International Academic School vs Summit International School

	I International Academic School Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates	S Summit International School Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 29,650 - 39,880	Fees / year AED 23,000 - 38,126
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 1,740
Typical class size	Typical class size 30	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The International Academic School is located at MFW 14, 08th St. Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi, UAE. The campus sits in western Abu Dhabi in a residential district and is accessible via main road networks. The postal address is P.O. Box 4828, and the school can be contacted by phone at 02 20 50 400.	Location Sector-4, Street 19 in the Madinat Al Zayed Gold Souk & Post Office area, Abu Dhabi. The school sits in a central area of Abu Dhabi City. It comprises four buildings and includes a swimming pool, segregated play areas, a multi-use gymnasium and theater.
Stages	Stages The school comprises Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, and High School, covering grades KG through Grade 12.	Stages KG1 to Grade 12. KG1 and KG2 follow an Early Childhood 'learn through play' approach. From KG1-12 the curriculum is aligned with the California Common Core; Grades K-4 are co-educational and Grades 5-12 are gender-separated.
School type	School type The school operates as an international curriculum school with instruction in English. The curriculum is described as American, and gender segregation begins in Grade 5, with Grades K–4 being co-educational.	School type American-curriculum international school. It is co-educational in K-4 and gender-separated in grades 5-12.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Public information lists 4% UAE nationals and 6% non-local students; the school hosts a mix of nationalities beyond these percentages.	Pupil nationality mix The student body includes 1,740 students representing 51 countries. The school describes a diverse mix of Middle Eastern, Asian, Pacific Rim, and Slavic expatriates.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Public information does not list explicit SEN provisions for the Abu Dhabi campus. The school references inclusion in its broader ADEK context, but no specific SEN facilities are described for this location.	Additional learning support The Learning Support Department uses a whole-school approach to identify, plan for, implement, and monitor plans to meet the independent needs for specific learning difficulties or disabilities. It provides learning strategies to access the curriculum and collaborates with families to provide home strategies.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation listed. The school uses an American curriculum with English-language instruction.	Country affiliation United States – the school uses an American curriculum aligned with California Common Core.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is stated. Islamic education is provided as part of the UAE MOE Arabic curriculum where applicable.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated.
School day structure	School day structure Typical school days run from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for Grades 1–12; KG sessions are shorter (8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.). Some grades offer online components (8:30 a.m. start) depending on the program.	School day structure The school day typically starts at 7:30 a.m. and ends around 2:30 p.m. on most weekdays; Friday hours vary and may be shorter (some listings show a half-day or different times). The campus has a canteen where students can buy lunch.
Bus service details	Bus service details A school bus service is available to transport students. Routes cover Inside Abu Dhabi Island and outside areas such as Khalifa City A&B, Baniyas, Shamkha, MBZ, with some remote areas subject to confirmation at registration. A Transportation Form is required to use the service.	Bus service details The school provides a bus service via a contract with Seven Stars Transportation Company, delivering air-conditioned transport to various parts of Abu Dhabi. Registration is through sevenstarsschoolbus.com. The Bus Coordinator is Ms. Ariane Joy (sis@sevenstars.ae) and the main contact number is +971 2 671 3131 ext. 201-207-206.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application deposit: AED 500 payable at application; this AED 500 is deducted from the registration fee. - Registration fee: 5% of the applicable annual tuition payable after acceptance; the 5% registration fee is deducted from the total tuition. Tuition fees (annual) and per-term amounts (three equal term installments) Note: the school bills in three installments. The per-term figures below are the annual tuition divided into three equal installments and rounded to the nearest dirham. The listed annual tuition and the ancillary (books, bus, uniform) amounts are shown in AED. - LKG1 (Annual tuition: AED 30,270) - Per term (inferred as equal 3-term split): AED 10,090 per term. - Books: AED 500. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 350. - LKG2 (Annual tuition: AED 30,270) - Per term (inferred): AED 10,090 per term. - Books: AED 650. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 350. - Grade 1 (Annual tuition: AED 33,410) - Per term (inferred): AED 11,137 per term. - Books: AED 1,200. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 400. - Grade 2 (Annual tuition: AED 33,410) - Per term (inferred): AED 11,137 per term. - Books: AED 1,200. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 400. - Grade 3 (Annual tuition: AED 33,410) - Per term (inferred): AED 11,137 per term. - Books: AED 1,200. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 400. - Grade 4 (Annual tuition: AED 33,410) - Per term (inferred): AED 11,137 per term. - Books: AED 1,200. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 400. - Grade 5 (Annual tuition: AED 33,410) - Per term (inferred): AED 11,137 per term. - Books: AED 1,300. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 400. - Grade 6 (Annual tuition: AED 36,540) - Per term (inferred): AED 12,180 per term. - Books: AED 1,700. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 450. - Grade 7 (Annual tuition: AED 36,540) - Per term (inferred): AED 12,180 per term. - Books: AED 2,200. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 450. - Grade 8 (Annual tuition: AED 36,540) - Per term (inferred): AED 12,180 per term. - Books: AED 1,500. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 450. - Grade 9 (Annual tuition: AED 36,540) - Per term (inferred): AED 12,180 per term. - Books: AED 1,500. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 450. - Grade 10 (Annual tuition: AED 40,720) - Per term (inferred): AED 13,573 per term. - Books: AED 3,000. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 500. - Grade 11 (Annual tuition: AED 40,720) - Per term (inferred): AED 13,573 per term. - Books: AED 1,500. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 500. - Grade 12 (Annual tuition: AED 40,720) - Per term (inferred): AED 13,573 per term. - Books: AED 1,500. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Uniform: AED 500. Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing is arranged across three school terms. Parents pay the first installment on enrollment and provide payment for the remaining two terms as post-dated cheques. The school's admissions and FAQs state payment flow as: initial payment plus two cheques for the second and third installments. - The registration fee (5% of tuition) is payable after acceptance and is deducted from the total tuition. An application deposit of AED 500 is taken at application and subsequently deducted from the registration fee. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. The school operates as a day school. Other costs and recurring items - Annual school bus (transport) fee (where used): AED 5,000 per student. - Books / learning materials: grade-specific amounts listed above (paid when books are issued). - Uniform: grade-specific amounts listed above; uniforms are sold through the school. - Discounts: specified discounts are available (examples published include 35% for Homat Al Watan card holders and medical staff, 30–35% for certain card holders, and a 25% new-student offer for KG–Grade 6 in published materials). Sibling discounts apply only where other fee offers are not applied. Refund information - A 5% registration fee is payable at acceptance and an application deposit (AED 500) is collected at application and deducted from the registration fee. There is no separate, detailed public refund schedule posted alongside the school fees and admissions pages; specific refund terms are governed by the school's fees policy and admissions procedures. Fee payment options and practical notes - Accepted payment arrangements stated in admissions/FAQs: first installment in cash and two post-dated cheques for the second and third installments. - Public listings indicate the school does not operate an online-fee-payment facility for parents (parents supply cash/cheques as above). School contact for fee-related matters - Registration and fee enquiries: registration@ias.sch.ae; Phone: 02 20 50 400.	Fee details Application / registration fee - Registration fee (per student): AED 1,000. Tuition fees by year group (per term and annual totals, Academic Year 2025–26 — amounts in AED) Note: the published fee schedule presents per-term instalments and the corresponding annual totals. Two columns of per-term figures are shown in the school's term schedule (the second set shows the reduced instalment amounts that appear alongside the standard instalments in the published table). The figures below list the primary per-term instalments (left-hand set in the term schedule) and the computed annual tuition (sum of the three term instalments). Registration fee (AED 1,000) is stated separately above. - KG1: Term 1 AED 7,400; Term 2 AED 7,300; Term 3 AED 7,300. Annual tuition (sum of terms) AED 22,000; total including registration AED 23,000. Books AED 0; uniform AED 680; school bus (annual) AED 5,000. - KG2: Term 1 AED 7,800; Term 2 AED 7,600; Term 3 AED 7,600. Annual tuition AED 23,000; total including registration AED 24,000. Books AED 0; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 1: Term 1 AED 8,895; Term 2 AED 8,965; Term 3 AED 8,965. Annual tuition AED 26,825; total including registration AED 27,825. Books AED 1,200; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 2: Term 1 AED 8,895; Term 2 AED 8,965; Term 3 AED 8,965. Annual tuition AED 26,825; total including registration AED 27,825. Books AED 1,200; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 