Balboa Academy vs International School of Panama

	B Balboa Academy Panama City, Panama	I International School of Panama Panama City, Panama
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year $1,993 - 16,005	Fees / year $9,999 - 18,938
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)	Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 901	Pupils 1,262
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1999	Opened 1982
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Balboa Academy is a private school in Panama City, located in the heart of the capital's vibrant community. The school sits in Ciudad del Saber (City of Knowledge) in Clayton, Panama City. This location places Balboa Academy in the Clayton neighborhood with convenient access to Panama City's amenities.	Location Located at Calle al Club de Golf, Cerro Viento, San Miguelito, Provincia de Panamá, República de Panamá. The campus sits in the Golf Club area of Panama City, San Miguelito. Postal address is P.O. Box 0819-02588 El Dorado Panama.
Stages	Stages Balboa Academy serves students from PK-3 through 12th grade. Academic stages include Preschool (ages 3-4), Elementary (ages 5-10), Middle School (ages 11-14), and High School (ages 15-18).	Stages Pre-K 3 through Grade 12.
School type	School type The school is a private day, college-preparatory school offering a U.S.-standards-based curriculum and dual Panamanian/U.S. diplomas.	School type The school is a non-profit international school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Over 40 nationalities represented.	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Honor and support classes are offered.	Additional learning support The Learning Support program provides services to students with diagnosed mild to moderate learning or behavioral needs, including accommodations or IEPs; English as an Additional Language with a structured newcomer program and co-teaching; Speech (third-party on-site provider at cost to parents); Occupational Therapy (third-party on-site provider at cost to parents); Social-emotional counseling; Inclusion Program (Tier 3+) for students requiring specialized, full- or part-time support.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Panama and the United States. The school issues dual Panamanian and U.S. diplomas.	Country affiliation Affiliated with Panama's Ministry of Education (MEDUCA).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure School hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday PK 8:00–12:30; K-12 8:00–2:55. Wednesday PK 8:00–11:30; K-12 8:00–12:45.	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details Bus transportation is available for all Balboa Academy students. The service is provided by TRANES PANAMA, S.A. Clayton is among the served areas; many neighborhoods across Panama City are included.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Admission fees - Application / evaluation fee: USD 150, paid online as part of the application process. - Admission fee (one-time, payable on acceptance/enrolment): USD 12,000. Annual (registration/annual) fees - Preschool (PK3 & PK4) annual fee: USD 1,077. - Grades K–12 annual fee: USD 1,899. Annual tuition — non‑sponsored students (full year) - PK3 & PK4: USD 7,966 per year. - Kindergarten: USD 12,541 per year. - Grades 1–5: USD 12,665 per year. - Grades 6–12: USD 14,006 per year. Annual tuition — sponsored students (full year) - PK3 & PK4: USD 9,257 per year. - Kindergarten: USD 13,828 per year. - Grades 1–5: USD 13,965 per year. - Grades 6–12: USD 15,309 per year. Tuition per term / instalments and billing schedule - The school calendar published for the 2025–26 year uses quarter/term blocks. The school does not publish a public per‑term invoice table on the fee pages; the website invites families to contact the admissions team about payment options. Where a school uses term or monthly instalments, per‑term amounts are normally calculated from the annual tuition and the school's chosen number of instalments; Balboa Academy's public fee pages do not list per‑term amounts or an explicit payment‑due calendar. - Application payment is taken online through the application link. For other billing cadence (annual, termly, monthly), accepted instalment plans and specific due dates are not detailed on the school's public fees page. Boarding fees - No boarding provision or boarding fees are published for Balboa Academy. The school's materials describe the campus and programmes for day students; therefore boarding fees are not applicable. Other costs and typical additional charges - Registration/annual administration fees (listed above) apply in addition to tuition. - Uniforms: uniforms are required and may be purchased through the school's listed supplier (Galapago Panama); individual uniform item prices are not published on the school fee pages. - Bus service: a paid bus service is available for multiple areas; route coverage is published but bus fares are not listed on the public pages. - School meals: a daily lunch service (partnered with Yaya's Kitchen) is offered and menus are available