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Pan American Christian Academy

Brazil, São Paulo

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees R$77,964 - 101,200
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 340
Type Co-educational
Opened 1960
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages Portuguese, Spanish, French, Italian
Typical class size 10
Strengths STEM, Languages, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Preschool, Primary School, Middle School, High School
Introduction

Pan American Christian Academy (PACA) is a non-denominational Christian international day school serving students ages 3 to 18. It offers a dual American and Brazilian curriculum with English as the primary language of instruction and Portuguese taught as both a first language and a foreign language. The curriculum is biblically integrated across subjects, including Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Bible, Physical Education, Technology, and Fine Arts, with Advanced Placement courses available to support college preparation and dual diplomas earned at graduation. The campus spans nine acres and features 22 classrooms, a Science Lab, a Maker Space, a Library, and a Music Room, plus a Gym, outdoor courts, pools, fields, and cafeterias. A range of extracurriculars, including National Honor Society, Knowledge Bowl, Choir, Drama, Community Service, and Student Council, complements classroom learning. Weekly chapels and Bible classes reinforce the faith-based environment and emphasis on service, leadership, and faith in action daily.

R. Cássio de Campos Nogueira, 393 - Jardim das Imbuias, São Paulo - SP, 04829-310, Brazil

The Essentials

Pan American Christian Academy has 340 pupils, typical class sizes of 10, instruction in English.

Location
The PACA campus is located at Rua Cassio de Campos Nogueira, 393, São Paulo, SP 04829-310, Brazil. It is in the city of São Paulo, in the southern region of the city, serving Christian, bilingual, and international families. Preschool through High School programs are offered on this campus, with English as the primary language of instruction.

Stages
Preschool; Elementary; Middle School; High School.

Type
Non-denominational Christian international day school with a dual American and Brazilian curriculum.

Pupil Nationality Mix
Four nationalities are represented. The most common nationality is Brazilian (45%). Local to international ratio is 45% local to 55% international (North American 20%, Korean 20%, 15% other). Approximately 370 students are enrolled, with about 180 in PreK–5 and 190 in 6–12.

Additional learning support
A learning lab provides support for students with learning differences.

Country affiliation
American + Brazilian dual curriculum.

Religious affiliation
Christian.

School day structure
The school day runs from 8:00 am to 3:25 pm; the calendar runs from August to June.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniforms are required; PACA has a dedicated uniform program with PACA Uniforms.

Food Options
There is a cafeteria on campus.

Governance and Ownership
Fully accredited in the United States and Brazil by Middle States Association (MSA), Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), and Brazilian Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC); active member of the Association of American Schools in Brazil (AASB).
Fees

Annual tuition at Pan American Christian Academy ranges from BRL 77,964 to BRL 101,200 for 2026/27.

Application & Entrance Fees

- Entrance Evaluation Fee: BRL 350.00 (due on the day scheduled for the entrance evaluation; non‑refundable).
- Grade placement / testing materials fee (charged for evaluation services at application): BRL 250.00 (non‑refundable).

Tuition — New Student Rates (July 2025 – June 2026)

PK & Elementary (Pre‑K1 – Grade 5)
- Initial payment (on acceptance): BRL 9,775.00.
- Remaining payments: 11 monthly payments of BRL 6,199.00.
- Total annual tuition (sum): BRL 77,964.00.

Middle School (Grades 6–8)
- Initial payment (on acceptance): BRL 9,960.00.
- Remaining payments: 11 monthly payments of BRL 6,916.00.
- Total annual tuition (sum): BRL 86,036.00.

High School (Grades 9–11)
- Initial payment (on acceptance): BRL 10,075.00.
- Remaining payments: 11 monthly payments of BRL 8,031.00.
- Total annual tuition (sum): BRL 98,416.00.

High School (Grade 12)
- Initial payment (on acceptance): BRL 10,318.00.
- Remaining payments: 11 monthly payments of BRL 8,262.00.
- Total annual tuition (sum): BRL 101,200.00.

Corporate (Company‑Sponsored) Rates (July 2025 – June 2026)

Preschool & Elementary (Pre‑K1 – Grade 5) — corporate rate
- Initial payment: BRL 29,246.00.
- Remaining payments: 11 monthly payments of BRL 11,913.00.
- Total annual tuition (sum): BRL 160,289.00.

