GEMS American Academy Qatar vs The Hamilton International School

	G GEMS American Academy Qatar Doha, Qatar	T The Hamilton International School Doha, Qatar
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year QAR 35,150 - 59,650	Fees / year QAR 55,000 - 75,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 16 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,600	Pupils 2,300
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location GEMS American Academy Qatar is located in Al Wakrah, in the Al Wukair area, south of Doha. The campus sits in a growing residential district near Ezdan Mall Al Wakrah and is a short drive from the Al Janoub Stadium. The school occupies a new 20,000-square-metre facility with modern learning spaces, libraries, science labs, arts facilities and sports amenities.	Location The Hamilton International School is located in the Mesaimeer area of Doha, Qatar. The campus address is Building 117, Street 1117, Zone 56, Mesaimeer Area. It sits in a well-connected area near the Religious Complex, Barwa City, Lulu Hypermarket, and Villagio Mall, with Hamad International Airport about 10 minutes away. The nearest Doha Metro Red Line station is Free Zone, connected to Mesaimeer via the Metrolink M140 feeder bus, stopping near key locations including the Religious Complex and Barwa City.
Stages	Stages The school offers a full Pre-K through Grade 12 program, serving children roughly from age 3 to 18. It is organized into Lower School (Early Years and Elementary) and Upper School (Middle School and High School).	Stages Early Years (Pre-KG to KG2). Primary School (KG2 to Grade 5). Middle School (Grades 6-8). High School (Grades 9-12).
School type	School type GEMS American Academy Qatar is a co-educational day school with no boarding facilities.	School type Private international school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body represents nearly 80 nationalities (with reported figures in the mid-to-upper 70s range). There is no publicly published single national majority or exact local-to-international ratio.	Pupil nationality mix The school represents more than 90 nationalities in its pupil body; the most represented nationalities are not publicly disclosed; the community is described as diverse and international.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support There is a Student Support Team with personnel at each grade level providing additional academic assistance and language support (English as a Second Language). The school also runs a Gifted and Talented program. Admission notes that there are limited spaces for students with special learning needs, and an entrance assessment is required.	Additional learning support Inclusion Department and Student Support Services; Gifted & Talented enrichment; English as an Additional Language (EAL) support; counselling and mental health initiatives.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation; the school is part of International Schools Partnership (ISP), a UK-based group.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation; Arabic and Islamic studies are offered at native and non-native levels for Muslim students as part of the curriculum.	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation. Islamic Studies are compulsory for Muslim students and are delivered in Arabic for Arab-passport holders and in English for non-Arab students; Arabic language is also taught.
School day structure	School day structure From Sunday to Thursday, students may enter the school building from 7:10 a.m. The schedule for most students is 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. PK and KG1 start at 7:30 a.m. and may dismiss at 12:30 p.m., with later pick-up at 2:15 p.m. on Sundays–Wednesdays or 1:30 p.m. on Thursdays. KG2–Grade 12 follow 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., with Thursday dismissal at 1:30 p.m.	School day structure School days run to a two-tier pattern: Early Years and Primary typically from 7:20 am to 1:45 pm; Secondary from 7:20 am to 1:50 pm (Sunday–Thursday).
