Comparing 7 schools side by side in USD.
KAIS is conveniently located at Toraigyrov Street 43, nestled in an ecologically clean area near the heart of Almaty. Our prime location ensures easy and comfortable access for families commuting across the city.
KAIS provides a comprehensive educational pathway structured across three stages. A student's journey begins in Primary School (Grades 1 to 4), progresses through Secondary School (Grades 5 to 8), and completes in High School (Grades 9 to 11).
KAIS is a co-educational full-day school. It does not offer boarding facilities.
KAIS proudly welcomes a vibrant and diverse student body. Mirroring the rich multiculturalism of Kazakhstan – a country that cherishes and unites over 130 nationalities – our school deeply values international diversity, fostering an inclusive environment where every global citizen feels at home.
KAIS provides multi-layered support tailored to each student's academic and emotional journey. Within the classroom, our strict limit of under 21 students allows teachers to focus intensely on individual progression, supporting students as they master each subject. For emotional and developmental well-being, on-site psychologists and speech therapists are available to assist with communication and peer integration. As students advance, support expands to include dedicated SAT and IELTS preparation, alongside our defining Career Navigation Program. This initiative matches high school students with mentors studying at universities who support them with exam preparation and university admissions. KAIS further offers expert college counselling. Our counselors boast 15+ years of global admissions experience and guide the students through university applications, real internship placements, portfolio preparation, and research opportunities in partnership with Kazakh American University.
While proudly rooted in Kazakhstan, KAIS operates as an independent, globally minded institution. Rather than affiliating with a single foreign country, we offer an international educational experience by integrating the Kazakhstani national curriculum with premier American (AP), British (BTEC and Cambridge English Qualifications), and international (IB PYP) frameworks.
KAIS does not have any religious affiliation and operates as a secular educational institution.
The school operates on a full-day schedule, with the educational day running from 8:30 to 18:00. This timeframe includes academic lessons, extracurriculars, club activities, supervised periods for completing homework, and scheduled breaks that include four meals in the school cafeteria.
KAIS offers a dedicated school delivery service for its students. This transport option provides safe, daily travel from home to the campus and back. Families can utilize this service to assist with managing their daily school commute in Almaty.
KAIS Canteen provides three meals a day for primary and middle school students and two meals a day for high school students. The menu is drawn up with a paediatrician and complies with the Sanitary and Epidemiological Authority (SES) requirements. The canteen has two halls—one for primary and middle school children and another for high school—with a separate area for preschool children.
The school is a structural division of the Kazakh American University.
KAIS School follows the obligatory state educational program of Kazakhstan, integrating teaching methods drawn from both Kazakh and American pedagogical science. The academic structure begins with a preschool grade, followed by primary school for grades 1 to 4, basic secondary school for grades 5 to 9, and secondary school for grades 10 to 11. A central feature of the curriculum is its trilingual framework, which introduces English, Kazakh, and Russian in the early years with instructional hours gradually increasing at each subsequent educational stage. As students progress into the upper secondary levels, the academic program differentiates into specialized natural-mathematical and social-humanitarian tracks to focus on specific subject areas. At the conclusion of the 11th grade, students graduate with the official secondary education qualifications of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Optimal class size up to 21 students.
The KAIS School is a structural division of the Kazakh American University and opened in 1998 with 11th grade and two 10th-grade classes, one taught in Russian and the other in English. In 1999, grades 7–11 were opened with English instruction, and in 2000 grades 5–6 were added with Russian instruction and 30% English glossary in the classroom. In 2002 the Primary Educational Complex was created, including a pre-school Rostock, and in 2003 the KAIS School was associated by UNESCO. In 2006 two first grades were adopted with Kazakh instruction; in 2008 the school merged with the PEC; in 2014 state certification was passed as a general education secondary school. In 2016 a contract with the Swiss-American School enabled a second high school diploma; the training model was modernized around 2014–2015; in 2021 maintenance was completed, the building meets global standards, and the school rebranded as the School of Multifaceted Opportunities—KAIS School, with free sports and art programs and extended office-hour study opportunities.
The school is located in an ecologically clean area near the center of Almaty. Optimal class size is up to 21 students. The educational process runs from 8:30 to 16:30 under the supervision of teachers. Safe transportation of children to school and back home is provided.
The school organizes a continuous learning process with educational and methodological support in English. It optimizes classroom load by increasing and varying forms of independent work, including teacher-guided tasks. The school emphasizes student responsibility for their own labor and the development of independent thinking, preparing students for study at the Kazakh-American University in English. Gifted students may pursue an individualized educational trajectory.
