural parkland of Monte Mario in north-west Rome, the RIS Rome campus is resourced to the highest level and reflects a focus on critical thinking, inquiry-based approach and passion for life-long learning. Close to the city centre, the modern campus sits on over 3 hectares of natural parkland. A safe and welcoming environment supports students to explore and grow. The campus hosts facilities that support learning across age groups and disciplines.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Outdoor sports facilities include one soccer field, two outdoor basketball courts, two outdoor volleyball courts, and two tennis courts. The campus also features an indoor American-style gymnasium suitable for basketball and other indoor activities. Outdoor spaces include a large quad and an outdoor amphitheater used for events and recreation. AOSR supports competitive varsity athletics, with teams participating in the DoDEA European League.	Sports facilities The school has an outdoor classroom in the school woods, ample outdoor play areas for breaks and sport activities, a fitness trail, a five-a-side football field, and two purpose-built gymnasia for each section of the school.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities 55 classrooms, each equipped with a projector and LCD panel and/or touch-screen TV. There are four science labs for middle and high school. A design lab with two 3D printers, laser cutters, and advanced design tools supports project-based learning, along with a newly built computer lab for high-level programming, coding, and graphic design. The elementary and secondary libraries have about 25,000 volumes, and a high-speed wireless network supports learning across campus.	Academic facilities The school has Space Lab, two modern libraries, three science laboratories, three canteens serving organic lunches, Music, Art and Drama rooms, a 230-seat Auditorium, and iPads and laptops for the whole school.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities After School Activities offer a world of opportunities outside the classroom, with programs ranging from sports to arts and music and quarterly additions. Clubs and Organizations include National Honor Society, Student Council, Global Issues Network, Model United Nations, Habitat for Humanity, Robotics Club, Engineering Workshop, and language honor societies such as French, Italian, and Spanish. The Arts Program includes Band, Performing Arts, IB Film, Visual Arts, and Choir, with performance spaces such as The Black Box Theatre, The Performance Center, Outdoor Amphitheater, and the AOSR Gymnasium. Extracurriculars also encompass a wide range of productions, concerts, and community showcases supported by campus facilities.	Extra curricular facilities The school offers lunchtime clubs and after-school activities, including a private music programme accredited by ABRSM (piano, guitar, drums), LEGO Club, Codemotion, Chess club, language labs, Cookery club and Fitness and Sports. A late bus service is available for students over the age of seven to stay for after-school activities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Established in 1947. AOSR is an independent, non-denominational, non-profit coed community with students from 59 countries. It offers AP and IB programs, with the IB Diploma Programme available since 1989. It is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and was the first international school in Rome to receive MSA's International Credential. The campus sits on Via Cassia and features facilities for 21st-century learning, including design spaces, science labs, and libraries.	History Rome International School was established in 1988. It is a member of Globeducate. The school serves students aged 2 to 18 and hosts more than 500 pupils representing about 60 nationalities. RIS offers an IB World School framework: Early Years and Primary Years, Middle School with Cambridge IGCSE leading to the IB Diploma, and a High School programme culminating in the IB Diploma. The campus is located in Monte Mario north-west Rome, set within more than 3 hectares of the Monte Mario natural reserve.
