Admissions
- Overview
- Tuition & Fees
- How to Apply
- Process
- Info Hub
- Virtual Campus Tours
- Inclusion Services
- Child Protection
- Resources
- FAQs
Overview
Thank you for considering the American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ). We recognize that choice of school is one of the most important aspects of moving internationally and we will endeavor to make the process as seamless as possible. AISJ educates children from over 100 different nationalities and we are used to accommodating the diverse needs of expatriate families. We embrace and value diversity. As an international school, we understand that a relocation does not always coincide with the beginning of the academic year or semester and we are happy to welcome you at any stage throughout the year. We do not have an entry test; however, we do ask those students who are from non-English speaking backgrounds and are applying for grades 9 -12, to sit an English proficiency test.
An important requirement to keep in mind during the relocation process is the strict South African Visa process, all students at AISJ must hold a valid Study Visa or a DIRCO Visa. We are happy to assist you with the required letter during the application process (provided the application has been submitted and application fee has been paid).
It is wonderful to witness our lively and engaged community in action and to see our inspired learners demonstrate how they are connected, creative and courageous. Campus tours are encouraged, we take great pride in the positive impact our learning environment and educational facilities have on our students’ learning and well-being. Our leading infrastructure supports extensive opportunities for the pursuit of academics; the arts; athletics and service. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment for a tour or to learn more about our school. Our email address is admissions@aisj-jhb.com.
VIRTUAL CAMPUS TOURS
INCLUSION SERVICES
Tuition & Fees
We welcome your application. Please contact us if you have any questions about the tuition schedule or the fees and we will work with our Business Office to answer your questions.
The application fee of 240 USD / ZAR 4 560.00 will be invoiced automatically when you submit an application. If you do not wish to be invoiced, please do not submit your application. You can save your application and go back to as many times as you like prior to submission. However, once you submit you are indicating that you are making a full application and you understand that you’ll be invoiced the fee of 240 USD / ZAR 4 560.00.
How to Apply
Welcome to the AISJ Admissions process. We trust this process will be easy to follow and that your admissions experience will be a pleasant one.
Please read the information below before commencing the process. Our online forms capturing system is OpenApply; you will need to create an account to complete your application. Should you experience any technical problems, please contact us at admissions@aisj-jhb.com.
Before starting the process, we suggest that you collect the documentation listed in Step 1 below and save it on your desktop for ease of access. The OpenApply system does allow you to save your application should you need to revert to it at a later stage. You may also require a Study Visa letter which you are welcome to request from us. We will need you to submit a complete application in order for us to generate a letter for you.
Please contact admissions@aisj-jhb.com of you have any questions.
To apply, please complete the steps below:
Step 1: |
We appreciate the school’s time in completing this form for us as it is an integral piece of application. We will only accept confidential forms for High School applicants that have been completed by the Principal, Dean or Counselor. |
Step 2: | Create an account with OpenApply. |
Step 3: | Complete the online application form on OpenApply after logging in - uploading necessary documentation |
Step 4: | Pay the application fee invoice this will automatically be sent to you once you submit your application - do not submit an application unless you understand that you will be invoiced. |
Step 5: | Please follow up with your child’s current school regarding the Confidential Report. We appreciate receiving the form in a timely matter as without the form, we cannot submit your child’s application to be reviewed. |
Step 6: | Log into OpenApply using your username and password/login details to follow the admissions tracker. When we have received and verified your documentation we will update the status of the received documents. |
Step 7: | Application will be sent for review - you will then be informed on decision and next steps in the admissions process if applicable. |
Process
AISJ is an inclusive, diverse, non-discriminatory international school. All interested students are encouraged to apply. The admission process is guided by AISJ’s core beliefs, school parameters, and mission statement. AISJ views students as individuals and evaluates their ability to succeed in the classroom and AISJ’s capacity to support and enable them to reach their fullest potential.
