Americana Chinese International School vs Grace International School

	A Americana Chinese International School Chiang Mai, Thailand	G Grace International School Chiang Mai, Thailand
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year THB 200,000 - 376,000	Fees / year THB 294,500 - 361,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 550	Pupils 600
Typical class size	Typical class size 26	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2019	Opened 1999
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The school is located in the Nong‑Pheung sub‑district, Sarapee District, Chiang Mai, Thailand, situated away from the dense city centre. It can be accessed via the Chiang Mai–Lampang Super Highway.	Location Grace International School is located at 88 Muu 3, Tupaed‑Hang Dong, Chiang Mai, Thailand, in a suburban area southwest of the city. It is accessible via rail, bus services, and major highways. The surrounding neighbourhood includes residential zones, green space, and school-operated buses that serve off-site events.
Stages	Stages ACIS offers an American curriculum for students from Pre‑K (early years) up to Grade 12.	Stages GIS offers education from kindergarten (K) through 12th grade, structured in three divisions: Elementary (K–5), Middle School (6–8), and High School (9–12).
School type	School type It is a co‑educational day school.	School type GIS is a co‑educational, day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school states that its enrollment team provides individualised support for students with diverse learning needs. ESL (English as a Second Language) support is available.	Additional learning support The Educational Support Division offers Inclusion Support, Individual Learning Plans (ILP), Guided Study Halls, Grace Accommodation Plans (GAP), small‑group instruction, academic assessments, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, and the R.I.S.E. program for students with significant needs like autism or Down syndrome.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school does not claim formal affiliation with any particular country.	Country affiliation The school is not affiliated with a specific country.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation GIS is a Christian international school which integrates a biblical perspective into its academic programme and student life.
School day structure	School day structure Specific daily hours or break/lunch times for the school day are not publicly available online.	School day structure Daily schedule information is not publicly provided on the school's website. Activities such as morning chapel services (for elementary) and staggered lunch times are part of the weekly routine.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school offers a transportation service via vans.	Bus service details GIS does not operate a routine school bus service for student drop-off or pick-up.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Enrollment Fees Entrance Exam & ESL Test: THB 3,300 (per semester) Entrance Fee: THB 60,000 (one-time, non-refundable) Lifetime Book Fee: THB 10,000 (one-time payment for book usage across all grades) Annual Tuition Fees Pre-K to K2: THB 180,400 K3 to Grade 3: THB 264,000 Grades 4–6: THB 302,500 Grades 7–9: THB 308,000 Grades 10–12: THB 341,000 Other Annual or Semester-Based Fees Lunch, breakfast & snack: THB 20,000 Capital Improvement Fee: THB 20,000 Transportation (Van Service): THB 30,000–50,000 Accident Insurance: THB 1,000 ESL Support: THB 40,000 (if applicable) Uniform (5 sets): THB 4,000 (one-time) Discounts Sibling Discount: 10% tuition discount for the second child, 15% for third and subsequent children Loyalty Discount: 25% off tuition only for families who pay full annual tuition for more than 3 consecutive years Payment Method Direct bank transfer.	Fee details Application and One-Time Fees (for first-year students) English Proficiency Test Fee: THB 1,500 (if required) Standardized Testing Fee: THB 1,500 Application Fee: THB 2,000 Entrance Fee: THB 70,000 (non-refundable) Annual Tuition Fees Grades K–5: THB 294,500 Grades 6–8: THB 322,000 Grades 9–11: THB 348,000 Grade 12: THB 361,000 Note: 1.5% interest per month (prorated daily) applies to overdue balances. Recurring Annual Fees Capitalization Fee: THB 30,000 (non-refundable) Re-enrollment Fee: THB 10,000 (non-refundable) Sibling Discount Full tuition is charged for the first three children. A 20% tuition discount applies to each additional sibling beyond the third. Lunch Fees (per semester, optional) Grades K–2: THB 4,400 Grades 3–5: THB 5,000 Grades 6–12: THB 7,200 Refund Policies Tuition: Fully refundable before the semester begins; prorated by quarter after it begins Entrance Fee: Fully refundable before the semester; nonrefundable after All other fees (application, re-enrollment, capitalization, standardized testing): Non-refundable Lunch Fees: Fully refundable before semester; prorated after it begins Payment Options GIS accepts direct deposit, credit card, and cash. Student Visa Requirement Full payment of tuition and capitalization fee is required to apply for a student visa
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements The school does not provide dormitories or boarding.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required. GIS polo shirts, GIS PE shorts, and GIS PE jerseys are sold at the Tiger Shop. The uniform policy is described in the PSMO Handbook for each grade; uniforms and PE gear must be GIS-branded and purchased from the Tiger Shop; sweatshirts may be worn for PE if they follow dress code; old uniforms can be donated or disposed of.
