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American International School in Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees AED 32,950 - 59,900
Ages 4 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 1399
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum
Typical class size 10
Introduction

The American International School in Abu Dhabi (AISA) is an international K–12 school located on Street 29, Airport Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. AISA publishes that it delivers an American curriculum aligned to Common Core standards alongside International Baccalaureate programmes (Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme), serving students from early years through Grade 12 (ages 4 to 18). The school states that English is the language of instruction, with Arabic, French, Spanish and Islamic Studies taught as additional language or curriculum subjects and an English Language Learning (ELL/ELL) programme to support learners. AISA describes campus facilities including science and technology laboratories, two libraries (over 20,000 books and e‑books), an athletic complex with a regulation grass soccer field, two swimming pools, indoor and outdoor basketball courts and two gymnasiums, and a BYOD policy for secondary students. The school also notes use of MAP assessments and holds international and US accreditations and UAE Ministry of Education approval.

Street 29, Airport Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Essentials

American International School in Abu Dhabi has 1,399 pupils, typical class sizes of 10, instruction in English.

Location
The American International School in Abu Dhabi is located on the 29th Street of Airport Road in Abu Dhabi, opposite the Pepsi-Cola Plant. The mailing address is P.O. Box 5992, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits along a major Abu Dhabi corridor with ready road access and nearby residential communities. The school can be reached by telephone at (971) 2 2072 999 or (971) 2 4444 333.

Stages
AISA serves students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. It offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme for the elementary years and the IB Diploma Programme for the high school, alongside an American curriculum.

Type
The school operates as a co-educational institution in the elementary years, with a gender-segregated model in the secondary years.

Pupil Nationality Mix
The student body includes students from more than 80 countries and totals over 1,300 students. While the overall multinational mix is public, a detailed breakdown by nationality and the local-to-international ratio is not published.

Additional learning support
Learning Support (LS) helps students with identified learning needs, with specialists working in small groups or individually and, where applicable, a Student Success Plan with goals and accommodations. English language learning support is provided through an English Language Learning (ELL) program for non-native speakers.

Country affiliation
AISA follows an American curriculum and is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA-CESS). It is an International Baccalaureate World School authorized for the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme.

Religious affiliation
There is no formal religious affiliation. The UAE context is reflected in the Arabic & Islamic program offered to Muslim students, including Islamic Studies and Arabic language instruction as part of the school's UAE curriculum.

School day structure
KG1 begins at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 1:30 p.m. (KG2–12 start at 7:30 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.). A canteen operates during the school day, with lunch options available and pre-ordering for younger students via the Spare app; older students may purchase lunch in the canteen.

Bus service
AISA provides bus service for students needing transportation. A transportation form must be completed and submitted to the Accounts office to arrange service. For queries, contact the Transport Coordinator, Mr. Jay Kumar (JKumar@aisa.sch.ae).
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
There is a school uniform. Uniforms are sold on campus Monday to Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Parents should purchase uniforms before the first day of school.

Food Options
The canteen is open during the school day for KG1 to Grade 12. Students may purchase meals from the cafeteria or bring their own lunch. The cafeteria is catered by Food Nation, and lunches can be pre-purchased using the Spare app; KG1–4 students must pre-order lunches via the app with delivery to classrooms, while Grades 5–12 can purchase lunch in the canteen.

Governance and Ownership
The school operates as part of Esol Education, a global network of international schools. It is fully approved and licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education and accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council of International Schools. It is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme.
Fees

Annual tuition at American International School in Abu Dhabi ranges from AED 32,950 to AED 59,900 for 2026/27.

Application / Registration fees

- Registration fee (new students): KG1 to G4 — AED 2,000; G5 to G8 — AED 2,400; G9 to G12 — AED 2,800. This registration fee is non‑refundable and is credited against first term tuition.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and per‑term)

Tuition is shown in UAE Dirhams (AED). Tuition is presented as an annual amount and as three equal term instalments, because the school divides tuition into at least three equal instalments per academic year. The annual figures for the 2025/2026 academic year are:

- Kindergarten (4‑year‑old level / Kindg.2): Annual AED 32,950 — three equal instalments of AED 10,983.33 each.
- Kindergarten (5‑year‑old level / Kindg.3): Annual AED 34,450 — three equal instalments of AED 11,483.33 each.
- Grade 1 to Grade 4: Annual AED 46,430 — three equal instalments of AED 15,476.67 each.
- Grade 5 to Grade 8: Annual AED 50,910 — three equal instalments of AED 16,970.00 each.
- Grade 9 to Grade 12: Annual AED 59,900 — three equal instalments of AED 19,966.67 each.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- The school may collect the first instalment of tuition up to one month before the start of the academic year.
- Tuition must be divided into a minimum of three equal instalments per academic year; parents may request a different instalment schedule (for example 4, 6 or 10 instalments) only by written agreement with the school.
- Example instalment date patterns are published by the school (the school may provide specific dates for the academic year and for alternative instalment plans).
- If a parent misses payments and does not remedy the situation after three consecutive reminders (each one week apart), the school may: suspend the student's enrolment for up to three days per term, withhold test results and transfer certificates, and restrict access to the school information system. Continued non‑payment can lead to refusal of re‑enrolment for the next academic year unless outstanding fees are cleared.

