American International School Riyadh vs SEK International School Riyadh

	A American International School Riyadh Riyadh, Saudi Arabia	S SEK International School Riyadh Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year SAR 63,164 - 117,812	Fees / year SAR 35,190 - 82,225
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 17 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 1,550	Pupils 320
Typical class size	Typical class size 24	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location AIS-R is located in North Riyadh, adjacent to the Al Bustan Village Compound (Exit 5). The campus is connected to Al Bustan by an internal gate, allowing residents to walk or bike to school in about 10 minutes. It is roughly 20 minutes from Riyadh's airport and the downtown area.	Location SEK International School Riyadh is located at Al Toq Street, Ar Rabi, Riyadh 13315, Saudi Arabia. The campus sits in central Riyadh in the Al Rabie district, close to the Kingdom Hospital. It has strong road connections via the King Salman and King Fahad highways. SEK Riyadh is part of SEK Education Group, a Spanish organization with a long history in international education.
Stages	Stages AIS-R serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, organized into Elementary (Pre-K to Grade 5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12).	Stages The school currently welcomes students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 11 (ages 3 to 16). It plans to offer the International Baccalaureate continuum, with PYP and MYP authorized and DP in candidate status. The curriculum includes Early Childhood (age 3-6) and Primary (age 6-11) as foundational segments.
School type	School type AIS-R is an independent, non-profit, co-educational day school. It offers an enriched American curriculum and is IB Diploma Programme authorized; it is NEASC and CIS accredited.	School type SEK Riyadh is a private international school. It operates as a co-educational environment up to Grade 6, with mixed-gender classrooms reported for that range; details for later years are not explicitly defined in public materials.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix AIS-R represents students from more than 60 countries; the top nationalities are American, Saudi Arabian, and Canadian. The school reports over 65 nationalities represented in its student body, with local Saudi students forming a minority of the student body (local ~12%, international ~88%).	Pupil nationality mix SEK Riyadh sits within SEK Education Group, which serves more than 80 nationalities across its international schools. The Riyadh campus-specific nationality breakdown is not published separately.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support AIS-R provides a school-wide Student Success framework with Learning Support teachers, English as an Additional Language (ELL) staff, and counselors operating in a tiered model. The admissions process notes that AIS-R does not provide a formal Special Needs program for significant learning needs, though support is provided within the program parameters.	Additional learning support SEK Riyadh has an Inclusion Policy that supports students with Special Educational Needs and uses Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) where appropriate. The school provides English Language Acquisition (ELA) support and other counseling/coordination through its Counseling Department to assist diverse learners.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school follows an American curriculum and is an IB World School; it is accredited by NEASC and CIS.	Country affiliation SEK Riyadh is part of the SEK Education Group, a Spanish organization established in Madrid, Spain.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated; AIS-R operates as a secular international school.	Religious affiliation There is no religious affiliation stated for SEK Riyadh. The curriculum meets Saudi requirements, including Arabic and Islamic Studies, taught by Saudi-qualified teachers.
School day structure	School day structure AIS-R follows a North American-type school year, starting in August and finishing in early June. Administrative offices run 8:10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday and 8:10 a.m.–4:00 p.m. on Thursdays; there is a winter holiday around New Year, a fall break in October, and a spring break in February. The first day of the 2025-26 school year was August 19, 2025.	School day structure The school day runs from 7:30 am to 2:15 pm on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Breaks and lunch arrangements are managed within this timetable.