Food options	Food options —	Food options The cafeteria serves hot lunches daily with Thai and Western dishes and a daily salad bar. The lunch program is available to all students in grades K–12, and a parent committee works with the cafeteria manager to develop menus. Allergy information is available on request.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school was founded in 2019 by Amporn and Chugait Garmolgomut.	Governance and ownership The Board of Trustees governs GIS and is formed by representatives of GIS Owner Organizations. The Chief Governance Officer chairs the board. The Board uses Carver Policy Governance and meets to oversee policy and planning.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details ACIS follows American curriculum standards, including California Common Core for English and Math, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Science, and AERO objectives for Social Studies, all integrated from Pre‑K through Grade 12. In the elementary years, students study English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health, and enrichment subjects such as STEM, art, music, physical education, robotics, computer technology, gardening & environmental studies. All students learn Chinese and Thai - Chinese daily and Thai weekly as required by the Thai Ministry of Education, using protocols aligned with HANBAN standards and WIDA-based ESL support for English learners. In middle and high school (Grades 6–12), the focus shifts toward college and career readiness, with more advanced coursework in English, social studies, laboratory sciences (biology, chemistry, physics, Earth science), and electives through the STREAM program integrating Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. For high school students, there are different pathways, including a regular US high school curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and a Dual Diploma Pathway (ACIS and U.S. diploma via Hudson Global Scholars).	Curriculum details Grace International School offers a U.S.-based, Christian curriculum from Kindergarten through Grade 12, structured across Elementary, Middle, and High School divisions. In Elementary School (Grades K–5), students study core subjects (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies) alongside Art, Music, Physical Education, Library, Thai (Grades 1–5), and Korean (for Korean nationals). In Middle School (Grades 6–8), the curriculum includes Language Arts, Bible, Mathematics, Science, World Civilizations, Thai, and electives such as Fine Arts, STEM, Yearbook, and Drama. Students in High School (Grades 9–12) complete graduation requirements in core subjects, with electives in Fine Arts, Technology, PE, and additional courses, including AP options in subjects like Calculus, English, Chemistry, and World History.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning ACIS has established a counselling team that conducts wellness checks for students who are struggling and delivers a social‑emotional learning curriculum. A school‑wide Positive Behavior Support (PBS) system is in place, focusing on reinforcing and recognising positive conduct across different school environments. Teachers, administrators, and support staff work together to clearly communicate behaviour expectations and use positive reinforcement strategies. The counselling team supports students through individual or group sessions as needed. The emphasis on SEL is woven into the holistic development programme of the school.	Social & emotional learning GIS integrates support via its Educational Support Division. When emotional or behavioural concerns emerge, parents and teachers can request a Student Success Team meeting involving educational staff, a counsellor or principal, and the student. This team reviews the situation and commits to tailored actions. Guided Study Halls also offer support with behaviour management and study strategies. While the website refers to emotional support within these structures, it does not specify a standalone social‑emotional learning programme.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school website does not publicly disclose specific details regarding support for Special Educational Needs (SEN).	Special educational needs (SEN) The school operates an Educational Support Division offering Grace Accommodation Plans (GAP) or Individual Learning Plans (ILP) for students with diagnosed learning, behavioural, or cognitive differences. Services include inclusion support, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, small‑group instruction, academic assessments, and the RISE programme for those with needs such as autism, Down syndrome or moderate learning disabilities. It is not a specialist SEN institution but provides these supports within the mainstream school.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language ACIS runs an ESL (English as a Second Language) programme, with students pulled from regular classes for tailored support based on placement testing in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The school uses WIDA language learning system to structure individual language pathways and measure growth. In August 2024, ACIS began implementing formal WIDA model testing to assess students’ English language abilities for tailored instruction. Students who progress well receive Certificates of Achievement and may transition out of the EAL programme appropriately. While EAL support is clearly offered, the school does not present itself as a specialised EAL-only institution.	English as an additional language GIS does not offer an intensive ESOL programme with first‑language support. They do employ trained ESOL specialists to assist English‑language learners, though students spend most of their time in mainstream classrooms. Admission requires passing an English proficiency assessment, and the number of ESOL students is capped at approximately 15 % per grade.