Sports sections and art classes are provided by the school free of charge or on preferential terms. The arts program supports the development of students' aesthetic talents. Circles and studios are organized in the interests of children to expand, understand, and deepen knowledge beyond the lessons.
The school prepares students for training at the Kazakh-American University in English. The mission emphasizes forming independent thinking and motivation for learning with English-language preparation. The school aims to provide a continuous learning process and educational support in English.
Circles and studios are organized in the interests of children to expand, understand, and deepen knowledge beyond the lessons. Circle work has educational and developmental value. One of the ways to optimize the educational process and the full development of the child's personality is to organize circles and studios in the interests of children.
The school discloses the potential and personal qualities of the students and develops motivation for learning. It fosters independent thinking and the ability to freely express oneself, to be responsible in relation to others, and to cooperate. The school prepares highly educated students capable of continuing their studies at prestigious universities in Kazakhstan and abroad. Gifted students may engage in an individualized educational trajectory.
The school is located in an ecologically clean area near the center of Almaty. The educational day runs from 8:30 to 16:30 under the supervision of teachers. Sports sections and art classes are provided by the school, supporting physical and mental wellbeing. The classroom environment emphasizes comfort, friendliness, and mutual assistance.
The school has used English, Russian, and Kazakh in instruction at different times. English instruction was present from 1999 for grades 7–11, with 30% English glossary in Russian classrooms in 2000. Kazakh instruction began in 2006. The mission emphasizes aligning the educational process with international standards and preparing students for English-language study at the Kazakh American University.
English and Russian have been used as languages of instruction at KAIS School. English was used for grades 7–11 starting in 1999. In 2000, Russian-language classrooms included 30% English glossary. Kazakh instruction began in 2006.
The school offered the opportunity to attend language courses in the United Kingdom.
The admissions journey begins with families scheduling a personal interview for their child. Following the interview, students complete English and Mathematics proficiency assessments on our custom-built, digital testing platform. To ensure every student thrives, our admissions team carefully evaluates both the interview insights and test results to offer the most supportive placement – either in our full English-immersion curriculum or our blended mixed-language classes.
KAIS focuses on keeping our baseline tuition affordable. While we do not offer full scholarships at this time, we are fully committed to supporting families through multi-child sibling discounts, flexible installment plans, and prepayment incentives. This structure allows us to ensure a world-class education – providing an exceptionally diverse international curricula and growing student leadership programs – while remaining the core fees affordable.
The KAIS does not provide specific information regarding the operation of a formal waitlist or pool system.
Galaxy International School is located in Almaty, Kazakhstan, at Microdistrict 4, 9 (postal code A10A5M5). The direct contacts are +7 702 203 00 20 and +7 727 243 77 80, and the email is info@galaxy.edu.kz. Directions provide a map via 2GIS.
Primary and Secondary levels, following the Cambridge Curriculum: Cambridge Primary; Cambridge Lower Secondary; Cambridge Upper Secondary; Cambridge Advanced.
International school offering Cambridge International Programmes and Qualifications.
Educational psychologist and a full-time school psychologist provide learning support, including counselling and assessment. Homeroom teachers offer additional assistance to individual students.
Kazakhstan
Day starts 08:40 and ends 16:10. There are eight lessons with scheduled snacks and breaks; snacks are 09:20-09:35 and 14:20-14:35, and lunch is 12:50-13:30. Clubs or prep run 15:15-16:10.
Day school; no boarding is offered.
Uniform is worn by students. The uniform set includes Female primary (Grades 1-5): skirt, waistcoat, knitted sweater, blouse and bow; Male primary (Grades 1-5): waistcoat, knitted sweater, trousers, shirt and tie; Female secondary (Grades 6-12): waistcoat, knitted sweater, trousers, blouse and bow; Male secondary (Grades 6-12): waistcoat, knitted sweater, trousers, shirt and tie. The PE kit includes sports trousers, a T-shirt and a track jacket.
Students may have breakfast, lunch and a snack on school days. The meals are hot, nutritious and well-balanced, prepared on site in the school kitchen under the supervision of the school nurse to meet the standards of the Ministry of Healthcare of Kazakhstan. The weekly menu is posted on notice boards. Meals are provided by a catering company contracted with the school, and parents must arrange a contract with the company if they wish to have their child eat at school.
Galaxy International School is a private, co-educational day school and is part of BILIM ORDA, an education group that owns a network of institutions in Kazakhstan. Governance is by a Board of Trustees appointed by BILIM ORDA, which sets the school's vision and ensures legal and policy compliance. The Director oversees day-to-day management and reports to the Board, with the authority to form the Senior Leadership Team.
