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Tirana International School

Albania, Tirana

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees ALL 6,000 - 26,900
Ages Not listed
Pupil numbers 500
Type Co-educational
Opened 1991
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), IB (DP)
Taught languages French, Spanish, German
Strengths STEM, Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Community and Service
Stages Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, Secondary School
Introduction

Tirana International School, located on a 5.5-hectare campus on the side of Tirana, is a co-educational day school affiliated with Quality Schools International (QSI). The school delivers a diverse, international program mix, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP), Advanced Placement courses, and a bespoke curriculum. Secondary students may study IB subjects such as English A, literature and language, Spanish Ab Initio, sciences, mathematics, arts, theater, and languages, alongside onsite AP courses and AP Capstone Diploma. Graduates can follow multiple pathways, including the IB Diploma, AP Capstone, Academic Diploma options, and General Diploma. The campus features balconies, patios, four playgrounds, a turfed soccer field, track, tennis court, gym, and an exercise area; an English library; science labs; a music room and indoor performance space; an arts studio; robotics and 3-D printing labs; and a cafeteria. The school emphasizes Mastery Learning, Exit Outcomes, and progress reporting to support every student.

Fshati Mullet, Komuna Petrele, Tirana, Kutia Postare 1527, Albania

The Essentials

Tirana International School has 500 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
Fshati Mullet, Komuna Petrele, Tirana, Albania; Kutia Postare 1527. The address is used for mail and campus visits.

Stages
Preschool; Elementary; Middle School; Secondary School.

Type
Co-educational, Day School.

Pupil Nationality Mix
500 students from over 42 nationalities.

Additional learning support
Intensive English; Learning Support.

Country affiliation
Quality Schools International (QSI).

School day structure
Preschool has a daily schedule with 2–3 weekly specials (PE, library, technology, music). Elementary follows a daily schedule with core and specials, including Languages Other Than English. Middle School uses a block schedule with alternating A and B days and eight courses, and Secondary School uses a block schedule with eight courses and a year-long research project; AP Capstone and the IB Diploma Programme are offered.

Bus service
Morning and Afternoon transportation; new vans with GPS tracking; licensed drivers; booster seats for preschool; rides limited to about 40 minutes; pick-up/drop-off at locations near the home; zone-based pricing.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Dress code.

Food Options
The school has a cafeteria and a lunch program.

Governance and Ownership
The school is part of Quality Schools International (QSI). Governance and ownership are by QSI.
Fees

Annual tuition at Tirana International School ranges from ALL 6,000 to ALL 26,900 for 2026/27.

Application / Registration Fee
- One-time, non-refundable registration fee: USD 600 payable at enrollment.

Capital Fund Fee
- Annual Capital Fund Fee for students aged 5 and above: USD 1,600 for the year. This amount may be paid in full or divided across the term payments. Per-term capital fund amounts are USD 600 (Term 1), USD 500 (Term 2), and USD 500 (Term 3) when the year is paid by term instalments.

Tuition fees (5-year-old class and above) — Term and Annual breakdown
- Term 1 (due 21 August 2026): USD 10,700 (tuition).
- Term 2 (due 18 December 2026): USD 8,100 (tuition).
- Term 3 (due 02 April 2027): USD 8,100 (tuition).
- Annual total (sum of the three term amounts): USD 26,900 (tuition) plus the annual Capital Fund Fee USD 1,600.

Tuition fees (2-, 3- and 4-year-old preschool classes) — Term and Annual breakdown
- Preschool (Full day) per term: Term 1 USD 3,400; Term 2 USD 2,600; Term 3 USD 2,600. Annual full-day total: USD 8,600.
- Preschool (Part day) per term: Term 1 USD 2,400; Term 2 USD 1,800; Term 3 USD 1,800. Annual part-day total: USD 6,000.