Bus service details	Bus service details The official transport provider is School Transport Services (STS). Buses include GPS monitoring, CCTV, and bus guardians on board. A Qatar Rail–based Ras Bu Fontas shuttle operates to serve staff and students traveling via the rail line. Doha and Al Wakrah routes cover numerous areas, including Al Wakrah, Al Wukair, Lusail and The Pearl; transport fees are published for the 2025–2026 year and inquiries can be directed to the transport contact listed by the school.	Bus service details Bus transportation is contracted to STS Group, a safety-focused operator providing transport to and from the school. For enquiries, contact Mr. Khaleelur Rahman at +974 66088256. STS customizes routes for Hamilton and adheres to safety and regulatory standards; the service serves the Mesaimeer area and surrounding zones.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration Fees - One-time, non-refundable registration fee payable when you accept a place: KG1 – KG2: QAR 3,200; Grades 1–12: QAR 3,500. - Assessment fee for entry assessments (payable on assessment day): QAR 200. No assessment fee for KG1 and KG2. Tuition fees (Academic Year 2025–2026) — term and annual amounts (all amounts in Qatari Riyals) - KG1 – KG2: Term 1: QAR 15,140 · Term 2: QAR 10,005 · Term 3: QAR 10,005 · Yearly total: QAR 35,150. - Grade 1: Term 1: QAR 17,980 · Term 2: QAR 11,760 · Term 3: QAR 11,760 · Yearly total: QAR 41,500. - Grade 2: Term 1: QAR 18,560 · Term 2: QAR 12,195 · Term 3: QAR 12,195 · Yearly total: QAR 42,950. - Grade 3: Term 1: QAR 19,060 · Term 2: QAR 12,195 · Term 3: QAR 12,195 · Yearly total: QAR 43,450. - Grade 4: Term 1: QAR 20,140 · Term 2: QAR 13,005 · Term 3: QAR 13,005 · Yearly total: QAR 46,150. - Grade 5: Term 1: QAR 20,680 · Term 2: QAR 13,410 · Term 3: QAR 13,410 · Yearly total: QAR 47,500. - Grade 6: Term 1: QAR 21,200 · Term 2: QAR 13,800 · Term 3: QAR 13,800 · Yearly total: QAR 48,800. - Grades 7–9: Term 1: QAR 23,600 · Term 2: QAR 15,450 · Term 3: QAR 15,450 · Yearly total: QAR 54,500. - Grades 10–12: Term 1: QAR 25,660 · Term 2: QAR 16,995 · Term 3: QAR 16,995 · Yearly total: QAR 59,650. Billing schedule and payment terms - Term payment due dates: Term 1 payment due: August 31; Term 2 payment due: January 1; Term 3 payment due: April 1. Tuition fees are payable in advance of attendance and invoiced from the time of admission. Tuition fees are due prior to the start of each term. - Re-registration deposit (current students) is payable at re-enrolment to guarantee a place for the following academic year; the deposit is deductible from the total tuition fees and is non-refundable. Students with outstanding fee balances or missing MOE registration documents will not be able to re-enrol. - Tuition invoices are issued from admission; if a student joins mid-year, tuition may be charged from the beginning of the month of enrollment. Report cards and official records will be withheld until all outstanding fees (including for lost/damaged books) are cleared. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. GEMS American Academy Qatar operates as a day school. Other costs and fees - Annual stationery: QAR 1,000 per student per year. Parents may either pay this stationery fee or provide every item listed on the school stationery list before the start of the year. The published yearly fees include stationery & books as indicated in the fee schedule; textbooks are provided on loan. Parents are responsible for breakages, loss or damage to books and for charges related to field trips, external after-school activities and materials required for practical classes. - Uniforms and uniform payments: Approved uniforms and accessories are available through Threads (Ezdan Mall – Al Gharrafa). Threads accepts cash and credit card payments for uniform purchases. Exact uniform prices are set by the supplier. - Assessment-related or miscellaneous charges: assessment fee for entry QAR 200 (no fee for KG1/KG2); charges for specific external examinations, certain after-school options, field trips, and replacement/damage of school property may be invoiced separately. Textbooks are loaned; parents must pay for lost/damaged items. Refund information - The one-time registration fee is non-refundable once a place is accepted and the registration payment date is set. The re-registration deposit is non-refundable but deductible from total tuition for the year. Other refund terms for tuition payments are not stated in the fee summary; outstanding accounts must be cleared in order to receive transfer documentation and records. Transfer certificates and records will not be issued until all outstanding fees and obligations are cleared. Discounts and corporate arrangements - Sibling discount: 15% for the fourth child and 25% for the fifth child. Referral program: a tuition discount of 4% per successful referral, with conditions that both families attend two weeks of school and Term 1 fees are paid; the program can provide up to 100% of a child's annual tuition if referral conditions are met. Corporate agreement discounts (10% per child for the 2025–2026 year) apply for employees of specified partner organisations listed by the school. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods: Cash, credit card, current or post-dated cheque, wire transfer (bank details provided by the Accounts department on request), and online payments via the GEMS Parent Portal. Contact the Accounts department for bank details and Parent Portal access assistance. Uniform purchases at the approved supplier accept cash and credit cards. Notes on withdrawals and issuance of records - To withdraw a student, complete the Student Exit Form and clear all accounts during the last week prior to withdrawal. Records, transcripts and Transfer Certificate packets are issued only after all accounts are cleared and all school property is returned. The Reception/Registrar processes withdrawal requests and will notify when the Transfer Certificate packet is ready. (Fees and policies above are presented as published for AY 2025–2026.)	Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application fee: QAR 300 (one-off, non-refundable) for Primary to High School applications. - Registration fee (new students): QAR 5,000 (one-off payment due on acceptance to secure a place; non-refundable and non-transferable). - Re-enrolment fee (returning students): QAR 2,000 (seat reservation; payable by March and deducted from the first term instalment for the next academic year). Tuition fees (2025–2026) — amounts and instalments - Kindergarten (Pre‑KG to KG1): MoEHE approved tuition QAR 55,000 per year. Instalments: 40% = QAR 22,000 due 25 August; 30% = QAR 16,500 due 5 December; 30% = QAR 16,500 due 6 February. - Primary School: - KG2 and Grades 1–4: MoEHE approved tuition QAR 60,000 per year. Instalments: 40% = QAR 24,000 due 25 August; 30% = QAR 18,000 due 5 December; 30% = QAR 18,000 due 6 February. - Grade 5: MoEHE approved tuition QAR 70,000 per year. Instalments: 40% = QAR 28,000 due 25 August; 30% = QAR 21,000 due 5 December; 30% = QAR 21,000 due 6 February. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): MoEHE approved tuition QAR 70,000 per year. Instalments: 40% = QAR 28,000 due 25 August; 30% = QAR 21,000 due 5 December; 30% = QAR 21,000 due 6 February. - High School Diploma Program (Grades 9–12): MoEHE approved tuition QAR 75,000 per year. Instalments: 40% = QAR 30,000 due 25 August; 30% = QAR 22,500 due 5 December; 30% = QAR 22,500 due 6 February. - IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12): MoEHE approved tuition QAR 75,000 per year. Instalments: 40% = QAR 30,000 due 25 August; 30% = QAR 22,500 due 5 December; 30% = QAR 22,500 due 6 February. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition is payable in three instalments: 40% of the annual fee due on 25 August; 30% due on 5 December; 30% due on 6 February. These are the standard billing dates for the 2025–2026 academic year. - Once an offer is accepted, the registration fee must be paid within one week to secure the place. - Re-enrolment fee is payable by March each year to reserve a returning student's place and is deducted from the first term instalment for the next academic year. - Early‑payment discounts (Early Bird) are offered for full-year payment with tiered deadlines: 7% if paid in full by 30 April 2025; 5% if paid in full by 31 May 2025; 3% if paid in full by 30 June 2025 — with terms and conditions applying. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as a provision or fee on the school's admissions or tuition information; no boarding fees are published. The school's fee material and admissions information list tuition, transport, uniforms and other ancillary services but do not show boarding charges. Other costs and optional charges - Uniforms: uniforms are supplied through the school's approved supplier (Noble House). Uniform purchase is an additional cost to the tuition/registration charges. - Transport: school transport is offered as a separate service and is charged in addition to tuition. Transport fees and routes are billed separately. - Canteen services, educational school trips, external examination fees, and some extra‑curricular activities are invoiced separately or charged in addition to tuition. - Sibling and corporate discounts are available where eligible and are applied according to the school's fee terms. Refund information - The application fee (QAR 300) and the registration fee (QAR 5,000) are non-refundable. - Refunds or adjustments to tuition, transportation or other charges (for example if a student withdraws) are subject to the school's Fees Policy and the terms set out in that policy. Specific refund conditions and any timelines for processing refunds are set out in the Fees Policy document. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods include bank transfer, credit card, or payment at the school Finance Office (point of sale). Company/corporate payments are accepted but the parent remains responsible for timely payment. Summary of what is chargeable beyond tuition - One‑off costs: application fee QAR 300 (non-refundable), registration fee QAR 5,000 (new students, non-refundable), re‑enrolment QAR 2,000 (returning students). - Recurring/ancillary costs: uniform purchase, transport, canteen, trips, external exam fees and certain extra‑curricular activities. (End of fees overview.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Boarding is not provided at The Hamilton International School. It operates as a day school for students aged 3 to 18. There are no on-site dormitories or boarding facilities. For families using transport, a contracted bus service through STS is available.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required. They are sold exclusively through Threads at Ezdan Mall – Al Gharrafa. The Uniform Guide KG1 to Grade 12 is available, and Threads offers 100% eco-friendly cotton options and leather school shoes.	Uniform requirement The Hamilton International School requires a school uniform, worn daily. The uniform is described as contemporary and practical. Details on the uniform and where to purchase are available via the uniform vendor.