Primary (Grade 0–5) core subjects English, Mathematics, Science and Global Perspectives follow the Cambridge Primary Pathway and are taught in English, with Computing, Fine Art, Music and Physical Education also taught in English. Kazakh language (Reading & Writing) is offered as part of the Kazakh National Curriculum, and from Grade 2 students may choose Turkish, Russian or Korean as Modern Foreign Languages. Cambridge Primary is benchmarked with consistent standards and uses Cambridge Primary Progression Tests and Cambridge Primary Checkpoint for assessment. Lower Secondary Curriculum (Grades 6–8) covers English, Mathematics and Science and is designed to prepare students for IGCSE, with Cambridge Lower Secondary Progression Tests and Checkpoint used for assessment. Upper Secondary Curriculum (Grades 9–10) follows a two-year IGCSE programme with students sitting at least five IGCSE subjects in the May/June series, forming a foundation for AS/A Levels or the IB Diploma. AS/A Levels Curriculum describes Cambridge A Levels as the Cambridge qualification; typically three subjects over two years, with AS and A2 components, six grades (A–E), and university admissions worldwide; students also study English, Pure Mathematics, Physical Education and local compulsory subjects, choosing additional subjects from available options.
Approximately 6:1 (415 students and 66 teachers)
Career Counselling provides university admissions guidance; individual counselling addresses academic, social and personal needs; classroom guidance in Upper Secondary covers university admissions and guest lectures; student appraisals involve counsellors, teachers and parents to plan a feasible career path.
Galaxy International School offers a structured social and emotional learning program across Primary and Secondary. In Primary, Personal, Social, Health & Education (PSHE) helps children understand themselves and others, develop relationships, build positive self-esteem, form values, and make healthy choices. It also develops decision-making and assertiveness and promotes a healthy lifestyle. In Secondary, Pastoral Care provides mentoring and a comprehensive programme that embeds social, moral, spiritual and cultural development throughout learning. The guiding statements emphasize balancing academic guidance with psychological support and developing emotional resilience, international-mindedness and respect. Together these elements aim to prepare students to be confident, responsible global citizens.
The school provides Learning Support in Primary with access to an Educational Psychologist and a dedicated Pastoral Care team. The primary programme supports students to reach their full potential and address individual needs. The Secondary Learning Support programme is designed to help students with mild learning difficulties advance in a mainstream environment. Key services include an Educational Psychologist, EAL (English as an Additional Language) support, a homeroom teacher and co-curricular support. These supports help students develop self-awareness, confidence and independent study habits.
EAL support is provided in the Secondary School. EAL sessions are provided in English and focus on bridging identified gaps in ability. The course is individualized to address the specific needs of each student and will be coordinated with the current core content curriculum being taught. The aim is to enable the child to transfer to the mainstream class.
Mental wellbeing is supported through a full-time school psychologist who provides counselling for issues including school refusal, anxiety, depression, anger and peer difficulties. The school psychologist also conducts assessments of social, emotional and coping skills. PSHE and Pastoral Care contribute to emotional, intellectual and physical development within the learning experience, with Secondary Pastoral Care offering daily mentoring by a homeroom teacher and a broad programme of activities to support students.
1. Initial inquiry: The Admissions Process begins when candidates or their parents contact GIS Almaty. Staff provide general information about school programmes, admissions process, school daily hours, tuition fees, and vacancies in the class. This stage helps families understand what GIS offers and what to expect next.
2. Admissions examination: Registered candidates take a CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) admissions examination and an interview with the Vice Principal for Academics. The examination assesses cognitive abilities and the interview provides an opportunity to discuss readiness and fit. The combined process helps determine the candidate's suitability for GIS programmes and grade level.
3. Admissions Committee: Formed by the Director, the Admissions Committee evaluates candidates in light of their examination results, age, candidate priority status, previous school records, class vacancies and other criteria when making enrolment decisions. The committee considers all information before making a decision to enrol or reject the candidate. The decision is then announced to the public.
4. Admissions Documents: Having completed basic financial commitments, candidates or their parents/carers submit all the admissions documents in a manner specified by the School. The School reviews the documents as part of finalising enrolment.
5. Order: The candidates are officially deemed as enrolled by an order issued by the school. This formal order completes the admissions process and confirms enrolment.