A review panel of appropriate staff members from each division is responsible for making an admissions recommendation; however, final admissions decisions are made by the School Director. Students entering high school are expected to be able to meet graduation requirements. In cases where a student (Pre-K-12) may need additional support, a review panel will evaluate the student’s needs and AISJ’s capacity to offer accommodations within the guidelines of its Inclusion Services (Learning Support services).
Please contact admissions@aisj-jhb.
Info Hub
- The Admissions Office
- Eligibility for Admissions
- ELIGIBILITY FOR ENROLLMENT AT JOHANNESBURG CAMPUS AND PRETORIA CAMPUS
- Availability of Places
- Admissions Process
- Enrollment Forms
- Application Fee
- Review of Student Profile
- Grade Placement
- Admissions Assessment
- Communication of Admissions Decision
- Study Permit
- Compliance with AISJ Immunization Policy
- Provision of School Transport
- Supplies
- Timing of Arrival
- Orientation
- Financial Considerations
The Admissions Office
The Admissions Office is responsible for coordinating the initial inquiries from families for both the Johannesburg and Pretoria campuses. The office, in addition to direct inquiries from individuals, also maintains contact with relocation agents, the mobility sections of NGOs, corporate entities, and government organizations. All inquiries will be responded to within seventy-two (72) hours.
The office acts as a conduit between the applicants and the school and will organize the necessary documentation that will guide the admissions review panel. All final admissions decisions are made by the School Director.
Eligibility for Admissions
In line with AISJ’s mission statement and philosophy, a student will be eligible for admission to AISJ as long as the school has the capacity to support them in the classroom and enable a student to reach his/her fullest potential.
Continued enrollment is based on the student’s academic and behavioral performance, as well as AISJ’s capacity to meet the student’s needs.
New and returning students will only be accepted into the high school on the premise that the student will graduate prior to the student’s twentieth birthday.
Any student who has previously graduated from the equivalent of high school in another learning institution will not be considered for enrollment at AISJ.
Students may only join AISJ for the second year of the International Baccalaureate (IB) if the first year of the IB has been completed elsewhere and the course selections are closely aligned.
AISJ accepts new students into grade 12 only under special circumstances as determined by the High School Principal. In such cases, students must attend grade 12 for the entire academic year.
ELIGIBILITY FOR ENROLLMENT AT JOHANNESBURG CAMPUS AND PRETORIA CAMPUS
For Elementary School and Middle School, the campus where you enrol is determined strictly by where you reside. The Johannesburg Campus offers Elementary School, Middle School and High School. The Pretoria Campus offers Elementary School and Middle School. All Elementary and Middle School students residing in the Pretoria area must enrol at the Pretoria Campus, even if they have a sibling who will attend the High School in Johannesburg. All Elementary and Middle School students residing in the Johannesburg area must enrol at the Johannesburg Campus. All High School students will enrol at the Johannesburg campus.
The school transport options correspond to the campus enrolment as outlined above. We offer the following bussing options:
- Johannesburg to Johannesburg Campus (for Elementary School, Middle School and High School)
- Pretoria to Pretoria Campus (for Elementary School and Middle School)
- Pretoria to Johannesburg Campus (for High School students only)
Availability of Places
In recent years AISJ has experienced considerable demand for admissions and has reached its enrollment capacity in some grades. Students who meet the admissions criteria, but for whom a place is not yet available, will be placed in a waiting pool. When a place becomes available they will be considered for the vacancy along with others in the waiting pool in accordance with Board approved criteria.
Admissions Process
AISJ receives a multitude of inquiries throughout the year from across the world. Inquiries will be answered in order of receipt and applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as the decision is made to send a child to AISJ.
For applicants located in or planning to visit Johannesburg, AISJ welcomes the opportunity to present a tour of its stunning campuses in Johannesburg and Pretoria. An appointment may be made with the Admissions Office.
Enrollment Forms
Please refer to the How to Apply tab
Application Fee
The application fee of R4 5600.00 / 240 USD will be invoiced automatically when you submit an application. If you do not wish to be invoiced, please do not submit your application. You can save your application and go back to as many times as you like prior to submission. However, once you submit you are indicating that you are making a full application and you understand that you’ll be invoiced the fee of R4 560.00 / 240 USD.
