Canadian International School of Thailand vs Raffles American School Bangkok
Canadian International School of Thailand and Raffles American School Bangkok are both in Bangkok, about 22 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes. Canadian International School of Thailand also offers Canadian, and Raffles American School Bangkok also offers Advanced Placement (AP) and American. Published annual fees are THB 198,500 - 545,000 at Canadian International School of Thailand and THB 198,000 - 297,000 at Raffles American School Bangkok, which puts Canadian International School of Thailand roughly 50% higher. Canadian International School of Thailand takes pupils from 3 to 18, and Raffles American School Bangkok from 2 to 18. Raffles American School Bangkok is the larger school, with around 600 pupils to Canadian International School of Thailand's 350. Typical class sizes are 18 at Canadian International School of Thailand and 16 at Raffles American School Bangkok.
IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
350
Pupils
600
Typical class size
Typical class size
18
Typical class size
16
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
2017
Opened
2017
Bus service
Bus service
Yes
Bus service
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Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
The Canadian International School of Thailand is located in the Pinklao area of Bangkok, beside the Chao Phraya River in Bang Phlat district. The school is situated on Charansanitwong Soi 46, about 20 minutes from central Bangkok by car. It shares a riverside campus with Thewphaingarm Canadian Bilingual School (TCBS). Shuttle transport is available to and from key MRT and BTS hubs.
Location
Raffles American School Bangkok is located in Samut Prakan province, just east of central Bangkok along the Bang Na–Trat frontage road. The school is situated in a suburban area with residential communities and international businesses nearby. It's easily accessible by private car and sits close to major expressways, making school drop-off and pick-up manageable for commuting families. The surrounding area is quiet, with access to amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, and international housing.
Stages
Stages
CIST is divided into Early Years (Pre-K3 to Kindergarten), Elementary (Grades 1–6), and Secondary School (Grades 7–12).
Students follow the IB PYP and MYP programs in the early years and transition into the Canadian Ontario curriculum for high school. Graduates earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
Stages
The school is organized into four main divisions: Early Childhood (Pre-K to Kindergarten), Elementary School (Grades 1–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). This structure provides a continuous educational pathway for children from age 2 up to 18.
School type
School type
CIST is a co-educational international day school with boarding options available. Boarding is provided in collaboration with its sister school, TCBS, for students in higher year levels. Both boys and girls are admitted across all levels.
School type
Raffles American School Bangkok is a co-educational school.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Information about specific SEN (Special Educational Needs) or other Additional Learning Support provisions is not detailed on the school’s website.
Additional learning support
The school does not publicly list any specialized services or programs for students with Additional Learning Needs. There is no mention of specific facilities or trained staff for learning support on its website.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school is affiliated with Canada and follows the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. It is accredited to issue the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
CIST has no religious affiliation. It is a secular international school.
Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliations.
School day structure
School day structure
Specific daily schedules are not published online.
School day structure
The website does not publish details on how the school day is structured.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school provides a daily shuttle service to key MRT and BTS stations in Bangkok. This service is coordinated to assist families commuting from different parts of the city.
Bus service details
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Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application and One-Time Fees
* Application Fee: baht 5,000 (non-refundable, payable upon submission of application) * Registration Fee: baht 150,000 (non-refundable, payable upon acceptance) * School Association Fee: baht 2,500 (non-refundable, payable upon acceptance)
Annual Tuition Fees (inclusive of meals and snacks)
* Daily (overnight): baht 500 per night Boarding includes supervision, laundry, breakfast, and dinner.
Payment Terms and Methods
* All fees are payable in advance. * All payments are non-refundable. * A 3–5% annual increase is typically announced.
* Payment Methods:
* Bank transfer * Credit card (1.4% additional processing fee)
Other Costs
* Uniforms and backpacks are not included in the above fees.
Fee details
Application Fees The school’s website does not mention any application or registration fees. Families should confirm directly with the school whether such fees apply during the admissions process.
Tuition Fees (By Age Group)
* Nursery (2–3 years old): THB 198,000 per academic year * Kindergarten 1–2 (3–5 years old): THB 234,000 per academic year * Kindergarten 3 (5–6 years old): THB 255,000 per academic year * Grade 1–4 (6–10 years old): THB 279,000 per academic year * Grade 5–12 (10–18 years old): THB 297,000 per academic year
All amounts are listed as annual tuition.