Merit-based Discounts: GIS currently enrolled students in grades 2–8 may be eligible for a merit-based discount. Eligibility requires students to score above 90% in all Cambridge examination sections; Grades 2–5 may require recommendation letters from classroom and homeroom teachers, while Grades 6–8 must accumulate 150 merit points by 25 May. The discount applies for one academic year and cannot be combined with other offers, except for early payment and sibling discounts. The discount amount is 10%. Applications are not necessary; students achieving over 90% on progression or checkpoint tests are automatically eligible.
Merit-based Scholarships: For current GIS students in grades 10–12, the GIS Scholarship Program provides a tuition discount and textbook coverage for one academic year, with renewal contingent on meeting criteria. Selection criteria include high scores in IGCSE or AS-level examinations, a minimum of 150 merit points, notable achievements in academics, sports, or the arts, community engagement, and a GPA of 85% or higher. Recipients must maintain academic excellence, a clean disciplinary record, and active contributions to the school community; the scholarship is renewable annually through examination and cannot be combined with other discounts except for certain allowances. Applications should be sent by email to the Secondary Principal with relevant certificates and documents by May 25th each year. For 10th Grade: IGCSE results must meet defined criteria (e.g., at least three A grades across specified groups); For 11th Grade: AS-level results require at least two A grades and one B across two subject groups; the scholarship criteria also consider notable accomplishments and community engagement.
Haileybury Almaty is located at 112 Al-Farabi Ave, Almaty, Kazakhstan. It is in the Almaty city area with access to major roads and public transport. The school operates a pupil transport service with its own fleet of buses.
The school has a Reception, Junior School and Senior School; it also offers IGCSE and A-Level programmes.
The school is a British international school.
784 pupils; 37 nationalities represented.
The school provides EAL/English Academy provision.
The school has a British affiliation.
The school offers pupil transport using its own fleet of Toyota Hiace minibuses and Electrobus Maxus EV90 buses. Each bus is staffed with a driver and a school bus attendant; BatOnRoute software provides live updates.
Boarding is currently not available. The school is considering opening boarding for Senior School pupils aged 13+.
Pupils wear a school uniform, purchasable at the Haileybury Almaty school shop and/or Esentai Mall, 3rd floor, Haileybury Almaty boutique.
Dining is in the Dining Hall with a daily varied menu. Freshly prepared soups, breads, curries, vegan and vegetarian options, and a wide selection of fruits, salads, and desserts are offered. In partnership with FG Company, Haileybury Almaty provides catering and works with students on sports nutrition and dietary requirements; the School Menu for 2025-2026 is available for download.
Haileybury Almaty has a House system based on Haileybury in the UK. Every pupil and academic staff member belongs to one of four Houses: Attlee, Bartle Frere, Edmonstone, and Kipling. The House calendar features competitions across sport, arts, and academics, culminating in Speech Day with House Cups.
Haileybury Almaty is governed by the Board of Governors for Haileybury Almaty and Haileybury Astana. The Chair is Ian Hunt.
The school teaches a British curriculum with iGCSE and A-Level examinations. It prepares students for A-levels and access to world-class universities. Haileybury Almaty was founded in 2008.
Maximum class size is 22 pupils.
A-Level Results 2025: 67% of grades were A or A; 84% of grades were A to B. Graduates moved on to world-class universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, LSE, UCL, Brown, Parsons, and other top universities; around $4 million in university scholarships were awarded.
Graduates pursue places at world-class universities across the UK, US, Europe, Asia and beyond, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, LSE, UCL, Brown, and Parsons.
Senior School scholarships are offered for eligible pupils, including A-Level scholarships for 16-year-olds; scholarships cover tuition, learning materials, and costs of international exams. Scholarships are open to citizens of Kazakhstan.
Haileybury Almaty supports social and emotional learning through a vertically structured House system that ensures each pupil is known and supported. The House System comprises four Houses (Attlee, Bartle Frere, Edmonstone, Kipling) that socialise, compete in a calendar of activities, and culminate in Speech Day, fostering a positive community. The Wellbeing Team, led by the Deputy Head (Pastoral), works with the School Counsellors to promote wellbeing and provide counselling services. The School Counsellors, Lidiya Beisembayeva (Junior School) and Salima Sergazy (Senior School), offer group counselling to develop empathy and social skills, and individual support for issues such as communication difficulties, sleep or diet, and negative emotions. Safeguarding and a speak-up culture underpin daily life, with staff including Heads of House and House Tutors playing active roles in student welfare.
