The International School of San Francisco - Oak Campus and The Quarry Lane School - Dublin East Campus are both in San Francisco, about 49 km apart. Both schools offer IB and Bespoke programmes. The International School of San Francisco - Oak Campus also offers French, and The Quarry Lane School - Dublin East Campus also offers Advanced Placement (AP). Published annual fees are $45,168 - 64,721 at The International School of San Francisco - Oak Campus and $28,480 - 65,410 at The Quarry Lane School - Dublin East Campus, which puts The International School of San Francisco - Oak Campus roughly 17% higher. The International School of San Francisco - Oak Campus takes pupils from 2 to 18, and The Quarry Lane School - Dublin East Campus from 1 to 18.
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The International School of San Francisco - Oak Campus
San Francisco, United States
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The Quarry Lane School - Dublin East Campus
San Francisco, United States
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Fees / year
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Fees / year $45,168 - 64,721 | Fees / year $28,480 - 65,410 |
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Age range
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Age range 2 - 18 years | Age range 1 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum, French Curriculum | Curriculum IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), Bespoke Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils — | Pupils — |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language French, English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1962 | Opened 1991 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Oak Campus: 150 Oak Street, San Francisco, CA 94102; Maternelle/Page Campus: 1155 Page Street, San Francisco, CA 94117. | Location The Quarry Lane School operates four campuses in the San Francisco Bay Area, all in California: Dublin East Campus at 6363 Tassajara Rd., Dublin, CA 94568; Dublin West Campus at 5600 Scarlett Dr., Dublin, CA 94568; Pleasanton West Campus at 4444B Black Ave., Pleasanton, CA 94566; and Pleasanton East Campus at 3750 Boulder St., Pleasanton, CA 94566. The school provides access to these campuses via local roads in the Dublin and Pleasanton neighborhoods, and public transit options are available nearby. The Wheels Bus service serves routes throughout the Tri-Valley area, with a Quarry Lane School stop on Route 2 in Dublin. |
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Stages
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Stages Preschool/ Maternelle; Lower School (Kindergarten–Grade 8); High School. | Stages Lower School (Preschool–Grade 5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), Upper School (Grades 9–12). |
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School type
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School type — | School type Private day school; offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support Learning Services are provided by learning specialists who collaborate with students, teachers, and families to support the learning process and identify when extra help is needed. Accommodations may include extended time on tests, extra breaks, a separate testing space, the use of calculators or portable word processors, assistive technology, peer tutoring, and referrals to qualified evaluators or outside professionals when contracted by the family. | Additional learning support — |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation France; AEFE-affiliated French international school. | Country affiliation United States (California). |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure High School operates on a period-based schedule with start times around 8:10 a.m. and day end around 4:25 p.m. Periods 1–8 run with a lunch break from 12:00 to 12:50; Period 9 exists for French Baccalaureate students only. | School day structure Preschool days run 8:30 AM–3:30 PM with before/after school care available 7:00 AM–6:00 PM; Preschool also offers 3- and 5-day schedules. Lower/Middle/Upper School schedules include later start times and built-in advisory/academic support and co-curriculars. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details — | Bus service details The Wheels Bus provides public transit options with Quarry Lane School stop on Route 2 in Dublin; see Wheels Bus routes for schedules. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fees - There is no separate general admissions application fee posted for submissions through the Ravenna admissions portal; families use Ravenna to create an account and submit application materials. For families applying for need-based financial aid, the Clarity financial-aid application carries a submission fee of USD 65. Tuition fees by year group (2026–2027 academic year) - PK2 through Grade 8 (single tuition band for PK2–Grade 8): - Advance Plan (one annual payment): USD 45,168 per year. - TenPay Plan (ten monthly payments): USD 46,268 total per year, divided into ten equal monthly installments (June 2026 through March 2027). This equals USD 4,626.80 per monthly installment. - High School (Grades 9–12): - Advance Plan (one annual payment): USD 63,621 per year. - TenPay Plan (ten monthly payments): USD 64,721 total per year, divided into ten equal monthly installments (June 2026 through March 2027). This equals USD 6,472.10 per monthly installment. Billing schedule and payment terms - Families choose a payment plan at enrollment: the Advance Plan (one annual payment) or the TenPay Plan (ten monthly payments). The TenPay Plan runs June 2026 through March 2027. The Advance Plan requires a single payment by June 1, 2026 to receive the Advance discount. - Two non-refundable fees are required with the enrollment agreement to reserve a space: a 5% Tuition Deposit (credited toward tuition) and a one-time USD 2,000 Enrollment Fee. These fees are non-refundable. - Families must select a payment plan at the time of enrollment and the school may require an initial portion of tuition and the Enrollment Fee to be paid before the first day of school (billing and enrollment deadlines are enforced through the Business Office). Finance charges may be assessed on past-due balances; a returned-check processing fee is applied if applicable. Boarding fees (if applicable) - Boarding is not applicable. The school operates as a day school with before- and after-school care and extracurricular programs offered for additional fees. Before- and after-school care is available for an additional charge where noted in division program materials. Other costs and fees - Enrollment Fee: one-time USD 2,000 due with the enrollment agreement (non-refundable). - Tuition Deposit: non-refundable 5% of the tuition amount, due with the enrollment agreement and credited toward tuition. - Optional and extracurricular program fees: the school limits additional charges to voluntary/extracurricular activities and certain consumables; these charges are billed separately (typically monthly) when they apply. Examples include after-school care, certain extended-day activities, optional trips or global-travel program charges, arts or athletics activity fees, and consumables. - Returned-check fee and late-payment handling: a returned-check fee applies (USD 20 in earlier published tuition materials) and finance charges may be assessed for late or delinquent accounts; billing practices are administered by the Business Office. Refund information - The Tuition Deposit and the one-time Enrollment Fee are non-refundable. Tuition may be prorated on a monthly basis for students who join after the start of the academic year; billing adjustments for mid-year entry are handled by the Business Office. Finance charges may be applied to past-due balances. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods include automated or online bank payments (ACH from checking/savings) and credit/debit card payments. Installment payments (TenPay) are processed by automated monthly withdrawals or other automated mechanisms as required by the Business Office. The school's tuition portal (FACTS/tuition and fees portal) is used to manage payment plans and automated withdrawals. Business Office contact and billing administration - The Business Office administers payment plans, billing inquiries, returned-check handling, and past-due account management. Families with billing questions should contact the Business Office at the school for account-specific details. | Fee details Application fees - Domestic Lower-School (Junior K–Grade 5) application/testing fee: USD 125 (one-time, non-refundable). - Domestic Middle- and Upper-School (Grades 6–12) application fee: USD 75 (one-time, non-refundable). - International applicants (International Academy / I‑20 applicants): USD 200 (one-time, non-refundable). Tuition fees by year group (published totals include the annual comprehensive educational fee and the annual registration fee) - Junior Kindergarten - Base tuition: USD 26,930 - Annual comprehensive educational fee: USD 1,350 - Annual registration fee: USD 200 - Total annual tuition and fees: USD 28,480. - Equivalent if divided evenly: per semester (2 terms) USD 14,240.00; per term (3 terms) USD 9,493.33; per month (12) USD 2,373.33. - Kindergarten through Grade 5 (day-school track) - Base tuition: USD 36,550 - Annual comprehensive educational fee: USD 1,350 - Annual registration fee: USD 200 - Total annual tuition and fees: USD 38,100. - Equivalent if divided evenly: per semester (2 terms) USD 19,050.00; per term (3 terms) USD 12,700.00; per month (12) USD 3,175.00. - Grades 6–8 (day-school track) - Base tuition: USD 42,655 - Annual comprehensive educational fee: USD 1,875 - Annual registration fee: USD 200 - Total annual tuition and fees: USD 44,730. - Equivalent if divided evenly: per semester (2 terms) USD 22,365.00; per term (3 terms) USD 14,910.00; per month (12) USD 3,727.50. - Grades 9–12 (day-school track) - Base tuition: USD 52,384 - Annual comprehensive educational fee: USD 2,000 - Annual registration fee: USD 200 - Total annual tuition and fees: USD 54,584. - Equivalent if divided evenly: per semester (2 terms) USD 27,292.00; per term (3 terms) USD 18,194.67; per month (12) USD 4,548.67. - International Academy (students requiring ESL or I‑20): annual totals (comprehensive fee + registration fee included) — JrK–5: USD 43,205; Grades 6–8: USD 55,595; Grades 9–12: USD 63,035. Equivalent per-term/month breakdowns (even division) are shown below: - JrK–5: total USD 43,205 — per semester USD 21,602.50; per term (3) USD 14,401.67; per month USD 3,600.42. - 6–8: total USD 55,595 — per semester USD 27,797.50; per term (3) USD 18,531.67; per month USD 4,632.92. - 9–12: total USD 63,035 — per semester USD 31,517.50; per term (3) USD 21,011.67; per month USD 5,252.92. Deposits, billing schedule and payment terms - Enrollment (seat) deposit: USD 3,000 for day‑school enrollment; that deposit is credited toward the tuition balance (does not cover additional fees unless stated otherwise). A second amount of USD 1,500 or the full tuition balance is due June 1, 2026. If a student enrolls after June 1, all deposits are due upon enrollment. - International Academy deposit: USD 3,200 (credited toward the tuition balance); International Academy tuition balance is due May 15 (per that track). - Payment plans offered: - Lump Sum Plan — After the initial enrollment deposit, the remaining non‑refundable tuition balance is due on the June due date. - Multiple Payment Plan — After the initial deposit, one additional deposit is due on the June due date; the remaining tuition balance is split into nine equal, non‑refundable monthly payments (August 1 through April 1). A finance and service charge of 7% is applied to the remaining balance under the monthly plan. - Tuition insurance plan: optional tuition insurance premium equals 3.5% of the annual tuition fee; the premium is due on the June due date and is optional only for families that choose the Lump Sum plan. - Prorating: Tuition will not be prorated for enrollment in the first semester; students who enter in the second semester will be charged 65% of the annual tuition. Fees generally are not prorated. Boarding / homestay - The Quarry Lane School does not operate boarding facilities. International students who require local housing are enrolled in the International Academy and homestay placement options are used for students living with host families; the school's international materials and homestay procedures describe a separate homestay placement fee for that service. Additional and program-specific fees - Annual Comprehensive Educational Fees (listed above) are part of the published totals: typically USD 1,350 for JrK–Grade 5; USD 1,875 for Grades 6–8; USD 2,000 for Grades 9–12. These amounts are already included in the total annual tuition and fees figures shown above. - International Baccalaureate (IB) programme fee (Grades 11–12): USD 2,375 annually (2026–2027 IB programme fee). - Extended Education Program (EEP) — before/after school care for Lower School (monthly rates): Morning & After Care (5:00 pm pick‑up) USD 399/month; Morning & After Care (6:00 pm pick‑up) USD 499/month; Morning Care only USD 175/month; drop‑in USD 50/day (rates shown in registration materials and EEP forms). EEP fees are billed monthly and contract withdrawal requires 30 days' written notice. Late pickup penalty in EEP: USD 1.00 per minute after 6:00 pm. - Incidental and variable costs to budget for each year (examples): catered lunch, field trips, uniforms, high‑school course textbooks, activity fees, and other program‑specific charges; amounts for these items vary by grade and activity. - Payments received by