monthly; meal pricing is not published on the school's fee page. - After‑school and extracurricular activities: some activities may have additional costs; specific activity fees are not published on the general fees page. Refunds and cancellations - No detailed public refund policy, pro‑rata withdrawal table or explicit refund rules for tuition or other fees are published on the school's public fees or admissions pages. Families are required to contact the admissions office for enrolment and fee terms; specific refund provisions are not listed. Fee payment options (what is publicly stated) - The application/evaluation fee is paid via the application link during the application process. Beyond that, the school's public pages invite enquiries about payment options but do not enumerate accepted payment methods (credit card, bank transfer, local payment portals) or give step‑by‑step payment instructions on the general fees page. Families are directed to contact the admissions office for payment arrangements. Summary of verified figures and totals - Key published figures (application fee, admission fee, annual fees, tuition rates for sponsored and non‑sponsored students) are taken from the school's public fees and admissions pages. Third‑party fee aggregators also reproduce these figures and show combined first‑year totals that include the one‑time admission/registration charges plus annual tuition. What was not publicly available on the school's fee pages (brief note) - The school's public pages do not provide an itemised per‑term invoice table, explicit payment due dates or schedules, detailed payment‑method instructions (credit card vs bank transfer vs payment portal), per‑item uniform or meal prices, or a published refund/withdrawal refund schedule. For those items, families must contact the school's admissions or finance office to obtain the official payment schedule, instalment options, accepted payment methods and the school's refund policy.	Fee details Application fee - USD 250 per student (non-refundable). Payment may be made by credit card or wire transfer. Capital donation - USD 16,000 per student. Payment schedule: - PK3 students: two installments of USD 8,000 each (one upon PK4 re-enrollment and the second upon Kindergarten re-enrollment, in March of each respective year). - PK4 through Grade 5: two installments of USD 8,000 each (one upon admission to reserve the seat and the second upon next-year re‑enrollment in March). - Grades 6–12: capital donation installments of USD 8,000 each begin in SY 2026–27 (one upon admission to reserve the seat and the second upon next‑year re‑enrollment in March). - The Capital Donation is not prorated for the student's length of stay. Registration fees (annual) - Institutional families: USD 4,500 due in full at admission (new families) or at re-enrollment (returning families). This fee is non‑refundable and not prorated. Payment by credit card or wire transfer. - Non‑institutional families: USD 1,000 due in full at admission or at re‑enrollment. This fee is non‑refundable and not prorated. Payment by credit card or wire transfer. Tuition — per term (quarter) and annual totals - Tuition is billed quarterly (four terms per school year). Tuition payments for families are made by the quarterly schedule below; annual totals shown are four times the listed quarterly amount. SY 2026–2027 (quarterly amount — due date / term start date) - PK3: USD 2,551 per quarter — Q1 due July 24, 2026 (term start Aug 5, 2026); annual total USD 10,204. - PK4–Grade 5: USD 3,896 per quarter — Q1 due July 24, 2026 (term start Aug 5, 2026); annual total USD 15,584. - Grades 6–8: USD 4,273 per quarter — Q1 due July 24, 2026 (term start Aug 5, 2026); annual total USD 17,092. - Grades 9–12: USD 4,832 per quarter — Q1 due July 24, 2026 (term start Aug 5, 2026); annual total USD 19,328. SY 2026–2027 quarterly calendar (all divisions): - Q1 due July 24, 2026 — term start August 5, 2026. - Q2 due September 25, 2026 — term start October 5, 2026. - Q3 due January 4, 2027 — term start January 13, 2027. - Q4 due March 12, 2027 — term start April 5, 2027. SY 2025–2026 (quarterly amounts and calendar, shown for reference) - PK3: USD 2,501 per quarter; annual total USD 10,004. - PK4–Grade 5: USD 3,819 per quarter; annual total USD 15,276. - Grades 6–8: USD 4,189 per quarter; annual total USD 16,756. - Grades 9–12: USD 4,737 per quarter; annual total USD 18,948. - SY 2025–2026 quarterly calendar: Q1 due July 25, 2025 (term start Aug 6, 2025); Q2 due Sept 26, 2025 (term start Oct 13, 2025); Q3 due Jan 2, 2026 (term start Jan 14, 2026); Q4 due March 13, 2026 (term start Apr 6, 2026). Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed quarterly and must be paid according to the quarterly due dates shown above. The cost of textbook rental, workbooks, and other consumable instructional materials (unless otherwise specified) is included in the annual tuition. Exceptions may apply for special division-requested materials. - Tuition payment methods: tuition payments are accepted only via wire transfer or the Banco General payment booklet. Other fees (application, registration, readmission) may accept credit card or wire transfer as noted in their descriptions. Specific payment instructions and account details are provided for families when completing admissions and payment processes. Selective and additional fees - English as an Additional Language (EAL) Fee: USD 500 per semester. Payable via wire transfer or Banco General payment booklet. Charged each semester the service is provided. - Learning Support Program Fee: USD 500 per semester (applies to students requiring additional learning support or identified GATE students). Payable via wire transfer or Banco General payment booklet. - Joint EAL + Learning Support Fee: USD 750 per semester (when both services apply). Payable via wire transfer or Banco General payment booklet. - International Baccalaureate (IB) fees: determined annually by the IB; IB program and examination fees for Grades 11–12 are charged and collected over the two‑year Diploma period. Payable via wire transfer or Banco General payment booklet. - Full‑time and part‑time support (specialized support staffing): USD 1,900 per month (full‑time) and USD 950 per month (part‑time). Families requiring these services sign a separate contract governing terms and payments; payable via wire transfer or Banco General payment booklet. - Student readmission fee: USD 1,600 per student (charged to families returning after more than 12 months away — equal to 10% of the Capital Donation at the time of readmission). Readmission requires settlement of any outstanding debts. This fee can be paid virtually or in person via credit card or wire transfer. Other costs (uniforms, meals, transport, activities) - Uniform: ISP requires a school uniform by Panamanian law; uniforms for purchase are available through a local retailer (Galapagos). Specific uniform items and purchasing details are provided after admission. Uniform costs are not listed as a flat school fee and are paid separately by families. - Meals and cafeterias: on‑campus cafeterias offer meal plans and accept debit and credit card payments; cafeteria charges are separate from tuition. - Transportation: the school refers families to third‑party transportation providers; transportation costs are arranged directly between families and the provider. - Special materials, optional trips, extracurricular program costs, and any division‑specific charges (beyond included consumables and textbooks) may be billed separately when applicable. Boarding fees - Not applicable. ISP operates as a day school and does not provide boarding/residential facilities; therefore there are no boarding fees. Refund and non‑refund rules (applicable items) - Application fee: USD 250 — non‑refundable. - Registration fees (Institutional USD 4,500; Non‑institutional USD 1,000): non‑refundable and not prorated, regardless of enrollment date. - Capital Donation: stated as not prorated for the student's stay; families should treat it as an assessed donation with scheduled installment requirements. - Readmission requires settlement of outstanding debts; the readmission charge detailed above applies. Other refunds or pro‑rations are not described in the published fee sections; specific refund adjustments (if any) are managed under the school's enrollment and finance policies. Fee payment options and methods - Application fee: credit card or wire transfer. - Registration fees: credit card or wire transfer (payable virtually or in person). - Tuition and most recurring academic/service fees: wire transfer or Banco General payment booklet only. - Selected administrative charges (e.g., readmission) may be payable by credit card or wire transfer as specified. (End of fee overview.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required and vary by grade. Preschool uniforms include color shirts (red, yellow, turquoise) with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater. Kindergarten to 6th grade wear burgundy tops with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater; 7th to 11th grade wear light blue or white polo shirts with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater; 12th grade wears a black polo shirt with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater. The Physical Education uniform is a white Balboa T-shirt with blue pants, with burgundy options for girls.	Uniform requirement Uniform is required for all students and is sold at Galapagos, a local clothing chain. PK3–PK4 wear a school t‑shirt (blue or gray) with PE shorts; K–12 wear a polo‑style shirt (light blue or white) with the ISP emblem and navy shorts or a plaid skirt; 11th–12th graders may wear a dark blue trim polo. A PE uniform is required at all ages (navy knit shorts, an ISP t‑shirt, and sweatpants) and shoes must be closed with rubber soles.
Food options	Food options Lunch is provided daily through Yaya's Kitchen, with meals chosen in advance from the monthly menu.	Food options There are two on-campus cafeterias: one for Elementary and one for Middle/High School. Meal plans are offered and payments are accepted by debit and credit card (no cash).