Haileybury Almaty is an inclusive school with a dedicated Learning Support Department led by the Head of Learning Support who coordinates SEND provision and liaises with Housemasters and SLT. The school identifies pupils with SEND early through monitoring and uses an Assess, Plan, Do and Review cycle, with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) prepared for pupils receiving support and reviewed termly. The Learning Support Department is staffed by specialists who support pupils with specific learning difficulties and work with classroom teachers to provide in-class and small-group support. Where necessary, assessments may involve external professionals and exam concessions are provided in line with JCQ regulations. The school provides a range of specialist SEND facilities to support access to the curriculum, but notes it does not have facilities to support complex and severe needs.
Haileybury Almaty recognises a diverse student community and that many pupils use English as an Additional Language (EAL). EAL learners may be in the early stages requiring withdrawal support, developing competence in English, or competent in English but needing guidance for higher-level study. The aims are for EAL pupils to develop confidence and competence in English, to use English as a means of learning across the whole school, and to use English as the primary language of communication with staff and fellow students. The school identifies EAL needs, monitors progress, and recognises that EAL provision is a whole‑school responsibility, with a Head of Language and Learning overseeing policy and provision, supported by an English Academy Coordinator and dedicated EAL staff. Intensive withdrawal support is provided by the English Academy for Years 3-8; Senior School provides targeted EAL provision for older pupils; progress is tracked with records and termly assessments; if SEND issues are identified, EAL learners have access to both SEND and EAL support.
Haileybury Almaty provides mental wellbeing support through a Wellbeing Team led by the Deputy Head (Pastoral) that oversees safeguarding and wellbeing, with a Whole School Counsellor and dedicated Junior and Senior School Counsellors. The Counsellors offer group counselling to develop empathy and social skills and individual counselling to address difficulties such as communication challenges, sleep or diet issues, and negative emotions. The PSHE programme teaches mental health topics to build emotional resilience, and peer mentoring is promoted to support wellbeing. The SENCO ensures access to SEND provisions where appropriate, and counselling is framed as both a preventive intervention and ongoing support. Haileybury Almaty maintains an open-door culture so pupils can raise concerns in a safe environment.
Haileybury Almaty safeguards and promotes the welfare of children as a core responsibility. Listening to children and a 'speak up' culture are fundamental to safeguarding, enabling early intervention. All adults at Haileybury Almaty, including teachers, House Tutors, Heads of House, administrative staff, volunteers, temporary staff and Governors, play a full and active part in protecting pupils. Staff commit to providing a caring, positive, safe and stimulating environment that promotes the social, physical and moral development of the individual child.
1. Book a School Tour or Start with the Application Form. The school offers a consultation with the Admissions team when a tour is booked. If you already have all the information you need, you may proceed directly to completing the application form. This step begins the admissions process and leads to the entrance assessment.
2. Entrance Assessment Confirmation. The school confirms receipt of the application and invites the child to the entrance assessment by email. The invitation email includes the time and date of the assessment. The invitation is sent promptly after the application is received.
3. Submit Documents and Pay the Registration Fee. After the assessment is confirmed, parents submit school reports for the last two academic years and provide the current school's contact details for a reference request. The school requires payment of the non-refundable registration fee of 50,000 KZT. The documents and payment are part of the enrollment process.
4. Interview Stage. Shortlisted candidates have an interview with the Head of Junior/Senior School. The interview is part of the admissions process. The interview occurs after the submission of documents and the registration fee.
5. Announcement of Results. Admissions decisions are shared with parents. The results communicate whether admission is granted. The next step, if admitted, is enrollment.
6. Enrollment Documentation. For successful candidates, parents submit all required documents to complete the enrollment process before the start date at school.
The school offers a limited number of full and partial A-Level scholarships for high‑achieving external candidates in Kazakhstan for the 2027–2029 academic years (Years 12–13). Applicants must be citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan, be 15–16 years old (date of birth between 01.09.2010 – 31.08.2011), have a strong academic record, demonstrate financial need, and be external candidates (not currently enrolled at Haileybury Almaty). The Scholarship Process requires participation in the Scholarship Olympiad Programme, which involves: 1) an online subject Olympiad (Round 1), 2) an offline subject Olympiad (Round 2), and 3) a final interview with the Haileybury Almaty Scholarship Committee. Olympiads are available in Computer Science, Mathematics, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and English; you may participate in one or more Olympiad subjects, depending on strengths. Dates and registration are published for each Olympiad (for example, Application deadline 18 September 2026; Round 1 23 September 2026; Round 2 3 October 2026; English Olympiad 11 November 2026, etc.). Final scholarship decisions are based on Olympiad performance, interview results, academic background, and financial need, and are awarded in line with Haileybury Almaty's internal school policies. For more information about the scholarship programme, contact the Scholarship/Compliance Manager and the Head of Admissions via the contact details listed on the scholarships page.