Lunch Fees A separate lunch fee of THB 30,000 per academic year applies to all grade levels.
Billing Schedule and Payment Terms The school’s website does not currently specify the billing frequency (term-based or annual), deadlines, or late payment penalties.
Payment Methods The school does not disclose payment method options (such as credit card, bank transfer, or online systems) in the fee schedule.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
The school has access to the TCBS on-campus boarding program for students joining from areas outside Bangkok or beyond. For costs and boarding facilities, contact Admissions.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
The school uniform represents the colors of the school and is designed for each grade level, ensuring clothing that is appropriate and comfortable for all activities.
Uniform requirement
Regular Uniform and PE Uniform are required in Early Years through High School. Optional items include a School Cap and a School Jacket.
Food options
Food options
Freshly prepared meals form a balanced menu and can cater to all dietary needs. In Early Years to Grade 6, a morning snack and milk are provided, and parents should inform the school of any special dietary requirements.
Food options
The school provides on-site meals via Sodexo, the food service provider.
House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The campus is shared with Thewphaingarm Canadian Bilingual School. CIST originated from Thewphaingarm School, evolving into TCBS and CIST, and is a collaborative partner in the Rosedale Global High School Program. CIST is an IB World School offering PYP and MYP.
Governance and ownership
The school is part of the Raffles Education Group and is governed by Raffles Education Limited.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) offers a blend of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Canadian Ontario curricula. In the Early Years and Elementary School (Pre-K to Grade 6), students follow the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), with inquiry-based learning across core subjects. From Grades 7 to 10, the school delivers the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), continuing interdisciplinary and skills-focused instruction.
For Grades 11 and 12, students transition fully to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) curriculum, which is overseen by the Ontario Ministry of Education. This program includes coursework in English, mathematics, science, and social studies, and requires community involvement and a final literacy assessment. Students completing the OSSD are eligible for university entry in Canada and other international destinations.
Curriculum details
Here’s a clear and friendly overview of the curriculum offering at Raffles American School Bangkok, based strictly on information from the school’s official materials:
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Curriculum Overview
Raffles follows a U.S.-based American curriculum aligned with Common Core standards in English and Math, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Science, and AERO for Social Studies. In Early Childhood through Elementary, learning is experiential, covering literacy (using frameworks like the 6+1 Trait Writing and Daily 5), numeracy, science, arts, physical education, music, and world languages. In Middle School, students rotate between specialist teachers in subject areas including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, performing and visual arts, PE, health, and technology. High School (Grades 9–12) culminates in the award of a U.S. High School Diploma, with students from Grade 10 onward selecting from a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Starting in the upcoming academic year, the IB Diploma Programme (DP) will be introduced for Grades 11 and 12, while Grade 10 students may sample AP Psychology. The school embeds General Learning Outcomes—such as communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills—at every level.
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding structured Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs, specific staff roles, or initiatives focused on social and emotional skills.
Social & emotional learning
The school embeds General Learning Outcomes across all grade levels, including self-awareness, emotional wellbeing, relationships (like conflict resolution and mediation), and community responsibility. There’s no detailed public information about dedicated SEL staff members or specific initiatives beyond this framework.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
CIST does not publicly disclose detailed information on provisions or specialists for students with Special Educational Needs. It is not listed as a specialist SEN institution.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not publicly disclose any information regarding support for Special Educational Needs (SEN).
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
CIST supports students with English as an Additional Language (EAL) through structured, scaffolded instruction and differentiated classroom strategies. English is the language of instruction, and support begins as early as PreK3 with native English-speaking teachers and Thai-speaking assistants. In secondary school, students are placed in English Language Acquisition classes based on proficiency, using the IB MYP phase model (Phases 1–4). Instruction includes vocabulary support, adapted assessments, and individualized guidance. Teachers use strategies such as visuals, translation tools, and vocabulary banks to help students access content. Regular assessments track language growth in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
English as an additional language
RAS follows the WIDA-based ELL (English Language Learner) Curriculum and Assessment, covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking. They administer baseline assessments at the beginning, middle, and end of the year to guide student placement within the ELL program.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
There is no public information describing specific programmes, staff, or initiatives related to student mental wellbeing at CIST.
