Atlanta International School: A Comprehensive Look at Tuition and Educational Value
Atlanta International School (AIS) offers a unique educational experience, blending international perspectives with rigorous academics. Serving students from 3K through grade 12, AIS distinguishes itself through its commitment to the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, dual language programs, and a diverse, globally-minded community. This article delves into the tuition structure at AIS, the factors that contribute to its cost, and the overall value proposition it offers to students and families.
An Overview of Atlanta International School
Founded with the vision of providing an education comparable to top-tier international institutions, AIS has become a leading school in Atlanta, known for its academic excellence and global focus. Accredited by both the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), AIS offers a comprehensive IB program. The school's mission is to cultivate students' critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and readiness for success in a globally connected world.
AIS operates on two campuses, one in Buckhead and one in Sandy Springs, providing a vibrant community for students from 3K to grade 12. The school's commitment to diversity is evident in its student body, which comprises both local and international students representing cultures from around the world and the United States, with 50% percent international.
Academic Programs and Distinctive Features
AIS offers a range of programs designed to foster holistic development and academic excellence:
- Primary Years Programme (PYP): Structured around transdisciplinary themes, the PYP fosters the development of the whole child through a concept-driven program.
- Middle Years Programme (MYP): The MYP aims to foster creative and reflective thinkers. The curriculum is based on three core principles: communication, holistic learning, and intercultural awareness.
- Diploma Programme (DP): DP students take 6 courses from a choice of over 50, many of which are college-level. Uniquely, the IBDP requires students to complete CAS (Creativity, Action, Service) hours, write an Extended Essay, and study the Theory of Knowledge.
The International Baccalaureate diplomas that AIS students attain are internationally recognized, as a rigorous indicator of academic ability and critical thinking. AIS also provides opportunities for students to broaden their scholastic horizon through learning excursions and immersion programs.
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A significant aspect of AIS is its dual language tracks, offering immersion in Chinese and partial immersion in Chinese, alongside its Heritage Language Program, which currently supports Arabic, Dutch, Korean, Russian, Portuguese, Farsi, and Turkish. Additionally, the Supported Self-Taught Language program allows Secondary School students to study other languages of their choosing.
Tuition Fees: What They Cover
Tuition fees at AIS are comprehensive, covering various aspects of a student's educational experience. The tuition fees outlined are for the academic year. These fees support the delivery of a high-quality educational program and the maintenance of excellent facilities.
Books and some technology are supplied. The 2025-2026 tuition includes each student's device (iPad or laptop), all school supplies, yearbook, local field trips, and plenty of MIS Magic.
Payment Options and Discounts
AIS offers several payment options to accommodate families' financial situations. Tuition payments can be made in full, quarterly, semesterly, or monthly.
*The school offers a 2% discount for tuition payments made by cash, check, or bank transfer. **The payment gateway assesses a convenience fee for tuition payments made by credit card. This fee will not be charged to advance tuition deposits, insurance, and matriculation fees due at enrollment. For returning students, the tuition balance is due by November 25th. New student tuition balance is due January 25th.
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Financial Aid and Financing Options
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, AIS is committed to sharing the opportunity of its programs with all qualified students, regardless of ability to pay. Currently, approximately 20% of the student body receives financial aid.
Students applying during rolling admissions should submit a financial aid application at the same time as their application for admission. Existing families should apply by December 31, 2025, for priority access to financial aid. New families should apply by March 2, 2026, the financial aid deadline.
Financing options are available through Springstone Financial's Your Tuition Solution Plan. The parent(s) or guardian(s) responsible for tuition payment is to apply and secure payment to Midtown International School by June 15.
The Value of an AIS Education
Investing in an education at Atlanta International School offers numerous benefits that extend beyond academics:
- Global Perspective: AIS fosters a global perspective through its diverse community, international curriculum, and language programs.
- IB Curriculum: The IB program promotes critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and a holistic approach to education.
- Dual Language Programs: Immersion in multiple languages enhances cognitive skills and cultural understanding.
- Arts and Culture: AIS values the arts as a means of bridging cultural gaps and fostering creative expression.
- Experiential Learning: Learning excursions and the Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) initiative promote student learning outside of the classroom, requiring the development of interdisciplinary skills through experiential study.
- STEM Focus: With the Adair Arts, Science and Design (ASD) Building and endorsements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), AIS prepares students for success in these fields.
AIS graduates are well-prepared for success in college and beyond, with many attending renowned universities and colleges around the globe. 90% of students earned an IB Diploma - 29% of which were bilingual.
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Community and Culture
AIS is known for its inclusive and supportive community where students feel valued and connected. The school's environment encourages open-mindedness, kindness, and a sense of belonging. The parents are active and involved.
Application Process and Fees
Prospective families interested in applying to AIS should be aware of the following fees:
- Application Fee: There is a $100 application fee per student.
- Matriculation Fee: AIS applies a one-time fee charged to each new student enrolled, the matriculation fee.
The Admissions Team at Atlanta International School is committed to partnering with your family every step of the way.
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