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing ACIS offers a counselling team dedicated to student mental health and behaviour support, including wellness checks for those who might be struggling. A social‑emotional learning curriculum is implemented as part of broader holistic development initiatives. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is used to foster a nurturing environment and reinforce positive social and emotional skills. The school further supports physical wellness with annual health checkups for students to identify and address developmental or health issues early.	Mental wellbeing The school provides academic counselling and Student Success Teams to address emotional and behavioural challenges alongside academic ones. Educational Support staff collaborate with teachers and parents to implement strategies. Counsellors also meet one‑on‑one with students to support academic growth and future planning, indirectly supporting wellbeing via planning and guidance. The site does not describe a dedicated mental wellbeing curriculum.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The ACIS website does not publicly detail specific safeguarding or child protection policies or designated safeguarding staff on its official website.	Safeguarding GIS maintains a Student Safety and Protection Policy, requiring all staff and aides to sign a Student Safety Code of Conduct. Mandatory reporters must report any suspicion or knowledge of abuse to the Student Safety Director, who notifies the Superintendent within 24 hours. The school addresses both student‑to‑student and adult‑to‑student harm, and suspected abuse is reported to appropriate authorities or mission organisations.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview ACIS has modern, technology-enhanced classrooms with high-speed internet that support collaborative, inquiry-based learning. It offers science and innovation labs for hands-on experiments in STEM subjects. Language and cultural centers provide Mandarin, English, and Thai instruction to promote multilingual proficiency. The campus includes sports and fitness facilities, arts and creativity studios, a library and research resources, and spacious outdoor play areas. An on-site coffee shop and sustainability initiatives reinforce a holistic learning environment.	Facilities overview Grace International School sits on a 37-acre campus. The campus is divided into academics and an athletics complex. There are seven buildings: Administration, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Cafeteria, Facilities, and Fitness Center. Outdoor courts, covered courts, and soccer fields support sports and recreation. The school is expanding with Tiger Fieldhouse & Gymnasium, Auditorium, and Performing Arts. Security includes 24/7 campus security and facilities staff.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities ACIS provides sports and fitness facilities including a swimming pool, sports fields, and courts for basketball, soccer, and futsal. The facilities support physical development, teamwork, and healthy competition. Outdoor spaces and gym areas contribute to daily activity and balanced student life. These facilities are designed to complement academics and extracurricular programs.	Sports facilities The athletics complex includes outdoor courts, covered courts, and soccer fields. Phase I includes Tiger Field House & Gymnasium as part of athletics development.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities ACIS follows the American curriculum with a global perspective, serving students PK–12. The program emphasizes Project-Based Learning (PBL) and STEM subjects, complemented by robotics and arts. Students receive daily Mandarin, English, and Thai language instruction. Classrooms and facilities support inquiry-based learning, with science and innovation labs for hands-on experimentation.	Academic facilities There are seven buildings: Administration, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Cafeteria, Facilities, and Fitness Center.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities ACIS offers diverse extracurricular activities, including dance, chess, karate, guitar, swimming, Bible studies, English language, Chinese language, and music club. Availability depends on demand. These activities foster talents, teamwork, leadership, and character, with opportunities for performances, exhibitions, and presentations. The program also supports students across ages and interests.	Extra curricular facilities Grace International School offers athletics, visual and performing arts, spiritual life, after-school clubs, and other student services.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Americana Chinese International School (ACIS) was founded in 2019 by educators Amporn and Chugait Garmolgomut, who brought over three decades of experience to building an international school in the Chiang Mai area. t operates as a member of the Ambassador Education Group, which celebrated over 35 years of experience in education alongside ACIS’s development. Ownership remains with its founders under that umbrella group. The school was created to offer an American‑curriculum education enriched with Chinese and Thai language learning in Chiang Mai’s Saraphi district.	History Grace International School was founded in 1999 out of a vision to serve the missionary community in Southeast Asia by providing affordable, biblically integrated education. The idea began around 1995, when the founder Gene Foltz and representatives from 12 mission organizations began planning and praying for a school to support international Christian workers. A school board was formed from multiple mission groups, and because of a shared goal, they united around this vision.
