WASC Accreditation at AIS: A Global Benchmark for Excellence

At the Australian International School (AIS), we are proud to be accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), a globally respected authority in education. This prestigious accreditation confirms our commitment to delivering rigorous, high-quality learning experiences that prepare our students to excel in an interconnected world. We are proud to offer our students the opportunity to graduate with an internationally recognised Australian International School High School diploma while benefiting from the additional pathway of their choice- the Higher School Certificate (HSC), complete IBDP or select IB courses that align with their interests and goals while benefiting from the coursework in specific subjects without committing to the full IBDP. In addition, many universities around the world offer advanced standing or course credits for high performance in IB subjects,

Benefits for AIS Students:

• Global Recognition: WASC accreditation ensures AIS qualifications are respected by top universities worldwide, including in the US, Australia, the UK, Canada, and Asia.
• Enhanced HSC, IBDP, and AIS High School Diploma: In addition to the Higher School Certificate (HSC) or International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP), all AIS students will receive the Australian International School High School Diploma, further strengthening their university applications.
• Seamless University Pathways: Our students benefit from enhanced opportunities for admission to leading institutions globally, with their education recognised for its excellence and rigour.
• Commitment to Excellence: WASC’s focus on continuous improvement drives us to provide an exceptional, student-centered education aligned with international standards.

AIS students graduate as globally minded individuals, empowered by their HSC, IBDP, and AIS High School Diploma credentials, ready to exceed expectations and contribute meaningfully to the world.

FAQs About WASC Accreditation for Parents

1. What is WASC accreditation?

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is a globally recognised accrediting body that evaluates schools on their educational quality, governance, and commitment to continuous improvement. Accreditation ensures that a school meets rigorous international standards and provides high-quality education.

2. Why is WASC accreditation important for the Australian International School Singapore?

WASC accreditation affirms that AIS meets global benchmarks for academic excellence, governance, and student outcomes. It validates the quality of education we provide, enhances the reputation of the school, and ensures that our practices are aligned with international best practices.

3. How does WASC accreditation benefit students?

WASC accreditation is widely recognised by universities and colleges worldwide. For students, this means:

• Improved University Pathways: Enhanced opportunities for seamless admission to universities in the US, Australia, the UK, Canada, and other countries.
• International Recognition: Qualifications from a WASC-accredited school are trusted globally, providing credibility when applying to higher education institutions.
• Focus on Quality: WASC ensures that the education your child receives is rigorous, student-centered, and continuously improving.

4. Does WASC accreditation only apply to schools in the United States?

No. While WASC is based in the United States, it accredits international schools globally. It evaluates schools against international benchmarks, ensuring relevance and recognition in countries worldwide, including Australia, the UK, Canada, Europe, and Asia.

5. Does WASC accreditation affect local qualifications like the HSC or IB?

No. WASC accreditation complements local and international qualifications such as the Australian HSC, IB, or IGCSE. It enhances the global recognition of these programs and demonstrates the school’s commitment to delivering them with excellence.

Can my child take individual IB courses instead of the full IBDP with WASC accreditation?

Yes, with WASC accreditation, your child can choose to take individual IB courses without committing to the full International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). This option allows students to benefit from the rigorous, internationally recognised IB curriculum while maintaining flexibility in their academic path. Students can combine IB courses with other courses creating a personalised academic path that aligns with their interests and goals.

What are the benefits of taking IB courses instead of the full IBDP?

Taking individual IB courses allows students to benefit from the rigorous, internationally recognised IB curriculum while maintaining flexibility. Students can combine IB courses with other courses creating a personalised academic path that aligns with their interests and goals to achieve an AIS High School Diploma, giving them a broader range of educational experiences and pathways. This option is ideal for students who want to experience IB coursework in specific subjects without committing to the full IBDP.

In addition, many universities around the world offer advanced standing or course credits for high performance in IB subjects, giving students the opportunity to start their university studies with a head start. This means that students who take IB courses may have the chance to skip introductory courses or reduce the number of required university credits, providing a more streamlined path to graduation and a potential cost saving in tuition.

6. How does WASC accreditation improve the learning experience for my child?

WASC evaluates schools based on their ability to provide a holistic, student-centred education. This includes:

• Effective teaching and learning practices.
• A strong focus on student wellbeing and support.
• Continuous review and improvement of curriculum and facilities.

The accreditation process ensures your child benefits from a high-quality education in an environment committed to their success.

7. How often does a school need to renew its WASC accreditation?

WASC accreditation is not permanent. Schools must undergo a thorough self-study and external evaluation every few years (typically 6-7 years) to maintain their accreditation. This ensures schools remain committed to continuous improvement.

8. What role do parents play in the WASC accreditation process?

Parents are an integral part of the WASC process. WASC values feedback from parents about their experiences, priorities, and perceptions of the school. This feedback helps guide the school’s improvement efforts.

9. How does WASC accreditation align with the values at the Australian International School Singapore?

WASC accreditation reflects our commitment to our core values of Respect, Opportunity, and Achievement. It ensures we uphold these principles by fostering a respectful and inclusive learning environment, providing students with diverse opportunities, and promoting academic and personal achievement.

Where is the WASC accrediting body located and what grade levels are accredited at AIS?

The Accrediting Commission for Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is located at: 533 Airport Blvd., Suite 200, Burlingame, CA 94010 www.acswasc.org. AIS is accredited for JK to Year 12 (equal to Grade 12)

10. Where can I learn more about WASC accreditation?

You can visit the official WASC website at www.acswasc.org for more details or reach out to the school’s administration if you have specific questions about our accreditation.