Admissions RequirementsÂ
Embarking on Your Journey with Alma Mater International School
At Alma Mater International School, we are committed to recognising and nurturing the unique potential of each student. Our admissions process reflects a holistic approach, meticulously designed to understand the multifaceted nature of every applicant. To ensure a seamless integration into our diverse and dynamic community, we consider several key components during the application process:
- Entrance Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation to gauge your academic capabilities and readiness for our curriculum.
- Personal Interview: An opportunity for us to get to know you better and understand your educational aspirations, values, and how you envision your future at Alma Mater.
- Character Reference: Insight from someone who knows you well, providing us with a deeper understanding of your personal qualities and potential to contribute positively to our school community.
- School Transcripts: A record of your academic history, helping us to appreciate your learning journey and achievements thus far.
Additionally, applicants may be subject to financial checks and other necessary validations as part of the application review process, ensuring a transparent and fair admissions experience for all.
At Alma Mater International School, we don’t just open doors to academic excellence; we unlock the full spectrum of your potential, preparing you for a successful, well-rounded future. Begin your journey with us, where your aspirations meet our unwavering support and commitment to your growth.
Admissions Requirements
Embarking on Your Journey with Alma Mater International School
At Alma Mater International School, we are committed to recognising and nurturing the unique potential of each student. Our admissions process reflects a holistic approach, meticulously designed to understand the multifaceted nature of every applicant. To ensure a seamless integration into our diverse and dynamic community, we consider several key components during the application process:
- Entrance Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation to gauge your academic capabilities and readiness for our curriculum.
- Personal Interview: An opportunity for us to get to know you better and understand your educational aspirations, values, and how you envision your future at Alma Mater.
- Character Reference: Insight from someone who knows you well, providing us with a deeper understanding of your personal qualities and potential to contribute positively to our school community.
- School Transcripts: A record of your academic history, helping us to appreciate your learning journey and achievements thus far.
Additionally, applicants may be subject to financial checks and other necessary validations as part of the application review process, ensuring a transparent and fair admissions experience for all.
At Alma Mater International School, we don’t just open doors to academic excellence; we unlock the full spectrum of your potential, preparing you for a successful, well-rounded future. Begin your journey with us, where your aspirations meet our unwavering support and commitment to your growth.
Age-Appropriate Placement and Curriculum Overview at Alma Mater International School. At Alma Mater International School, we embrace a distinctive educational framework that prioritises the alignment of students’ learning experiences with their developmental stages. Our unique instructional pace and comprehensive curriculum demand meticulous consideration of age-appropriate placements to fully harness each student’s learning potential. It’s crucial to note that our curriculum diverges from the South African standard, resulting in potential discrepancies in grade equivalencies. To facilitate optimal student placement, we may set additional criteria and minimum score requirements.
To assist families and applicants in navigating our placement process, we’ve outlined a comparative guideline that integrates the Cambridge International Education (CIE) system with equivalent stages in other educational frameworks:
Comparative Education Frameworks Guide
Standardised Age Group*** | Cambridge (CAIE) Alma Mater*** | Alma Mater Grade level*** | Key stageUK | Year Groups (General) | Form level (UK std) | IB levels | US & Australia Grades |
12 | *Cambridge Primary/ Lower Secondary | Grade 6 | Key stage 3 | Year 7 | Form 1 | MYP | Grade 6 |
13 | *Cambridge Lower Secondary | Grade 7 | Key stage 3 | Year 8 | Form 2 | MYP | Grade 7 |
14 | *Cambridge Lower Secondary | Grade 8 | Key stage 3 | Year 9 | Form 3 | MYP | Grade 8 |
15 and 16 | *Upper Secondary IGCSE | Grade 9 and 10 | GCSE | Year 10 and 11 | Form 4 and 5 | MYP | Grade 9 and 10 |
17 and 18 | *Cambridge Advanced AS/A Level | Grade 11 and 12 | AS/A Level | Year 12 and 13 | Lower Form 6 Upper Form 6 | **DP | Grade 11 and 12 |
*Â New Cambridge Assessment International Education pathway names
** IB Diploma Programme students will be required to have three subjects on standard level and three subjects on higher level
*** Alma Mater PolicyÂ
Alma Mater Policy
Our dedicated admissions team evaluates each application with a keen eye on the aspirant’s individual characteristics, academic strengths, and potential for growth. At Alma Mater International School, our commitment is not just to educate but to inspire and unlock the full potential of our students, ensuring their success and fulfillment in our vibrant academic community. According to our admissions policy, we adhere to age-appropriateness as our framework aligns with the dynamic structure commonly found in European educational systems. The majority of applicants undergo assessment based on age to ensure alignment with the curriculum and readiness for the programme.