Boarding fees

- The school operates as a day school and does not offer boarding; therefore no boarding fees apply.

Other costs and recurring fees

- Bus registration fee: AED 500 payable before the start of the academic year for students who require bus services; this amount is credited toward first‑semester bus fees and is non‑refundable if the service is later cancelled.
- Transportation (bus) fees: billed separately (parents must contact the transport coordinator for routes and exact fees).
- Uniform: the school operates an online uniform shop; home delivery within Abu Dhabi carries a AED 15 delivery fee. Exchanges via delivery incur an additional AED 15 fee. Orders are processed within 2–3 working days.
- IB examination costs: IB examination billing and fees are published for IB candidates and are billed in addition to tuition where applicable (IB examination billing information is made available by the school).
- Other possible charges: books, resources, activity or computer fees, examination fees and optional extracurricular or enrichment charges may apply in addition to tuition (these items are billed separately).

Refund information

- The registration fee for new students is stated as non‑refundable; the school applies it as a credit to the first term's tuition.
- Refunds of tuition and other fees follow regulatory guidance; ADEK fee policy sets out refund/retention scales (for example different retention amounts based on the length of attendance during the term) and rules for registration fee refunds in specific circumstances. The school's published policies and ADEK regulations govern any refundable amounts and the conditions under which refunds are issued.

Fee payment options

- Cash (UAE Dirhams only).
- Local bank cheque payable to American International School LLC.
- Wire transfer (bank fees to be paid by the sender). Bank details published by the school: Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank; SWIFT ADCBAEAA; Account number 11749439920002; IBAN AE960030011749439920002. Parents must state the student registration number on transfers and email proof of payment to accounts@aisa.sch.ae.
- Mobile payment portal (Skiply app): online payments via Skiply are available and accept debit/credit card payments through the app (parents register with the same email and mobile number used by the school and select the student and payment type in the Skiply interface).

Notes and practical points

- Registration fees are credited to first term tuition at enrolment.
- Bus registration (AED 500) is treated as an advance toward the first semester's bus fees and is non‑refundable if transportation is later declined.
- The school's Parent Guide on payment sets the instalment minimum (three equal instalments) and describes non‑payment procedures; alternative instalment schedules require written agreement with the school.

If you require the fee figures presented above in another format, they are the school's published annual tuition levels for the 2025/2026 academic year and the per‑term instalments above are the equal three‑instalment breakdown required by the school's published payment guidance.
Academics

American International School in Abu Dhabi teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum for students aged 4 to 18.

Curriculum
AISA offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for KG1–Grade 5 and an American-curriculum pathway for Grades 6–12 that integrates IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning, culminating in an American diploma; students in Grades 11–12 may also pursue the IB Diploma Programme with preparation beginning in Grade 10. The Elementary level implements the PYP and aligns English and Math with the Common Core State Standards, Science with Next Generation Science Standards, and Social Studies with the C3 Framework. In Middle School (Grades 6–8), core courses are English, Humanities, Mathematics, and Science, with inquiry-based learning, and a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy requiring Grade 6 to bring a device and Grade 7+ to bring a laptop. In High School, the program maintains the CCSS/NGSS framework and IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning, offering the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12 alongside the American diploma. AISA is an IB World School authorized for PYP and DP and is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council of International Schools, with UAE MOE approval and ADEK rating of Good.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
AISA provides a counseling program centered on social-emotional development as a core element of student support. School Counselors act as student advocates and work in partnership with students, administrators, staff, and families. The counseling program aims to help each student realize maximum potential in three areas: social-emotional, academic, and university/career development. Counselors assist students in developing the skills, mindsets, and behaviors needed to become successful students, responsible global citizens, and lifelong learners. This approach aligns with AISA's Guiding Statements, which emphasize Learning, Belonging, and global citizenship as integrated into the learning experience.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Learning Support (LS) is a program designed to support students with identified learning needs. LS specialists work with students in small groups or individually, in the classroom or in a quiet space. They are a resource to all teachers, providing a wide range of strategies to meet the academic needs of different learners. For students with external assessments, a Student Success Plan is created, including goals, differentiation strategies, and accommodations such as assistive technology and testing modifications. A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is described in the Student Services framework, with Tier 1 general support, Tier 2 targeted interventions, and Tier 3 SSPs for intensive support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English Language Learning (ELL) program supports students within the early stages of English acquisition. The ELL Specialists work with small groups and occasionally one-on-one as needed. They collaborate closely with homeroom teachers. Although the time frame varies, typical ELLs develop their language skills to a level that allows more independent social and academic success, at which point they exit the program. The ELL Specialists are a great resource for teachers when it comes to supporting the language development of all students.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is addressed through the Counseling program, which centers on social-emotional development as part of student support. AISA Counselors are student advocates who work in partnership with students, administrators, staff and families. The Counseling program aims to help students realize maximum potential in three key areas: social/emotional, academic, and university/career domains. Counselors assist students in acquiring the skills, mindset, and behaviors needed to become successful students, responsible global citizens, career-ready employees, and lifelong learners. This approach aligns with the Guiding Statements emphasizing Learning and Belonging, reflecting a holistic approach to well-being and intercultural learning.