Community	Community The AOSR community includes more than 55 nationalities, with equal representation of American, international, and Italian families. Cultural traditions from near and far are shared, explored, and celebrated in classrooms and during events like the United Nations Concert, Mayfair, and International Language Day. The environment is warm and welcoming, with strong faculty commitment and a multicultural setting. The alumni network stays connected worldwide, reflecting the community's lasting impact.	Community RIS Rome has an international community with students from 60 nationalities. Life at RIS highlights real moments from the school community through events such as the Winter Fair and annual exhibitions. Globeducate enrichment opportunities include Lunchtime Clubs and After-school Activities, Creativity, Activity & Service (CAS) for the IB Diploma Programme, RIS MUN Club and Duke of Edinburgh.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The PTO is the heart of the AOSR community and the only active PTO among international schools in Rome. It brings people together through events such as Oktoberfest, the New Families BBQ, and Mayfair. Everyone is a member and there is no fee to join. The PTO plans and facilitates events, supports school-wide activities, funds projects through grants, and supports student group fundraising, including on-campus volunteering. Examples of activities include Popcorn Wednesday, Booster Bar, staff appreciation, seasonal celebrations, and Falcon Gear (spiritwear).	Parent teacher association The RIS Parent Teacher Association (PTA) plays a pivotal role in enriching the school community. It comprises seven committees: Secretary, Treasurer, Charity, Welcome and Community Building, Eco, International Representatives, and Class Parent Representatives. The committees organize events, fundraisers and school initiatives, and support communications among parents, students and staff. The Welcome and Community Building Committee integrates new families, the Eco Committee promotes sustainability, and the International Representatives Committee fosters cultural diversity. The Class Parent Representatives facilitate classroom-level liaison. The PTA contributes to a vibrant, engaged RIS Rome community.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual AOSR offers clubs such as the STEMEC Club, Junk Kouture, and Model United Nations that deepen academic interests and develop critical thinking and collaboration. Students have opportunities to pursue leadership within clubs through Student Councils and Honor Societies, gaining decision-making experience and problem-solving skills. The clubs support intellectual curiosity and provide experiences beyond the classroom, preparing students for higher education. These activities complement academic coursework by applying knowledge to real-world challenges.	Academic & intellectual New academic booster clubs for Maths, Biology and Chemistry are offered for 2025-2026. A private ABRSM-accredited music programme provides piano, guitar and drums. LEGO education and Codemotion provide hands-on STEAM learning. Model United Nations runs in collaboration with Associazione Diplomatici and Globeducate, offering four MUN events and tailored preparation, with a Dalcroze-based approach to early-musician training provided in partnership with Musicanova.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Arts Program offers Band, Performing Arts, IB Film, Visual Arts, and Choir, providing diverse outlets for creative expression. Students perform in school concerts and major productions, building confidence and teamwork. The program uses spaces including The Black Box Theatre, The Performance Center, the Hillside outdoor amphitheatre, and the gymnasium to stage events. Annual exhibitions and performances showcase student talent and creativity.	Arts & creative LAMDA drama certification is offered through an exclusive partnership with Elizabeth Samuels Drama School. A private ABRSM music programme supports musical literacy. Cooking Club and Chess Club are part of the enrichment offering, and drama and music activities are complemented by other creative clubs.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language AOSR is a global community with students from 59 countries, fostering cultural exchange and language exposure. Italian and international perspectives are reflected in the school's composition, including 30% Italian families and 70% international families. The school's multilingual environment is complemented by opportunities to engage with global cultures through clubs, events, and visiting performances. This cosmopolitan setting enhances language awareness and cross-cultural communication.	Cultural & language Language labs support language development. The RIS Rome MUN Club and related activities promote diplomacy and cross-cultural understanding through global forums.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies AOSR offers a broad range of After School Activities and clubs that cater to diverse interests, from academics and the arts to service and leadership. A Club Fair each year introduces students to options, and faculty advisors guide sign-ups to help students pursue passions and build friendships. Clubs emphasize collaboration, community, and personal enjoyment beyond academics. Students can connect with peers through shared interests and social activities.	Social & hobbies Lunchtime Clubs include LEGO Club, Codemotion, Chess Club, Language Labs, Cookery Club and Fitness and sports; after-school activities feature Judo/Jiu Jitsu, Self Defence and Football for active students. Chess Club and Cooking Club remain popular components of enrichment.
