Enrollment and Admission Policy

ISO Schools Admission Policy: Transition from PYP to MYP and MYP to IBCP

Introduction

ISO Schools are committed to providing a seamless transition for students progressing from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) to the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and from the MYP to the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP). Our admissions policy ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the academic, personal, and social expectations of the next stage of their education. This policy reflects our mission to develop lifelong learners who are principled, open-minded, and prepared to meet the challenges of an international education.

Admission Criteria and Process for Transition from PYP to MYP

Eligibility

– Completion of PYP: Students must have successfully completed the PYP at ISO 1 or another IB World School. This includes a demonstrated understanding of the PYP’s transdisciplinary framework and inquiry-based approach to learning.

– Student Portfolios: Students are required to submit a portfolio of work from their PYP years, showcasing their development across key subject areas, their personal inquiries, and their reflection on the PYP Exhibition.

– Learner Profile: Admission to the MYP prioritizes students who have consistently demonstrated the attributes of the IB Learner Profile, such as being inquirers, communicators, and principled individuals.

Application Process

  1. Application Form: Parents/guardians are required to complete an application form, providing relevant academic records and information regarding the student’s previous schooling.
  2. PYP Exhibition Review: The PYP Exhibition is an integral part of the transition to MYP. Students will have their final PYP project evaluated by the admissions team, which will assess their research, inquiry, and presentation skills.
  3. Teacher Recommendations: Current PYP teachers must provide a recommendation letter, outlining the student’s strengths, areas for growth, and readiness for the MYP.

Placement in MYP

– Placement Test: Students new to ISO Schools or those transitioning from a different educational framework will undergo a placement test. This test assesses language acquisition (both English and Arabic), mathematics, and science to determine the most appropriate phase or level for the student’s learning.

– Language Support: For students transitioning from PYP who require additional language support, ISO Schools offer English Language Learner (ELL) services to ensure successful integration into the MYP.

Admission Criteria and Process for Transition from MYP to IBCP

Eligibility

– Completion of MYP: Students must have successfully completed the MYP at ISO Schools or another IB World School. This includes passing grades in all subject areas and the successful completion of the MYP Personal Project.

– Career-related Focus: Admission to the IBCP requires students to have a clear career-related interest, such as business, health, technology, engineering, or the arts. Students should demonstrate an alignment between their MYP learning and the chosen career-related pathway.

Application Process

  1. Career-related Programme Application: Students submit an application form detailing their career interests and the chosen pathway for the IBCP. This application includes their MYP records and an explanation of how the IBCP aligns with their future aspirations.
  2. Personal Project Review: Students’ MYP Personal Projects will be reviewed by the admissions team to evaluate their skills in independent inquiry, research, and presentation.
  3. Interview: Prospective IBCP students will undergo an interview with the IBCP Coordinator. The purpose of the interview is to assess the student’s motivation, career-related goals, and readiness for the rigors of the IBCP.

Placement in IBCP

– Career-related Study Selection: Students are required to select a career-related study that aligns with their interests and career goals. The admissions team will ensure that the selected study aligns with the student’s previous academic performance and career aspirations.

– Language Support: If necessary, additional language support will be provided for students who need to improve their proficiency in the language of instruction for the IBCP.

Admissions Requirements for All Transitions

Parents/guardians must submit copies of the student’s academic records from previous years. These records are reviewed to ensure that the student has met the learning outcomes required for entry into the next stage of their education.

ISO Schools are committed to supporting students with diverse learning needs. Admission to MYP or IBCP includes a review of any existing Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) to ensure that the necessary support continues during the transition.

Supporting the Transition

ISO Schools provide an orientation program for students transitioning from PYP to MYP and from MYP to IBCP. The programme introduces students to the new expectations, subject groups, and learning environments. The goal is to ensure that students feel confident and prepared for the academic and social challenges ahead.

Communication between students, parents, and school staff is a key part of the admissions process. ISO Schools ensure that all stakeholders are informed about the requirements and expectations of the MYP and IBCP, helping to facilitate a smooth transition for every student.

Policy Review and Updates

This admissions policy is reviewed annually by the admissions team, academic coordinators, and school leadership to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of students and aligns with IB standards. Any updates will be communicated to parents and students in a timely manner.