3: Term 1 AED 9,634; Term 2 AED 9,707; Term 3 AED 9,707. Annual tuition AED 29,048; total including registration AED 30,048. Books AED 1,400; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 4: Term 1 AED 9,634; Term 2 AED 9,707; Term 3 AED 9,707. Annual tuition AED 29,048; total including registration AED 30,048. Books AED 1,400; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 5: Term 1 AED 10,549; Term 2 AED 10,617; Term 3 AED 10,617. Annual tuition AED 31,783; total including registration AED 32,783. Books AED 1,600; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 6: Term 1 AED 10,549; Term 2 AED 10,617; Term 3 AED 10,617. Annual tuition AED 31,783; total including registration AED 32,783. Books AED 1,600; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 7: Term 1 AED 10,549; Term 2 AED 10,617; Term 3 AED 10,617. Annual tuition AED 31,783; total including registration AED 32,783. Books AED 1,800; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 8: Term 1 AED 10,549; Term 2 AED 10,617; Term 3 AED 10,617. Annual tuition AED 31,783; total including registration AED 32,783. Books AED 1,800; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 9: Term 1 AED 11,090; Term 2 AED 11,160; Term 3 AED 11,160. Annual tuition AED 33,410; total including registration AED 34,410. Books AED 2,000; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 10: Term 1 AED 11,592; Term 2 AED 11,667; Term 3 AED 11,667. Annual tuition AED 34,926; total including registration AED 35,926. Books AED 2,000; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 11: Term 1 AED 11,592; Term 2 AED 11,667; Term 3 AED 11,667. Annual tuition AED 34,926; total including registration AED 35,926. Books AED 2,200; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. - Grade 12: Term 1 AED 11,592; Term 2 AED 11,667; Term 3 AED 11,667. Annual tuition AED 34,926; total including registration AED 35,926. Books AED 2,200; uniform AED 680; bus AED 5,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is scheduled to be payable in three instalments (payments at the beginning of each term). Bus fees are required at the beginning of the school year. The published fee notes state the three-term billing arrangement and that bus fees should be paid at the start of the year. - Discount policy: Grade 1 and above: a one‑student discount is applied (published schedule shows a 7% discount category) and a siblings' discount is published (11%); an additional 2% discount is noted for a single full-year one‑time payment. Kindergarten students are subject to a special kindergarten discount as indicated in the published notes. Boarding fees - Boarding is not offered at the school; boarding fees are not applicable. Summit International School operates KG–Grade 12 as a day school (no dormitory/boarding provision is published). Other costs and routine extras - Books / resources: grade-dependent book/resource fees are published alongside the fee schedule (examples: Books range from AED 0 for KG to AED 2,200 for Grades 11–12). Uniform: AED 680 (published as the uniform amount in the schedule). School bus: AED 5,000 (annual, published). External exam and standardized test fees are listed separately (IELTS, SAT, ACT, AP etc. — individual exam charges apply as published). Refund information - The published fee schedule and parent handbook set out billing instalments and registration requirements but do not present a separate universal tuition‑refund table in the fee schedule itself; fee refunds and related arrangements are subject to the school's policies and ADEK (Abu Dhabi education authority) regulations as applicable. The school's policy documents reference registration and enrolment procedures and ADEK approval of the fee schedule. Parents should note that discounts and timing (e.g., the additional 2% for one‑time payment) are explicitly set out in the published fee documentation. Fee payment options (typical channels and context) - The school's published fee documents show the amounts, billing schedule and ADEK approval. Common payment channels used by schools in Abu Dhabi include bank transfer (IBAN), debit/credit card, cash and cheques; these payment channels are widely used across UAE schools and are the typical mechanisms applied by school finance offices. The school's fee documents do not list a detailed, itemised list of payment methods in the public fee schedule; payments are administered by the school accounts/finance office. External examinations and standardized test fees - External exam fees (published separately) include standard charges for IELTS, SAT, ACT, AP and related optional/add‑on fees; the school's external‑exam fee overview lists those exam core fees and common add‑ons. Example entries from the school's published external exam list: IELTS (approx AED 1,470), SAT and ACT international fees and AP exam fees — see the external exam schedule for the full list of tests and charges.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement IAS has a strict uniform policy for all students. Uniforms can be purchased from the school.	Uniform requirement The school requires all students to wear the school uniform. The policy specifies black leather shoes and dark blue socks; students wearing trousers must wear a black belt. A PE kit is required, and white sports shoes must have white or transparent soles; colored or black soles are not allowed.
