Admissions at BIS Abu Dhabi

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAqs)

• How is The British International School Abu Dhabi rated?

  At The British International School Abu Dhabi, we are consistently recognised as Outstanding by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), the highest rating a school can achieve in the emirate. In the 2025/26 ADEK inspection report, we were once again awarded this top rating, reflecting the strength of our teaching, the excellent progress and achievement of our students, and our strong focus on wellbeing and leadership.
• What accreditations and affiliations does BIS Abu Dhabi hold?

  The British International School Abu Dhabi is proud to be accredited and affiliated with a wide range of internationally recognised educational organisations, ensuring high standards, globally respected qualifications, and rich learning opportunities across all phases of the school.
   
  British and International Curriculum & Examination Bodies

  We work with leading global organisations to deliver trusted academic pathways and qualifications:

  • Cambridge International Education – delivering globally recognised IGCSE and curriculum frameworks
  • Oxford AQA – providing UK‑benchmarked international examinations
  • Pearson Edexcel – offering internationally recognised academic qualifications
  • Pearson BTEC – delivering career‑focused vocational qualifications aligned with university and industry expectations
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) – a globally respected pre‑university qualification

   

  Educational Networks and Enrichment Programmes

  Our students benefit from strong partnerships that extend learning beyond the classroom:

  • British Schools in the Middle East (BSME) – supporting high‑quality British international education across the region
  • Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) – offering internationally recognised personal development awards for students aged 14–24
  • Nord Anglia Education – connecting our school to a global family of schools, educators, and exclusive learning collaborations

   

  Literacy, Sustainability and Specialist Programmes

  We are also recognised for our commitment to specialist areas of learning and wellbeing:

  • Read Write Inc. Phonics – a highly regarded literacy programme used internationally; BIS Abu Dhabi is a Ruth Miskin Read Write Inc. School (2025–26)
  • The Alliance for Sustainable Schools (TASS) – an international network supporting sustainability and environmental education in schools

   

  To learn more about each of these, visit our Accreditations and Affiliations page.

• What curricula do you teach?

  We teach the very best in British and international curricula. This includes the English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSEs, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and BTEC Diploma. These pathways set the standard for global education and give our students access to the world’s leading universities.

  • Early Years (ages 3-5): Early Years Foundation Stage.
  • Primary (ages 5-11): English National Curriculum.
  • Secondary (ages 11-16): Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 (IGCSEs) of the English National Curriculum.
  • Senior School: (ages 16-18): International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and BTEC International Extended Level 3 Diploma.  
• Is the school open to everyone?

  At BIS Abu Dhabi, we welcome all nationalities. We’re extremely proud of the diversity of our school community. Right now, students, parents, and teachers from more than 90 countries call our school home. We’re also an open enrolment school, which means we welcome students of all abilities. 
• Do you accept applications all year round?

  Yes, your child can join us at any time during the school year (places permitting). If a year group is full, we'll add your child to our waiting list.
• Will my child have to take a test before they enrol at the school?

  Yes, your child will sit an assessment as part of The British International School Abu Dhabi admissions process. This ensures we can meet their learning needs and offer the right blend of challenge and support. Our assessments and interviews vary depending on the age of your child, but may include class observations and English speaking, writing, and cognitive ability tests.
  
  All our lessons are taught in English, which is why it’s so important that your child is sufficiently fluent. Our expert English as an Additional Language (EAL) team will help students who need extra support.

  We also have a small, highly experienced Special Educational Needs (SEN) team who provide inclusive support for students with a range of needs, with provision carefully assessed and tailored on an individual basis.

• How long does your admissions process take?

  From the moment you get in touch with us to the offer of a place, our admissions process can take as little as two to three weeks. Timings may vary, however, as each family’s application journey is different. Please contact our Admissions Team for more information.

• How is my child placed in a class?

  We take a personalised approach to each application, getting to know your child’s interests, personality, and individual needs. This helps us thoughtfully place them in a class with a teacher and peer group where they can feel supported, confident, and ready to thrive.
• Can I visit the school before applying?

  Absolutely! We warmly welcome all families to visit our campus, whether you’re ready to apply or simply exploring your options.

  If you are not currently in the UAE, our Admissions Team would be delighted to meet with you online. We can arrange virtual meetings to answer your questions and, where helpful, invite members of our academic team to join the conversation and discuss the curriculum and learning experience.

• What's included in your fees?

  Our tuition fees include all of your child's academic teaching and learning. The fees you’ll pay also cover many of our co-curricular activities and Nord Anglia Education collaborations with MIT, The Juilliard School, UNICEF, and IMG Academy. These unlock passions and talents, and shape our learners’ goals and ambitions. 
• I have younger children, too - do siblings get priority?

  Yes, we prioritise siblings of current students.
• Do you provide lunch?

  Yes, our catering partner, ADNH Compass, provides fresh, nutritious, and well-balanced meals each day. A variety of hot and cold options are available, and menus are designed to accommodate a range of dietary requirements and allergies.

  We are also a nut-free school, and all meals are prepared in line with this policy to ensure the safety of our students.

• Do you offer a bus service?

  Yes, we do. Our safe and reliable bus service supports students in their daily journey to and from school, covering a range of locations across the city.
  
  Our bus service is operated by Shanawaz Transport, who provide an efficient and dependable school pick-up and drop-off service across Abu Dhabi.