House system	House system Balboa Academy uses a house/tribe system: Color Teams in Elementary School, Dragon Tribes in Middle School, and Dragon Houses in High School. A student council exists at each level, and the High School Dragon Houses elect the DRACO council to plan and approve HS events; Middle School and Elementary students also run councils that organize activities and charity drives.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Balboa Academy is a private day school founded in 1999. It is fully accredited by Cognia, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council, and Panama's MEDUCA; it is MEDUCA-recognized. It is a member of the International Association of College Admissions, American School Counselor Association, The National Honor Society, and the Association of American Schools in Central America Council. Balboa Academy is part of Inspired Education Group.	Governance and ownership The school is a non-profit organization governed by a Board of Trustees. The board comprises nine trustees (five elected by parents and four appointed by the board) and provides governance and financial oversight, while day‑to‑day management is delegated to the Head of School.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Balboa Academy provides PK3-12 with a US standards-based curriculum and English as the language of instruction. The middle school offers courses in English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Sciences, Modern Languages, Computer Science, and an Encore curriculum, with accelerated options and Panama-required courses taught in Spanish. The school operates on a 180-day calendar with two semesters (August to mid-December; mid-January to mid-June). The high school offers 19 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 4 PreAP courses; AP subjects include Art History, Biology, Calculus AB, Comparative Government, Computer Science Principles, English Language, English Literature, Environmental Science, Human Geography, Physics 1, Psychology, Seminar, Research, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, Statistics, Studio Art 2D, Studio Art Drawing, and World History. The AP Capstone Diploma is available for students who complete at least 4 AP subjects in addition to AP Seminar and AP Research. All Balboa Academy graduates earn both a U.S. high school diploma and a Panamanian Bachiller en Ciencias y Letras.	Curriculum details Curriculum is built on a K–12 course philosophy designed to support each student's academic journey, with clear assessment parameters to monitor progress and ensure individual success. It emphasizes both content mastery and the development of transferable skills in a dynamic, student-centered environment. The ISP curriculum covers Science, Math, Social Studies, English, Spanish, STEM and Physical Education across Early Childhood, Elementary School, Middle School and High School. Assessment uses Know, Understand, Do (KUD) outcomes and a Transferable Skills Rubric to track progress.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results In 2023, 210 Balboa Academy students took 403 AP exams, with 77% scoring 3+ on at least one AP exam.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Class of 2025 received 779 university offers, with an average of 13.4 offers per student and an average of $848,000 in scholarships awarded per student. Graduates have gained admission to universities across the United States, Canada, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Panama; institutions include McGill University, University of Toronto, Western University, Columbia University, Georgetown University, Duke University, University of Florida, and University of Michigan, among others.	Higher education progression ISP offers four diplomas: ISP Diploma, MEDUCA Diploma, IB Diploma and IE Diploma. IB Diploma is available for students in grades 11–12. ISP graduates have access to universities worldwide. Partnerships with Carnegie Mellon University (Robotics Education via Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy), Syracuse University (SUPA program with college credit in English presentational speaking and persuasive communication), and the University of Delaware (Innovation and Entrepreneurship Diploma) provide college credit, micro-credentials, and pathways to higher education.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Balboa Academy offers a rigorous AP program with 19 AP courses and 4 PreAP courses. AP Capstone Diploma is available for students who complete AP Seminar and AP Research along with at least 4 AP courses. AP courses receive a GPA weighting of 0.5.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning SEL is provided to all students and their parents. The Elementary School Counseling Program uses a three-tiered approach to social-emotional learning. It develops five social and emotional competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Through bi-monthly storybook-based mini-lessons for 1st–4th grade, students learn developmentally appropriate social-emotional skills such as making and keeping friends, empathy, compassion, and self-regulation. Some students participate in focused groups (e.g., new students, Girls in Real Life Situations) and peer mediation meetings, and Escuela Para Padres meetings provide tools to help parents support their children. Balboa Academy high school counselors work with students to support college-bound planning and personal development, and counselors are active members of professional associations related to college admissions.	Social & emotional learning ISP is developing a comprehensive PreK-12 Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program integrated with academic learning, equipping students with emotional intelligence, self-awareness, conflict resolution, empathy, collaboration, and social responsibility.