Join us at Alma Mater International School, where we prioritise a comprehensive and personalised approach to education, setting you on the path to success.
Admissions Process: Your Journey to Joining Alma Mater International School
Embarking on the admissions journey at Alma Mater International School is a step towards unlocking unparalleled educational opportunities for your child. Here’s how you can start this transformative experience:
Step 1: Initial Application
- Complete the Online Application Form: Begin by filling out our comprehensive application form available here.
- Document Submission: Upload the following documents to support your application:
- Student’s passport, ID, or Birth Certificate.
- Past academic records and most recent school results.
- Consent form to release academic records. (download here)
- A character reference letter. (download here)
- Proof of payment for the application fee.
Step 2: Assessment and Preliminary Review
Upon receiving your application and evaluating the submitted documents, we will contact you to schedule an assessment. If necessary, we may request an additional interview to address any discrepancies in your submitted documentation.
Step 3: Await our response
Our Admissions Officer will inform you regarding eligibility of admission to Alma Mater.
Step 4: Family and Child Interview
We value a personal connection and understanding of each potential student’s unique profile. As such, we request an interview with the family and child, offering an informal yet insightful discussion to assist in determining the most appropriate placement and entry level for your child.
Step 5: Conditional Offer
Successful applicants will receive a conditional offer letter, outlining the placement offer at Alma Mater International School.
Step 6: Acceptance of Offer
To accept your offer, please submit a proof of payment for the registration fee. This step confirms your intention to enroll your child at our school.
Step 7: Finalizing Enrolment
You will receive an enrolment form and contract to complete your child’s registration process. Your child’s placement is confirmed upon the full completion of the enrolment form and receipt of the registration fee payment.
Step 8: Registration Confirmation
Lastly, we will provide you with all necessary information regarding the next steps and arrangements for your child’s registration. Welcome to the Alma Mater International School community, where we are dedicated to fostering academic excellence and holistic development.
International Student Support at Alma Mater International School.
At Alma Mater International School, we welcome a vibrant community of students from across the globe. Located conveniently near major international airports, including OR Tambo – Johannesburg International and Lanseria International Airport, we ensure a smooth transition for our international students by arranging shuttle services for travel to and from the airport.
IMPORTANT: All foreign students are mandated to secure a Study VISA for enrolment at our institution.
The Study VISA Application Process:
Step 1: Conditional Offer and Visa Officer Allocation
- Upon receiving your conditional offer from Alma Mater, it’s time to initiate your Study VISA application. Schedule your embassy appointment promptly.
- Visa Officer Support: A VISA Officer, allocated by our Admissions Officer, will assist you throughout the VISA application process. They are your go-to resource for verifying institutional letters and ensuring all documentation aligns with VISA requirements.
- Medical Aid Requirement: All boarding students must secure comprehensive medical aid coverage, a compulsory condition for your stay and study at Alma Mater.
Step 2: VISA Application Deadline
To facilitate a seamless admissions process, we urge all international applicants to submit their VISA applications by November (for January intake) or 1-2 months prior to arrival. This ensures adequate processing time and compliance with our admissions timeline.
Step 3: VISA Confirmation and Documentation Submission
- Once you receive your Study VISA, please forward it to admissions@almamaterinternational.co.za. It is crucial that we receive these documentations BEFORE the first week of school to finalise your enrolment.
- Upon Arrival Verification: Be prepared to present the following documentations for verification upon your arrival at Alma Mater:
- Original document of your valid Passport.
- In your passport document the Study VISA.
- Medical Aid Certificate.
Alma Mater International School is committed to providing comprehensive support to our international students, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for your educational journey. Our dedicated team, including the allocated Visa Officer, will guide you through every step of the visa process, helping you fulfill all requirements for a successful admission. Welcome to a global learning community where you can thrive academically and personally.