Community	Community ACIS regularly hosts cultural and community events; recent highlights include Chinese New Year celebrations with performances by different grade levels, a Christmas Carnival, Children’s Day, a winter clothing drive, and a New Year potluck parent meet‑up. These events encourage participation from students, staff, and families and showcase the school’s multicultural environment.	Community GIS has a culturally diverse community each year with over 500 students from more than 85 member organisations and families serving in over 40 countries. Community life includes regular school‑wide events, chapel gatherings, podcasts, and the Grace in Action newsletter sharing stories from around campus.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The ACIS website mentions a structured parent‑community connection, including an inaugural New Parents’ Meet & Greet event held in September 2024, where families joined in cultural activities and networking. ACIS families participate in potluck gatherings, holiday carnivals, and community‑building events alongside the school leadership. While there is no dedicated PTA page publicly disclosed, parents are clearly invited and involved in school life through organised social and cultural activities facilitated by school staff and parent volunteers.	Parent teacher association GIS supports parental involvement through its Parent‑Led Activities (PLA) group, which organizes community-building events and maintains communication between parents and the school. The PLA helps facilitate fellowship among families, serves as a sounding board for administration, and empowers parents to propose ideas and serve the school. Specific groups within PLA coordinate various service activities, and parents are encouraged to reach out to Campus Life for involvement.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ACIS is located in Chiang Mai, Thailand, serving students PK–12. It was established in 2019, has about 550 students, and a 10:1 student–teacher ratio.	Academic & intellectual GIS offers after-school clubs and activities that support academic enrichment. Elementary clubs include Creative Worship, Journaling, Origami, Creative Dance, Engineering, Running, Art, Drawing, Critter Club, and Chess. Middle and High School clubs include Art Club, Athletics, Bible Club, Chapel Team, Drama, E-Sports, Math Club, Media Club, Model United Nations, Music Club, Night Bazaar Evangelism, Speech & Debate, Student Council, STEM, and Thai ROTC.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative ACIS offers Visual and Performing Arts integrated into the academic program, with hands-on learning in drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, instrumental and vocal music, and various dance styles.	Arts & creative Arts are available through Visual and Performing Arts, with Drama, Music Club, and Art Club offered across levels. Elementary Arts include Origami, Creative Dance, Art, and Drawing; Middle and High School clubs include Art Club, Drama, and Music Club.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language ACIS provides daily Thai and Chinese language classes as part of its multilingual program, alongside English Language Arts and other core subjects.	Cultural & language GIS has a diverse community with 23 nationalities among students and 14 nationalities among staff. Model United Nations exposes students to global issues, and Thai ROTC is part of cultural activities. Grace Connect provides a flexible alternative to full-time enrollment, enabling homeschooling families to access curriculum resources and stay connected to the GIS community.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Extracurricular activities include dance, chess, karate, guitar, swimming, Bible studies, English language clubs, Chinese language clubs, and a Music Club, among others.	Social & hobbies Elementary clubs include Chess, Journaling, Origami, Creative Worship, and running activities; middle and high school offer clubs such as Art Club, Athletics, Bible Club, Chapel Team, Drama, E-Sports, Math Club, Media Club, Model United Nations, Music Club, Night Bazaar Evangelism, Speech & Debate, Student Council, STEM, and Thai ROTC.