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Honor and support classes are offered.	Special educational needs (SEN) Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) provides three tiers of support across divisions: Tier 1 universally designed curriculum; Tier 2 targeted small-group instruction for academics, language acquisition, and social-emotional support; Tier 3 individualized support. Division-specific supports include Academic Intervention and Support, Inclusion Program, English as an Additional Language, Social-emotional Counseling, Speech and Occupational Therapy on-site via third-party providers at cost. Learning Support assists students with mild-to-moderate learning or behavioral needs through accommodations or IEPs, co-taught or pull-out services, and tailored enrichment. The Inclusion Program offers specialized academic/adaptive support with individualized programming and a focus on independence, behavior, social skills, and community participation. External supports available on campus include Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Psychological Evaluations.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Full English Immersion: Balboa Academy provides a comprehensive English language immersion experience starting from preschool.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language instruction is provided when classroom performance and language proficiency indicate need, including co-teaching and small-group instruction, a structured Newcomer Program for 1st–8th grades, and tiered supports based on WIDA assessment.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Balboa Academy offers Social and Emotional Learning for all students and parents. Counseling programs across elementary, middle, and high school include classroom guidance, small group and individual counseling, student observations, parent conferences, mediation, referrals to services, and ongoing professional development for teachers. High School counselors work with students diagnosed with medical, psychological, behavioral, and/or social issues and promote family/parenting education and college counseling to support student wellbeing and success.	Mental wellbeing Student wellbeing is a whole-school commitment. The Counseling services follow a Comprehensive School Counseling Model with social-emotional, academic, and career guidance, crisis intervention, parent education, and coordination of transition support; a dedicated counseling team supports students across grade levels, and MTSS underpins a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Counselors promote mediation among students, parents, and teachers; they lead family/parenting education at school and maintain a list of community resources to refer students to when needed. This collaborative approach supports safeguarding and student welfare.	Safeguarding ISP maintains a Child Protection Policy that defines abuse, outlines reporting procedures, and specifies roles and responsibilities of the Child Protection Team; staff receive ongoing training and a Designated Safeguarding Lead coordinates safeguarding efforts; counselors provide safe spaces and reporting mechanisms, with partnerships and practices designed to safeguard every student.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Balboa Academy's Ciudad del Saber, Clayton campus consists of three academic buildings for Preschool/High School, Elementary School, and Middle School, plus an Athletics Building that houses the gymnasium, Physical Education facilities, and the Dragon's Den. The campus includes athletic fields and recreational areas with playground equipment. It has over 80 classrooms and includes media centers, computer labs, science labs, and multipurpose rooms. The campus is adjacent to the Ciudad del Saber Sports Complex, which offers baseball, football, and soccer fields, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a gymnasium, an auditorium, and fitness areas. The design supports specialization and individualized learning with teaching spaces tailored to each age group.	Facilities overview The ISP campus spans 10 hectares across 14 interconnected buildings, providing classrooms, labs, offices, and support facilities. It features 71 classrooms designed for dynamic and collaborative learning, six science laboratories, five STEM innovation labs, eight artistic studios, and two full-service libraries and media centers. A 538-seat auditorium hosts assemblies, performances, conferences, and community events. Dining facilities include two cafeterias with inviting spaces for students and staff. Recreational and athletic facilities include three tennis courts, a semi-Olympic swimming pool, two indoor gymnasiums, a fully equipped weight-training gym, two soccer fields (one natural grass and one FIFA-certified turf), and two covered basketball courts. The campus is powered by 1,052 solar panels and includes a wastewater treatment system, with sustainability integrated into the natural surroundings.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Athletics Building includes the gymnasium, Physical Education facilities, and the Dragon's Den. The Ciudad del Saber Sports Complex, adjacent to the campus, includes baseball, football, and soccer fields, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a gymnasium, an auditorium, and fitness areas. The campus also has outdoor athletic fields and recreational spaces for sports and physical education. Indoor and outdoor spaces support a broad sports program, enabling Balboa Academy students to train and compete on-site and within the larger sports complex. The facilities foster team practices, inter-school competition, and physical education activities across grade levels.	