Food options	Food options The campus canteen provides food and drinks for students from KG1 to Year 12; it is an optional alternative to bringing food from home and is supervised by class teachers. The school sources materials from suppliers that meet criteria for quality and safety to guarantee the quality, safety, and value of the food offered.	Food options On-site dining is provided via gender-specific cafeterias on campus, indicating there are on-site food facilities. The Cafeterias reference confirms the on-site dining option, though no detailed menu or dietary accommodations are listed on the page.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership Summit International School is part of Summit International Schools, a UAE-based private education group established in 2013. The group operates multiple campuses and offers a K-12 American curriculum aligned with the California Common Core; in Abu Dhabi, the school is co-educational in grades KG-4 and gender-separated in grades 5-12.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details IAS Abu Dhabi follows an American curriculum from Kindergarten through Grade 12, anchored in the California Content Standards for core subjects, with UAE MOE guidelines governing Arabic language and Islamic Studies. Kindergarten provides a developmentally appropriate program with literacy and math aligned to Californian CCSS, integrated science, social studies, art, PE, and MOE subjects Arabic and Islamic. Elementary School uses Californian Common Core Standards in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Art, Physical Education, and ICT, with MOE Arabic A/B, Islamic A/B, Moral Education, and Social Studies. Middle School (Grades 6–8) emphasizes Virginia standards, CCSS for math and ELA, NGSS for science; English is the medium of instruction for most subjects, with Arabic/Islamic and UAE Social Studies taught in Arabic and electives such as ICT, Computer Programming, French, and Music. High School (Grades 9–12) offers a four-year US diploma with core subjects including English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, History/Social Studies, Health & PE, Arabic, and Fine Arts & Technology; students select two electives per year and undergo continuous assessment, with three parent reports annually. Grade progression is Kindergarten → Elementary (Grades 1–5) → Middle School (Grades 6–8) → High School (Grades 9–12).	Curriculum details Summit International School Abu Dhabi offers a North American curriculum aligned with the California Common Core from kindergarten through high school, delivered via a blended learning approach that uses online platforms and individualized learning paths supported by adaptive software and Chromebooks. Elementary School (Grades 1–5) follows California Common Core for English, Mathematics, English Social Studies, Health and Physical Education, Visual Arts, Music, and ICT; Science is guided by Next Generation Science Standards, while Moral Education, Arabic, Islamic Studies and Arabic Social Studies align with MOE guidelines under ADEK oversight, with alignment to UAE MOE Cycle 1 and adaptive software to meet grade-level progress. Middle School Curriculum follows California Common Core and is aligned with UAE MOE Cycle 2 requirements to prepare students for High School, with emphasis on English, Arabic, Islamic, Mathematics, Science, Technology, and Humanities; after three years of individualized learning, students complete Middle School. High School Curriculum follows California Common Core with four years of individualized learning; graduates meet California graduation requirements and UAE MOE graduation requirements, and are prepared for exams and postsecondary tests such as PISA, PSAT, AP, ACT, and SAT, with emphasis on Mathematics, Science, Entrepreneurship, Technology and Humanities. The school operates with co-educational classes in KG-4 and gender-separated classes in grades 5-12, and employs a blended learning ecosystem across all stages.