Transportation (optional) — Term and Annual breakdown by zone
- Zone 1 per term: Term 1 USD 460; Term 2 USD 330; Term 3 USD 310. Annual Zone 1 total: USD 1,100.
- Zone Other per term: Term 1 USD 665; Term 2 USD 480; Term 3 USD 455. Annual Zone Other total: USD 1,600.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Standard term due dates for the 2026–2027 academic year: Term 1 due 21 August 2026; Term 2 due 18 December 2026; Term 3 due 02 April 2027. Each term invoice will show the tuition and (where applicable) the capital fund instalment due on that date.
- Discounts: Discounts of USD 200 are applied for each full-term payment received on or before the due date; an additional USD 400 is available if full annual payment is received on or before 1 October, producing a maximum timely-payment discount (for eligible students) as described in the school fee policy. Preschool students and scholarship students are not eligible for the timely-payment discounts.
- Mid-year enrolment: A Mid‑Year Enrollment Fee of USD 900 applies to students who enrol in Term 2 or Term 3; mid-year invoices are calculated pro rata by date of entry plus any remaining full term(s).
- Consequences of late or missing payment: Payment, or arrangements for payment, must be made on or before the published due dates. If fees are delinquent and no payment arrangement exists, student evaluations and official records may be withheld and students may not be permitted to attend classes until accounts are current.

Refunds and withdrawals
- Refund rule: Full tuition and capital fund fees will be refunded if a student withdraws within the first five (5) days of their current term. There is no refund after five days of enrollment in a term; however, refunds for any remaining (future) terms will be made if those terms were already paid. The registration fee and Mid‑Year Enrollment Fee are non-refundable.
- Pro‑rata for mid-term entry: When a student enters after the start of a term, tuition is calculated pro rata (daily rate based on number of days remaining in the term) and invoiced accordingly; examples in the fee policy illustrate how term, capital fund, registration and mid‑year fees are charged.

Boarding
- Boarding is not applicable: Tirana International School operates as a day school; no boarding fees or boarding programme are listed.

Other costs and fees
- Application/registration: USD 600 one-time, non-refundable.
- Mid‑Year Enrollment Fee: USD 900 (charged for enrolment in Term 2 or Term 3).
- Capital Fund instalments (per term) as detailed above; annual Capital Fund Fee USD 1,600 for students aged 5+.
- Transportation: optional and charged by zone as detailed above.
- Uniforms, cafeteria meal plans, extracurricular activity fees and similar incidental costs are not presented as fixed mandatory school fees in the tuition-fee pages; the school's materials note that a full-service cafeteria/catering exists but do not publish a mandatory uniform fee or a standard cafeteria charge in the tuition-fee schedule. Any additional optional or incidental charges (meals, activity trip fees, exam fees, specialized services) are invoiced separately as required.

Fee payment options and invoicing
- Invoicing: Families receive an invoice from the finance department showing the amounts and due dates; the fee policy states that payment information and exact payment instructions will be provided by the school at invoicing.

Summary of key amounts (2026–2027 academic year)
- Registration fee: USD 600 (one-time, non-refundable).
- Capital Fund Fee (annual, age 5+): USD 1,600 (or USD 600 / USD 500 / USD 500 by term).
- Tuition (age 5+): USD 10,700 (Term 1), USD 8,100 (Term 2), USD 8,100 (Term 3) — Annual USD 26,900.
- Preschool (2–4 years) annual: Full day USD 8,600; Part day USD 6,000.
- Transportation annual: Zone 1 USD 1,100; Zone Other USD 1,600 (term instalment breakdowns shown in the fee schedule).

(Information and amounts are those published for the 2026–2027 school year in the school's 2026–2027 information packet and admissions materials; the school issues invoices that include exact payment instructions and deadlines.)
Academics

Tirana International School teaches Bespoke Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), IB (DP).