Food options	Food options The campus has on-site dining facilities, including Lower School dining and Upper School café with an outdoor eating space, plus a Parents Café. The school serves a wide range of healthy lunches and snacks in its cafeterias.	Food options Sterling Cafeteria provides meals through a partnership with Al Muftah Sterling Restaurants. Hot and cold meal options are available, with prepayment for breakfast and lunch on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Students collect their preordered meals from the canteen and can also grab snacks from the grab-and-go counter.
House system	House system —	House system The Hamilton uses a house system with four houses: Falcons, Dolphins, Oryx, and Sandcats. The houses participate in inter-house activities and competitions across academics, arts, and sports. The house names and the system are publicly highlighted in school communications.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership GEMS American Academy Qatar operates as part of the GEMS Education network; governance and ownership are provided by GEMS Education as the parent organization and owner of the GAAQ campuses.	Governance and ownership The Hamilton International School is part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), a UK-based group that operates a network of international schools. The school participates in ISP as part of its governance and network resources.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details GEMS American Academy Qatar offers an enriched American curriculum from Pre-K through Grade 12, culminating in the American High School Diploma with the option to take 20+ Advanced Placement (AP) courses and to earn an AP Capstone Diploma. In the Early Years and Elementary levels (KG2–Grade 5), instruction follows the U.S. Common Core standards for English Language Arts and Math, with NGSS for Science and C3 for Social Studies, and Arabic is offered for native and non-native speakers along with introductions to Spanish and French, plus regular classes in Art, Information Technology and Qatar History. From Grade 6 onward, the Middle School and High School programs use the College Board's Springboard curriculum for Math and English, aligned to Common Core to prepare students for AP coursework. In Grades 9–12, students may enroll in more than 20 AP courses and can pursue the AP Capstone Diploma, which includes Seminar and Research components. The curriculum emphasizes university readiness, independent thinking and holistic development through integrated academics, the arts, athletics and character education.	Curriculum details The Hamilton International School offers an international curriculum underpinned by US standards. Early Years and Primary follow the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). Secondary follows the US High School Diploma with the option of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. The main language of instruction is English; Arabic A is for Arabic passport holders, Arabic B is for non-native speakers. French and Spanish are offered from Grade 1.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Pre-KG: average 18 students per class; KG1: average 22 students per class; KG2 to Grade 12: average 24 students per class.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression Life and career pathways provide personalized guidance for university and career choices.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented The school includes an Inclusion Department with specialized teachers, therapists and learning assistants. It offers Gifted & Talented enrichment and related support such as linguistic support and counselling.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning GAAQ integrates social and emotional learning (SEL) as part of its student-care framework. The Middle School and High School Counseling Departments provide targeted SEL support, with the Middle School Counselor overseeing grades 6–8 and focusing on social-emotional competencies, and the High School Counselor supporting students' social-emotional and academic growth. The Upper School Guidance Counseling Department explicitly states SEL objectives aligned with the school's core values, including Social-Emotional Awareness, Healthy Relationship Skills, Decision-Making, and Problem-Solving. Advisory classes and the House System offer regular SEL-related activities, including lessons on Digital Citizenship, Responsible Decision Making, Increasing Self-Awareness, and Building Social Skills. The school emphasizes holistic development—academic, social, emotional, physical and cognitive learning—in a zero-tolerance bullying environment built on trust.	