FAQs - AISN
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FAQs

Questions?

Below you will find answers to questions we commonly receive.  If you have a questions not listed here we encourage you to contact us and we will do our best to provide an answer.

When should I start the application process?

As soon as you know the date of your arrival in Mauritania. Our school has limited space and is always at 85% capacity or higher. The earlier you begin the process the more likely we will be able to accept your child.

My family will be moving to Nouakchott mid-way through the academic year. Can we join AISN at that point, or do we have to wait for the start of the next semester?

We accept students at any time during the year, if we have space. Please inquire early and we can provide more information on the current situation.

Do you have a counselor who can help my child apply for university in the United States?

Yes, we do. Our college counselor provides guidance for college to our high school students.

Is education free for US citizens at AISN?

AISN is a nonprofit school that has a uniform and tuition-fee policy. All students are charged fees according to the policy.

Does your school have a cafeteria?

No, at this time we do not have a cafeteria. Students bring their lunch from home or order from a local restaurant associated with the school.

My child has been in a Chinese public school and speaks no English. Which class would you place him in?

Placement depends on the age of the student. We do not place students with limited English language skills in classes for children younger than they are. For example, if your child is 8 years old, he will go into the classroom with the other children who are 8 years old. Please note: the majority of instruction is in English.  AISN has an ESL program for students who require extra language support.  Space in the program is limited.  If the program is full, AISN reserves the right to not accept an applicant until either space opens up in the program or the applicant has improved his/her language skills.

My child is currently receiving learning support. Does AISN have a qualified person to assist students with learning disabilities?

At this time AISN has no staff members qualified to work with children with special needs. Unfortunately, we cannot accept students who need extra support from a high trained professional at this time.

What percentage of your graduates go on to study at the university level in institutions worldwide?

100% of our graduates enroll in universities worldwide

I am not familiar with your class numbering system. What grade should my child apply for?

The following chart may the helpful to you:

  • Pre-K                        3 and 4 years old
  • Kindergarten          5 years old
  • 1st Grade                  6 years old
  • 2nd Grade                7 years old
  • 3rd Grade                 8 years old
  • 4th Grade                 9 years old
  • 5th Grade                10 years old
  • 6th Grade                11 years old
  • 7th Grade                12 years old
  • 8th Grade                13 years old
  • 9th Grade                14 years old
  • 10th Grade              15 years old
  • 11th Grade               16 years old
  • 12th Grade              17 years old

Please note: We do not normally accept anyone who cannot graduate before their 19th birthday.          

What athletic opportunities are available at AISN?

AISN is a member of the West African International Schools’ Athletic League (WAISAL) which allows students the opportunity to participate in yearly sporting events – such as swimming, soccer, and basketball – at various schools in West Africa.  Furthermore, AISN competes in soccer and basketball games with local schools.  Students also have the opportunity to participate in athletics through our After-School Activities program which has included: soccer, basketball, bike club, running club, dance club, water aerobics, handball and more.

I am bringing my family out to Nouakchott for a visit, prior to accepting a new posting. Can we come to the school for a tour when we have a break in our schedule?

Most certainly!

I am being posted to Nouakchott by the US State Department. Do I need to submit applications for my children in advance or can I just enroll them when we arrive in Nouakchott?

We are recognized and supported by the U.S. Department of State through its Office of Overseas Schools. We are very limited in space so everyone is urged to apply as soon as possible.

Is your school accredited by an American accrediting authority?

Yes, we are accredited by Middle States Association (MSA).