High School

Abu Dhabi International School > High School

Grades 9 to 12

Among the top high schools in Abu Dhabi

At AIS, high school students are enrolled in a rigorous curriculum of their choice that both encourages and inspires them to reach their full potential. Clearly defined goals allow families and teachers to work together to ensure that students succeed academically, grow emotionally, and develop the skills needed for college and career readiness.

During high school in Abu Dhabi, students begin to prepare for their imminent move to university studies. As students transition from middle school to higher education, they are encouraged to evaluate the full range of subjects and tracks available to them.

Student agency and prep

During high school years, students have the opportunity to pursue excellence through activities that encourage and inspire them. Their learning experiences teach them important skills like teamwork, reflection, self-management and critical thinking.

At this level, students choose their own academic path in consultation with their families. A College Prep Advisor is available to guide their decisions based on subjects that reflect their interests, strengths, and potential. No matter which curriculum they opt for, students may be assured that their education is based on internationally recognized best practices, enabling them to study at universities worldwide.

All subjects are taught by specialists, and students will be coached to appear for external exams. A College Prep Advisor is always available to consult with students and help them identify the right choice for their unique skill set and talents.

Student of AIS, one of the top high schools in Abu Dhabi, at the science lab

American Program

AIS offers its American curriculum from KG to Grade 12 and is implemented based on rigorous international standards and practices in teaching and learning. Students who continue in the American Program in Grade 9 and can work towards a High School Diploma by completing 4 years (Grades 9-12) in the program.

In Grades 11 and 12, students are offered 4 choices of academic tracks; these tracks include the Engineering focus, Medical & Health Sciences focus, Economics & Business focus, and Liberal Arts focus. Students must meet the minimal course requirements to be admitted to the academic track of their choice. In these tracks, students are offered the Advanced Placement (AP) syllabus in the core courses of their academic qualification.

Learn more about the American Program curriculum.

British Program

By the end of Grade 8, students are prepared to transition into the British Program that is offered in Grades 9–12. Students are prepared to sit for the IGCSEs in Grade 10, the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level examinations in Grade 11, and the Advanced Levels in Grade 12. Students are not permitted to transfer from any program to the British Program in Grades 11 and 12.

Learn more about the British Program curriculum.

IB Diploma Program

By the end of Grade 10, students coming from the American or British program have the option to apply to the IB Diploma Programme that is offered over a course of 2 years in Grades 11 and 12.

Learn more about the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program curriculum.

Varsity volleyball team of AIS, one of the top high schools in Abu Dhabi

The pursuit of academia and leisure

High school can be a rigorous time academically, but the AIS faculty is adept at guiding and mentoring students to maintain a healthy balance of academia, sport, and creative arts while pursuing excellence. Students can choose from activities like Model United Nations, varsity level sport, and talent clubs.