Students are admitted and placed in a grade level after considering their age, achievement level, grade level at their previous school, emotional and physical maturity and fluency in English. Pre-kindergarten candidates must be 4 years old by September 30.

For more information, see the SAS Grade Level Age Requirements for 2008-2009. (expand)

Upon admission, students are provided with a learning program based on their readiness and maturity. Promotion to a higher grade or retention in a lower grade is based on a student's ability and achievement, rather than on parent request. When necessary, teachers, administrators, and parents meet to discuss concerns regarding grade level placement.

Parents of students who have special learning needs will need to consult with SAS to be sure SAS has resources to serve their child before applying for admission or arriving in Shanghai. Parents coming from countries where ample support services are available should be aware that SAS has limited resources to work with students who have special needs.