Curriculum
Tirana International School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP), a college-preparatory, inquiry-based curriculum with a broad range of IB courses including English A Language and Literature, English A Literature, Spanish Ab Initio, Psychology, History, Business Management, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Visual Art, Theater, Spanish Language B, French Language B, and Math Applications and Interpretations. The IB Diploma Programme is a college-preparatory program focused on developing well-rounded students who will be leaders in a global society, with inquiry-based learning and a wide course catalog. In addition, secondary students may pursue Advanced Placement (AP) courses onsite (and online via QSI Virtual School), with offerings such as AP Art History, AP Biology, AP Calculus AB/BC, AP Chemistry, AP Comparative Government & Politics, AP Computer Science Principles, AP English Language & Composition, AP English Literature & Composition, AP French Language & Culture, AP German Language & Culture, AP Spanish Language & Culture, AP Statistics, AP Physics, AP World History, AP Studio Art, and more; the AP Capstone Diploma is available, emphasizing research and communication skills. The school also offers multiple graduation pathways, including the Academic Diploma, Academic Diploma with Honors, General Diploma, IB Diploma Program, and AP Capstone Diploma. The curriculum is organized around Exit Outcomes (Knowledge, Competencies, and Success Orientations) with mastered-unit outcomes and a mastery-based approach, supported by Mastery Learning and ongoing progress reporting. The environment emphasizes development of critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, collaboration, cultural awareness, and digital literacy, with MAP testing used to track student progress.

Higher Education Progression
Graduates typically pursue higher education at American colleges and universities or universities in other countries. Counseling supports university admissions with guidance on careers, college entrance requirements, and SAT test preparation. Secondary IV students receive ongoing university admission support as part of the counseling program.

Gifted and Talented
Advanced pathways include the IB Diploma Programme and the AP Capstone Diploma; AP Capstone Diploma is offered and involves AP Seminar and AP Research, complementing the IB and AP course offerings for advanced students.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The comprehensive school counseling program is aligned with The International Model for School Counseling Programs and covers Academic Development, Career Development, Social/Emotional Development, and Global Perspective Development. Counseling content and services are delivered through four model components: Individual Student Planning, Responsive Service, System Support, and Guidance Content. The Elementary Counseling Program provides social and emotional support through weekly classroom lessons and small group or individual counseling. The elementary level counselor supports the Keeping Safe curriculum and promotes a schoolwide success orientation. The Secondary Counseling Program focuses on academic, personal, and social development for secondary students, with services including university planning and crisis intervention; confidentiality is maintained in counseling interactions.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
TIS admits students with special needs within the scope of meeting the student's needs in the classroom. For students with more moderate to severe disabilities, the school reviews educational psychological evaluations, IEPs, teacher and counselor recommendations, and parent information. The school will review this information and speak to relevant service providers to be sure we are able to appropriately meet the student's needs. Learning Support is offered and the school maintains an inclusive approach where students with special needs learn alongside age-appropriate peers, with differences celebrated. On occasion, families or sponsors may be required to cover additional fees to fund appropriate professional services.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
An Intensive English program is available for students whose first language is not English to develop verbal and written English and enable transfer to regular classes. The program content parallels Elementary literacy and builds a foundation for academic success. English language requirements include an English language assessment to determine placement. TIS accepts students with no prior English experience from preschool through US Grade 8, and secondary students must demonstrate increasing levels of language proficiency.

Mental Wellbeing
Well-being is a priority for all students at Tirana International School. The Elementary Counseling Program provides social and emotional support through weekly classroom lessons and small group or individual counseling, and supports the Keeping Safe curriculum. The counselor collaborates with the administrative team to meet diverse student needs and connect families with outside resources when needed. The Secondary Counseling Program focuses on academic and personal development for secondary students and includes crisis intervention as needed. The counselor offers preventive education and crisis support as part of a comprehensive well-being plan.