Charterhouse Almaty is located in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The Admissions Office is in Almaty city, 400 Kapparov Street, Block 5G, 2nd Floor. The campus sits on a serene 3-hectare site with more space per student than any other school in Almaty. It is the first overseas campus of Charterhouse, UK and is part of the Charterhouse family of schools.
Junior School (Reception to Year 6, age 4-10); Senior School (Years 7-10, age 11-16); Sixth Form (Year 12) opens in September 2027; Boarding House (Years 9-12) opens in September 2027; All Year Groups Open (Reception to Year 13) by September 2028.
First overseas campus of Charterhouse, UK, in Central Asia, delivered in partnership with International Educational Corporation. Sister school of Charterhouse UK. British independent education.
A Learning Support Department provides individual and group support for students with SEN; English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available; The King's English Programme supports students lacking sufficient English from Year 3 onward.
United Kingdom
The daily schedule is structured yet flexible, balancing core academic subjects with co-curricular and super-curricular activities. Charterhouse Almaty operates an extended school day.
Boarding House opens in September 2027 for Years 9–12 (age 11–16). The boarding is optional, providing an on-campus living and learning environment. The on-campus arrangement is designed to closely reflect the boarding experience at Charterhouse, UK.
Dining is an integral part of school life at Charterhouse Almaty.
The school is part of the Charterhouse family of schools, a network with a long history in British education spanning more than 400 years.
The Charterhouse Almaty curriculum is a British independent school education delivered in partnership with Charterhouse, UK. Junior School (Reception to Year 6) follows a UK based curriculum rooted in the English National Curriculum, enhanced by the Charterhouse approach and integrated with Kazakhstan context. UK taught subjects such as Geography, Music and Drama are delivered with Kazakh cultural content. The school integrates Kazakhstan heritage within the curriculum and community while maintaining high academic standards. It uses a fully embedded Super-Curriculum that extends beyond examinations, including independent reading, academic competitions, guest lectures and university style Sixth Form electives to develop research, debate, critical thinking and articulate communication.
The curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for higher education at leading universities worldwide. It emphasizes university ready skills such as critical thinking, research and articulate communication, embedded in the Super-Curriculum. These competencies align with what top universities look for in applicants.
The school is academically selective and offers a fully embedded Super-Curriculum.
Pastoral care is bespoke; specialist tutoring and House teams invest time in getting to know students individually, supporting progress and wellbeing. A House-based structure creates a close-knit community where adults know every student well and guidance is personalised. Wellbeing is placed at the heart of school life, with a broad co-curricular and super-curricular programme to develop character and leadership. The tutoring and mentoring approach emphasises forming positive relationships, staying active and purposeful, and unlocking individual talents. The pastoral framework supports both academic and personal growth.
Charterhouse Almaty will have a Learning Support Department providing individual and group support tailored to each student's needs. Children with SEN who meet entry requirements can enrol, with learning needs supported by the department's provisions.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision is available. Students with limited English may receive intensive EAL support, and from Year 3 onwards The King's English Programme provides dedicated small-group support to accelerate language development.
Wellbeing for young people means staying safe, eating and sleeping well, being active and forming positive relationships. Our pastoral teams will take time to know each student as an individual and provide support when needed, keeping wellbeing at the heart of the school experience.
The school provides safeguarding and pupil protection services.
The admissions process comprises six steps. Enquiry & Visit: Contact our Admissions team to arrange a personal visit (or virtual if you are unable to visit) for an introduction to the school and its curriculum. The school follows a UK-based curriculum rooted in the English National Curriculum, with Kazakh context. Families learn about how Kazakh language and local studies are integrated into the timetable, and about the Junior and Senior School structure. The visit helps families understand the admissions pathway and what to expect during the process. 1) Enquiry & Visit is completed by arranging the visit and learning about the curriculum and school structure. 2) The visit provides information about the British curriculum with Kazakh context and how it is delivered in Junior and Senior Schools. 3) The visit supports families in understanding next steps in the admissions process.
Yes, a limited number of scholarships based on academic achievement and talent are available. Scholarships are awarded on a case-by-case basis.
Almaty International School is located at 185 Baiken Ashimov Street, Kalkaman 2 Micro-District, Nauryzbay District, Almaty, Kazakhstan 050006. The address places it in the Kalkaman area of Almaty and is accessible by road. The campus serves preschool through Secondary IV (Pre-K through 12).