Bus service details	Bus service details AIS-R does not offer bus transportation. Parents are responsible for providing transportation for their children; campus access is controlled by AIS-R IDs for safety.	Bus service details Transport options include a plan to offer bus transportation for students from different locations across Riyadh. Specific providers, routes and schedules are not published publicly at this time.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Annual tuition — 2025–2026 (by grade band, Saudi Riyal) - Early Years (base tuition): SAR 54,925.00. VAT (15%): SAR 8,238.75. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 63,163.75. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 32,731.88. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 30,431.88. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 28,462.50. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 26,462.50. - KG II – Grade 5 (base tuition): SAR 90,347.00. VAT (15%): SAR 13,552.05. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 103,899.05. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 53,099.53. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 50,799.53. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 46,173.50. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 44,173.50. - Grades 6–8 (base tuition): SAR 93,454.00. VAT (15%): SAR 14,018.10. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 107,472.10. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 54,886.05. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 52,586.05. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 47,727.00. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 45,727.00. - Grades 9–12 (base tuition): SAR 102,445.00. VAT (15%): SAR 15,366.75. Total annual tuition (incl. VAT): SAR 117,811.75. First semester (incl. VAT): SAR 60,055.30. Second semester (incl. VAT): SAR 57,756.45. First semester (0% VAT): SAR 52,222.00. Second semester (0% VAT): SAR 50,223.00. Application, capital and registration fees (new students) - Application Fee (non-refundable, non-transferable): SAR 4,903.60 (includes 15% VAT) or SAR 4,264 (0% VAT). This fee is required for each child at every grade level and must be paid when submitting application documents. - Capital Fee (one-time, non-refundable): PreK–Grade 8: SAR 17,776.70 (incl. 15% VAT) / SAR 15,458 (0% VAT). Grade 9–12: SAR 25,745.05 (incl. 15% VAT) / SAR 22,387 (0% VAT). These fees are applied at initial enrollment to support campus maintenance and technology. - Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable): SAR 16,550.80 (includes 15% VAT) / SAR 14,392 (0% VAT). This covers costs related to adding and maintaining a new student in school systems. Seat deposit and re-enrolment rules - Seat Deposit (to secure a place): SAR 12,450 plus 15% VAT (SAR 1,867.50) for non-Saudi nationals; 0% VAT applies for Saudi nationals when National ID is provided. The seat deposit is credited toward first-semester tuition. The seat deposit is refundable only until April 27, 2025 and non-refundable thereafter for the 2025–26 enrolment process; unclaimed guaranteed seats will revert to the wait pool and the student withdrawal process may begin April 3, 2025. - Re-enrolling students may have reduced or adjusted capital/registration charges depending on how recently they were enrolled (details and timing adjustments apply). Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed in two semesters. Enrollment-date billing (quarter system) for the 2025–26 school year specifies required payment percentages depending on when the student is enrolled into the school term: - 1st Quarter (Aug 19–Oct 23): 100% of first and second semester tuition payment due. - 2nd Quarter (Nov 2–Jan 15): 65% of first semester and 100% of second semester tuition payment due. - 3rd Quarter (Jan 18–Apr 2): 100% of first semester tuition payment due. - 4th Quarter (Apr 5–Jun 1): 65% of first semester tuition payment due. - Tuition and fees are payable in Saudi Riyal (SAR) only. Parents remain ultimately responsible for payment regardless of employer arrangements. Potential additional fees and examples - Test rescheduling fee (applicant): SAR 937.25 (includes 15% VAT) / SAR 815.00 (0% VAT). - Learning Strategies (LS) Fee (when additional learning support is required): Elementary SAR 10,390.25 (incl. VAT) / Middle & High SAR 10,746.75 (incl. VAT). - English Language Learners (ELL) Fee (when required): Elementary SAR 10,390.25 (incl. VAT) / Middle & High SAR 10,746.75 (incl. VAT). - ALPS (optional after-school Arabic program) Fee: SAR 7,503.75 (incl. 15% VAT). - IB Diploma Programme assessment fees: 92 Euros per IB course (Euro equivalent in SAR charged; non‑Saudi students also assessed 15% VAT). - Miscellaneous program costs may apply (examples: Week Without Walls trips, sports trips, PE uniforms, IB exams, dining hall services, remote testing proctoring, yearbook, etc.). Refunds and refund conditions - Tuition refunds are allowed only when all of the following apply: 