wire transfer: an additional USD 50 bank fee per payment may apply for International Academy payments (wire fee applies per payment). Uniforms and dress code costs - Lower- and Middle‑School students are required to wear uniforms; Upper‑School follows a dress code with the possibility of required uniform purchase if dress‑code violations occur. Uniform items are supplied through an approved vendor (branded/Q L S items are vendor‑supplied), and families should budget separately for vendor prices and any replacement items. Specific uniform rules and vendor information are provided in the school dress‑code and handbook materials. Refund and withdrawal terms - All tuition and fees are stated as non‑refundable and non‑transferable. Deposits are credited toward tuition balances but are not refundable. The school's program enrollment agreements and EEP contract clauses make family payment obligations unconditional in many circumstances (including student absence, withdrawal, dismissal, or closure for reasons beyond the school's control), and specify required notice periods for withdrawal from programs such as EEP. Fee payment options and procedures - Accepted payment forms and processes vary by program: examples from school forms include payment by check or money order (checks payable to The Quarry Lane School are used for many in‑person payments and program fees), wire transfers (wire payments incur the stated bank fee for certain tracks), and credit/debit card payment options for some summer programs and online registration portals. Specific payment instructions and any transaction fees are provided on enrollment or program contracts. Examples: EEP and summer program forms refer to check/money order and credit card payment methods for program fees; International Academy materials note the $50 bank fee for wires. Other billing terms worth noting - Late payment and collection: the enrollment and program agreements state that unpaid fees can lead to holds on records and that families are responsible for collection costs if legal action is required. Certain program fees (late pickup, homestay placement, special program materials) have their own non‑refundability and payment method rules. If you require these figures placed into a specific field layout for your database, the amounts above provide the published annual totals, deposit schedule, program fees, and the common evenly divided per‑term and per‑month equivalents for each published year group. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement JK–8 require uniforms; uniforms are provided by Tommy Hilfiger and can be purchased from approved vendors. Polo shirts are red, white, or navy; pants/shorts are khaki or navy; belts are black, brown, or navy; socks are white, blue, or brown; white undershirts; outerwear must be QLS logo or approved vendors. Grades 9–12 follow a dress code rather than a uniform. |
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Food options
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Food options Lunch is provided by families at the Maternelle campus; snacks are provided by families on a rotating schedule; sample snacks include cheese sticks & crackers, fruit platters & crackers, or butter & baguette. | Food options Preschool mealtimes include two snacks daily and a catering option for hot lunches; catering information is available at the front office; peanuts and tree-nuts are prohibited. Upper School offers a School Lunch Program where students may bring lunch or order a catered lunch via Choice Lunch; lunches must be pre-ordered and cash purchases are not allowed; no emergency lunches; restrictions on junk food apply. |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership Homologated by the French Ministry of National Education and a partner of AEFE and the MLF. | Governance and ownership Private secular day school. It is an IB World School. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Maternelle provides bilingual immersion from age 2 (PK2) through Kindergarten, with French immersion initially at about 80%–90% and language development in English and French. Lower School continues French language development, while the program blends U.S. educational practices with the French national curriculum Cycle System (Cycle 1). The five learning domains are: language (English and French), arts, mathematics, exploration of the world, and physical activity, with strong social-emotional development and differentiated instruction. In Middle and High School, students choose between two tracks: International Track, which leads to the IB Diploma, and French Track, which leads to the French Baccalaureate, with some subjects offered in French for bilingual students. The High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma program, including a bilingual IB Diploma, and the French Baccalaureate. | Curriculum details Upper School offers three tracks: IB Diploma Programme (DP) Track, STEM Track, and College Preparatory Track. The DP begins in the junior year, and Quarry Lane is the only private high school in the East Bay Area to offer the IB Diploma Programme. The STEM Track emphasizes science, engineering and mathematics, while the College Preparatory Track includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses that allow university credit. Lower School uses an accelerated curriculum taught by subject-matter experts, Middle School focuses on developing independent learners, and Upper School concentrates on college preparation and beyond. The Quarry Lane School is an International Baccalaureate World School. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio Approximately 7:1 based on 1,400 students and over 195 teachers across four campuses. |
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Exam results
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Exam results Grade 9 students prepare the Brevet des Collèges, a French national exam. Successful completion of the French Baccalaureate provides a diploma equivalent to completion of High School in France. The International High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma program, including a bilingual IB Diploma option. The IB Diploma is organized around groups 1–6 with core elements such as Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), and there is an option to earn a bilingual IB Diploma. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression College Counseling helps students identify colleges that fit their intellectual, social, and emotional needs. By pursuing either the International Baccalaureate or the French Baccalaureate, graduates earn internationally recognized diplomas. Alumni are currently enrolled in higher education institutions around the world and across the United States. | Higher education progression Class of 2025 highlights show approximately 714 college acceptances from 135 schools; 265 acceptances to Top 50 colleges; 176 acceptances to UC schools. Notable destinations include Stanford University (3), Johns Hopkins University (1), Northwestern University (1), University of Pennsylvania (1), University of Chicago (1), Brown University (1), UCLA (6), UC Berkeley (6), USC (9) and NYU (16), among others. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented Advanced coursework is available: AP classes are offered for high-achieving students; the IB Diploma Programme provides a rigorous international curriculum for eligible students. |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning The school offers a social-emotional learning program that develops empathetic listening, cooperative teamwork, and responsible behavior; counselors provide drop-in and brief counseling, and an in-class Social and Emotional Learning program supports student well-being. | Social & emotional learning Social and emotional development is embedded in Quarry Lane's approach across all levels. Lower School begins with a Morning Meeting to build a sense of community and ensure students feel safe, cared for, and supported; the program highlights six character pillars: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Middle School Homeroom is designed to ensure students are seen, known and supported, including time for one-on-one check-ins and assemblies that foster socio-emotional learning. The Middle and Upper School student life offerings emphasize collaboration, leadership, and personal growth to support emotional and social development. These elements reflect Quarry Lane's emphasis on a nurturing, inclusive culture that promotes empathy and well-being for students across divisions. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Services team includes learning specialists who collaborate with students, teachers, and families to support learning; accommodations may include extended time on tests, extra breaks, a separate testing room, use of calculators, portable word processors or computers, peer tutoring, and assistive technology; referrals to outside evaluators and professionals are available when needed. | Special educational needs (SEN) English as a Second Language (ESL) is provided with placement support from EL teachers to determine ESL or mainstream coursework. International students take TOEFL and are placed based on placement assessments, with ongoing support to integrate into the appropriate level. The ESL program includes an ESL Summer Camp to bolster language development and confidence. The Lower School and Upper School language offerings extend beyond English to include foreign languages such as Spanish and Mandarin, reflecting language-focused integration and international diversity. The school's language policy emphasizes language as foundational to curriculum and cross-cultural learning, with ongoing support for international students across grade levels. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The International Track in High School serves non-French-speaking students and provides pathways toward the IB Diploma; more than half of students entering International High School do not speak French. | English as an additional language The Quarry Lane School offers English as a Second Language (ESL) and maintains EL teachers to support international students in placing them in the appropriate level (ESL or mainstream). International students are required to take the TOEFL and are placed into classes based on diagnostic assessments; ESL and language support continue as students transition through Middle and High School. ESL Summer Camp provides language learning alongside activities to build confidence. In addition to English, the curriculum includes Spanish and Mandarin, with language instruction integrated across subject areas. The school emphasizes language development as a cornerstone of academic success and global engagement. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Counseling services include drop-in and brief individual counseling, crisis intervention, study-skills workshops, and liaison with outside mental health resources; there is an in-class Social and Emotional Learning program and in-class sex education and bullying-prevention efforts; school counseling is confidential with certain legal exceptions related to child protection. | Mental wellbeing Distance learning communications acknowledge health and safety while balancing social-emotional wellbeing as a priority for students. Lower School emphasizes social and emotional development through routines like the Morning Meeting to foster a supportive community. Middle School Homeroom is explicitly designed to promote socio-emotional learning and provides 1-on-1 check-ins and assemblies. Upper School programs and student life initiatives focus on developing social, emotional, and leadership skills alongside academics. These elements together reflect Quarry Lane's commitment to students' mental wellbeing and holistic growth. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Counseling services are confidential with exceptions required by law for child protection; there is an in-class bullying prevention program; a dedicated Student Support Team provides counseling and learning-support staff across levels to monitor and support student safety and well-being. | Safeguarding Safety and safeguarding are addressed through campus-wide safety guidelines, including a Traffic Parking Guide that requires loading-zone drop-offs, adherence to traffic monitors, a campus speed limit of 5 MPH, crosswalk usage, and prohibitions on using cell phones in queues. Visitors must sign in and wear identification when on campus to maintain a secure environment. The Peanut and Nut Policy prohibits peanuts and tree-nuts on campus and during school events to protect students with allergies. All Quarry Lane faculty and staff are reported as fully vaccinated in communications related to health and safety. The Preschool Handbook on nut policy and health and safety also covers visitor procedures and other safeguarding practices. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The school has a main Hayes Valley campus housed in a six-story building with bright classrooms and city views. The roof is covered with solar modules producing power for campus operations. Across the street, athletic facilities include indoor and outdoor basketball courts. The Dennis Gallagher Arts Pavilion is a three-story building nearby that houses the visual and performing arts center. The Maternelle/Preschool operates on a separate campus at 1155 Page Street, and the Oak Campus is located at 150 Oak Street. | Facilities overview Quarry Lane School operates multiple campuses in the East Bay, including the Dublin East Campus (Lower & Upper School) at 6363 Tassajara Rd, Dublin; the Dublin West Campus (Lower School & Preschool) at 5600 Scarlett Dr, Dublin; Pleasanton West Campus (Lower School & Preschool) at 4444B Black Ave, Pleasanton; and Pleasanton East Campus (Lower School & Preschool) at 3750 Boulder St, Pleasanton. The Dublin West Campus expansion is 28,800 square feet with 15 classrooms and dedicated spaces for a STEM Lab, an Art Studio, and a Music Studio, plus an enclosed courtyard/play area and two rotunda spaces that bring in natural light. A Performing Arts Center space is planned adjacent to the Dublin East Campus, capable of seating up to 350 and including rehearsal spaces and a 126-spot parking lot. The spaces emphasize natural light and ongoing campus growth as Quarry Lane serves Preschool through 12th grade across its campuses. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The athletic facilities include indoor and outdoor basketball courts. | Sports facilities The Quarry Lane athletics program operates in three seasons—Fall, Winter and Spring—for high school and middle school students. It offers Girls Volleyball, Boys Soccer, Coed Cross Country, Girls Tennis, Coed Track and Field, Coed Badminton, and Swimming, among others. The program emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, integrity and personal development for student-athletes. Detailed schedules and teams are published for high school and middle school sports. The athletics program focuses on developing athletic skills within a team-oriented environment. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The Dennis Gallagher Arts Pavilion houses the visual and performing arts center. The main Hayes Valley campus features bright classrooms with city views. The Oak Campus is located at 150 Oak Street. | Academic facilities The Dublin West Campus expansion includes a STEM Lab, Art Studio, Music Studio and enclosed courtyard/play area, with two rotunda spaces for natural light. The Dublin East Campus houses Lower and Upper School, with Upper School offerings including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and Engineering and Robotics programs. Visual Art, Music, and Theater Arts & Dance are part of Quarry Lane's Visual and Performing Arts programs. The Performing Arts Center project indicates expansion of dedicated arts spaces and facilities. The campuses emphasize modern, light-filled classrooms and innovative spaces. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The Dennis Gallagher Arts Pavilion supports arts-related extracurricular activities. Athletic facilities across the street support athletic programs. | Extra curricular facilities Visual Art, Music and Theater Arts & Dance are part of Quarry Lane's Visual and Performing Arts offerings. The STEM Explorers Club provides an after-school program. Speech and Debate is available in the High School program. The Performing Arts Center expansion reinforces opportunities for student performances and broader arts participation. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History The International School of San Francisco is the city's oldest and largest bilingual school and was the first in the city to offer the International Baccalaureate, the fourth in the United States to do so. It began as the French-American Bilingual School (FABS), founded in 1962 by nine San Francisco Bay Area residents with close ties to France and opened in 1963. The school moved campuses several times—from Vincente Street in 1965 to Grove Street in 1967—and the high school program began in 1978, adopting the International Baccalaureate. In 1994 the school relocated to 150 Oak Street, and in 1995 the high school was renamed International High School. The Maternelle opened at 1155 Page Street in 2014; in 2024-2025 it renamed to The International School of San Francisco to reflect its bilingual and international mission. | History The Quarry Lane School was created by founder and president Dr. Sabri Arac in 1991. Dr. Arac earned a bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Michigan Technological University and a master's degree and doctorate in Metallurgy/Materials Science from the University of Arizona, and spent his early career at Hewlett-Packard. He envisioned a secular, college-preparatory school spanning kindergarten through 12th grade with advanced instruction and a solid foundation. This passion culminated in the establishment of The Quarry Lane School. The Quarry Lane School is a nonsectarian, co-educational day school which supports a diverse faculty and student body. |
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Community
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Community ISF hosts a year‑round calendar of community events, including an August Back‑to‑School Picnic, Grandparents and Grand Friends Day in November, and the Community Salon Series on topics such as biotechnology, neuroscience, political engagement, AI, and intellectual property as part of its Urban Engagement Program. There are monthly Principals Coffees for parents and regular Parent Education sessions to support families. PoSoC, a monthly affinity space for parents of students of color, and schoolwide service activities such as Days of Service and a Schoolwide Day of Service are also part of campus life. | Community Building a strong community between parents, teachers and students is a key component of Quarry Lane's preschool programs, which strive to create an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and supports community outreach. The school uses the Tadpoles system to maintain safe, secure communication with families, delivering daily updates, photos and alerts. Developmental evaluations are conducted from young preschool through pre-kindergarten, with regular parent/teacher conferences available and special conferences as needed. Throughout the year, campuses reach out to the nearby community through charitable events such as fall food drives for the Alameda County Food Bank, sponsoring local families in winter, and events like Valentines for Veterans and Trike-a-thon to foster compassion and service. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association All parents are members of the Parent Association, a volunteer organization that supports The International School of San Francisco by working with school leadership to engage parents and promote community, cooperation, and involvement. Parents can chaperone field trips, lead admissions tours, or chair fundraising events. The 2025‑2026 Executive Committee includes Co‑Presidents Pelin Cinar and Matt Hicks, Secretary, Treasurer, Communications Officer, and Volunteer Coordinator, as well as Section Vice Presidents for High School, Middle School, Lower School, and Maternelle, and Grade Representatives for each grade. | Parent teacher association — |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual Over 40 student-created clubs exist at The International School of San Francisco, with students leading clubs from formation to events. Scholarly clubs include math, politics, tutoring, and a range of academic-interest groups; there are broader opportunities such as Debate Club, Model United Nations, and a student-run radio station. The Inkwell is the student-run literary and arts magazine, with submissions in languages other than English welcome. TedxFAIHS provides an on-campus TEDx-style platform for student ideas. | Academic & intellectual The Quarry Lane School offers a broad range of clubs that promote academic and intellectual growth. Notable activities include Speech and Debate, Model United Nations, and Harvard Model Congress. The school also supports STEM and quantitative interests through Robotics, Coding, Math Club, and Economics Club. Participation in clubs can contribute to National Honor Society activity points and service requirements. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative The Theater program is robust, encompassing performing, design, and stagecraft, with productions that let students explore acting, directing, and script writing while gaining hands-on experience in set design, lighting, and costume creation. The Back à Dos Theater Company produces five major shows each year, with students involved in all aspects, including backstage work. Visual Arts includes Lower School drawing and painting, with media exploration, photography, video, and inquiry-based learning, and studio hours at lunchtime and after school for projects beyond class. Seniors in the IB program display their work in an IB Showcase in March. | Arts & creative Visual Art fosters creative expression and an interdisciplinary approach to learning. Beginning in junior kindergarten, students explore design through graphic, industrial, and architectural projects. The Music program provides foundational singing and instrument instruction, with upper-level ensembles and HS Club Bands such as Rock Band, Ska Band, and Chamber Ensemble. The Theater Arts & Dance program focuses on language, communication, and the creative process and is offered as upper-school electives. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Affinity Groups provide spaces for students to connect around shared identities, with Lower School, Middle School, and High School groups listed (including Grade 3–5, and Middle School and High School alliances). Diversity Councils lead assemblies and initiatives around diversity and inclusion, including screenings, displays, and discussion clubs. Model United Nations offers opportunities for students to research countries and write position papers for conferences. The Inkwell, the student-run literary magazine, welcomes submissions in languages other than English. | Cultural & language The International Academy infuses languages, cultures, and traditions into the school community and welcomes international students. The school community includes clubs such as Asian Culture Club and Spanish Society, reflecting multicultural engagement. Model United Nations and related programs are part of the student life experience. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies The club scene is vibrant and student-driven, with more than 40 clubs that cover activism, film, baking, hiking, and gardening. Scholarly clubs include math, politics, and tutoring, and hobby clubs span Chess Club, Photography Club, Book Club, Anime Club, and Exposer Student Newspaper. Songs for Senegal is a yearlong fundraising tradition led by students to support their sister school in Senegal. | Social & hobbies A wide array of student clubs supports social and hobby interests. Examples include Film Club, Photography Club, Dance Club, and Random Acts of Kindness Club, among others such as Fashion and Design and Chess Club. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Service learning runs through Lower School, Middle School, and High School, with opportunities to engage in community initiatives that support education and neighborhood vitality. The Community Service Steering Committee coordinates on-campus service projects and invites student involvement, including advisory representation on the committee. Students participate in off-campus service with Glide, 826 Valencia, Habitat for Humanity, and other organizations, and IB students complete CAS hours as part of the IB program. | Community & service The Quarry Lane community emphasizes service and giving back. National Honor Society members are expected to complete volunteer hours and participate in service projects; active NHS membership requires 20 volunteer hours per semester. QLS activity points can be earned for service and leadership activities. Annual community outreach events include Valentines for Veterans and Trike-a-thon. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities include Affinity Groups, Student Council, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Model United Nations, Diversity Councils, the Community Service Steering Committee, the Literary Magazine, and TedxFAIHS. These structures foster student leadership, collaboration, advocacy, and service across Lower School through High School. | Leadership & professional Student leadership is encouraged through National Honor Society, student government, and club leadership roles. Leadership activities include officers, editors, team captains, production managers and other positions that require responsibility. Model United Nations, Speech and Debate, and other clubs provide leadership opportunities and collaborative skills. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Athletics are fully integrated into the school experience, with student-athletes participating in competitive team sports across three athletic seasons. The program emphasizes mind, body, and character, developing leadership and sportsmanship while honoring cultural diversity and gender equity. The athletic department supports a strong sense of community and school pride. | Lifestyle & wellbeing The athletics program fosters teamwork, sportsmanship, integrity and responsibility. There are Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons for high school and middle school sports. Sports include girls volleyball, boys soccer, cross country, tennis, basketball, track, badminton, and golf. The program emphasizes learning and personal growth and good sportsmanship. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English and French are the languages taught. In Maternelle, language development occurs in English and French, with end-of-Kindergarten reading in French and basic reading in English. In Lower School, a bilingual curriculum blends U.S. and French education, with English literacy and French literacy taught and by the end of Cycle 2 students read in English and French; by the end of Cycle 3 they can study academic subjects in both languages. In High School, all students take four years of English, the International Track offers bilingual courses including some in French, and beginner-level Chinese and French are available as additional languages. | Language provision English is the primary language of instruction. Spanish is offered as a foreign language across campuses, with basic Spanish taught at the East Campus (Pre-School–4) and at the West Campus (ages 3–5), and Spanish taught twice weekly on the East Campus. Mandarin is taught in the Upper School, with a Lower School after-school Mandarin class once a week. ESL support is available for international students, with placement tests for Spanish and Mandarin, and language resources are integrated in the library. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching The school teaches in English and French. The Maternelle program offers a French bilingual immersion environment beginning at age 2 for PK2, PK3, and PK4. In Lower School, students learn in both English and French. High School offers the International Baccalaureate or French Baccalaureate, with the International Track providing bilingual learning and some courses in French. | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs French bilingual immersion is embedded from Maternelle through Lower School. Maternelle begins with 80% French immersion. In Lower School, French immersion is 80% in Grades 1-2 and 50% in Grade 3. In High School, the bilingual framework continues with the International Track, which includes courses taught in French. | Immersion programs Language is taught through total immersion in Quarry Lane's classrooms. Spanish is introduced at the East Campus for Pre-School to 4th grade and at the West Campus for ages 3–5, with all students learning Spanish twice a week on the East Campus. The Upper School offers Mandarin as a dedicated language program, and Lower School students may access a Mandarin after-school enhancement class once a week in coordination with the Upper School program. Immersion begins in third through fifth grades and is reinforced by speech, lessons, visual aids, and writing activities. |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards null |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations IB World School – Authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme; first in California and fourth in the United States to be authorized (1979); first west of the Mississippi to receive this recognition. IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) – Candidate School; pursuing authorization. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) – regional accrediting/approval body. National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) – national association for independent schools. European Council of International Schools (ECIS) – international school association. Council of International Schools (CIS) – international accreditation network. California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) – California state independent school association. Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) – supports French education abroad. Ministère de l'Éducation nationale (MEN) – French government education ministry affiliation. Mission Laïque Française Monde (MLF Monde) – network affiliated with French language international education. | Accreditations The Dublin East Campus is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the National Independent Private Schools Association, and the National Council for Private School Accreditation. The Dublin West Campus, Pleasanton East Campus, and Pleasanton West Campus are accredited by the National Independent Private Schools Association and the National Council for Private School Accreditation. |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions Maternelle/Preschool Admissions Step 1: Create a Ravenna account to keep track of all admissions tasks. Ravenna is the online application site used to manage applications, events, decisions, and to monitor your progress. Step 2: Save the date. Starting September 1, you may register for a school day tour and/or our Saturday Open House. Step 3: Apply. Submit your application and family questionnaire, and the Student Evaluation Form if applicable. Step 4: Classroom visit and playdate. PK2 and PK3 applicants are invited on a weekday, while PK4 applicants join a Saturday visit with other children in January or February. Step 5: Schedule your parent interview. Parent conversations begin in November and continue through February and can be conducted in person or on Zoom. Sibling/Faculty/Alumni Applicants Step 1: Create a Ravenna account. Step 2 (Optional): Schedule a tour or attend an admission event. Tours begin in early October. Step 3: Submit your child's application on Ravenna by the November 1, 2025 deadline. Step 4: In December, children are invited for a Saturday classroom visit with other prospective students and our teachers at the Page Campus. PK2 applicants will have their visit in February. Long Distance Applicants We welcome applications from families relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area. Our admissions procedures are essentially the same as for local applicants, except all meetings are held via Zoom if the family cannot be in San Francisco during the application period. Evaluations are tailored to family travel constraints. Potential applicants from overseas should contact our Associate Director of Admissions, Karine Luguet. Students from public, independent, and parochial schools are admitted on the basis of academic records and other data. Our admission policies are non-discriminatory. Lower and Middle School Admissions Step 1: Explore. Create a Ravenna account to keep track of everything on the admissions to-do list. Step 2: Submit your Parent/Guardian Application Form. Starting September 1, you may register for a school day tour and/or our Saturday Open House. Step 3: Sign up for the Parent Interview. Submit your application, family questionnaire, and Student Evaluation Form (two forms are needed for Grades 6-8). Step 4: Sign up for a Visit/Assessment Day. Kindergarten applicants are invited to a Saturday visit; Grades 1–8 will join on a weekday. Step 5: Sign up for the Student Interview. Schedule your parent conversation. Parent conversations begin in November and continue through February, and can be conducted in person or on Zoom. Step 6: Delegate the Teacher Recommendation Form. For Grades 1–8, request official transcripts and schedule the Student Interview with our Middle School Principal (Grades 6–8 only). Sibling/Faculty/Alumni Applicants Step 1: Create a Ravenna account. Step 2 (Optional): Schedule a tour or attend an admission event. Tours begin in early October. Step 3: Submit your child's application on Ravenna by the November 1, 2025 deadline. Step 4: In December, children are invited for a Saturday classroom visit with other prospective students and our teachers at Page Campus. Long Distance Applicants We welcome applications from families relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area. Our