Preschool through Secondary IV (Pre-K through 12)
Private, nonprofit international school
The student body represents over 32 nationalities
Affiliated with the United States Department of State Office of Overseas Schools
Lunches are provided by FG Company in a buffet. 3- to 4-year-old students are served in their classrooms. The menu includes an in-house bakery, a salad bar with fresh fruits and vegetables, dietetic options and vegetarian dishes, two entree selections with sides, two soups, and beverages; Korean food is offered for older students daily. Payments for the lunch program are accepted in cash or by card at the school office and must be made in advance on a monthly basis. If lunches are funded by a company, payments can be made by wire transfer in Kazakh tenge for a minimum of five months; an invoice and closing document are provided by FG Company.
The school is part of Quality Schools International (QSI), a non-profit organization with 35 schools in 29 countries.
The school has mastery learning with an American curriculum. English is the language of instruction. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered, including the AP Capstone Diploma Program. AP Capstone requires completing AP Seminar and AP Research with a 3 or better along with four other AP exams. The curriculum includes Russian and Kazakh language and culture. After-school activities, music, and sports programs are available.
The school has about 400 students and 64 teachers (48 full-time foreign teachers and 16 language teachers), yielding a student-teacher ratio of about 6:1.
In 2020-2021, 58 students were enrolled in AP courses and 87 AP exams were taken. The mean AP score was 3.1, with 73% of scores at 3 or higher. AIS offers the AP Capstone Diploma, awarded to students who complete AP Seminar and AP Research with a grade of 3 or better along with four other AP exams.
Graduate SAT data for 2020-2021 shows a mean composite of 1273, with Critical Reading 620 and Mathematics 671. Recent AIS graduates have gained admission to universities in the United States and abroad, including Harvard University, Northwestern University, University of California Berkeley, University of Pennsylvania, Amherst College, Brown University, Johns Hopkins University, MIT, and New York University.
AIS supports social and emotional learning through the QSI Success Orientations, including Kindness and Politeness, Independent Endeavor, and Concern for Others. The school provides counseling and behavioral guidance through a dedicated Counseling program with whole-school activities, class lessons, small-group sessions, and individual counseling to address academic and social-emotional needs. Counseling topics include guiding students through cultural adjustments, relationship issues, conflict resolution, problem-solving, anger/frustration management, and crisis intervention. The program emphasizes well-being as a core focus of student development and prepares students to engage as global citizens. AIS also emphasizes 21st Century Skills and project-based learning to foster collaboration and empathy.
Quality Schools International has a special needs policy forming the learning support framework for students with mild to moderate learning challenges. The learning support program provides accommodations to help students master the curriculum, with regional Learning Support Coordinators and on-site Learning Support Teachers and paraprofessionals. AIS can develop and support appropriate academic and behavioral learning plans to meet individual student needs. For specifics on AIS learning support services, contact the school directly for details.
The language of instruction is English.
The well-being of students is prioritized; counselors work with students, parents, teachers, and the administrative team through classroom lessons and individual counseling to support academic and social-emotional needs. The counseling program offers academic support and social/emotional support, including guidance on cultural adjustments, relationship issues, conflict resolution, problem-solving, anger/frustration management, and crisis intervention. Secondary counseling topics include academic planning and post-secondary planning.
AIS follows the CEESA Safeguarding and Child Protection Statement and Commitments. Safeguarding policies include staff training, safer recruitment, and procedures for safeguarding and reporting concerns. A comprehensive Child Protection Handbook outlines reporting protocols and a school-based Child Protection Team, and child protection instruction aligns with QSI success orientations such as concern for others, group interaction, independence, and responsibility.
STEP 1: Schedule a School Tour. Applications are accepted throughout the year, and admission is based on space availability. To visit the campus, schedule a Tour. STEP 2: Submit Application Form. Access the application form on OpenApply. An OpenApply Tutorial is available to help families complete the form. STEP 3: Submit Documents. Documents are uploaded into OpenApply in PDF format and include a passport-sized photo, copy of Passport, copies of school records from the last two years, and copies of secondary transcripts for students 14 years old and older. You will need to bring hard copies of the following on the first day of school: Medical Form
Al-Farabi Avenue 118/15, Almaty 050044, Kazakhstan. The Main Campus offers Kindergarten to IB Diploma Programme for 2–18 year olds. The school is located in central Almaty, described as a beautiful location among the green hills with views of the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains and the city of Almaty.
Early Years Programme; Primary Years Programme; Middle Years Programme; Diploma Programme.
International IB World School offering Kindergarten through Grade 12 IB programmes.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) program to support students whose first language is not English.