Social & emotional learning The Hamilton International School integrates social and emotional learning through a Life Competencies framework. The framework develops interpersonal skills, self‑leadership, emotional intelligence and resilience. It fosters global citizenship and responsible decision‑making. The Life Competencies framework is backed by Cambridge University through Camtree and is embedded across the curriculum. The school provides counselling and mental health initiatives to support student wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) SEN-related support is described as part of ‘special programs' including ELL, learning support and Arabic, with resources allocated to these areas. English is the principal language of instruction, and ELL and learning-support provisions are explicitly included within the school's language policy. The policy notes ongoing collaboration with support services to ensure a strong ELL and SST (Student Support Team) program. The Upper School Counseling Department provides individualized support and interventions, including counseling and collaboration with parents/guardians and teachers, to address students' personal and academic needs. Public materials do not describe a dedicated SEN department or a separate SEN facility; SEN support is described within the broader program of language and learning support.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Hamilton International School provides inclusion and learning support for students with diverse needs. It offers Student Support Services and Gifted & Talented enrichment. Linguistic support is available to assist language learning. Counselling and mental health initiatives are part of the student support provision. The school's approach integrates academic support with wellbeing and access to resources.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the principal language of instruction at GAAQ. Multilingualism is valued, and the Language Policy states that special programs (ELL, learning support, Arabic, etc.) have appropriate resources to support language learning. The policy confirms mother-tongue development is important and that resources include mother-tongue materials and host-country language support. Collaboration with support services is emphasized to ensure a strong ELL/SST program and differentiated language instruction. Language learning is planned with integral assessments and alignment to standards, reflecting a formal, school-wide EAL framework.	English as an additional language The school offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) support to fast‑track English fluency. Students grow in their home languages and explore other world languages. Languages offered include Arabic, French and Spanish. Multilingualism is part of the learning culture and is supported across the curriculum. EAL programs help students access core subjects and participate fully in class.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through GAAQ's guidance and counseling services and SEL framework. The Middle and High School counselors provide ongoing counseling and interventions to support students' social-emotional development and academic progress, with a stated aim to bolster personal and academic growth. The Health Clinic is onsite to address medical needs and support student wellbeing. Mental health awareness is actively promoted, with events and programs led by elementary, middle, and high school counselors, including advisory collaboration and student activities. Advisory structures, a formal SEL curriculum, and campus wellness events together underpin ongoing mental health education and safeguarding.	Mental wellbeing The Hamilton International School provides counselling and mental health initiatives to support student wellbeing. The programs aim to promote resilience and emotional wellbeing. Counselling services are available as part of the Student Support Services. The mental wellbeing program is integrated with academic and pastoral support. The school emphasizes wellbeing through a supportive school culture.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding GAAQ operates under a formal safeguarding framework with designated safeguarding leads and a designated safeguarding policy. The Child Safeguarding and Protection page lists safeguarding leads and designated safeguarding roles across school levels, with designated counselors supporting safeguarding and student protection. A GEMS Safeguarding Policy (2023-24) is published as part of the Key Documents and Policies. The school's safeguarding posture is reinforced through the safeguarding policy and staff roles to ensure student safety and protection are integrated into daily school life.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a formal area of focus at The Hamilton International School. A dedicated safeguarding page is accessible through the school's site navigation. Policies address child protection and student safety. There are established procedures for reporting safeguarding concerns. Safeguarding is integrated into the school's culture and operations to ensure a safe environment for students.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus covers 20,000 square meters and features fully-equipped classrooms in a larger building layout. Interactive, technology-laden classrooms are provided at every level, with dedicated Arabic and Islamic rooms and resource areas. There are dual libraries and quiet work spaces. Visual arts spaces include ceramics and pottery rooms, studios for 3D and 2D art, and a BlackBox theatre; the Performing Arts Program includes a music practice room, piano lab, instrument teaching space, and a recording studio. Athletic spaces comprise a CrossFit zone, a multipurpose sports hall, rooftop court, soccer pitch, shaded playground areas, indoor mini-gyms, and a professional dance studio. The campus is located in Al Wakra.	