Secondary School (Grades 6–12) — corporate rate
- Initial payment: BRL 30,712.00.
- Remaining payments: 11 monthly payments of BRL 13,381.00.
- Total annual tuition (sum): BRL 177,903.00.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- School year and due dates: The PACA school year starts July 1. Tuition invoices (boleto) are issued in advance and are payable at the bank by the 5th of each month. New students enrolling during the year are responsible for the tuition of the current month and for previous months of the current semester. Tuition costs include book fees and academic & technological fees.
- Payment frequency options: Tuition may be paid monthly, per semester, or in a single annual payment. New students pay an initial enrollment payment followed by 11 monthly payments; returning students may divide annual tuition into 12 consecutive monthly payments.
- Invoicing: Tuition invoices (boletos) are emailed to parents five days before the due date. All fees must be paid by the due date at the bank; daily late fees apply to overdue payments.

Boarding (residential) fees

- Not applicable: PACA operates as a day school and does not offer boarding; no boarding fees apply.

Other mandatory and optional costs

- Meal plans (optional):
- Individual meal (per day): BRL 40.00.
- Pre‑K – Grade 5 semester plan: BRL 2,800.00 (or 5 monthly payments of BRL 560.00).
- Grades 6–12 semester plan: BRL 3,000.00 (or 5 monthly payments of BRL 600.00).
- Early examination fee (for exams taken before scheduled dates): BRL 200.00 per exam.
- Early departure fee (K–8 students leaving more than 10 school days before semester end): BRL 200.00.
- Graduation fee (seniors): a monthly charge (July–June) is added to the tuition bill to cover graduation‑related expenses; the amount is billed on the tuition statement.
- AP / PSAT / standardized testing fees: Advanced Placement (AP) and PSAT exam fees are charged in USD; equivalent BRL amounts will be added to the student's tuition bill.
- Field trips and tournaments: Costs for field trips and interschool tournaments are passed to parents and added to the student's tuition bill when applicable; parents will be informed in advance.
- School uniform: School uniforms are mandatory; purchases are arranged through the school's approved uniform supplier (contact via the listed WhatsApp number).
- Transportation: School transportation is provided by third‑party contractors and is paid separately. For corporate plans, meal plan and transportation may be included (optional); otherwise transportation costs are obtained directly from the service providers. Contact information for transport providers is used to arrange service.
- Transcripts: A second copy of the transcript costs BRL 100.00.

Refunds and withdrawal rules

- No reimbursement is made for tuition paid for the month in which a student withdraws. If tuition has been paid in advance, a refund will be issued for unused full months following the student's withdrawal. New students who withdraw before completing the registration process receive an 80% refund of the initial payment. Parents must notify the school office in writing at least 15 days prior to the official withdrawal date and complete the withdrawal form; official school documents are issued within 30 days following withdrawal.

Fee payment options

- Boleto (bank payment): Tuition invoices are issued as boletos and are payable at the bank by the 5th of the month.
- Credit card (on‑site): Individual meals and other small items may be paid by credit card at the school reception; meal charges may alternatively be added to the tuition bill.
Academics

Pan American Christian Academy teaches American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
The school offers a dual American and Brazilian curriculum with English as the primary language of instruction. Portuguese is taught as a first language and as a foreign language. The curriculum is biblically integrated across subjects, including Language Arts, Science, Social Sciences, Bible, Physical Education, Technology, and Fine Arts; Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered to support college preparation.

Higher Education Progression
80% of graduates attend universities in North America (e.g., Duke, Cornell, Notre Dame, NYU, Wheaton, Biola) and 20% attend universities in Brazil (e.g., Insper, Mackenzie, FGV, USP, Einstein Medicina).