Sports facilities Three tennis courts provide training and recreational spaces. A semi-Olympic swimming pool supports aquatic programs. Two indoor gymnasiums and a fully equipped weight-training gym support year-round sports and fitness. Two soccer fields — one natural grass and one FIFA-certified turf — and two covered basketball courts enable team sports in all weather.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The facilities emphasize specialization and individualized learning with teaching spaces tailored to the needs of each age group. The campus comprises three buildings for Preschool/High School, Elementary, and Middle School, plus an Athletics Building. There are over 80 classrooms, as well as media centers, computer labs, science labs, and multipurpose rooms. The learning environment is designed to support a cohesive progression across grades, with age-appropriate resources and collaboration spaces. The Ciudad del Saber location provides access to additional resources and spaces that enhance academic exploration across disciplines.	Academic facilities 71 classrooms are designed for dynamic and collaborative learning. Six fully equipped science laboratories. Five STEM innovation labs enable robotics, engineering, coding, and problem solving. Eight artistic studios support visual arts and creative expression, and two full-service libraries and media centers offer extensive research and digital resources. An auditorium hosts school events and gatherings for the ISP community.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Balboa Academy participates in Exchange Programs and Global Camps through Inspired Education, allowing students to travel to other countries and collaborate with Inspired schools worldwide to develop social, language, and academic skills overseas. Inspired offers a range of specialist-led extracurricular activities that engage students in arts, sports, leadership, and other disciplines. Students benefit from summer camps, leadership conferences, and collaborative overseas projects as part of the international school community. The school's multicultural environment includes students from over 40 nationalities, fostering global engagement and experiential learning beyond the classroom.	Extra curricular facilities Athletics provide inclusive, safe, and developmentally appropriate experiences for every student. After School Activities offer opportunities for enrichment beyond the classroom. Student clubs give chances to explore passions, build connections, and foster creativity, collaboration, and belonging. Visual & Performing Arts spaces cultivate creativity, curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking through the arts.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Balboa Academy is a private school in Panama City, located in Ciudad del Saber, Clayton. It began in 1999 with a vision to provide a US standards-based curriculum and English as the language of instruction. It is part of Inspired Education Group. The school provides two diploma programs, the U.S. diploma and the Panamanian diploma, and an AP program with 20+ courses. The current Ciudad del Saber campus will continue to offer Early Childhood and Elementary; a new Costa Sur campus opens in 2027 with a $30 million investment from Inspired.	History Founded in 1982, the International School of Panama (ISP) is a non-profit, student-centered school offering international education from Pre-K 3 to 12th grade. Global accreditations support ISP's programs, and the school emphasizes student well-being as part of its mission.
Community	Community Balboa Academy has students from over 40 nationalities. The school emphasizes integrity, empathy and respect, with a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment. School events are memorable and leave a lasting impression on students. Exchange programs and global camps through Inspired enable international connections.	Community ISP's community includes an Alumni network and a PTA that promote connection and well-being. Alumni are described with the motto Once a Dolphin, Always a Dolphin, reflecting the spirit of ISP's alumni network. Student clubs such as PANAMUN, TECHO por mi País, iGEM, NearSpace Club, Art Club, Make-a-Wish, and VEX Robotics provide opportunities for leadership, service, science, and creativity. The PTA organizes signature events each year, including Welcome Back BBQ, Holiday Shop, Teacher Appreciation Day, and Family Fun Fair, strengthening community ties.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association The PTA leadership comprises elected officers: President, Vice President, Treasurer, Deputy Treasurer, and Secretary, along with appointed chairs who lead important committees. Class Representatives serve as vital liaisons between families and faculty, ensuring effective communication. Committees represent different divisions and areas of school life. The PTA exists to support the education and wellbeing of the ISP community by fostering strong, collaborative relationships between families and educators. Annual events organized by the PTA include Welcome Back BBQ, Holiday Shop, Teacher Appreciation Day, and Family Fun Fair. Parents are encouraged to volunteer, join committees, or attend meetings; contact pta@isp.edu.pa.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual English is the language of instruction with a full immersion approach. Academic offerings include English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Sciences, Modern Languages, Computer Science, and the Encore curriculum. Accelerated options are available, and some Panama-mandated courses are taught in Spanish.	