Mental wellbeing
There is no specific information published about mental wellbeing programs, counselling staff, or dedicated initiatives.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Canadian International School of Thailand has a detailed Safeguarding and Health and Safety Policy. The Principal serves as the Designated Child Protection Officer, supported by a trained child protection team including deputy officers and coordinators for each school division. All staff receive annual training and are mandatory reporters under Thai law. Clear procedures are outlined for reporting abuse, managing concerns, and maintaining confidentiality. The school also enforces codes of conduct for staff, students, and visitors, and has child-safe recruitment, supervision, and e-safety practices.
Safeguarding
The school mentions that it maintains a safe and clean environment and enforces health and safety protocols. However, it does not publicly disclose any detailed safeguarding or child protection policies. No further information is provided regarding designated staff, training, or reporting procedures.
The school has a Playground & Sport Field and a Swimming Pool measuring 25 x 18 meters with sun shading. A certified lifeguard checks the pool's pH daily and remains on standby during school hours. For younger students, a Teaching Assistant (TA) and Thai Nanny accompany them to provide additional care and support. The campus includes a PE Room, a Library, a Music Room, and a Science Lab. Nursery–K2 classrooms have three staff members per class (Homeroom Teacher, Teaching Assistant, and Thai Nanny) to provide full support and care; K3–G4 classrooms have two staff members (Homeroom Teacher and Teaching Assistant) to support students; G5–G8 and G9–G12 classrooms are led by one Homeroom Teacher with air purifiers in every room, and the janitor cleans the room every morning and in the evening after class.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
The school has a Playground & Sport Field and a Swimming Pool. The swimming pool measures 25 x 18 meters and has shading for sun protection. A certified lifeguard checks the pool's pH daily and remains on standby during school hours. For younger students, TA and Thai Nanny accompany them to provide additional care and support during swimming activities. The PE Room supports physical education classes.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Ontario curriculum is the core framework for Grades 9 to 12, supplemented with mathematics and language programmes (White Rose Maths and Jolly Phonics & Grammar) and transdisciplinary learning within the IB PYP framework, with ongoing formative and summative assessments aligned to IB PYP principles. In Grades 11 and 12, the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is delivered through a partnership with Rosedale Global High School. The OSSD is an internationally recognized Canadian diploma from the Ontario Ministry of Education. The OSSD requires 30 credits (18 compulsory and 12 elective) and includes provincial requirements such as a community service component. The PYP to MYP transition begins in Grade 6, with MYP through Grade 10, before moving to Grades 11–12 for the high school pathway to the OSSD.
Academic facilities
The school provides a Library, a Music Room, and a Science Lab as core academic facilities. Nursery–K2 classrooms have three staff per class (Homeroom Teacher, TA, and Thai Nanny) to provide full support and care; the Nanny cleans tables and floors after breaks and lunch to maintain hygiene. K3–G4 classrooms have two staff per class (Homeroom Teacher and Teaching Assistant) and air purifiers in each room. G5–G8 classrooms are led by one Homeroom Teacher with air purifiers, and G9–G12 classrooms are led by one Homeroom Teacher with air purifiers; the janitor cleans the room every morning before class and in the evening after class.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities are offered each term and include: Cooking; Outdoor exploration; Singing and dancing; Tennis and badminton; Muay Thai; Taekwondo; Storytelling; Football; Rugby; Hockey; Junior scientists; Gymnastics; Thai reading and writing; Basketball; Board games; Anime; Arts and crafts; Creative expression; Ultimate frisbee.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) are programs outside the regular curriculum that help students explore interests, develop skills, and build confidence. The program offers sports, arts, clubs, volunteering, and leadership activities to foster teamwork, creativity, and personal growth. ECA is organized into Early Years, Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, and Middle School / High School, with schedules and activities available for each level.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
The Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) was founded in 2017 as part of the Thewphaingarm Group of Schools. It was established to offer an international curriculum based on the Ontario (Canada) educational framework. The school operates in partnership with several Canadian education bodies, including Rosedale Global High School, to deliver the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). CIST shares its campus with Thewphaingarm Canadian Bilingual School in Bangkok.