Community & service	Community & service Clubs and initiatives include community service projects and environmental advocacy, enabling students to contribute to the school and wider community. Participation in service activities helps students develop social responsibility and empathy while applying leadership skills. Students collaborate on service projects, fundraising, and outreach events that benefit local and international communities. These experiences complement classroom learning with real-world impact.	Community & service Creativity, Activity & Service (CAS) Programme for IBDP enriches the student experience with arts, sports and service projects. CAS fosters charity events, cultural exchanges and sustainability initiatives; MUN and Duke of Edinburgh programmes support volunteering and community engagement.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Student Councils and Honor Societies provide structured leadership opportunities where students lead initiatives, organize events, and develop communication and teamwork skills. Clubs foster project management, problem solving, and collaboration, building professional competencies for university and career preparation. Leadership experiences are integrated through service, student governance, and project-based activities. AOSR supports students in cultivating professional skills alongside academics.	Leadership & professional The Duke of Edinburgh Award offers volunteering, physical activity, skills and expeditions for high school students. The RIS Rome MUN Club and the Duke of Edinburgh programme promote leadership and public speaking, with training and after-school sessions. A House System with awards recognises IB Learner Profile attributes and leadership development.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Athletics offers year-round, school-wide opportunities that promote physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. ES to HS programs provide activities such as flag football, swimming, tennis, cross country, basketball, volleyball, and more, with facilities to support competition and training. After-school activities emphasize well-being, discipline, and personal growth through sport and movement. AOSR's vibrant campus life supports mental and physical well-being through active engagement.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is built on Positive Psychology PERMAH principles to help students feel valued, safe and a sense of belonging. The programme includes half-termly wellbeing assemblies, staff wellbeing strategies and parent workshops, plus student wellbeing ambassadors from Year 7 to 13. A safeguarding framework and two school psychologists provide ongoing support, alongside a dedicated listening centre and a Form Tutor-led holistic approach.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is a core subject and English Language Arts is taught as part of the curriculum. Italian is taught as a core subject starting in Grade 1. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports non-native English speakers. World Languages allows study of up to two languages, with Italian encouraged and options to study Spanish or French; AP courses in Spanish and French are available.	Language provision Nursery and Elementary provide English as the first language of instruction; English and Italian are Group 1 languages, with a third language required for all students (French, Spanish or Chinese). EAL courses are available for non-native English speakers. International students may also study Italian language and culture within the Italian Ministerial Curriculum; they take Cambridge IGCSE Italian and may pursue IB Diploma Programme Italian language options.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching AOSR offers a bilingual education with English as a language of instruction and Italian as a second language. A third language is added starting in middle school. Italian language classes begin in Grade 1, and AP courses in Spanish and French are available.	Bilingual teaching Nursery, Kindergarten and Transition have English as a first language of instruction, and Elementary School also uses English as a first language. Italian language study is integrated under the Italian Ministerial Curriculum. English and Italian are offered as Group 1 languages, and all students study a third language (French, Spanish or Chinese). EAL (English as an Additional Language) support is available for students whose English is not yet at the required level.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Language and Culture options include Chinese Language and Culture and Arabic Language and Culture, integrated into Elementary and continued in Middle School. After-school beginner language classes are offered in Spanish, French, Chinese, Arabic and German. In Middle School, Chinese Language and Culture remains a curriculum option; High School students may study Mandarin for IGCSE or IB Diploma Programme if they have studied Mandarin previously.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The school is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and was the first international school to be awarded MSA's International Credential. The school is a member of CIS, ECIS, and RISA, and holds additional affiliations with MAIS, ELMLE, and AAIE.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Registration of Interest via OpenApply: Tell us a little about your family. After you submit, an acknowledgment of receipt is sent by the Admissions Team. The Admissions Team then contacts you to schedule a virtual or in-person meeting with the Admissions Officer. You may also reserve a spot at an Open Day to learn more about AOSR. 2. Reserve Your Spot at One of Our Open Days: Learn more about AOSR by reserving a spot for an Open Day. Attending an Open Day helps families understand the school's programs and community. After reserving, the Admissions Team can coordinate a meeting as part of the process. 