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 —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The International Academic School states that Student Affairs aims to create a school environment where students feel supported academically and appreciated for their achievements. A safe and supportive learning environment is a top priority, with staff implementing plans, activities, and appropriate follow-up to help students achieve success. Life at IAS is structured to strengthen imagination, creativity, social skills, and self-confidence. IAS provides support for child protection, health, and safety. The school emphasizes well-being as a core consideration, including the aim of prioritizing students' well-being in its on‑campus environment.	Social & emotional learning The school's counseling program focuses on three domains: social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students. The social domain develops self- and other-understanding, interpersonal communication, and contribution to a caring community; the emotional domain builds mindfulness, decision making, problem solving, goal setting, and critical thinking; and the behavioral domain supports self-awareness, self-identity, and transitions to post-secondary learning. Program delivery includes individual and group counseling, peer mediation, class discussions, Lunch Bunch Sessions, and an anti-bullying program, with parent guidance and collaboration with teachers and tailored action plans. The Student Council Hub and various student-life elements integrate SEL into daily school life. A Mental Health Guide for Parents is available in Arabic and English to support families.,”
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school lists an Inclusion Policy and a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy in its School Policies. The Campus Life page notes that IAS offers support for students and staff about child protection, health, and safety. Specific information on the kinds of Special Educational Needs the school can support or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution is not publicly disclosed. Families seeking SEN provisions should refer to the school's Inclusion Policy for governance on inclusion.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school operates a dedicated SEN Department within Summit International School, with an inclusion-focused model that provides individualized, evidence-based support for students of determination and other students with additional learning needs. Identification can be initiated by any staff member; a Pre-Observation Record and formal observations lead to an SEN assessment conducted by the inclusion team, with involvement from the school psychologist and a Behavioral Specialist. Students may be placed on a Wave System (Tier 1–3) with corresponding interventions, including intensive Tier 3 support. Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are developed by a team (SENCO, School Psychologist, Behavioral Specialist, Reading Coach, Student Teachers, and Parents) and include academic, social-emotional, and behavioral goals, accommodations, and progress tracking. The SEN framework also includes an Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) and differentiation guidelines, with ongoing collaboration among staff, students, and families; there is a Learning Support Department within the school to implement these plans. The documents describe an inclusion model rather than a standalone specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the medium of instruction for all courses, with Arabic and Islamic Studies taught in Arabic where required by UAE MoE guidelines. The Middle/High School pages indicate that Arabic language is taught as part of the UAE MoE requirements, alongside English instruction. No explicit EAL (English as an Additional Language) program or dedicated EAL services are described in the publicly available material. Therefore, there is no publicly disclosed EAL program beyond the stated language of instruction.	English as an additional language The school does not publish documentation describing a dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) program. Public information shows an international teaching staff including native Arabic, English, and French speakers, indicating language diversity among staff, but no explicit EAL program or staff dedicated solely to EAL services is listed. Therefore, explicit EAL provisions are not publicly disclosed in the school's materials.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Campus Life describes IAS as having a well-structured student life intended to strengthen imagination, creativity, social skills, and self-confidence. The school states that staff provide support to students through plans, activities, and follow-up to help them achieve success. The campus explicitly notes the provision of support for student wellbeing and safeguarding, health, and safety as part of its on-campus environment. These elements together reflect a focus on students' mental and social well-being within daily school life.	Mental wellbeing Mental health and wellbeing are positioned as core aims of the school, with a policy framework to promote mental wellness, raise awareness, and provide accessible support services. The counseling service offers individual and group sessions, psychoeducation for staff, guidance lessons, and connections with the Head of Inclusion, and is led by the School Counselor; training for staff on mental health awareness and intervention is outlined. The policy emphasizes confidential, safe, and personalized counseling, crisis management planning, and partnerships with external mental health organizations to expand options. Referrals and assessments are described, with clear processes for parental consent and student consent where appropriate. Regular monitoring, training, and evaluation of mental health initiatives are planned, and there is a clear pathway for parental engagement and external referrals when needed.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school has a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy as part of its School Policies. The Campus Life page confirms that IAS provides support for child protection, health, and safety, indicating an emphasis on safeguarding across the student experience. An Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Committee is listed among the school policies, demonstrating governance structures around safety. The Campus Life section also states that safeguarding and wellbeing are prioritized in daily school life.	