Safeguarding
Safeguarding: AISA states alignment with the International Taskforce on Child Protection in its recruitment practices, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding. This alignment signals a formal emphasis on safeguarding within staffing and school operations. Counseling and MTSS-based supports are among the welfare structures described on publicly accessible pages, contributing to student safety and wellbeing. The English Language Learning and Learning Support programs also support safeguarding by ensuring inclusive access and ongoing monitoring of student welfare.
Parent Experience

History
Established in 1995, the American International School in Abu Dhabi was founded to provide high-quality American education based on American standards and an international curriculum for local and expatriate residents. It is one of ten ESOL Education schools in the Middle East. The school received its first accreditation in October 1997 from the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges and was accredited by the Council of International Schools in January 2010. It was the first school in the UAE to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma and later the first in Abu Dhabi to be authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme. The Secondary School operates under a gender-segregated model.

Community
The AISA community is internationally diverse, with students from over 80 countries and more than 30 languages spoken. AISA engages families through annual and seasonal events on campus, including book fairs, AISA Fest, National Day celebrations, and Wellness Fairs. Giving back through volunteerism and service learning is a framework of student life at the school.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The AISA PTSA is a vibrant group of parents, teachers, and students dedicated to building a strong, inclusive community. It coordinates events such as the Book Fair, theater and musical performances, UAE National Day celebrations, Teacher Appreciation Day, and NESAC events, as well as Athletics Boosters. Newcomers Coffee and the Ambassador Program help new families settle in. The PTSA runs a writing competition for grades 3-12 and supports the Parents as a Primary Source initiative, road safety events, movie evenings, and school tours for newcomers. Mother Tongue Day celebrates language diversity with activities led by parents who speak languages other than English. Those interested can contact ptsa@aisa.sch.ae to join.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus spans 30,517 square meters and has capacity for 1,300+ students. It features science and technology laboratories and an athletic complex that includes a regulation grass soccer field, two swimming pools, two gymnasiums, and two outdoor plus two indoor basketball courts. The school hosts two libraries, with a collection of over 20,000 books and ebooks. Secondary students bring their own devices under a BYOD program, and Elementary students have access to laptop carts to support learning.

Sports Facilities
The athletic facilities include two gymnasiums; two outdoor basketball courts and two indoor basketball courts; a regulation grass soccer field; and two swimming pools.

Academic Facilities
The school teaches an American curriculum aligned with the Common Core Standards in English and Math. It is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme, with programs described as student-centred and inquiry-based. Educational technology supports a blended, technology-infused environment; Secondary students participate in BYOD, while Elementary students have access to laptop carts. The library hosts over 20,000 books and ebooks, and MAP tests assess students' progress.

Extra Curricular Facilities
AISA offers a full range of after-school activities, including athletics, drama, music, arts, crafts, Model United Nations, and service activities. It participates in the Junior EAC and OASIS athletic conferences. The Activities section includes Campus Recreation, Performing and Fine Arts, and Student Organizations. AISA emphasizes community involvement through volunteerism and service learning.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school offers an American curriculum and is an IB World School, authorized for the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The PYP serves KG1 to Grade 5, while Grades 6–12 follow the American curriculum with DP preparation beginning in Grade 10. The curriculum integrates the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English and Math, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and MOE standards for Arabic, Islamic Studies, and UAE Social Studies, alongside IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning. MAP tests are used to assess student progress, and BYOD is implemented in Secondary, with devices encouraged for students in Grade 6 and above.

Arts & Creative
IB Art is offered, with Visual Arts exploring design across media and a two-year IB Art program that culminates in an annual IB art exhibition. Performing and Fine Arts programs are available as part of the after-school offerings, including opportunities in drama and music. The school maintains an active arts presence through after-school activities and visual/performing arts events.

Cultural & Language
Arabic & Islamic studies and UAE Social Studies are taught in alignment with MOE curriculum standards, ensuring UAE core subject coverage. The school's IB World School status supports international-mindedness and cross-cultural learning, complemented by IB World language and social studies components. World languages are integrated within the curriculum as part of the IB framework and MOE standards.