1) written withdrawal notice is provided to the school prior to the stated deadline; 2) the student did not attend school at any time during the semester; and 3) the student has already paid some or all of the tuition due for that semester. - Seat deposit is refundable only up to the deadline stated above for the 2025–26 cycle (April 27, 2025); tuition for semester one (due Aug 4th) was refundable, minus seat deposit (and VAT), until August 19, 2025 (first day of classes) and non-refundable thereafter for that enrolment period. The school's policy also specifies there will be no refunds, discounts, or partial payment arrangements if the government orders distance or hybrid learning during the school year. Boarding - Boarding is not listed or charged on the school's tuition and fees schedule; AIS-R operates as a day school for the 2025–26 tuition schedule. No boarding fees are published. Fee payment options and banking details - Preferred payment method: direct wire transfer to the school's bank account. School fees are payable in SAR only. Debit and credit card payments are not accepted. Bank account details are provided to families for application fee and other fee payments, and each family receives a unique IBAN on invoices to help with allocation. All bank processing charges are the payer's responsibility; parents should quote the student's name and invoice number when making payments.	Fee details Application / Reservation Fee - A non-refundable Reservation (application) Fee of SAR 7,500 is payable to confirm an offered place. For non‑Saudi nationals the Reservation Fee including VAT is SAR 8,625. The Reservation Fee is deducted from the first tuition payment. Families have five natural days to pay the Reservation Fee after an offer is made. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per term) - Nursery (0–1): Annual SAR 30,600 / Per term SAR 10,200. Annual (VAT included) SAR 35,190 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 11,730. - Pre‑K1 (PYP 1): Annual SAR 43,500 / Per term SAR 14,500. Annual (VAT included) SAR 50,025 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 16,675. - Pre‑K2 (PYP 2): Annual SAR 45,500 / Per term SAR 15,167. Annual (VAT included) SAR 52,325 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 17,442. - KG (PYP 3): Annual SAR 49,000 / Per term SAR 16,333. Annual (VAT included) SAR 56,350 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 18,783. - Grade 1 (PYP 4): Annual SAR 52,000 / Per term SAR 17,333. Annual (VAT included) SAR 59,800 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 19,993. - Grade 2 (PYP 5): Annual SAR 60,000 / Per term SAR 20,000. Annual (VAT included) SAR 69,000 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 23,000. - Grade 3 (PYP 6): Annual SAR 62,000 / Per term SAR 20,667. Annual (VAT included) SAR 71,300 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 23,767. - Grade 4 (PYP 7): Annual SAR 63,000 / Per term SAR 21,000. Annual (VAT included) SAR 72,450 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 24,150. - Grade 5 (PYP 8): Annual SAR 64,500 / Per term SAR 21,500. Annual (VAT included) SAR 74,175 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 24,725. - Grade 6 (MYP 1): Annual SAR 65,500 / Per term SAR 21,833. Annual (VAT included) SAR 75,325 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 25,108. - Grade 7 (MYP 2): Annual SAR 67,500 / Per term SAR 22,500. Annual (VAT included) SAR 77,625 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 25,875. - Grade 8 (MYP 3): Annual SAR 70,500 / Per term SAR 23,500. Annual (VAT included) SAR 81,075 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 27,025. - Grade 9 (MYP 4): Annual SAR 71,000 / Per term SAR 23,667. Annual (VAT included) SAR 81,650 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 27,217. - Grade 10 (MYP 5): Annual SAR 71,000 / Per term SAR 23,667. Annual (VAT included) SAR 81,650 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 27,217. - Grade 11 (DP 1): Annual SAR 71,500 / Per term SAR 23,833. Annual (VAT included) SAR 82,225 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 27,408. - Grade 12 (DP 2): Annual SAR 71,500 / Per term SAR 23,833. Annual (VAT included) SAR 82,225 / Per term (VAT included) SAR 27,408. (All tuition figures above are shown as the published annual amount and the equal third‑term installment. VAT treatment is shown where the document provides VAT‑inclusive figures.) Discounts and additional tuition‑related charges - A 5% discount on tuition is available where the full year's fees are paid in a single instalment before the first day of school in August. - A 7.5% sibling discount applies to the third child and a 10% discount for subsequent children; the discount applies to the youngest students. - VAT at 15% is added to tuition fees except where regulatory exemptions apply; the published VAT‑inclusive figures are shown in the fee schedule. - English Language Acquisition (ELA) support, when required, is charged SAR 3,800 per period (charged in two time frames: September–January and February–June) and is compulsory when identified at admission. - Extra‑curricular activities, school field trips and certain other services are charged separately and are not included in the tuition figures. Field trips incur additional fees. - After‑school care (for Nursery students and older) is available from 14:00 to 15:00 on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at SAR 900 per month per child; late pickup that is consistent may incur this fee. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is invoiced as three equal instalments billed in advance and payable before the start of each term. For the 2025–2026 academic year the invoice issue dates and deadlines are: - First instalment issued September 1, 2025 — due September 15, 2025. - Second instalment issued December 1, 2025 — due December 15, 2025. - Third instalment issued March 1, 2026 — due March 15, 2026. - The Reservation Fee must be paid within five natural days of the place offer to secure the place. - A re‑enrollment (returning student) non‑refundable deposit of SAR 5,000 is due before February 1 each year to secure a seat for the next academic year; for non‑Saudi nationals the amount including VAT is SAR 5,750. The re‑enrollment deposit is deducted from the first tuition payment of the following year. - Tuition fees are billed in advance and must be paid by the published due dates; outstanding balances may jeopardize continued enrollment and reports/transfer documents will not be released until fees are settled. Term fees are not prorated and full‑term fees apply for students joining late in a term. Notice of withdrawal must be provided in writing at least two weeks before the end of the current term; otherwise term fees remain payable. Boarding - Boarding is not listed as a provision or charge in the school's fees policy or school information. No boarding fees apply. Uniforms and other ancillary costs - Uniforms are required and the school publishes a uniform list and directs families to the school section on the Zak Store supplier for purchase. Uniform costs are payable to the supplier. Extra costs to budget for include extra‑curricular activity fees, field trips, ELA where applicable, and after‑school care. Refund information and related conditions - The Reservation Fee is non‑refundable. - The re‑enrollment deposit is non‑refundable. - Term fees are not prorated; full‑term fees apply for late joiners and fees covering any approved temporary withdrawal period must be fully paid. If withdrawal notice is not provided in writing at least two weeks before the end of the current term, term fees are applicable. The school may revoke enrollment for non‑payment of fees. School reports and transfer documents are withheld until all outstanding fees are settled. Fee payment options and bank details - Payment methods accepted: Direct bank deposit, bank transfer and Electronic Mada Card. For bank transfers or deposits a copy of the deposit slip or transfer confirmation should be sent to the Finance Office or emailed with the invoice number and student name. - Published bank details for transfers: Bank Name — Banque Saudi Fransi; Company Name — Education Management Corporation Arabia for Education; Account Number — 81519600153; IBAN — SA5655000000081519600153; SWIFT Code — BSFRSARI. (Bank address is given as King Abdul Aziz Street, Riyadh.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements SEK International School Riyadh operates as a day school with no boarding facilities. There are no full, weekly, or flexi-boarding options offered. Students attend during the day and return home after classes. The school's IB-related information confirms there are no on-site boarding arrangements.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement AIS-R uses a school-wide dress code that includes a school polo shirt as part of the daily uniform. High school dress requirements indicate a AIS-R polo shirt and long pants may be required for attire; a PE uniform is required for physical education. The on-campus Eagle's Nest store sells Middle School PE uniforms and other uniform items, and houses-specific attire such as house shirts may be available for purchase on campus.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are compulsory. A PDF lists the uniform items and requirements, and the official supplier is Zak Store. Purchases are arranged through Zak Store's Riyadh site, with Tala Mall in Riyadh listed as a purchasing location.
Food options	Food options Dining Hall services are available for snack breaks and lunch. Lunches and snacks are purchased using funds loaded to the student ID via a cashless system, with supervision in the dining area; AIS-R is not allergen-free due to outsourced caterers, so dietary accommodations may be limited.	Food options Families have two lunch options: students can bring their own lunch or use the cafeteria service with advance ordering. The cafeteria meals are supervised by staff and meals are monitored for healthy options.