History
Raffles American School Bangkok was established in 2017 as part of the Raffles Education Corporation, a regional education group with institutions across Asia. The Bangkok campus initially offered early years and elementary education, gradually expanding to include middle and high school levels. By the 2018–2019 academic year, the school had introduced a full K–12 pathway. Its campus is located in the Bang Na district and is adjacent to Raffles International College, with which it shares organisational ties through the Raffles Education network.
Community
Community
CIST has a predominantly Thai-speaking student body, with English as the language of instruction and Thai taught in accordance with national requirements. Community life includes cultural observances led by the Thai language team and whole-school events celebrating Thai festivals and international traditions. Parents are encouraged to participate in school life and community gatherings, including teacher meetings and events.
Community
Raffles American School Bangkok fosters a culturally diverse community that includes students, families, and staff from a wide range of national backgrounds. The school celebrates this diversity through inclusive community events such as International Day, where families share food, dress, and traditions from their home countries. Cultural celebrations like Songkran Day are also held on campus to promote Thai heritage and encourage engagement between students and local traditions. In addition, families take part in school-wide service efforts, such as donation drives supporting the Baan Nokkamin Foundation, promoting values of compassion and civic responsibility. Parents are often invited to attend school performances, art shows, and holiday events, building a sense of connection and shared involvement in the school’s daily life.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
While the school does not refer to a formal "PTA," it promotes active parent involvement in school activities and emphasizes parent-school collaboration. Parents are encouraged to engage through teacher meetings, attend conferences, and participate in school-sponsored programs while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
Parent teacher association
While a formal PTA structure isn't detailed, the school’s social media reflects active parental participation. Posts such as reminders about PTA gatherings indicate that parents are invited into school life, though the types of events, groups, or committees are not described in detail publicly.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
Canadian Curriculum is followed, with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) as the credential. In Grades 11 and 12, students complete the Ontario curriculum to prepare for graduation, and in Grade 12 they can gain the OSSD from Rosedale Global High School. The school emphasizes personalized learning, tailoring experiences to each student's strengths and interests to support intellectual growth. The OSSD credential is internationally recognized and widely accepted as an equivalent to other international qualifications.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
RAS provides arts education across the school, including visual arts and performing arts. The art studio is a space for creativity where students express ideas through painting, sculpture, and design. Student artworks are regularly showcased in school exhibitions and international school art events in Bangkok. Music and performing arts provide opportunities to sing, play instruments, and perform at school events.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) are programs outside the regular curriculum that help students explore interests, develop skills, and build confidence. RAS offers sports, arts, clubs, volunteering, and leadership activities, providing opportunities for teamwork, creativity, and personal growth. Activities are organized for Early Years through High School. ECAs enrich the overall school experience.
Community & service
Community & service
Service is an important value in the IB community at CIST. Students in all grades participate in Service as Action projects to engage with local and global communities. In Grade 10, students undertake the MYP Community Project, a year-long inquiry culminating in a public exhibition of their achievements. Service as Action is a requirement for all students in the MYP, with progression from curriculum-based activities in Grades 7-8 to student-initiated work in Grade 9 and the Community Project in Grade 10.
Community & service
ECA includes volunteering and leadership activities. Students have opportunities to participate in community service and service-learning projects.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
Leadership opportunities are integrated into ECAs. Students lead clubs, organize events, and participate in service projects. These activities foster communication, organization, and teamwork. RAS emphasizes leadership as part of a holistic education.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The campus includes a sports stadium, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a gymnasium. The campus also features a cafeteria offering both Thai and Western cuisine. Nutrition is supported by a healthy eating policy with freshly prepared meals and accommodations for dietary needs. A daily shuttle bus to the MRT is provided to support safe and convenient travel to and from the campus.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Sport Academy (Raptors) provides regular athletic development. Physical activity supports fitness and teamwork. ECAs balance academic demands with wellness, supporting overall well-being and a healthy school lifestyle.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
The school uses English as the language of instruction. In Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) classes, Math, Science and Business are taught in English.