Academic & intellectual The school has PANAMUN, TECHO por mi País, iGEM, NearSpace Club, Art Club, Make-a-Wish, and VEX Robotics Club. PANAMUN is a student-led Model United Nations that fosters debate, public speaking, diplomacy, and leadership. iGEM and the VEX Robotics Club develop engineering, coding, and problem-solving skills through competitions. NearSpace Club explores atmospheric science through hands-on high-altitude experiments, while TECHO por mi País and Make-a-Wish offer service and social-impact projects.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Students develop artistic talents through music, fine arts, and drama. Music, fine arts, and drama are integrated into the middle school experience.	Arts & creative Art Club provides space to explore painting, drawing, sculpture, and other media with opportunities for collaboration and exhibitions. Visual & Performing Arts (VAPA) nurtures creativity and collaboration across performances and the visual arts as part of ISP's arts offerings. VAPA is highlighted as a core arts program within ISP, enriching students' artistic development.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English is the language of instruction with a full immersion approach. Modern Languages are offered, and some Panama-mandated courses are taught in Spanish.	Cultural & language PANAMUN fosters cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship through a student-led Model United Nations. The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support with a per-semester fee when services are provided. English proficiency assessments may be conducted during admissions to determine EAL needs. Placement tests for English, Math, and Spanish guide course placement.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The After-School Program changes each semester and includes chess, sports, and arts and crafts. Middle school clubs foster collaboration and problem solving.	Social & hobbies The school offers after-school activities and a wide range of student clubs to help students connect and pursue interests. Student clubs include PANAMUN, TECHO por mi País, iGEM, NearSpace Club, Art Club, Make-a-Wish, and VEX Robotics Club, fostering collaboration, leadership, and belonging. After-school activities provide experiences beyond the classroom that support social engagement and personal growth.
Community & service	Community & service The Student Council is an elected group and serves as the voice of the student body. Community service includes Tuna Can Drive, Holiday Gift Boxes, and Disaster Relief. Field trips and international programs provide real-world learning experiences.	Community & service TECHO por mi País is a service-oriented club where students volunteer with TECHO to tackle poverty, help build emergency housing, and participate in community development projects. Make-a-Wish is a service and fundraising club that partners with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant wishes for children facing critical illnesses. These activities cultivate compassion, civic responsibility, and social impact among students.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The middle school Student Council offers leadership opportunities and acts as the voice of the student body. The Tribe Program groups grades 5-8 into tribes to build leadership and citizenship.	Leadership & professional PANAMUN fosters leadership through UN-style debates and research into global issues. iGEM and the VEX Robotics Club develop teamwork, project leadership, and problem-solving in science and engineering contexts. Make-a-Wish and TECHO por mi País cultivate social responsibility leadership by guiding fundraising and community service.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Counseling services are available through the Counseling Program. Competitive sports teams and an after-school program promote physical activity and well-being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The athletics program includes soccer, basketball, volleyball, track and field, swimming, and tennis, with teams across age groups and opportunities to compete locally and nationally. The program emphasizes teamwork, resilience, leadership, healthy lifestyles, and safe, supportive competition. ISP also provides Student Wellbeing & Support Services to support emotional and academic wellbeing.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school uses a U.S. standards-based curriculum with English as the language of instruction. Two diplomas are awarded—the U.S. diploma and the Panamanian diploma. English, French, and Spanish are taught, with subject specialists delivering instruction. The school is internationally accredited and part of Inspired Education, with a multicultural community of students from over 40 nationalities and opportunities for global camps and exchanges.	Language provision English is the language of instruction and communication at ISP. Spanish is offered as an additional language. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for non-native English speakers, including a Newcomer Program described as a 20-hour course with Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Vocabulary, and Survival English. EAL support is delivered through in-class co-teaching and small-group instruction to help students access the curriculum.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school uses English as the language of instruction. French and Spanish are taught by subject specialists, alongside English. Preschool provides English immersion to start language development.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs English immersion is offered at the Preschool Stage. Based on neurological research, total immersion in a foreign language is the best way for children to learn, and class sizes are kept small to provide a language-rich environment, enabling them to acquire a second language as naturally as their first.