Review of Student Profile
Each completed file is carefully reviewed by the Admissions Office and the Admissions Review Panel.
Once the documents have been submitted, AISJ will make a decision regarding admission and/or status as soon as possible but always within a ten school day period. At times this may be extended if the Principal requires further documentation to support the application.
Grade Placement
Students joining AISJ’s Lower Elementary School (Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 2) are placed according to age. The cut-off date is September 1st of the year of school entry; Pre-Kindergarten students must turn three (3) years old on or before September 1st to join PK3, or four (4) years old on or before September 1st to join PK4, Kindergarten students must turn five (5) by on or before September 1st, and Grade One (1) students must turn six (6) on or before September 1st.
Students applying for Grade Three (3) must turn eight (8) on or before September 1st, and so on through to Grade Five (5). Applicants from Grade Three (3) onwards will be placed by age but their previous academic history may be considered by the Principal at the time of application.
Students applying for Grades Six (6) through Twelve (12) are generally placed in accordance with the previous academic grade level.
Those students arriving from countries that follow a January to December or March to April academic calendar are generally expected to continue in the same grade level to align with the AISJ Northern Hemisphere calendar. Please feel free to contact admissions@aisj-jhb.com if you have any questions.
Admissions Assessment
Where possible, the admissions decision is made based on the paperwork submitted by you, however, in some circumstances, AISJ may not be able to give you an immediate answer without a face to face assessment
Circumstances necessitating a specific assessment may include:
New students joining pre-kindergarten and kindergarten (at the Johannesburg campus) are assessed prior to placement.
Unless the student is already located in Johannesburg, the assessment will take place just before school commences.
If documentary or other evidence suggests that a student may have an undiagnosed learning need or will require English Language support, an assessment may be requested to ensure AISJ possesses the capacity to appropriately support the student.
Evaluation of a student’s academic achievement or social or emotional needs, to ensure that AISJ has the capacity for the student to reach their potential.
Communication of Admissions Decision
Each completed file is carefully reviewed by the Admissions Office and the Admissions Review Panel. Once the documents have been submitted, AISJ will make a decision regarding admission and/or status as soon as possible but always within a 10 school day period. At times this may be extended if the Principal requires further documentation to support the application.
If a child is offered a place at AISJ, the decision to accept the offer must be given within 48 hours, otherwise the offer will be retracted.
All offers of a place will be confirmed by AISJ in writing via email.
Study Permit
Students who do not hold a South African passport or birth certificate must obtain a study permit in order to attend AISJ; students may only commence school once proof of the study permit application has been received. The only exceptions are in the case of diplomatic or embassy affiliated passport holders. A study permit can be obtained from the South African Department of Home Affairs. Once an offer for admission has been made and accepted, AISJ will prepare a letter, in standard format, for submission to Home Affairs. Please note that due to faculty and senior administrator holidays, at certain times of the year it is not possible to issue the letter necessary for the study permit. Applicants are advised to take this into account when making an application. In these circumstances it is recommended that you take advice from your immigration consultant or department.
Compliance with AISJ Immunization Policy
Provision of School Transport
AISJ provides a door-to-door bus service within a stipulated area and where it is possible to access a student’s home. At the start of each semester, the admissions and transport offices will coordinate busing for new students. At least forty-eight (48) hours advance notice must be given in order to utilize the bus service.
Supplies
All information regarding supplies will be circulated prior to school starting. In essence students attending pre-kindergarten to grade 5 require a back pack, water bottle, snacks and lunch (or money for lunch) and a hat. In addition middle and high school students will be asked to provide basic stationery items.
Timing of Arrival
AISJ accepts applications from new students throughout the year. As many AISJ families are expatriates, it is understood that the timing of arrival in Johannesburg can be delayed. It is appreciated that such circumstance may be beyond the control of the family; however, due to increasing demand for places, AISJ will not always be able to hold a place for the student. For those students who are scheduled to arrive after the commencement of the academic year, the following table applies. In addition, for students who leave prior to the completion of the academic year, provision has been made in respect of tuition fees.