House system	House system AIS-R operates a house system; middle school students have house shirts, and some house-based dress items are available through the Eagle's Nest store on campus.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership AIS-R is an independent, non-profit school licensed to operate by the Saudi Ministry of Education. It is governed by a seven-member self-perpetuating Board of Trustees, which selects a Superintendent to manage day-to-day operations. The AIS-R Association includes registered parents and community members, and the board governs strategic policy and long-term viability.	Governance and ownership SEK International School Riyadh is part of SEK Education Group (Institución Educativa SEK). SEK Education Group was founded in 1892 and operates a global network of SEK International Schools, including Riyadh. The Riyadh campus is presented as part of this international group of schools.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The American International School - Riyadh offers an enriched American curriculum for Pre-K through Grade 12. The campus is purpose-built in North Riyadh. The school is accredited by NEASC and CIS and is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12. The curriculum is modeled on the US State Department Standards (AERO), Common Core State Standards, and selected National Association Standards. The academic year runs from September to June with 176 instructional days.	Curriculum details SEK International School Riyadh offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum for students aged 3 to 18, integrating a local Saudi context within SEK's international framework. The school is authorized for the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and is a candidate for the Diploma Programme (DP); current enrollment runs from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 11 (ages 3 to 16). English is the main language of instruction, with opportunities to develop fluency in English, Arabic, and Spanish within a bilingual-oriented approach. SEK's learning model emphasizes inquiry-based, student-centred learning, the SEK Profile and international-mindedness, and includes features such as the SEK Portfolio, Be Challenge and Be Well initiatives. The curriculum is designed to align with international accreditation standards, including NEASC, and supports pathways for higher education abroad.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression The school reports over 300 university acceptances. It represents more than 65 nationalities and had over 140 graduates in the 2024–2025 school year.	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented AIS-R does not provide a Special Needs Program for significant learning needs nor a gifted and talented program.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning AIS-R supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through a school-wide counseling program; high school counselors support students' academic, social and personal development, and a Guidance curriculum guides relationships, planning, and life skills across grade levels.	Social & emotional learning SEK International School Riyadh supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a Be Well Centre that focuses on the community's emotional, mental, physical, and personal well-being. The school implements the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence (YCEI) and the RULER SEL program to promote the recognition, expression, and self-regulation of emotions. The Be Well initiative is complemented by mindfulness and socio-emotional skills training delivered in partnership with Camilo José Cela University, as part of SEK's wellbeing framework and the Healthy Schools initiative. The school also promotes well-being as part of its 21st-century learning approach, including Empowerment Hubs that give students time to explore interests during the school day. Overall, SEL is embedded in the curriculum as part of SEK's holistic education model to support students' well-being and social-emotional development.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AIS-R offers Learning Support for mild to moderate learning needs, but there is no dedicated Special Needs Program, and AIS-R is not a specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) SEK-Riyadh follows an inclusive education approach and will admit students whose academic and personal needs can be met by the program and student support services available at the time of admission. The school may admit students requiring support up to a determined threshold, depending on available resources. The school provides English as a second or foreign language (ELA) support as a paid service for non-native speakers. The admissions policy notes that assessments relating to Additional Educational Support Needs (e.g., Educational Psychologist reports, Speech and Language Therapy) may be considered when planning support. SEK-Riyadh is described as inclusive rather than a specialist SEN institution, relying on its program and supports to meet diverse needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language AIS-R provides an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program for qualified Elementary School students (KG2–Grade 5); EAL focuses on listening, speaking, reading and writing, with EAL teachers co-teaching with homeroom teachers and partnering with families.	English as an additional language English is the language of instruction, with Arabic and Spanish taught as additional languages. The school provides ELA support to non-native English speakers as a paid service, and admissions decisions consider whether adequate English language support resources are available. Arabic and Spanish are embedded in the curriculum as Language Acquisition subjects. In the IB programmes, Arabic and Spanish are offered within the language offerings, reflecting SEK's multilingual context.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing AIS-R maintains a Mental Health Protocol as part of its Child Safeguarding framework, with staff training and counselors providing mental health support to students.