Safeguarding A designated safeguarding lead (Principal) and a safeguarding team (including the School Counselor and School Nurses) oversee safeguarding, aligned with Wadeema's Law and UAE safeguarding expectations. The policy outlines the safeguarding team members by name and role, and requires staff training, data confidentiality, and mandatory reporting of safeguarding concerns. Staff and school are required to report suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities and to the Child Protection Center within 24 hours; the policy provides a flow for reporting and escalation. Roles and responsibilities are detailed for the Principal, staff, and parents, with explicit guidance on maintaining confidentiality and taking immediate action when safeguarding concerns arise. There is also a formal flow chart for reporting safeguarding concerns and Appendices outlining signs of abuse and reporting steps.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school has an art room, a music room, a gym, a science lab, and outdoor areas. The campus meets international standards to support the innovative educational environment from kindergarten to secondary school.	Facilities overview The campus comprises four buildings in Abu Dhabi, including a swimming pool, segregated play areas, a multi-use gymnasium and theater. It features a library and an on-site medical clinic. The campus includes science facilities with Chemistry, Biology and Physics labs, and a Visual Arts Studio, as well as an auditorium. Gender-specific middle and high schools and separate cafeterias and playgrounds are provided, with locker rooms and other supporting spaces.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school provides an indoor, fully air-conditioned gym facility where students participate in a wide range of physical activities and sports under trained teachers.	Sports facilities Sports facilities include multi-use courts and fields for indoor and outdoor activities, and a swimming pool for aquatic programs. The campus supports athletics through gender-specific spaces and a dedicated gymnasium, enabling team sports and physical education across grade levels.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Kindergarten Curriculum follows the US Common Core State Standards and Core Knowledge Sequence, with NGSS guiding the sciences. Elementary School covers Grade 1 to Grade 5; classrooms are well resourced with smart interactive whiteboards and specialist rooms for ICT, Music, and PE. The English Language Arts program is aligned to CCSS and emphasizes speaking, writing, and comprehension within an integrated, language-rich approach. The Middle School (Grade 6–8) uses Virginia standards; English is the medium of instruction for most courses, with Islamic Studies, Arabic Language, and UAE Social Studies taught in Arabic; Mathematics follows CCSS and NGSS underpins science learning. The High School (Grade 9–12) offers a four-year program with specialist teachers; the curriculum includes English Language Arts, Arabic Studies, Mathematics, General Science, Physics, Chemistry & Biology, Islamic Studies (for our Muslim students), UAE Social Studies/Civics, World Languages, Art and Design, Music, Physical Education, World History, Business Studies, and Personal Finance; students choose two electives each year and receive three reports per year.	Academic facilities Academic facilities include Chemistry labs, Biology labs, Physics labs, a library and e-library, and a Visual Arts Studio. The campus also houses an auditorium and dedicated spaces for collaborative learning and scientific work, plus a medical clinic for on-site health support.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and elective courses, including ICT, Computer Programming, French, and Music. In High School, students can participate in academically focused extracurricular activities after school. The curriculum is enriched through educational visits, visitors to school, performances, and carnivals.	Extra curricular facilities Extra-curricular and co-curricular activities and clubs are extensive. The school supports student leadership through the HS Climbers Pathway and a Student Council Hub, and The Climb Times provides student publication opportunities. The facilities and activities framework underpins a broad program of clubs and activities aligned with UAE education priorities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History International Academic School began in 1994, when its founders established a world-class, internationally oriented program in Abu Dhabi. The school is located at MFW 14, 08th St., Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi, UAE. IAS offers a Virginia Standards of Learning-based program and integrates elements of the American curriculum with UAE Arabic and Islamic studies to meet MOE guidelines. The leadership emphasizes a values-based, inquiry-driven approach and a partnership with parents to support student growth. As of 2021, the school lists around 700+ students enrolled and more than 60 professional academic staff.	History Summit International School opened in August 2013 as a private international school in Abu Dhabi, operating under an American curriculum aligned to the Virginia Standards of Learning. At its founding, SIS operated as an RFP private international school under the Virginia SOL and has since moved to the advanced track of both the UAE Ministry of Education and the California Common Core. The campus is state-of-the-art and comprises four buildings, including a swimming pool, segregated play areas, and a multi-use gymnasium and theater. Its Climbers population is about 1,400 students representing 51 countries, with a staff base spanning more than 20 nationalities.
Community	Community IAS defines its community as an international learning environment that aims to promote national values and global citizenship. The school emphasizes promoting national values and developing individuals who contribute to local and global communities. Campus life includes a safe, supportive environment and well-being focus with facilities and activities to support student welfare. The school also highlights graduate life and alumni connections as part of ongoing community engagement through the IAS network.	Community The school employs an international teaching staff, including native Arabic speakers as well as native English and French speakers. The pastoral care team, counseling services, and learning support create a robust wellbeing and academic support system. Community events documented on the site include the Happiness Project (March 22, 2022) and an Anti-bullying Campaign (November 29, 2021), featuring class discussions, video assignments, and courtyard assemblies. The Climb Times and a dedicated Student Council hub document and coordinate student life and activities.