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The majority of AISJ students commence school at the beginning of the academic year in August. A new student orientation will be held a few days prior to school opening. The same will occur for those students joining at the start of the second semester in January. Should a student arrive outside of these two main times, AISJ will work with the family to clarify the timing of arrival, transport requirements and actual start date.
Orientation
The majority of AISJ students commence school at the beginning of the academic year in August. A new student orientation will be held a few days prior to school opening. The same will occur for those students joining at the start of the second semester in January. Should a student arrive outside of these two main times, AISJ will work with the family to clarify the timing of arrival, transport requirements and actual start date.
Financial Considerations
AISJ’s Tuition Schedule is readily available on the AISJ website and both soft and hard copies are available from the Admissions Office.
A student may only commence classes if satisfactory arrangements have been made for the payment of all tuition and transport fees prior to the start of school. The Capital Fee is non-refundable. Please refer to the published Tuition Schedule for further details.
Thank you for considering AISJ for your child’s education. Our Admissions Office is open throughout the year.
If you require further assistance please contact Pamela Gutmann, Enrollment Manager at admissions@aisj-jhb.com
Virtual Campus Tours
Inclusion Services
AISJ Inclusion Statement
AISJ is committed to equity and respect for all individuals, and we seek to create a culture of inclusion that actively supports all students. We recognize that diversity contributes to the school’s learning environment, thereby enriching our community and improving opportunities for human understanding. While the term “diversity” is often used to refer to differences, the school’s intention is for inclusiveness, an inclusiveness of individuals who are diverse in language, culture and learning differences. Therefore, AISJ aspires to become a more inclusive community in order to extend its enriching benefits to all participants.
INCLUSION SERVICES
Child Protection
American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ) believes and recognizes that every student has the right to live in a safe and secure environment. AISJ also recognizes that abuse and neglect fundamentally affect a child's well-being and ability to learn. These rights are outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), to which the Republic of South Africa is a signatory country, as well as national laws including the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the Children's Act. All staff employed at AISJ must report suspected incidences of child maltreatment (abuse and neglect) and bullying. whenever the staff member has reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering abuse, neglect, and bullying. Reporting and follow-up of all suspected incidents of child maltreatment and bullying will proceed in accordance with administrative regulations respective to this policy, which will be reviewed annually by the School Director. Furthermore, cases of suspected child abuse and neglect may be reported to the respective consulates in South Africa, to the appropriate child protection agency in the home country, and/or to local authorities. As part of our overall effort to ensure this policy is effectively implemented and understood by all members of our community, AISJ will provide age-appropriate lessons that address issues of personal safety, needs, and rights. We will engage with parents to support their understanding of our program, policies, and procedures. AISJ will also communicate this policy and provide annual training for our faculty and staff to recognize child abuse, neglect, bullying, and harassment; and to be aware of how to respond to safeguarding concerns. Hiring practices for employees and contracted service providers will be strictly adhered to, including appropriate criminal reports and the signing of the AISJ Safeguarding Agreement SCOPE |
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Safeguarding is a broad term to describe philosophies, policies, standards, guidelines, and procedures to promote and protect all children from harm, harassment, bullying, abuse, and neglect, regardless of ability, age, ethnicity, faith, gender, sexuality, and culture. Child protection is part of the safeguarding process that involves being ready to respond quickly and safely in the case of disclosure or concern. The policies and procedures outlined in the handbook apply in the case of threat of harm, actual harm, or misconduct (either in person or online) by the following: parent/guardian to student, employee to student, non-employee (adult or child) to student, and student to student. For more information, click here. |
Resources
- Johannesburg Elementary School Profile
- Johannesburg Middle School Profile
- Johannesburg High School Profile
- Pretoria Campus Profile
- Johannesburg Middle School Program of Studies
- Pretoria Middle School Program of Studies
- 2023-2024 High School Course Catalog
- 2024-2025 High School Course Catalog
- 2024-2025 One Page Student Attendance Calendar
FAQs
- School hours & holidays
- World Languages on offer
- Does my child have to study an African language?