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is a central component of SEK-Riyadh's wellbeing strategy. The Be Well Centre provides emotional, mental, physical, and personal balance support, with the aim of training and supporting the SEK community in mindfulness and socio-emotional skills, and aligning with the Healthy Schools initiative. The wellness framework includes the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence (YCEI) and the RULER program to promote recognition, expression, and regulation of emotions. Mindfulness and socio-emotional training are delivered in collaboration with Camilo José Cela University. Empowerment Hubs and the broader 21st-century learning approach further integrate well-being into daily learning and student development.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding AIS-R has a comprehensive Child Safeguarding Policy based on international law, Council of International Schools standards, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; the policy is complemented by a Child Safeguarding Education Program with staff training and parent education sessions, and maltreatment reporting is defined and acted upon.	Safeguarding SEK-Riyadh emphasizes safeguarding through its international accreditation and safety commitments. SEK International Schools are accredited by the National Child Safety Association, reflecting a formal safeguarding framework across SEK schools. The Admissions Policy outlines inclusive education and the consideration of non-native English learners, including access to English language support and related assessments for Additional Educational Support Needs. The policy requires documentation of any special assessments (e.g., psychologist reports, speech and language therapy) when applicable. Together, these elements indicate a structured approach to safeguarding and student welfare within SEK-Riyadh's governance and policies.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview AIS-R's campus is built for learning and is state-of-the-art. It includes ultramodern STEM facilities, robotics and science labs; spaces for music, arts, and language learning; grass playing fields for sports; and a 700-seat performing arts theater.	Facilities overview The SEK-Riyadh campus is a state-of-the-art learning environment developed by leading designers, architects and academics to enhance learning. Sports, Arts, Technology and Activities are an essential aspect of the holistic educational model and support students' health and wellbeing. The campus includes two large indoor multi-purpose halls for sports, arts events and other major school events. It also includes two Learning Hubs for research and inquiry, two Creativity Hubs for visual and performing arts, and two Maker Spaces for exploring technology and entrepreneurship. There are two multi-purpose atriums, extensive shaded outdoor games and play areas, and dedicated specialist spaces for Early Years, Sciences, and Languages & Culture with a focus on Arabic Language and Culture.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Sports are played on grass fields on campus.	Sports facilities The SEK-Riyadh campus includes two large indoor multi-purpose halls for sports, arts events and other major school events. These spaces support physical education and athletic activities as part of SEK's holistic education model. The campus also features extensive shaded outdoor games and play areas. The design integrates these facilities with Arts and Technology spaces to support a broad extracurricular program.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities AIS-R offers an enriched American curriculum. The school is NEASC and CIS accredited and IB authorized. It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. The curriculum is modeled on the US State Department Standards (AERO), Common Core Standards, and selected National Association Standards. The Diploma Programme core includes Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and a Creativity, Activity, and Service program; DP students study six subjects across groups.	Academic facilities There are dedicated specialist learning spaces for Early Years, Sciences, and Languages & Culture (with a focus on Arabic Language and Culture). The campus includes two Learning Hubs for research and inquiry. There are two Maker Spaces for exploring technology and entrepreneurship. General classroom spaces support instruction.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities AIS-R provides a generous range of extracurricular opportunities that nurture growth beyond the classroom. After-school activities broaden experiences and promote values such as responsibility, honesty, perseverance, and teamwork. The Diploma Programme emphasizes CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) as part of its core. Week Without Walls is part of AIS-R's activity program.	Extra curricular facilities Sports, Arts, Technology and Activities are an essential aspect of the holistic educational model at SEK International Schools. The campus provides two Learning Hubs, two Creativity Hubs for visual and performing arts, and two Maker Spaces to support extracurricular engagement. There are extensive shaded outdoor play areas for recreation and physical activity. The facilities support a broad range of co-curricular experiences alongside academics.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History AIS-R was founded in 1963 in Riyadh to provide an American-oriented international education. In 2023, AIS-R celebrated its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of operation and growth. The school operates on a purpose-built campus in the north of Riyadh. It is accredited by NEASC and CIS and is an IB World School authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. AIS-R earned CIS Global Citizenship Certification for its intercultural learning initiatives and global-minded curriculum.	History The SEK Education Group began in 1892 in the historic centre of Madrid, Spain. It was officially recognized in 1902, and in 1935 the Segovia family took over the running of the school and its development, three generations later yielding a network of SEK International Schools and one university. Camilo José Cela University in Madrid was founded in 2000, marking a milestone in SEK's educational process and its commitment to teaching, research and innovation. SEK Education Group was born of a hundred-year family tradition of freedom and autonomy, free from religious, political or financial ties. SEK International School Riyadh welcomed its inaugural students in September 2021 and, as part of the SEK Education Group, is authorized to offer the IB PYP and MYP and is pursuing DP authorization, with NEASC accreditation started.