Safeguarding
Tirana International School maintains a CEESA Safeguarding and Child Protection Statement and a School-based Child Protection Policy. All employees must report suspected incidences of child abuse or neglect, with reporting and follow-up in accordance with the TIS policy. CEESA safeguarding policies require active upholding of safeguarding and child protection across CEESA schools. CEESA requires schools to implement safeguarding policies and procedures, with regular onsite training, safe recruitment practices, and education about safeguarding. TIS aims to provide a safe environment and adheres to CEESA standards in all operations, activities, and events.
Parent Experience

History
Founded by Quality Schools International in May 1991, Tirana International School began after Mr. Gilson traveled to Albania and decided to establish a school. In 1999, the school was accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA). In 2014, the school moved to a new purpose-built campus on a 5.5-hectare site on the outskirts of Tirana, featuring balconies, patios, two playgrounds, a soccer pitch and track, a tennis court, a large exercise room, and a multipurpose play area. In 2021, Tirana International School was accredited by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.

Community
With over 500 students from more than 42 nationalities, Tirana International School provides a safe and inclusive learning environment. Admissions are open to students ages 2 to 17 who learn in English-language classrooms and adhere to the Student Code of Conduct. The school maintains connections with Quality Schools International and shares information through QSI communications.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The Parent Support Group (PSG) is established at Tirana International School. The PSG aims to enhance communication among parents and between parents and the school. The PSG organizes educational and social events for students and the school community. The PSG assists classroom educators to improve classroom management and learning, enriches the regular curriculum, promotes fundraising to obtain items or services for the school, and develops events that connect students with the local community.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus occupies a 5.5-hectare site on the south side of Tirana, designed to accommodate growth and to take advantage of abundant Albanian sunshine, with balconies and patios. The building includes a full English Elementary and Secondary library, multiple science laboratories, a fully-equipped music room, an indoor performance area, a full-service cafeteria, a well-equipped early childhood center, and state-of-the-art classrooms. The school has many outdoor courtyards and respite areas for students to gather. The campus also features a turfed soccer field playable year-round, a track, a fitness area, and several covered learning spaces. The sports complex includes two playgrounds, a soccer pitch and track, a tennis court, a large exercise room, and a multipurpose play area.

Sports Facilities
The turfed soccer field is playable year-round, and there is a track and a fitness area. An indoor gymnasium provides spaces for indoor sports and performances. The sports complex includes two playgrounds, a soccer pitch and track, and a tennis court. A large exercise room and a multipurpose play area support physical education and after-school activities. Outdoor facilities include four distinct playground spaces for all students.

Academic Facilities
The building includes a full English Elementary and Secondary library, multiple science laboratories, a fully-equipped music room, an indoor performance area, a full-service cafeteria, a well-equipped early childhood center, and state-of-the-art, well-resourced classrooms. The library offers access to tens of thousands of volumes. Robotics and 3-D printing laboratory supports hands-on STEM learning. An Art Studio provides space for visual arts with necessary materials. The campus features spaces that support learning across grade levels, including a dedicated science lab and robotics lab.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Art Studio provides a spacious space for visual arts with necessary materials. Robotics and 3-D printing laboratory supports maker activities and robotics clubs. Gymnasium offers indoor sports and performances for after-school programs. Outdoor Facilities include four playground spaces, plus a soccer field and track, and a tennis court for after-school recreation. The Library provides access to tens of thousands of volumes to support clubs and academic interests.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school uses a Mastery Learning model; students master outcomes and earn credit upon mastery, with mastery grades of A or B or P (in progress). The Exit Outcomes framework structures the curriculum around seven areas: Mathematics, English/Literature, Cultural Studies, Science, Creative and Applied Arts, Languages Other Than English, and Personal Health and World Environmental Issues. Success Orientations, Competencies, and Knowledge define what students must know, do, and value, and these are assessed in addition to academic outcomes. All students can experience success, and the school provides time and resources to reach mastery at an appropriate pace.