Community & service	Community & service Extracurricular offerings emphasize character development and teamwork through a variety of activities, and inter-school sports provide opportunities for teamwork and leadership.	Community & service The athletics program emphasizes leadership development through Sports Leadership 1 and 2 and includes ministry and outreach activities. GIS also pursues community engagement by hosting events and outreach initiatives in the Chiang Mai area.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The High School offers multiple academic pathways (Regular, Enriched, AP, and Dual Diploma) to support college and career readiness, and there is a College & Career Counseling program.	Leadership & professional Student leadership opportunities include the Student Council (two representatives per grade and officers) and Model United Nations. Speech & Debate develops critical thinking and communication skills. Athletics provide leadership development through coaching and ministry outreach.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing ACIS emphasizes a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle with a robust sports program (basketball, futsal, swimming, volleyball, badminton, soccer) and a sport-science approach through CMAC interschool competitions.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The athletics program serves grades 2–12 with Basketball, Cross Country, Futsal, Rec League, Running Club, Soccer, Swimming, and Volleyball, supporting physical health and character development. Leadership, service, and community engagement are integrated into athletic programs and campus life.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Languages taught are English, Chinese and Thai. English-medium instruction is complemented by daily Chinese and Thai language classes for PK-12, supporting multilingual learners.	Language provision Grace International School delivers an American curriculum taught in English. English language support for non-native speakers is provided through the TESOL program at no additional cost, and admission requires an English Proficiency Exam to assess speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. TESOL includes a Guided Study Hall, monitoring, and dedicated TESOL teachers in Elementary, Middle, and High School, with ESOL resources for K-5 and 9-12 and WIDA assessments used to guide support.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching ACIS provides an English-language American curriculum with daily Chinese and Thai language lessons for Pre-K through Grade 12. The approach supports multilingual learners and integrates language study with general academics.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.	Awards The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.
Accreditations	Accreditations Holds Candidacy Status with ACS WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) Through June 30, 2025, following a comprehensive evaluation by the accrediting body. Member of the International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) Affirming its commitment to international quality standards. Undergoing external quality assurance accreditation by Thailand’s ONESQA (Office of National Education Standards and Quality Assessment) from 2022 to 2026.	Accreditations Grace International School is formally accredited by: The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) A highly respected U.S.-based accrediting body that ensures the school meets international academic standards in curriculum, faculty, and governance. The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) An organization that provides accreditation to Christian schools worldwide, with a strong focus on spiritual education and values-based learning.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Schedule a campus visit or tour (optional) You may book a tour via the “Enrollment” page, and discuss the details of the school’s programme with the admissions team. Submit application form Complete and submit the online (or downloadable) application form, including student details, previous schooling, languages, and family information. Document submission Parents send required documents (proof of identity, previous school reports, and other details) as part of the application package (implied via application form). Offer & acceptance The school issues a Letter of Acceptance to successful applicants. Tuition & visa After acceptance, pay tuition and fees to trigger issuance of student visa letter. ACIS handles visa support for international students.	Admissions 1. Pre-application & Inquiry Submit the Inquiry Form to check for space availability and share any learning support needs (e.g. speech therapy, learning services). 2. Schedule an Appointment If spaces are available, the admissions team will email you to schedule a parent-student appointment. You must confirm to proceed. 3. Assessment & Interviews Elementary (K–6): Includes an English proficiency interview (10 minutes) and a writing sample; plus an interview with the Elementary Principal (20 minutes). Middle & High School (Grades 7–12): Similar screening plus age-appropriate cognitive assessments, references, and prior transcripts may be requested. 4. Decision & Waitlist Acceptance is confirmed in writing once all prior steps meet school guidelines. Applicants without Member‑Associate status may be placed on a waitlist, especially if applying after the main admissions window (April/May). 5. Enrollment Fees & Visa Processing Once accepted, submit required payments and documentation. GIS assists with visa paperwork for students (non-immigrant ED visa) and offers a guardian visa for parents.
Scholarships	Scholarships The school does not have publicly available information on their scholarships.	Scholarships GIS operates a Financial Assistance Program (FAP). This program offers tuition discounts to qualifying families especially international Christian workers to help make education more affordable. These tuition reductions are not labeled as scholarships, but they serve a similar purpose.
Waitlist	Waitlist The school does not have a waitlist.	Waitlist GIS notes that applicants without Member Associate family status may be placed on a waitlist, particularly if applying after the main admission window (April–May). Seats are allocated based on availability and priority is given to Member Associate families.
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