Language provision
English is the language of instruction for Studies in Language and Literature (English Language & Literature). Language Acquisition is offered in Thai, Mandarin, or Spanish. World Language instruction follows ACTFL standards.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
* International Baccalaureate (IB) – IB World School CIST is authorised to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP), which signifies alignment with the International Baccalaureate’s standards for international education and inquiry-based learning.
* Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) – Rosedale Global High School CIST is partnered with Rosedale Global High School in Canada to deliver the OSSD, an official secondary school qualification accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
* International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) Membership in ISAT connects CIST with a network of international schools in Thailand, providing access to shared resources, policy guidance, and professional development opportunities.
* Rosedale Global High School (Canada) CIST partners with Rosedale for its Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) program. Rosedale designs global high school curricula aligned with Ontario standards.
Accreditations
* Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): A U.S.-based accrediting body that evaluates and certifies the quality of schools offering American-style education internationally.
* International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme: The school is authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12, a two-year pre-university qualification recognised by universities worldwide.
* College Board – Advanced Placement (AP): Raffles American School Bangkok is approved to deliver AP courses, allowing high school students to complete college-level coursework and exams for potential university credit.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Attend a school visit or open house if invited. Families may be invited to tour the campus and meet members of the academic team. This gives prospective parents and students the opportunity to understand the environment, ask questions, and view classrooms and facilities.
2. Submit the application form and required documents. These documents typically include the student’s previous academic reports, health records, passport/ID copy, and a completed application form. A non-refundable application fee of baht 5,000 must be paid at this stage.
3. Student assessment and interview. Early Years applicants are assessed for school readiness, while older students undergo an informal interview and a diagnostic English-language assessment to determine their learning needs and placement level.
4. Review of application by the admissions committee. The application will be reviewed by the Principal, who may approve admission, decline the application, or place the student on a waiting list. In all cases, the school will notify the parent(s) or guardian(s) of the decision. Placement is subject to space availability and the outcome of the review process.
5. Payment of fees and confirmation of start date. Once accepted, families must pay the registration fee (baht 150,000) and school association fee (baht 2,500). Tuition and any applicable boarding fees must also be paid in advance, following the school’s billing schedule.
Admissions
1. Initial Visit & Inquiry Begin by visiting the school or contacting the Admissions Office. You can arrange to meet the Head of School or Director in person—or connect online via email, phone, or the Line app if visiting isn’t possible. An open-door policy is offered for visits by appointment.
2. Submit Application Materials Complete and submit the Application Form, Admission Requirement Checklist, Authorization to Release School Records form, and Informed Consent from the previous school. Include two passport-sized photos, a copy of the student’s passport or Thai ID, up to three years of academic records (translated into English if needed), standardized test results or evaluations, and a confidential recommendation from the current school. These can be submitted online or via mail, email, or in person.
3. Evaluation & Interview Once your application is complete, the school typically processes it within five working days. Then, the student will undergo evaluation, screening, and an interview designed to assess English and math proficiency. Pre‑K and Kindergarten applicants have a parent interview and child engagement activity. Interviews can be held in person or via Skype; if remote applicants can't participate, offers may be conditional on in‑person evaluation later.
4. Application Outcome If accepted, the school will send a formal Offer of Admission by email, followed by a tuition invoice and a welcome letter from the Head of School outlining next steps.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Canadian International School of Thailand offers scholarships for students entering Grades 9 to 12. These scholarships provide up to 50% off tuition fees and are linked to the school’s dual diploma programme with Rosedale Global High School, which includes both the CIST and Canadian OSSD qualifications
Scholarships
The school’s official website does not mention any scholarships or financial aid programs.
Waitlist
Waitlist
CIST operates a waitlist system for certain year levels when space is not available. After the application review by the Principal, students who meet the requirements but cannot be placed immediately may be added to a waiting list. Families are notified of this status, and placement is offered as spaces become available. There is no indication that a pooled or ranked selection system is used.
Waitlist
When an applicant meets the admissions requirements but the requested grade level or program is already full, that applicant is placed in a wait pool.