Community	Community AIS-R's community includes students, parents, faculty, and staff from more than 50 nationalities. It is governed by a Board of Trustees and emphasizes intercultural understanding, reflected in the 'Where We Belong' theme and CIS Global Citizenship Certification. Regular community forums and gatherings, including the Eagle Community Exchange, invite feedback from the AIS-R Association. The Social Committee and intercultural activities offer opportunities for cultural and social engagement across the school year.	Community SEK Riyadh operates within a multilingual, multicultural community with English as the main language of instruction, while Arabic and Spanish are taught to all students. The Learning Outside-In project, developed in partnership with Project Zero at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, involves teachers, families, and the local community in designing learning paths. The IB continuum is central to the school's programme, with PYP and MYP authorized and DP in candidate status. Cultural outings and trips are part of the programme to enrich students' experiences.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association AIS-R's parent involvement centers on the AIS-R Association and the Parent-Teacher-Student Organization (PTSO) that coordinate family engagement and activities. The AIS-R Association comprises registered community members—parents, educators, and Board members—serving to support the school and providing a channel for feedback and updates, including annual presentations at the Eagle Community Exchange. The PTSO organizes two major events each year: Family Fun Day and the Intercultural Festival, bringing together students, families, and staff across grade levels. The Social Committee runs events such as fun runs, cultural celebrations, movie nights, souq visits, scavenger hunts, and live music to promote community and intercultural exchange. Parents participate in regular Coffees and other forums, enabling dialogue with teachers and administrators. The AIS-R Foundation supports family involvement by funding initiatives that enhance campus life and learning environments.	Parent teacher association SEK Riyadh promotes active parent involvement through its school community and invites family participation in learning. Open Day provides a structured opportunity for families to tour the campus and meet teachers. SEK Day is an annual event that recognises teachers and professionals and engages the broader school community. SEK also offers webinars on Global Citizenship and Mindfulness that invite family participation. The Head of School invites families to actively participate in the community and supports ongoing family involvement.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers an enriched American curriculum with an international perspective for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The academic year runs from September to June with 176 instructional days. The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.	Academic & intellectual SEK-Riyadh plans to offer the International Baccalaureate continuum for students from 3 to 18 years old. The school is a PYP and MYP authorized IB World School and a candidate for the Diploma Programme. The IB framework emphasizes inquiry-based learning and action, with Grade 8 Community Project and Grade 10 Personal Project, connecting learning to real-world contexts. SEK Tech Labs provide co-curricular courses in programming, information management and robotics, and the SEK Portfolio documents evidence of learning across curricular, co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative AIS-R has a 700-seat performing arts theater on campus. The school emphasizes music, arts, and language opportunities as part of its comprehensive program. Students engage in drama and visual arts as part of their learning experiences.	Arts & creative The campus includes two Creativity Hubs for visual and performing arts, and two large indoor multi-purpose halls for arts events. The IB curriculum integrates arts as a subject group within the Diploma Programme, and the MYP includes Arts (Music and Visual Arts) as part of its eight subject areas. Be Challenge and the Be Well Centre support creative exploration and wellbeing through empowerment activities.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language AIS-R provides an intercultural learning environment with a diverse student body. The Circle of Nations area on campus highlights international perspectives. AIS-R has Global Citizenship Certification awarded by CIS. The school is an IB World School authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme.	Cultural & language The main language of instruction is English, and students have the opportunity to develop fluency and mastery of English, Arabic, Spanish and other languages. Languages & Culture spaces focus on Arabic Language and Culture as a special emphasis. SEK-Riyadh offers Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) with CEFR-aligned levels and Curricular Plan guidelines, including detailed course content and assessment. SEK also maintains a bilingual, dual-language and international curriculum approach across programmes.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies AIS-R offers a wide variety of after-school activities and athletics. Sign-ups are conducted through Powerschool, and activities run in 8- to 10-week seasons with opportunities to travel for competitions. The school participates in local, GCC, and international tournaments and conferences.	Social & hobbies The school offers Model United Nations speaking and debate events (SEKMUN, THIMUN) and on-campus media (press, radio and television), robotics, maker spaces, exchanges, and social action activities. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is available to students to foster leadership, autonomy, collaboration, and problem-solving through experiential challenges.
