High School: Grade 9 to Grade 12
Grades 9 to 12
High School
GEMS Al Khaleej International School (AKIS), offers a supportive yet challenging High School environment. Students are empowered to discover their strengths and pursue their ambition, for success beyond graduation.
Through catering to students’ needs, expert guidance, and internationally recognized programs, we equip students with the skills needed to thrive at university and in an ever-changing world.
Curriculum & Pathways
Academic Program
American Curriculum & International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme® (IBDP)
Students here follow a comprehensive American curriculum. It builds strong academic foundations, with flexibility to pursue individual interests and goals.
For students seeking a different academic pathway, AKIS offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme® (IBDP), one of the world’s most respected pre-university qualifications. The program develops independent learners, critical thinkers, and globally minded individuals who are exceptionally well prepared for higher education.
Our academic advisors work closely with students and families on subject selection. Every pathway aligns with each student’s strengths, interests, and university goals.
University Guidance
Career Pathways & University Counseling
Our dedicated counseling team provides personalized support throughout High School, helping students explore career pathways, identify university options, understand admission requirements, and prepare competitive applications.
Students benefit from university fairs, career workshops, guest speakers, one-to-one counseling, and ongoing guidance that enables them to make informed decisions about their futures.
Results & Success
Academic Achievement
Our graduates consistently earn places at leading universities in the UAE and around the world, reflecting the strength of our academic programmes and our commitment to preparing students for future success.
Academic excellence starts with high expectations and we’re committed to helping every student reach their full potential.
Our High School delivers a rigorous, internationally recognized education, including the American Curriculum, IBDP, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Students are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively, conduct independent research, and build the confidence and skills needed to succeed in higher education and beyond.
Beyond the classroom
Student Life
Students are encouraged to grow through a rich program of extracurricular activities, student leadership opportunities, athletics, clubs, competitions, and community engagement. AKIS are members of the National Honors Society - the oldest student body in the world.
At AKIS, every student is supported to grow into a confident, compassionate, and responsible global citizen.
Assessment & Progress
Grading System
Grade points earned at GEMS AKIS are based on a system of continual assessment, assigning grades for each course taken. We want our students to enjoy their childhood to the full and to have developed and pursued passions, both academic and extra-curricular, because almost everything a student does will influence the final grade. This includes examinations and tests, essays and written assignments, laboratory work and reports, class attendance and class participation.Universities, colleges and other institutions value grades over all else, particularly in the USA, and will frequently specify minimum GPAs of grade point averages to gain admission.
| Academic Standing | GPA | Percentage Average |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent | 3.67 - 4.00 | 84 - 100 |
| Very Good | 2.67 - 3.66 | 76 - <84 |
| Good | 2.00 - 2.66 | 68 - <76 |
| Satisfactory | 1.67 - 1.99 | 60 - <68 |
Each student completes the semester with a GPA, which is calculated to represent numerically a student’s quality of performance. A cumulative grade point average is calculated at the end of each year and helps tertiary providers compare a student’s results with those of other students.