admissions procedures are essentially the same as for local applicants, except all meetings are held via Zoom if the family will not be in San Francisco physically during the application period. Evaluations are tailored to family travel constraints. Potential applicants from overseas should contact our Associate Director of Admissions, Karine Luguet. Students from public, independent, and parochial schools are admitted to The International School of San Francisco on the basis of academic records and other data. Our admission policies are non-discriminatory. Important Dates (illustrative; see site for full timeline) Decisions released electronically; Enrollment deadline for financial aid recipients; Enrollment contract deadlines. | Admissions Now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. Applications are welcome for Preschool and JK-12 tracks; the admissions team will guide families through the process. Getting Started: Create an account in Ravenna to begin the online application. The track options are Preschool; Lower School Applicants (Junior Kindergarten through Grade 5); Upper School Applicants (Grades 6 through 12); International Academy Applicants (Student Visa). Preschool: Applications are accepted year-round. Contact the campus directors to confirm availability. Enrollment through August 2026 is open; siblings have priority. Proof of immunizations, admissions forms, and a Physician's Report are required before attendance; a 30‑day probation period applies after start date and enrollment deposits are nonrefundable. Immunization records must be submitted prior to attendance. Lower School Applicants (JK-5): Quarry Lane offers two admissions cycles: Early Admission (designed for families who consider QLS their first choice, with campus preference prioritized but not guaranteed) and Regular Admission. Current families with siblings are encouraged to apply in Early Admission. Create an online Ravenna application, provide family information, and complete the Parent Report and Interview with the Admissions Office. Upper School Applicants (6-12): Quarry Lane offers two admissions cycles (Early and Regular). Create an online Ravenna account, provide family information, and complete the Applicant Interview. Applicants will also submit an Applicant Report and Essay, a Parent Report, and the required Recommendations and Report Cards/Transcripts. An Admissions Exam is required, with two assessments: a Character Snapshot completed online at home and standardized testing (SSAT, ISEE, ERB, MAP) or other accepted tests; English proficiency may be required for non-native speakers. International Academy Applicants (Student Visa): The International Academy is designed for students requiring an I-20 for a F-1 visa. Apply via the International Academy track and provide the required information (Applicant and Family Information, Parent Report, Recommendations, and Transcripts). An Applicant Interview and Assessment are required, and English proficiency considerations apply for non-native speakers. Admissions Exam: For all applicable applicants, an interview and an assessment process occur. The SSAT/ISEE/ERB/MAP tests are accepted for admissions; specific test codes are provided in the application portal. Applicants from schools where English is not the primary language may need to supply an English proficiency exam. An on-campus interview is conducted for upper grades, and the I-20 process is initiated if an offer is extended for international applicants. English Proficiency: English proficiency is an important factor in the admissions process. A TOEFL score of 95-113 or Duolingo score of 115-135 may be requested for admission, and the I‑20 process will proceed accordingly for international applicants. I-20 Form: Upon acceptance, an I-20 Form for a F-1 Student Visa will be issued. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Aid Application Process Step 1: Go to Clarity and sign up. The application typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete. The Clarity submission has a $65 fee and can be shared with additional schools that accept Clarity. Step 2: Begin your Clarity application and add The International School of San Francisco. Step 3: Complete your Clarity application and pay the $65 fee. Step 4: Complete the Clarity Enhanced Tax Verification (ETV) process to release W-2 and personal tax return transcripts by signing Form 8821 or using IRS.gov. Step 5: Submit your Clarity application and upload any additional supporting documents. Non-U.S. tax filers should upload income verification and other required documents. International tax information for 2025 must be available by February 15, 2026. Returning and new families deadlines are published in Clarity. Need-Based Scholarships Financial assistance is awarded on the basis of need and the family's potential contribution, based on Clarity's data and household guidelines. The school aims to meet demonstrated need where possible, but resources may not cover the full need. Timely submission of documents is critical because awards are made within a constrained timeframe. All information provided during the financial aid process is kept confidential. French Government Scholarships Applicants may pursue French Government scholarships through the Consulate; complete the school's Financial Aid process and contact Mireille Gaonac'h or the Financial Aid office for assistance. The Consulate's deadlines and processes apply, including a February deadline for certain years. All information is kept confidential. Financial Aid Details and Aids The school's financial aid program includes need-based awards, with average grants cited (e.g., around $28,000 for Maternelle families and higher amounts for other divisions) and a track record of significant aid funding (several million dollars annually). The Clarity application is used to determine need, and the school aims to meet the demonstrated need of admitted or enrolled families where possible. Citations: Maternelle admissions details, Lower/Middle admissions details, High School admissions details, and Tuition & Financial Aid pages from the ISSF site. | Scholarships Quarry Lane School offers tuition aid (need-based) to qualifying families. Funds are limited and not all families that qualify will receive assistance. To be considered, families must complete a Parent Financial Statement (PFS) through School and Student Services (SSS); the school code is 4482. The aid application window runs December through January 10, with all materials due by February 1 for consideration. After review, the Admissions Team will notify families of the final aid decision. Reach the Admissions Office at 925-829-8000 for assistance. In recent years, the average aid recipient's household income has been around $160,000. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
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