3. Schedule a Meeting: Following the Registration of Interest, the Admissions Team will set up a virtual or in-person meeting with the Admissions Officer. The meeting provides an opportunity to ask questions and discuss relocation timelines and school fit. This step helps tailor the subsequent application steps. 4. Complete the Application Form: After meeting with the Admissions Team, you receive the Application Form link to complete via OpenApply. The form requests the documentation needed to begin the internal review process. Submissions are accepted only through OpenApply, not by email. 5. Review Process: After you submit all required documents, the Admissions Team assesses your child(ren)'s application. You will be notified of the decision with an official admissions letter. 6. Explore AOSR and Complete Enrollment: After meeting, you can explore AOSR from anywhere with a virtual tour; a campus tour can be arranged as appropriate. Once the application process is complete and you have spoken with the Admissions Team, you will receive the next steps to finalize enrollment.	Admissions 1. Initial Enquiry and School Contact Parents initiate the admissions process by completing and submitting the online Admissions Enquiry Form on the school's website. Following this submission, the Admissions team contacts the family to provide specific guidance on how to move the application forward. During this initial stage, parents can also arrange virtual or in-person campus visits or attend open days to meet the leadership team. It is helpful for families to use this initial contact to ask about class capacity and specific curriculum paths. 2. Submission of Documentation Once the inquiry is made, parents must compile and submit a comprehensive set of required documents to the school. This documentation includes the completed Enquiry Form, copies of the applicant's birth certificate and passport, a completed Medical Information Form signed by a parent or guardian, and official school reports for the past two years (translated into English if applicable). Additionally, recommendation forms must be sent directly to Rome International School from the student’s current school. Parents should note that previous school reports are not required for applicants under five years of age. 3. Academic Review and Assessments After receiving all documents, the school's Senior Management Team evaluates the application based on academic, behavioural, and language development history. For Middle and High School applicants, the school requests a Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) assessment prior to enrolment. Placement in a specific grade depends on multiple factors, including the student's age, an interview, academic entrance tests for secondary levels, and consultations with parents. Parents must be aware that class placement relies on the student's age as of September 30th, since the school year follows a September-to-August calendar. 4. Application Outcome and Communication The Senior Management Team finalises their decision after checking the entry criteria, which require families to respect the school's philosophy and demonstrate the student's ability to thrive in an English-instruction international environment. The official outcome of the admissions application is communicated to the family within seven working days of full submission. If the application is not accepted, any standard application sums paid up to that point are returned to the family. Parents should monitor their communication channels closely during this week-long window for the formal decision letter. 5. Enrolment Finalisation Upon receiving an acceptance offer, parents must complete the enrolment procedure in person at the school's admissions office. This step requires the physical presence of the parents or guardians to provide necessary legal signatures on the enrolment contracts. At this stage, families will also arrange the payment of applicable registration and tuition fees, which vary depending on the year group. Parents should prepare for this final visit by coordinating schedules with the enrolment team to secure the student's place.
Scholarships	Scholarships AOSR offers Scholarships and Financial Aid funded by donations. American Overseas School of Rome, Inc. is a nonprofit organization (501(c)(3)); donations are tax-deductible and support the scholarships and financial aid program. The financial aid policy provides that aid is allocated to reduce tuition fees for families who meet eligibility criteria and submit a complete application; decisions are made by a committee consisting of the Head of School and the Administration. Applications for financial aid are accepted throughout the school year to assist families facing unforeseen financial difficulties, and a cover letter detailing the circumstances must accompany the application. Incomplete applications are not considered; for applications submitted before April 30, a confidential decision is communicated by May 20.	Scholarships Rome International School offers a dedicated Scholarship Fund that provides financial assistance to qualified students based on merit and financial need. The school typically allocates four scholarships per academic year: two for the Elementary School and two for the Middle/High School. These awards can provide full coverage of annual tuition fees. In the Middle and High School sections, the school may also split a full award into two partial scholarships covering 50% of the tuition fees to recognise special student merit.
Waitlist	Waitlist AOSR may maintain a waiting list when a grade level reaches capacity during the application period. The waiting list helps balance class sizes and manage admissions fairly. While every applicant is considered, space cannot be guaranteed until openings are available.	Waitlist —
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