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Make an enquiry by completing the Enquiry Form. The Admissions Team will contact you to arrange a visit to the campus. Complete Balboa Academy's online application and pay the $150 application and evaluation fee. Include copies of the child's passport, birth certificate, immunization records or the Immunization Form filled out by your child's pediatrician, copies of both parents' passports, and all academic records including the current school year's grades. Balboa Academy accepts copies in English or Spanish; originals translated into Spanish by a notarized translator in Panama are required by MEDUCA if records are not in Spanish. An in-person or virtual evaluation and interview will be scheduled. The evaluation for Preschool lasts about 30 minutes and for Kindergarten through 12th grade about an hour, and it is conducted entirely in English. The Admissions Committee reviews complete applications and makes a final decision within 10 calendar days. Students may be accepted without conditions, accepted with conditions, denied, or placed on the waiting list. If offered, enrolment fees are payable to join Balboa Academy. The school teaches in English.	Admissions Admissions process overview: ISP maintains rolling admissions for families transferring from abroad throughout the school year. The ISP Admissions Process consists of eight steps. 1. Complete Inquiry Form. Submit the inquiry form to initiate the admissions process. An admissions counselor will reach out to provide next steps and answer questions. 2. Schedule a Virtual Info Session or On-Campus Tour. Meet with an admissions counselor to explore ISP and ensure the school's mission and core values resonate with the family. Sessions can be held virtually or on campus. 3. Settle the application fee. The USD 250 non-refundable application fee per student is payable via credit card or bank transfer. 4. Access Admissions Portal. Once payment is processed, gain access to the Admissions Portal, which contains a comprehensive checklist of required steps and documentation for the student. The Enrollment Committee reviews the candidate's application, and space in the grade does not guarantee admission. 5. Requirements per division. Early Childhood (PK3 & PK4) and Elementary School (Kindergarten to 5th Grade) require Applicant Information, Parent Questionnaire, MEDUCA declaration form, Family declaration form, Learning support form (if applicable), and Homeroom teacher recommendation form (provide the teacher's email). Uploads include report cards from the last three years, student photo, birth certificate, and educational testing results or diagnosis, and IEP accommodations if applicable. Middle & High School (6th to 12th Grade) require Applicant Information, Parent Questionnaire, MEDUCA declaration form, Family declaration form, Learning support form (if applicable), and Recommendation forms from English, Math, and the Principal/Counselor (provide their emails). Uploads include report cards from the last three years, student photo, birth certificate, and educational testing results or diagnosis, and IEP accommodations if applicable. 6. Assessments & Interviews. After the application is complete, schedule interviews and assessments. PK3/PK4 candidates are invited for on-campus play dates to become familiar with the Early Childhood Program. Kindergarten to 5th-grade candidates may have an English proficiency assessment if non-native speakers require language support. 6th to 8th-grade candidates have an interview with the Principal or Counselor to understand strengths and interests, with possible English proficiency assessment if needed. 9th to 12th-grade applicants have an interview with the Principal or Counselor to evaluate fit with pathways, with possible placement tests in English, Math, and Spanish. 7. Admissions Decision. ISP offers rolling admissions. Refer to the Admissions Calendar to align with the enrollment timeline. After all steps are completed and the application is reviewed by the Enrollment Committee, a decision is issued. Possible decisions include Regular Admissions, Admissions with Required Additional Services, Waiting Pool, or Decline. All offer emails are valid for one school year and reserve a space for 10 calendar days while payment is arranged; after 10 days, availability may change. If enrollment is deferred to the next school year, the admissions process must be restarted. 8. Enrollment. After receiving the admissions decision, complete the required payments within 10 calendar days and finish the enrollment checklist, which includes reviewing policies, indicating image-use preference, and signing the school contract to reserve the seat. Tuition & Fees details provide the necessary payment information for securing a candidate's spot.
Scholarships	Scholarships The Nsouli Scholars Programme provides 50 full-scholarship places at Inspired schools at any one time for the duration of students' education. The endowment honours Nadim Nsouli, founder of Inspired, and scholarships are awarded with inclusivity in mind, including individuals of Lebanese origin.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist Candidates may be placed on Balboa Academy's waiting list.	Waitlist Waiting Pool is an admissions decision option used when there is no space available in the desired grade. If space is not yet available when an offer is issued, the candidate may be placed in the Waiting Pool. The offer emails are valid for one school year and reserve a space for 10 calendar days to arrange payment; after 10 days, availability may change. If enrollment is deferred to the next school year, the admissions process must be restarted.
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