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China, Dalian
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
1. Eligibility and initial considerations. Dalian American International School (DAIS) accepts students aged 4 to 17 and requires a valid foreign passport. Applicants must reside in Dalian, China, or a neighboring area to be eligible. Each year, admissions deadlines are set by the Education Bureau. This sets the framework for when applications can be submitted and how timelines align with local requirements.
2. Online application and supporting documents. Start with the online application form and engage with the Admissions Team, who will answer questions and guide the process. After you submit the application, you will receive a comprehensive list of supporting documents to provide. The Admissions Team remains available for questions throughout, ensuring you understand what DAIS needs to evaluate your child's candidacy.
3. Admissions assessment and language testing. Following application review, you will be invited to a family meeting, an admissions interview, and an age-appropriate academic assessment. Non-native English speakers in Grades 2–12 must take an English Language Proficiency assessment consisting of reading, writing, and oral components. Additional testing may be requested to determine appropriate placement and to support learning needs.
4. Offer and communications. If the application is successful, an official offer is sent by email. This offer specifies the next steps and timelines for enrollment. DAIS maintains regular communication to ensure families understand the terms of the offer and any required follow-up actions.
5. Acceptance, deposits, and final steps to enroll. To accept, confirm your child's attendance and secure their placement by paying the enrollment deposit (RMB 10,000) and the tuition.
DAIS does not publish a waitlist or pool system in its admissions materials.
DAIS does not publish a school-operated scholarship program in its admissions or tuition materials.
Dalian American International School (DAIS) is an all-through American international school located in the Golden Pebble Beach National Resort in Dalian's Jinzhou New District. It serves students from ages 3 to 18 (Early Years through High School) and includes a Montessori-style preschool on campus. The school follows an American curriculum from elementary through high school, with CCSS and AERO standards in elementary and an American High School Curriculum with AP opportunities in the upper grades. DAIS is accredited by WASC and is part of the Nord Anglia Education family, with extensive co-curricular programs and collaborations. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a heated 25-meter pool, science labs, three libraries, and arts studios. Mandarin is taught as the host country language, while English is the language of instruction across most programs. The school offers boarding and a range of after-school activities, including Soccer Club and Sea Dragon Choir. The Head of School is Dr. Craig Wilson.