Gifted and Talented
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school offers weekly chapels for worship and biblical reflection to pause, recharge, and grow spiritually as a group. Service projects put faith into action by serving local communities and developing a compassionate heart for others. Christian teachers act as both academic guides and spiritual mentors, modeling values inside and outside the classroom. An active community provides a supportive network of families united by shared values, fostering deep friendships and a sense of belonging. Specialized Support for Every Family Profile is provided to meet the needs of Christian, bilingual, and international households. Faith is integrated into learning, with biblical truth woven throughout the school journey to support holistic development.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Specialized Support for Every Family Profile is provided to meet the needs of Christian, bilingual, and international households. The school serves Christian families, bilingual families, and international families, indicating tailored support for diverse needs. The dual curriculum, American and Brazilian, supports a variety of academic pathways and may accommodate students from different educational backgrounds. The school is accredited by three agencies—ACSI, MSA, and MEC—reflecting recognized standards that can support inclusive practices. The overall community and values-based environment foster an inclusive climate for students from mission organizations, international backgrounds, and the local community.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English is the primary language of instruction. 60% of our students are international.

Mental Wellbeing
Weekly chapels provide worship and biblical reflection to support spiritual wellbeing. Service projects foster community service and compassion, contributing to emotional wellbeing. Christian teachers act as mentors, modeling values inside and outside the classroom. An active community of families united by shared values fosters belonging and social support. Faith integrated into learning supports holistic development.

Safeguarding
A Child Safety Form is available to report safeguarding concerns. The school operates within a faith-based, values-driven community that emphasizes student safety. The school's accreditation by ACSI, MSA, MEC aligns with recognized standards that include safeguarding expectations.
Parent Experience

History
PACA began classes in February 1960 in the Methodist Church of Itaim, with five teachers and twenty-eight students. The school operated in rented facilities before December 1965, when it purchased a small city block in Campo Belo. To meet growing demand, Campo Belo became too small; in July 1972 PACA purchased 33,000 square meters in Rio Bonito, and construction began in 1973. In February 1974 the school moved into the first units of the new campus, the Brazilian Ministry of Education accredited PACA, and the first twelfth-grade class graduated in June 1974. Additional facilities were added over time, including a swimming pool and a computer lab; in 2006 PACA acquired adjacent property that expanded with a second cafeteria, an auditorium, preschool facilities, a learning lab, and offices. Since 1960, PACA has served local and international communities with an American and Brazilian curriculum, and graduates earn dual diplomas.

Community
PACA is a Christian, American, and Brazilian school serving a diverse community of families who value strong academics grounded in biblical truth. With small class sizes, qualified Christian teachers, and a campus designed for learning and play, PACA provides the structure and support children need to grow spiritually, academically, socially, and emotionally. The school emphasizes biblical truth across all areas of learning and prepares students not only for university but also for life, equipping them to impact the world with purpose, compassion, and wisdom. Chapels and service projects are central to the PACA faith community, with teachers serving as spiritual mentors and a close-knit network of families fostering belonging.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus spans 9 acres (36,000 square meters) in São Paulo and is described as an oasis with gardens and trees. There are 22 classrooms on campus to support learning from Preschool through High School. Facilities include a Science Lab, a Maker Space, a Library, and a Music Room. A Gymnasium, Outside Courts, a Swimming Pool, a Mini Soccer Field, a Soccer Field, and a Cafeteria complete the daily learning environment.

Sports Facilities
Indoor and outdoor athletic facilities support a broad range of activities. The Gymnasium provides a space for indoor sports and physical education. Outside Courts and a Soccer Field enable team sports and outdoor recreation. A Mini Soccer Field offers additional space for practice and play. A Swimming Pool provides aquatic activities as part of the athletics program.

Academic Facilities
A Science Lab supports hands-on science learning. The Library provides resources for study and research. The Maker Space enables collaborative, project-based work across disciplines. The Music Room supports arts education and performances. The campus also features 22 classrooms to support instruction across grade levels.

Extra Curricular Facilities
NHS, Choir, Knowledge Bowl, Drama, Community Service, and Student Council are offered as extracurricular activities. The campus includes a Music Room to support arts activities. A Maker Space supports hands-on projects outside class. The Library supports study and reading for student clubs and activities.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
National Honor Society and Knowledge Bowl provide academically oriented extracurriculars beyond the classroom. The high school offers Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, plus a dual-diploma program, to deepen study across core subjects. Students prepare for college with PSAT, SAT, and ACT testing offered through the program, strengthening readiness for university pathways. These activities promote scholarship, critical thinking, and academic competition.