Arts & Creative
An Art Studio provides space and materials for visual arts. A library supports reading and research, and a fully-equipped music room plus an indoor performance area support performing arts. Robotics and a 3-D printing laboratory are available as part of the campus facilities. The campus also features state-of-the-art classrooms and other spaces that support arts and creativity.

Cultural & Language
The school serves over 500 students from more than 42 nationalities, creating a diverse, English-language learning community. Instruction is delivered in English in English-language classrooms, with adherence to the Student Code of Conduct. Exit Outcomes include Cultural Studies and Languages Other Than English as core areas of knowledge and skill.

Social & Hobbies
The Tirana International School offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities for middle and high school students. Activities include both school-sponsored and community-sponsored programs, planned in cycles of roughly 10 weeks and repeated across the year. The school provides an After-School Activities website and a Summer Camp, and participates in CEESA and TAIS activities with Balkan partners, offering travel and social opportunities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The campus sits on a 5.5-hectare site on the south side of Tirana, with outdoor facilities including a turfed soccer field, a track, a tennis court, and a gymnasium. The campus also includes four outdoor playgrounds, a full English Elementary and Secondary library, multiple science laboratories, a fully-equipped music room, and an indoor performance area, plus a full-service cafeteria and various outdoor courtyards. These facilities support extensive outdoor and athletic programs as well as student wellness and recreation.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the language of instruction. English language support is provided through an Intensive English department for students who need additional help. Languages Other Than English include French I/II/III/IV, Spanish I/II/III/IV, and German I/II/III/IV in the secondary program. Albanian language instruction is offered by an Albanian Language Teacher as part of the school's language program.
Reputation

Accreditations
Middle States Association (MSA) accreditation since 1999; IB World School member offering the IB Diploma Programme.
Admissions

Admissions
Step 1 - Learn about TIS. Applications are accepted throughout the year, and students are admitted based on space availability. We encourage prospective families to familiarize themselves with the school and educational program through the website and school video. This helps families understand the school's educational approach. Step 2 - Arrange a visit to our school. Interested parents can contact the TIS office to arrange a campus visit. The school will lead a tour of campus facilities and classrooms, describe the learning program, and introduce prospective families to the teaching staff, office staff, and other administrators. Step 3 - Complete and submit the application forms and necessary documents. All documents must be submitted through the Open Apply portal. Documents include passport photocopy and immunization records, and one photo. School records include report cards for the last two years, official transcript (13-year-old or older), narrative report, teacher confidential recommendation and counselor confidential recommendation, any external tests (MAP, SAT, etc.), and documentation regarding accommodations, special programming, or disciplinary concerns. All school documents should be in English or with official translations. Step 4 - Pay the one-time, non-refundable registration fee of $600 USD. In order to save the spot the family should pay a one-time non-refundable fee of $600. The fee is required to complete the registration and is non-refundable. Step 5 - Take the placement test and interview. 5–6 years old will take a short test (School Readiness Screener) and from 7 years old and up they will take the MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) test. They will be assessed in Math, Reading, and Language Usage. This process allows educators to determine appropriate placement and initial positioning. Please note this is not an entrance exam. Step 6 - Additional forms to be completed. Once admitted, several additional forms are activated, including Emergency instructions form, Pick up permission form, Student/Family data consent form, Acceptable use policy for technology, Student Transportation form registration (Optional), and After School Release Procedures. Step 7 - The family will receive the invoice from the finance department. The invoice is issued by the finance department.

Scholarships
The Tirana International School Scholarship Program provides tuition assistance for academically outstanding Albanian students seeking to benefit from an internationally based education program. The program is available from elementary school through high school graduation. Up to 10% of the total school tuition paid by full-fee students will be made available for scholarships. The scholarship is financial-need as well as merit-based. The decision to grant scholarships is made each year by the Tirana International School Advisory Board and is based on several criteria, including demonstrated financial need, English proficiency, exam placement results, letters of reference, and previous school performance. Full details for the school year 2025-2026 are available by contacting the admissions office.
School Events
The school has not added events
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