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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Pré-Admissions and Admissions

We are an international school with rolling admissions. If space is available, your child can enroll and begin classes at any time during the academic year.

The admissions process typically takes one to two weeks from start to finish. However, timelines may vary depending on each applicant’s situation.

Admissions assessments vary based on grade level. These may include an English proficiency test, a math placement test, and a general cognitive ability assessment. For younger students, developmental readiness evaluations may also be conducted.

At DAS, we understand that transitioning to an English-language environment can be challenging for non-English-speaking students. To support their learning and integration, we offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) program that helps students develop English while acquiring the academic and social skills needed for success. We provide targeted support, monitor progress, and ensure a smooth transition into an English-language environment.

The level of English language proficiency required for initial admission is dependent on grade level. Little to no English language ability is required for entry into the Early Childhood and Lower Primary grades (Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 1) with progressively greater proficiency required for entry into Upper Primary and Middle School (Grades 2 through 7). A high level of proficiency is required for admission to the final year of Middle School (Grade 8) and High School (Grades 9 through 12), with particular consideration given to English language needs for the IB Diploma Program (Grades 11 and 12).

To ensure an educational program suitable for all DAS students, grade level placement considers the student’s grade level and promotion status at their previous school, as well as age, emotional, developmental, physical maturity, and academic level.

  • The Age at Entry is the age a child will have reached in the respective year.
  • After Grade 1, placement also takes into account the last grade completed at the previous school.

Yes. A student entering mid-year or transferring from a school with a different academic calendar will be placed in the grade they are currently enrolled in or, if applicable, in the grade they have just completed.

  • The academic progress of Kindergarten and Grade 1 students who do not complete a full year at DAS will be reviewed to ensure proper placement the following year.
  • Students entering mid-year must fulfill the promotion requirements for their respective grade.

To complete the application process, we require:

  • A completed application form.
  • Previous school records (report cards, transcripts).
  • Birth certificate or passport copy.
  • Immunization and medical records.
  • Any additional learning support or EAL documentation (if applicable).

2. Academic and Programs

Dar Essalam American School offers two high school diploma options: the American high school diploma and the International   Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP). Students interested in pursuing the IBDP must begin in Grade 11, as the program is completed over two years. For transfer students, A transfer credits evaluation, Minimum Credit Completion, Graduation Requirement Compliance are required.

We follow the American curriculum, supported by Finnish pedagogy. Since June 2023, we are an IBDP-accredited school (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme).

English is the primary language of instruction, with additional language programs available, including French and Arabic.

Pre-school and kindergarten students learn English literacy, Arabic, French, World and local community studies, science, Math, PE, Music, visual arts and design.

From grade 1 through grade 5, students are learning about English literacy, social studies, science, Math, Arabic, French, PE, Music, Visual Arts & Design.

From grades 6 to 8, students are learning about: English, Arabic and French, Social Studies, Science, Math, PE and have the choice between three electives: Music, Visual Arts and Design

Grade 9 and 10: English, Arabic & French *, Social Studies, Biology Math, PE and 2 electives

Grade 11 & 12: IB DP Core courses:

In the IB Diploma Programme (DP), the Core consists of three essential components that all students must complete:

  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK) – A course that explores the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know. Students engage in critical thinking and reflection.
  • Extended Essay (EE) – An independent, self-directed research project resulting in a 4,000-word essay. It allows students to explore a topic of interest in depth.
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) – A program that encourages students to engage in creative pursuits, physical activity, and community service to develop as well-rounded individuals.

In addition to the Core, IB DP students take six subject courses across different groups:

  • Studies in Language and Literature
  • Language Acquisition
  • Individuals and Societies
  • Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • The Arts

Students must take at least three (but no more than four) subjects at Higher Level (HL), while the rest are taken at Standard Level (SL).

DAS uses a Personalized Learning Plan (PLP) to assess and track each student’s academic development. This ensures that students receive tailored learning experiences based on their strengths and areas of growth.

3. Transportation Services and Hours

From Monday to Friday, the school day runs from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. After-school activities take place from 3:45 PM to 4:45 PM.

Yes, transportation services are provided for students and  include morning pick-up, drop-off after regular dismissal, and drop-off after co-curricular activities .
The bus service application is provided to families upon their child's acceptance to DAS.

A total of 180 school days for students.

A total of 3 breaks: A fall break, a winter break and a spring break.

Yes, specific days with early dismissal will be specified on the calendar and further communicated to the parents via email.

DAS offers a cafeteria service but we also have a DAS corner where secondary students and staff members can purchase meals and snacks within specific hours.  Families can also pack lunches for their children.

4. Student School life & activities

45% of our students are international, 55% are Moroccan. 

The 5Cs are critical values that are interconnected with our instructional objectives and help form our transdisciplinary curriculum. We are bringing together the values of Critical Thinking, Caring, Collaboration, Creativity, and Communication. Learning experiences will embed each of these skill areas preparing students for the needs of our 21st century world.

Yes, DAS provides three types of counseling services to support students:

  • Elementary Well-being Counselor (for younger students)
  • Secondary Well-being Counselor (for middle and high school students)
  • University/College Counselor (for academic guidance and college applications)

At DAS, we offer two types of activities:

  • Extracurricular activities: These are led by external vendors and include programs like Advanced Swimming, Mad Science, and Dance.
  • Co-curricular activities: These are teacher-led and include DAS Clubs and other activities organized throughout the school year.

Communication is one of our core values, therefore we have several ways to communicate with parents. In general we use PowerSchool, SeeSaw, Google Classroom, weekly newsletters, emails and in-person meetings

Yes, at DAS, we have APDAS, the parent association, with representatives in each grade level. This is supported by the APDAS governance committee.

Schedule a virtual or in-person appointment with a member of our admissions team

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