Arts & Creative
Drama performances and choir concerts and musicals provide platforms for performance and musical development. The Yearbook club engages students in writing, design, and publishing, fostering collaboration and communication. Choir and drama programs, along with other arts activities, enhance creative expression on campus.

Social & Hobbies
Student Government drives campus events, developing leadership and teamwork. Yearbook and Drama programs offer social engagement and collaborative creativity through group production and performance. Choir concerts and community service activities provide additional avenues for social involvement and shared experiences.

Community & Service
Community Service Initiatives are part of PACA's extracurricular offerings. Students engage in service projects that connect classroom learning to real-world needs and cultivate a service mindset. These activities strengthen community ties and demonstrate faith in action.

Leadership & Professional
National Honor Society participation provides leadership opportunities and recognition for scholarship. Student Government leads campus activities and develops leadership and organizational skills. The Middle School Student Council organizes events such as the annual Middle School Retreat, contributing to leadership development.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Weekly chapels and Bible classes provide spiritual guidance and mentorship. Spiritual life programs and mentorship opportunities help students anchor their decisions in Scripture. PACA emphasizes a safe, Christ-centered environment that supports the well-being of students.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the primary language of instruction. Portuguese is taught as a first language, with Portuguese as a Foreign Language offered as well. Portuguese is taught at two levels: Beginner/Intermediate and Advanced Portuguese & Composition. AP courses include English Language, English Literature, Spanish, French Lang. & Culture, and Italian.

Bilingual Teaching
PACA offers an international dual curriculum in American and Brazilian systems, leading to both American and Brazilian diplomas. English is the primary language of instruction. The school provides specialized support for Christian, bilingual, and international families. The curriculum is fully accredited by ACSI, MSA, and MEC.
Reputation

Accreditations
Cognia; Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI); Ministério da Educação (MEC). And PACA is a member of the Association of American Schools in Brazil (AASB).
Admissions

Admissions
1. The admissions process is designed to be clear, caring, and family-friendly. The Admissions Office reviews academic records, language proficiency, social-emotional development, teacher recommendations, and the family's commitment to the educational journey. Most families participate in an interview to discuss curriculum, expectations, and school fit. 2. Assessments & Interviews: Applicants for 1st grade through High School complete an entrance assessment in English and Mathematics. Preschool and Kindergarten candidates participate in a developmental interview. If space is available after an application is received, the admissions team schedules the assessment. Space is limited and multiple candidates may be assessed together during high-demand periods. 3. Age Requirements: Pre-K1 is 3 years old by August 31; Pre-K2 is 4 by August 31; Kindergarten is 5 by August 31. 4. Important Application Dates: For August entry, submit applications by March 1; for January entry, submit applications by October 1. Space is limited and all required documents should be submitted by the deadline. 5. Application Steps and Documents: To apply, families submit a completed Student Application Form along with the required documents. If applying from outside Brazil, email the completed Student Application Form and attach the photo, birth certificate, passport or Brazilian ID, a letter of recommendation, and school records from the past two years. If applying from Brazil, include the same items plus Declaração de Escolaridade. Official transcripts from the two previous years are required for transfer consideration; homeschool or alternative programs require curriculum documentation. Final admissions decisions are made after space is available, assessment results, and a review of materials. 6. Transfer Students and Homeschoolers: PACA accepts credits from accredited high schools. Official transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution before credit can be granted, and copies should be presented at enrollment. Applications from U.S. homeschooling families are welcome; provide curriculum documentation and assessment results. 7. Next Steps: If space exists, PACA will contact families to schedule the entrance assessment or interview. After reviewing assessment results and application materials, families meeting academic and English proficiency requirements are invited to a family interview with school administration. Final admissions decisions are confirmed once all requirements are met.

Scholarships
Limited financial aid and scholarships are available for students who have been enrolled for more than 12 months. Assistance is awarded based on demonstrated need and a formal application. Financial aid and scholarships are awarded to current families who are in good financial standing, need financial assistance, and whose children contribute to the welfare of the school.
School Events
The school has not added events
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