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The American curriculum in Riyadh

KG 1 to Grade 12 at Saud International Schools in Riyadh. Accredited by Cognia, with AP courses, an SAT test centre and the American High School Diploma.

At Saud International Schools in Riyadh, the American curriculum is the school's American pathway. Every child starts on it in KG 1, it runs to Grade 12, it is accredited by Cognia, and it leads to the American High School Diploma.

  • GradesKG 1 to Grade 12
  • AccreditationCognia
  • DiplomaAmerican High School Diploma
  • College BoardSAT test centre and AP courses
  • Boys and girlsTogether to Grade 5, separate sections from Grade 6
  • FeesThe same as the British pathway

Stage by stage

  1. Early Learning KG 1 to KG 3

    One homeroom teacher leads each class, and boys and girls learn together. Children build reading, writing and number step by step, and learn by asking questions and finding out.

  2. Elementary Grades 1 to 5

    One homeroom teacher for each class, and boys and girls learn together. From Grade 1, English and mathematics are aligned with the Common Core State Standards.

  3. Middle School Grades 6 to 9

    A specialist teacher for each subject, and boys and girls in separate sections. Every student follows the American pathway in Grade 6; from Grade 7, a student follows either the American or the British pathway. Grade 9 is the first of the diploma's four years.

  4. High School Grades 10 to 12

    Deeper subject knowledge in Grade 10, advanced coursework and more independent study in Grade 11, and in Grade 12 the last graduation requirements and university applications with a counsellor.

Subjects

The core subjects are:

  • English language and literature
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social studies
  • Islamic Studies
  • Arabic, in line with Ministry of Education requirements

Electives depend on students' choices and on what is available, and may include business, technology and the arts.

Assessment and the diploma

Progress is assessed through the year, not only at the end: classwork and participation, assignments and projects, quizzes and tests, and mid-term and final exams.

The American High School Diploma is earned over four years, from Grade 9 to Grade 12. To receive it, a student must complete all the required credits, meet the attendance requirement and make satisfactory progress in every subject.

After Grade 12

Counsellors help each student choose universities and courses, and prepare applications through UCAS, the Common App and other systems. Read about university guidance.

Questions about the American pathway

Is the American pathway accredited?

Yes. The American pathway is accredited by Cognia. The school is also a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS) and a College Board SAT test centre.

When does the American pathway start?

In KG 1. Every child follows the American pathway up to Grade 6. From Grade 7, a student follows either the American or the British pathway.

Does the school offer AP courses and the SAT?

Yes. The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and is a College Board SAT test centre.

What does a student need to receive the American High School Diploma?

The diploma is earned over four years, from Grade 9 to Grade 12. A student must complete all the required credits, meet the attendance requirement and make satisfactory progress in every subject.

Are boys and girls taught together?

Boys and girls are taught together up to Grade 5. From Grade 6 they are taught in separate sections.

How much are the fees for the American pathway?

The fees are the same for both pathways. Annual tuition for 2026–27, before VAT:

  • KG 1 to KG 3: SAR 40,000
  • Grades 1 to 6: SAR 48,000
  • Grades 7 to 9: SAR 53,000
  • Grades 10 to 12: SAR 58,000

See the fees page.

Compare it with the British pathway, book a visit to see the school, or start your application.