Social & Hobbies
AISA offers a full range of after-school activities, with options in sports, drama, music, arts, crafts, Model United Nations, and service activities. The Athletics program includes team-based competitions and leagues, with participation across Elementary to Varsity levels and membership in JEAC, EAC, and NESAC. Student life is enriched by clubs and performance opportunities as part of the after-school ecosystem.

Community & Service
Giving Back emphasizes volunteerism and service-learning as a core element of student life. The PTSA engages parents and students in events such as book fairs, theatre and musical performances, UAE National Day celebrations, Teacher Appreciation Day, and wellness-focused activities, fostering community involvement. AISA hosts community events and NESAC athletics events that bring families and staff together.

Leadership & Professional
Elementary and Secondary Student Councils provide formal leadership opportunities, with a Student Council and a Senior Committee shaping school events and student voice. The PTSA and alumni networks offer additional leadership and community engagement avenues, connecting families with school governance and professional development opportunities. These structures support student leadership, governance, and collaboration with teachers and administrators.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Campus Recreation provides safe, healthy activities to promote a balanced lifestyle, including After School Recreation Programs and Intramural Leagues for students and programs for parents. The Athletics program offers multiple sports and competitive opportunities across age groups, supporting physical fitness and teamwork. The after-school ecosystem also integrates wellness and fitness events as part of school life.
Languages

Language Provision
The school uses English for instruction as part of its American curriculum and IB programs. Arabic language is taught daily, with AFL for native Arabic speakers and ASL for non-native speakers in the secondary program; Islamic Studies is offered to all Muslim students in English or Arabic. English Language Learning (ELL) supports students in the early stages of English acquisition; ELL specialists work with small groups and sometimes one-on-one, and students exit the program once they achieve proficiency. The school is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP).
Reputation

Accreditations
The school is fully accredited in the United States by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and internationally by the Council of International Schools. It is fully approved and licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education and was rated 'Good' by ADEK. It is an International Baccalaureate World School authorized for the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme, and it is a member of ECIS, CIS, and NESA.
Admissions

Admissions
1. How to Apply. Admissions are open for the next academic year. Apply to the exact grade using the age guidelines. The MOE circular issued January 26, 2021 sets the 31 August cut‑off for KG1, KG2, and Grade 1. The age guidelines map ages to grades and help determine appropriate placement. 2. Submit Your Application. For the initial application, the following documents are required: a completed AISA application form; a copy of the student's current year report and the previous two years' final reports OR Nursery Reports; an AISA recommendation form; standardized test scores; specialist reports supporting the Learning Resources & Health Information section on the application; a copy of the student's valid passport; and a copy of the student's birth certificate translated into English or Arabic. Complete applications are processed; incomplete applications will not be processed. The admissions team reviews complete applications. 3. Upon Acceptance. Upon acceptance, an email is sent to the email addresses provided on the applications. Provide email addresses that are always accessible. A one-time, non-refundable advanced tuition fee will be due in five to ten working days from the date of the offer to secure a place for the student. After one week, AISA reserves the right to offer this seat to another student. 4. Completing the Student File. If bus service is required, complete the Transport Application Form and submit it to the Transport Coordinator; for KG1 students, confirm bus availability to the location before accepting the offer. Complete the AISA health form with copies of immunization records. Complete AISA Policies consent form after reading AISA's Mobile Device & Acceptable Use and AISA's Communications policies. Complete AISA Photo consent form. Provide a digital recent passport-size photo. Provide copies of the mother and father's passports and UAE residency visas, and provide the student's Emirates ID (both sides). Payment of the enrollment fee cannot be made unless these documents are delivered to the admissions office. For students living abroad, UAE documents can be presented on arrival to Abu Dhabi. If the student is accepted into Grade 11 and is interested in the IB Diploma Program, additional Math, English, and Science placement tests are required; results and past transcripts are reviewed by the DP Coordinator to determine acceptance into the IBDP. 5. Grade 11 IB Diploma Program Placement Tests. If accepted into Grade 11 and interested in the IB Diploma Program, Math, English, and Science placement tests must be taken. These results, along with past transcripts, are reviewed to determine acceptance into the IBDP. 6. Documents Required at Start of School Year. During the first week of the new school year, End of Year report card and transfer certificate/letter are required. For transfers within Abu Dhabi, ask the Registrar's Office for the ESIS number to transfer to AISA; for transfers within UAE outside Abu Dhabi, provide a transfer certificate from the last school attended; for transfers from outside the UAE, provide an attested transfer letter signed and stamped by the last school attended. Attestation exemptions apply to North America, Western Europe, Australia, and New Zealand; GCC countries require attestation from the Ministry of Education.
School Events
The school has not added events
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