Facilities overview The Hamilton International School has a brand-new campus in Mesaimeer, Doha. It contains the largest theatre in any school in Qatar, an 850-seat auditorium with balcony seating, a black box theatre, and an indoor sports center with a full-sized basketball court, two swimming pools, tennis courts, a dance studio and a fitness center. Outside facilities include a professional standard football pitch and an athletics track. It also has science laboratories, ICT suites, a music and production facility, bright classrooms, an indoor play area for Kindergarten, three libraries and an Oasis Café. The campus is safeguarded by 24/7 security, CCTV, health and pastoral support, and emergency drills and safety training.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities CrossFit zone; multipurpose sports hall; rooftop sports court; soccer pitch; shaded playground areas; indoor mini-gyms; professional dance studio.	Sports facilities The indoor sports center includes a full-sized basketball court, two swimming pools, tennis courts, a dance studio and a fitness center, with spectator seating for events. Outside, there is a professional standard football pitch and an athletics track.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Interactive, technology-laden classrooms are provided at every level, with dedicated Arabic and Islamic rooms and resource areas. Dual libraries and quiet work spaces support study. Visual arts spaces include ceramics and pottery rooms, and studios for 3D and 2D art, plus a BlackBox theatre. The Performing Arts Program includes a music practice room, piano lab, instrument teaching space, and a recording studio.	Academic facilities World-class science laboratories and ICT suites support practical learning with modern digital technology. A dedicated design technology suite supports hands-on innovation. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and a curriculum that includes IPC (Primary) and The Hamilton Early Years Thematic Curriculum. English is the primary language of learning; French and Spanish are offered as additional languages, with Arabic available to Arabic passport holders and as an option in language study. In the IB Diploma Programme, French, Spanish and Arabic are available at Standard Level or Higher Level, with Arabic B options.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities There are a plethora of afterschool activities and student organizations. Lower School ASAs include Multi-Sport Athletics (Frisbee), Drama, STEM Activities, Eco-Green Club, Reader's Theater, and more. Upper School offers a range of clubs and initiatives such as The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN), Qur'an Recitation, GAAQ Student Council, Doha Medical Conference Review, Qatar Green Building Council, Immerse Education Cambridge Summer School, Visual Arts Creators Exhibition and Inter-school Battle of the Bands, along with Robotics, Coding, Chess, Choir, Yearbook, Photography and other activities. The school supports student leadership through avenues like Student Councils and athletics, and has Eco Club and related environmental initiatives, including Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.	Extra curricular facilities The Hamilton International School provides extensive performing arts facilities, including a dedicated black box performing space, an auditorium and a music production suite. It runs a broad arts program with music, dance and drama as part of the curriculum. The school is part of International Schools Partnership (ISP), enabling overseas trips and exchanges with countries such as Italy, the UAE, Georgia and Sri Lanka.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History GEMS American Academy Qatar opened for the 2014–2015 academic year as GEMS Education's flagship American school in the country. It is backed by GEMS Education, the largest operator of K–12 schools in the world. In 2019, GAAQ received full NEASC accreditation and the first graduating class entered the school, the Class of 2019. The school has earned recognitions such as the Qatar Green Building Council Sustainability Award (2020) and the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award (2021). Additional milestones include MOEHE Culture & Identity Accreditation and UCAS center designation (both in 2022), NHS designation (2022), and the Creative Curriculum Ambassador designation (2023).	History The Hamilton International School opened in 2019 and welcomed its first cohort of students from Kindergarten to Primary, with the strength of International Schools Partnership from day one. In 2020, the Middle School opened. In 2021, the school established an Inclusion Department and opened the High School, introducing the US High School Diploma Programme. In 2024, Hamilton obtained key accreditations: IB Diploma Programme authorization, Qatar National School Accreditation, and NEASC. In 2025, the first graduating cohort completed their studies, and Language for Results International accreditation was awarded.