Community & service	Community & service The Social Committee organizes events such as cultural celebrations and family activities, and the PTSO hosts major events each year. Counseling services and social-emotional learning are provided across all divisions. AIS-R Foundation supports the school's mission and community initiatives.	Community & service In the MYP, students engage in Service as Action, and in Grade 8 complete the Community Project to implement service in the community. The DP core includes Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) and an extended essay, emphasizing community involvement. The SEK Portfolio documents the all-round learning process, including evidence from curricular, co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional AIS-R is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees and led by a Superintendent and an AIS-R Leadership Team. The school operates as an independent, non-profit institution licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Education. It maintains NEASC and CIS accreditation and IB authorization.	Leadership & professional Leadership, adventure and expedition experience are highlighted as part of the SEK Profile, guiding students to take on responsibility and leadership. The school features opportunities for leadership development through Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh's Award and other empowerment initiatives. SEK emphasizes professional learning for staff to support student leadership and project-based learning across disciplines.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Counseling services and social-emotional learning are provided across divisions. Athletics and after-school activities are considered integral to student well-being. The campus includes facilities such as a 700-seat performing arts theater to support student wellness and enrichment.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports, the Arts, Technology and Activities are central to the holistic model and support student health and wellbeing, with two large indoor halls and extensive outdoor spaces. A Be Well Centre supports emotional, mental and physical wellbeing, including the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and the RULER program. The campus also includes Be Challenge and other wellness initiatives to promote balanced, healthy living.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision AIS-R has a World Languages program aligned to ACTFL standards. World Languages is integrated as a formal part of the curriculum. The school uses an enriched American curriculum and offers the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11-12.	Language provision English is the main language of instruction. Arabic and Spanish are taught as additional languages, with Arabic and Spanish delivered through Language Acquisition and other IB language strands. In the IB framework at SEK-Riyadh, students study at least two languages in the Middle Years Programme, and there are language offerings including English, Arabic and Spanish, with ELE Spanish available.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The main language of instruction is English; Arabic and Spanish are taught as additional languages.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards N/A	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS), and it is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. The school has also been awarded CIS's Global Citizenship Certification.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Start the online application. AIS-R uses rolling admissions and accepts applicants throughout the current school year; the application period for the following year begins August 1. Begin by completing the online application, paying the non-refundable application fee, and uploading required documents. Required documents include the student's passport photo page, both parents' passport photo pages, iqama, immunization record, all records from previous schools in English (including the final report card and the current year-to-date report card), standardized test records if requesting an entrance test exemption (required for applicants in Grades 3-12 not residing in Saudi Arabia), and, if applicable, special education/IEP/504 records. If the student is a Saudi national, provide the Family Book and the Ministry of Education approval letter. 2. File review. After the application is fully submitted with the fee, the AIS-R Admissions Office reviews the applicant file. A file will not be approved for testing if the application or records are incomplete, or if prior information indicates a significant concern. The applicant is notified by the Admissions Office when the review is complete. 3. Admissions testing and English language assessment. Applicants proceed to admissions testing as part of the process; testing may be exempt for some applicants in Grades 3–12 who have MAP/PSAT/SAT results. English language proficiency is evaluated as part of placement for all applicants. 4. Final review and grade placement. After testing, the final application review determines grade placement, with consideration of English language needs and course requests for Grades 9–12. AIS-R aims to place students in appropriate levels and programs aligned with policy and space availability. Families are notified of placement decisions. 5. Mid-year enrollment and next steps. AIS-R supports mid-year enrollment with applicable procedures and calendar alignment. 6. Wait pool and enrollment decisions. Admissions decisions are subject to academic entrance requirements and class size limits set by the Board of Trustees. AIS-R reserves the right to limit enrollment and to deny an application if it does not align with admissions policy; decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. The applicant wait pool is used to manage opportunities as spaces become available. 7. Next steps and contact. Apply online, book a campus tour, and coordinate with the Admissions Office for scheduling and next steps. 8. Additional notes. The admissions process includes consideration of English language proficiency, mid-year enrollment feasibility, and course requests for upper grades, with final decisions communicated to families as soon as they are ready. Citations: AIS-R Admissions page; AIS-R contact and admissions information; AIS-R Community/About pages.	Admissions Step 1: Applications are submitted through the OpenApply online application system. OpenApply provides information about deadlines and relevant details. For first-time applicants, select Application Form; for renewals or returning applicants, select Applicant & Family Login and use the same email. To schedule a school tour, select Schedule Tour. If problems occur or the password is forgotten, contact the Admissions team via the OpenApply system. Step 2: Read the Admission Policy (PDF) and Fee Policy (PDF) before submitting the online application. These documents explain the requirements and the fee structure. Additional details about the application process are available in OpenApply. Step 3: Admissions contact is Julie Anne Alonso, Counselor and Admissions Officer. The school is located at Al Toq Street, Ar Rabia, Riyadh 13315; other contact numbers include School Telf: +966 050 999 7328 and Admissions Tel: +966 53 063 3295.
Scholarships	Scholarships AIS-R awards scholarships; over $5.5 million in scholarships have been awarded.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist AIS-R uses a rolling admissions process with a applicant wait pool to manage placements as spaces become available. Decisions follow class size limits and admissions policies, and applicants may be notified of changes in status as vacancies arise.	Waitlist —
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