Admission Criteria
Admission decisions at Shanghai American School (SAS) are based on a review of each candidate's English language proficiency, demonstrated academic achievement, and developmental, social, and behavioral background.
Parents should note that amongst equally qualified candidates, priority consideration (not automatic placement) is given to returning students, overseas applicants, U.S. passport holders, those with siblings currently attending SAS, and those with stronger academic English proficiency. Admission decisions also take into account the balance of English language learners and other relevant demographic factors in order for SAS to realize its mission and support its core values.
Requirements
English Proficiency
Nonnative English-speaking candidates will be given an English as an Additional Language (EAL) test to determine if EAL support is required. Limited spaces are available for such support.
The following guidelines will be used by the Admission Committee to determine whether a student will be invited to take the EAL assessment:
- The primary language spoken by the student
- The language(s) spoken between parents and the student
- The student’s educational background
- The primary language of both parents
"SAS has offered everything I would expect from an international school. My daughter likes going to school everyday."
An Elementary School parent at SAS Pudong campus
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"SAS academics are actually very strong. They have very good training in reading and writing, which is critical. SAS also has very interesting activities like China Alive."
An Middle School parent at SAS Puxi Middle School
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