Community	Community Our community extends beyond current students and includes a network of parents and alumni. The school represents nearly 80 nationalities, and the Parent Association coordinates events such as Earth Day, Autism Awareness Day, Spring Fair, United Nations Day, Pizza Day, Popcorn Day, Family Movie Night and Qatar National Day to bring families together. Community events have included a March 2023 Spring Music Festival and an October 2023 Mental Health Awareness Day featuring student performances, guest speakers and wellbeing activities.	Community The Hamilton International School hosts community events that involve families and students. The Spring Fair, organized by the Parent Council in 2025, brought families together for a day of creativity, learning and enterprise, with students acting as vendors. The Matilda Jr. production in March 2024 demonstrated the school's performing arts program, with four sold-out shows and about 1,900 attendees, and was supported by the Doha Players and parent volunteers. In March 2024, Mariam Farid visited The Hamilton School, sharing her journey and emphasizing resilience and empowerment for youth.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association GAAQ's Parent Association is a core group of volunteers and elected parent leadership who organize events for students, parents, staff and the wider school community. They meet weekly throughout the year to strengthen the sense of school community and encourage parental engagement. The PA hosts and helps organize events including Parent Coffee Mornings, Earth Day, Autism Awareness Day, Spring Fair, Pizza Day, United Nations Day, Popcorn Day, Family Movie Night and Qatar National Day. A group of parent representatives maintains an open communication channel with school leadership and the Parent Relations Executive to share feedback on general school matters. The Association welcomes new families, serves as a resource for parent questions, and provides volunteering opportunities to support the school, reflecting the community's nearly 80 nationalities.	Parent teacher association The Hamilton has a strong parent-school partnership that includes a Parents Advisory Board, the Parent Council, and Friends of Hamilton, which involve parents by providing feedback to leadership, participating in school events, and volunteering for fundraising activities. The Spring Fair in 2025 was organized by the Parent Council, illustrating active parent involvement in school life. Parent Council volunteers are also acknowledged as contributors to events such as Matilda, with mentions of the Parent Council's support in the production.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers an American curriculum aligned to U.S. national standards and the Common Core, with Advanced Placement (AP) courses. AP courses include AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP English Language and Composition, AP Spanish Language and Culture, and AP French Language and Culture. ELL support is provided in the Upper School to assist language development. NEASC accreditation and MOE oversight underpin the school's governance and accreditation status.	Academic & intellectual The Hamilton runs 60+ extra-curricular activities across sports, arts, academics, leadership and sustainability. International opportunities include ISP programs such as Model United Nations, Chess Masters, Cultural Exchange, Artists, Scientists and Filmmakers, linked with ISP schools worldwide. These ISP experiences include debates on global issues and participation in regional and virtual competitions.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative GAAQ provides arts-integrated opportunities, including a Music Production Studio. AP Art courses, such as AP Art 2D Design and AP Art 3D Design, are offered. El Periódico is a student publication produced by Spanish-language students.	Arts & creative The Performing and Visual Arts program offers specialist classes in Visual Arts, Music, and Performing Arts from Kindergarten through graduation. Students can pursue LAMDA qualifications as the school is an accredited examination center, and regularly participate in school productions such as Matilda, Shrek and The Wizard of Oz, as well as musical assemblies and an annual Talent Show. Specialist facilities include an 850-seat main theater, a black box theatre, a dedicated performing arts room and soundproof music rooms.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English is the main language of instruction; Arabic, Spanish and French are also offered. The curriculum includes an introduction to Spanish and French languages. A Spanish-language student publication, El Periódico, showcases language and culture. Model United Nations and other cultural activities support global citizenship.	Cultural & language Multilingual learning is central, with English language fluency support and opportunities to study Arabic, French and Spanish. Arabic and Islamic heritage are supported through Arabic lessons for Arab passport holders and Islamic studies for Muslim students. Home-language development is encouraged alongside world language study.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school offers after-school clubs and sports teams. The Eco-Club provides environmental interest and activities. Field trips throughout Qatar and experiences to other locations are part of the program. Model United Nations and other clubs encourage collaborative, extracurricular participation.	Social & hobbies The enrichment program includes social and hobby activities such as ISP Artists and ISP Chess Masters. ISP Artists provides a custom art curriculum with workshops and virtual exhibitions, while ISP Chess Masters offers regional in-person qualifiers and a virtual international championship. School productions and musical performances provide additional creative and social outlets.