- Do AISJ students wear a uniform?
- Where do most AISJ students live?
- What are the main nationalities represented at AISJ?
- Do you have long waiting lists for places?
- How soon do I need to register my child?
- In what circumstances is the application fee refunded?
- What is the capital fee?
- Will AISJ negotiate tuition fees?
- What activities are available after school?
- Do you have student boarding at AISJ?
- What type of food is available for my child?
- How do UK years compare to US Grades?
School hours & holidays
Pre-Kindergarten: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 7:40 am to 1:00 pm
Kindergarten to Grade 12: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 7:40 am to 2:50 pm
All students - Wednesday: 7:40 am to 1:30 pm
Student Attendance Calendar available here.
World Languages on offer
Does my child have to study an African language?
Do AISJ students wear a uniform?
Where do most AISJ students live?
What are the main nationalities represented at AISJ?
Do you have long waiting lists for places?
Not usually, however as Johannesburg continues to define its position as a leading regional center, and AISJ continues to develop as the predominant international school, waiting lists are becoming more of a norm. That said, a waiting list would be comprised of several rather than hundreds of students. Due to the transient nature of AISJ families there is always a strong chance that a place will become available but obviously, it is not guaranteed.
How soon do I need to register my child?
In what circumstances is the application fee refunded?
What is the capital fee?
Will AISJ negotiate tuition fees?
What activities are available after school?
The list is endless! Key sports for older students are soccer, volleyball and basketball, swimming. Other activities include stock market investors club, yearbook, photography, hiking, equestrian, theatre, astronomy, art and literature magazine, SCUBA, yoga and more. Elementary school students can participate in golf, tennis, karate, cooking, swimming, hip-hop, ballet, debating, SpeedStacks, service learning, knitting, creative writing, art and more.
Do you have student boarding at AISJ?
What type of food is available for my child?
Our healthy cafeteria offers a range of meals including a hot meal, sandwiches and rolls, sushi, fruit and salad.
The hot meal / set menu costs R45.00 for MS & HS students and adults. The middle and high school students have access to other items priced individually.
The hot meal / set menu costs R40.00 for ES students.
How do UK years compare to US Grades?
Both systems have 13 years of education.
UK system starts with Year 1 and concludes at Year 13 = 13 years of Schooling.
US System starts with Kindergarten and concludes at Grade 12 Kindergarten + 12 Grades = 13 years of schooling.
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Age |
U.K. Year |
U.K. |
U.S. Level |
3 to 4 years |
Nursery |
Early Years |
Pre-School |
4 to 5 years |
Reception |
Early Years |
Pre-Kindergarten |
5 to 6 years |
Year 1 - Infants School (Primary) |
Key Stage 1 |
Kindergarten – Elementary School |
6 to 7 years |
Year 2 |
Key Stage 1 |
1st Grade - Elementary School |
7 to 8 years |
Year 3 - Junior School (Primary) |
Key Stage 2 |
2nd Grade |
8 to 9 years |
Year 4 |
Key Stage 2 |
3rd Grade |
9 to 10 years |
Year 5 |
Key Stage 2 |
4th Grade |
10 to 11 years |
Year 6 |
Key Stage 2 |
5th Grade |
11 to 12 years |
Year 7 - Secondary School |
Key Stage 3 |
6th Grade - Middle School |
12 to 13 years |
Year 8 |
Key Stage 3 |
7th Grade |
13 to 14 years |
Year 9 |
Key Stage 3 |
8th Grade |
14 to 15 years |
Year 10 |
Key Stage 4 |
9th Grade (Freshman) |
15 to 16 years |
Year 11 |
Key Stage 4 |
10th Grade (Sophomore) |
16 to 17 years |
Year 12 (6th Form) |
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11th Grade (Junior) |
17 to 18 years |
Year 13 (6th Form) |
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12th Grade (Senior) |