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association IAS Abu Dhabi does not publish a dedicated PTA page in its site navigation, which shows the main menu items as Chairman's Message, MD Message, Vice Principal's Message, Why Choose Us, Campus Life, and FAQs (no PTA item). The school emphasizes parent partnership as essential to student development and describes engaging with families through regular meetings to discuss growth and expectations for the year. Parent engagement is conveyed through meetings between parents and school leaders to set targets and monitor progress for each student. IAS involves families in a range of activities and events, including educational visits, seminars, talks by subject experts, performances, celebrations, and carnivals, which involve the broader school community. While a formal PTA is not listed publicly, IAS frames parent involvement as a core element of its community, aligned with its mission to empower citizens of the world.	Parent teacher association There is a Summit Parent Advisory Committee (SPAC) that links parents with school leadership. Through SPAC, regular meetings are held with management, parents and teaching staff. SPAC meetings provide a forum for parents to discuss relevant issues, contribute to solutions and organize activities throughout the academic year. Parents can access school newsletters and the news and events sections for information about activities. The Climb Times and other communications illustrate ongoing parent engagement and information sharing.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual —	Academic & intellectual The school follows a K-12 American curriculum aligned with the California Common Core. KG1 and KG2 follow an Early Childhood 'learn through play' approach. Learning resources are primarily online through various platforms. Performance-based assessments are used to measure understanding.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative IAS offers an American-style education with a holistic program that includes the arts, music, drama/theater, and physical education as part of the curriculum. The school provides a broad range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports. This approach emphasizes problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking as integral to learning.	Arts & creative The school has a Visual Arts Studio. An Auditorium is available for performances and events.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The language of instruction is English; French is taught from Grade 4 to Grade 8. Arabic language and Islamic Studies follow MOE guidelines. The My Identity Program deepens Emirati identity for Emirati students and expatriate students, embedding UAE culture and values.	Cultural & language The school has an international teaching staff, including native Arabic speakers and native English and French speakers.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies IAS offers extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports as part of its program. The curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development and provides opportunities for engagement beyond academics.	Social & hobbies A Student Council Hub supports student leadership. The HS Program is part of Life at SIS. Weekly assemblies and Special Subjects Awards are part of school life. Counseling includes Anti-bullying Ambassadors.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service Outreach Programs are part of the school's activities.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Student Council Hub supports leadership development. The HS Program provides leadership and pathway opportunities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing IAS emphasizes student well-being through a holistic American-style program. It supports social-emotional development and confidence, and fosters an inclusive international learning community that encourages engagement and high achievement.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Well-being is supported through a Well-Being program and anti-bullying initiatives. The Happiness Project is a wellbeing initiative.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school provides English-language instruction for Grades 4–12 through the English Department. Arabic language instruction and Islamic Studies are taught under the Arabic language program, following Ministry of Education guidelines. The school offers an American curriculum and follows Virginia standards as part of its curriculum framework. The My Identity Program deepens UAE national identity for all students.	Language provision The school uses English for core subjects. The California Common Core is followed for English, Mathematics, English Social Studies, HPE, Visual Arts, Music and ICT, with NGSS for Science; the UAE MOE program guided by ADEK covers Moral Education, Arabic, Islamic and Arabic Social Studies. The school provides a dual MOE and American curricula across grade levels. The library supports both English and Arabic with 6,000 English books and 2,000 Arabic books, and the staff includes native Arabic, English and French speakers.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations null
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Apply online or walk-in. You will receive an automated confirmation with an Application Number, which you can use to monitor your application's status. This confirms your place in the admissions pipeline and starts the process. 2. Schedule a tour or a meeting with the Senior Leadership team to learn more about IAS. The meeting provides an opportunity to see the campus, ask questions, and understand IAS's programs. It is recommended to arrange a time that fits your schedule. 3. Shortly after passing the interview/entrance exam, you will receive an acceptance letter offering a place at IAS. The 5% registration fee must be paid, and this fee will be deducted from the total tuition. The acceptance letter confirms admission pending subsequent steps. 4. Registration in the ADEK system through eSIS. This step registers the student with the UAE's licensing authority. It is required for enrollment and future reporting. 5. Fill out the Transportation Form if you wish to use School Transportation. The form collects route and pickup details. It is necessary to set up bus services if opted. 6. Proceed with payment and you will receive the Books and Uniform Slips. The collection schedule will be shared via email and the Orison School Portal. Payment completes the enrollment steps.	Admissions 1. Prospective parents and students are encouraged to tour Summit International School, and an appointment must be made. 2. During the tour, a school representative will show facilities and discuss documents required, year/age requirements, fee structure, and school policies. 3. Priority is given to students who have a sibling at the school. 4. The school is located in Abu Dhabi at Sector-4, Street 19 in the Madinat Al Zayed Gold Souk & Post Office area.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist A waitlist exists, when a space becomes available from the waitlist, the admissions team will contact families to arrange an assessment/interview.
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