Community & service	Community & service Students in grades 6–12 must complete at least 25 service hours each year. Service-learning and volunteering opportunities are embedded in the Upper School program. The school emphasizes community engagement and global citizenship. National Honor Society designation recognizes student achievement.	Community & service ISP Changemakers focuses on social impact projects, offering design thinking workshops and grants for real-life initiatives. The program enables collaboration across ISP schools on issues relevant to local communities and the wider world.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Model United Nations and service programs cultivate leadership and public speaking. AP courses support college readiness and provide opportunities for advanced study. The school is approved as a UCAS center for processing applications to British universities. National Honor Society designation recognizes student leadership and service.	Leadership & professional Life competencies, backed by Cambridge University through Camtree, develop self-leadership and interpersonal skills. Future Pathways provides personalized guidance for university and career choices, with specialist support and industry connections to access opportunities aligned with students' ambitions.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school provides after-school clubs and sports teams. The campus is a 20,000 square-meter, purpose-built facility designed to support student wellbeing. The balanced program includes arts, athletics, and extracurriculars to support physical and mental health.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Inclusion and learning support is available, alongside Student Support Services, Gifted & Talented enrichment, linguistic support, counselling and mental health initiatives. The school emphasizes wellbeing within a diverse, supportive community.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school offers an enriched American curriculum with AP course options (20+). The Early Years and Elementary programs emphasize an American approach to learning, with English-language instruction supported by ESL services for students learning English as an additional language.	Language provision English is the main language of instruction. Arabic A is offered for Arabic passport holders and Arabic B for non-native speakers; EAL support is provided for multilingual learners. French and Spanish are offered from Grade 1. In the IB Diploma Programme, students can study French, Spanish and Arabic at various levels, including Arabic A LAL and Arabic B, with English as the language of instruction.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Kindergarten is immersed in an English-speaking environment, with English as the language of instruction. Arabic A is offered for Arabic passport holders, and Arabic B is offered for non-native speakers; French and Spanish are offered from Grade 1.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards Eco-Schools Green Flag award; Duke of Edinburgh Award approved to be offered; 100% university acceptance rate since first graduating class in 2019.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations NEASC-accredited; last NEASC visit in 2025.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Review age and grade placement using the Age Requirements and Grade Placement chart. The chart maps American UK equivalents and typical ages from Pre-K (3-4) through Grade 12 (17-18). 2. Submit an online application via Apply Online on the Admissions page. The Admissions Process page links to Apply Online and to Admissions FAQ for guidance. 3. Use the Virtual Admissions Center or schedule a campus tour to learn more about the school and see the facilities. 4. Review tuition and fees. Tuition is set in accordance with the fee structure set by GEMS Education and approved by Qatar's Ministry of Education (MOE). 5. Check Admissions FAQ for additional information and next steps.	Admissions 01 Get in touch today. Reach out to our Admissions Team or complete the online inquiry form to register interest or ask what you need to know. 02 Join us for a tour. Book a tour or schedule a virtual call to explore the campus in Doha, meet Admissions specialists and inquire about school life and curricula. 03 Application submission. Submit the registration form along with key documentation, listed in FAQs. Overseas applicants applying for Grade 2 and above require the latest or end-of-year report, attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Qatar Embassy in the school's country. 04 Assessment and interview. The admissions team will provide information on the assessment date and time, which is held online for overseas applicants. A one-off, non-refundable application fee of 300 QAR must accompany each application from Primary to High School. 05 Offer. Successful applicants receive an offer letter within 48 hours of attending the assessment and providing all the required documents. 06 Acceptance. Once you receive an offer, you have one week to complete registration and pay the registration fee of 5,000 QAR, which is non-refundable and non-transferable. 07 Welcome to The Hamilton International School. After acceptance, you will be invited to visit the school before the term begins to meet the staff and learn about day-to-day operations; you will then start on your first day.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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