Early Years: Arrival 8:00–8:30; Half-Day Dismissal 12:00–12:30; Full-Day Dismissal 3:30–4:00. Elementary School: School Starts 8:00; Dismissal 3:00; After-School Activities 3:00–4:15. Secondary School: Before-School Activities 8:00–9:30; School Starts 9:40; Finishes 4:15.
Bus Service: Elementary 08:00 and 15:00; Secondary 09:40 and 16:15. 2025–2026 Bus Fees: One-way route 600,000 KZT; Two-way route 700,000 KZT. ASA Bus Service (for after-school activities): schedule and registration details available; registration deadline August 11, 2025.
Secondary students follow a dress code that includes a KIS polo or button-up shirt; KIS sweaters and hoodies may be worn for comfort. Polo shirts come in blue or navy; a KIS Family Hoodie is part of the uniform seasonally.
Lunch is provided by Universal Catering for Kindergarten through Grade 12, with gluten-free options. AY 2025-2026 prices list daily and monthly meal rates, with advance payment at the beginning of each semester.
KIS is a non-profit founded by Daniel Gunaseelan, who serves as Founder and Owner. The Advisory Board governs the school and meets monthly during the school year and at an annual open meeting. Ex officio members include the Head of School and the PTA President.
IB Programme for Kindergarten through Grade 12. The Primary Years Programme (Grades 1-5), Middle Years Programme (Grades 5-9), and Diploma Programme (Grades 10-11) are part of the IB framework. The language of instruction in the elementary years is English, and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports non-native speakers. The IB approach emphasizes inquiry-based learning and a continuity pathway from PYP to MYP.
Average class size ranges from 8 to 15 students.
Graduates earn three diplomas: the IB Diploma, the MSA American High School Diploma, and the Kazakh State Diploma. College counseling supports university applications, with graduates admitted to universities worldwide including University College London, Cornell University, McGill University, and Notre Dame.
The school emphasizes social-emotional growth as part of student learning.
The school has an Inclusion Policy.
The school has an Elementary EAL Program.
The school has a Child Protection Policy.
1. Apply. Submit the online application via OpenApply. Kazakhstan International School welcomes students of all nationalities to join a diverse, international community in Almaty. After submitting the application, you receive an application portal with an electronic checklist of items to finalize the application. The application opens on August 1 of the preceding school year, and applications are accepted year‑round with rolling placements as space allows; many grade levels fill up by April, so early application is encouraged.
2. Required Documents. After submission, a personalized checklist shows the documents required to complete the application. For Grades 1‑12, required documents include birth certificate, passport, photo 3x4, academic reports, teacher recommendation, and parents' identification; MAP results and IEP/psych reports are optional. For Early Years, required documents include birth certificate, passport, photo 3x4, Early Years Profile, and parents' identification; optional: employment letter, residence permit, health insurance card. After acceptance, enrollment requires signing the KIS Educational Services Agreement and paying the Admission & Reservation Fees, plus submitting any required general or identification documents.
3. Interviews / Assessment. Once the application is complete and all required documents are received, Phase 2 includes student assessments and interviews, varying by grade level. Assessments include CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) and an English Proficiency Assessment; these assessments typically take 2–3 hours total, with no special preparation. All applicants participate in a 30‑minute in‑person interview conducted by the appropriate administrator: EY Principal for Early Years; Grades 1‑5 Elementary Principal; Grades 6‑10 Secondary Principal; Grades 11‑12 DP Coordinator.
4. Decision. Admissions decisions are made exclusively by the Admissions Committee, which evaluates academic history, behavioral background, level of English proficiency, potential needs for support services, and alignment with the school's environment and educational approach. If admitted, families proceed with the next steps: sign the KIS Educational Services Agreement, pay the Admission & Reservation Fee, and submit the required enrollment documents.
KIS Founder's Scholarship is awarded to outstanding students annually in March. The scholarships are available to current and prospective KIS students who wish to enroll in the KIS IB Diploma Programme (Grade 11). The scholarship covers tuition fees for Grades 11–12 (the duration of the Diploma Programme) and continuation into the second year depends on maintaining a high level of academic performance and co‑curricular contribution; if performance declines, an action plan is implemented and the award may be withdrawn.
Scholarship Application Timeline: February 25—the scholarship applications open; April 7—the deadline for submitting applications; April 15—CAT4 assessments completed; April 23—interviews with shortlisted candidates; April 28—final decisions.
The application for AY 2026‑2027 is open; apply before April 7, 2026.
For questions and the scholarship application, contact Ms. Dana:
Email: scholarship@kisnet.org
WhatsApp: +7 708 516 0707
Phone (weekdays 07:30–16:30): +7 727 356 5000
