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Curriculum and diplomas at the American School of Paris

The curriculum at the American School of Paris is rooted in the American approach to education, combining academic rigor with a strong emphasis on social and emotional development.

School progression chart showing ages, grades, and curriculum stages

Alongside critical thinking and abstract reasoning, students develop essential life skills such as collaboration, leadership, intercultural understanding, and self-management. This approach fosters confidence, resilience, and a positive, “can-do” mindset that supports success both in school and beyond.

ASP’s curriculum is standards-based and spans Grades K3–12. It includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Upper School. The Understanding by Design framework structures all curriculum units, ensuring coherence and clarity across grade levels. English is the primary language of instruction, and all students study French at a level appropriate to their proficiency.

Curriculum by school

Ages 3–6

Early Childhood

The Early Childhood program is centered on outdoor and play-based learning. Educators follow the Creative Curriculum, gradually integrating ASP’s standards-based framework as students approach Grade K5, fostering curiosity, independence, and early academic foundations.

Ages 7–10

Lower School

In Lower School (Grades 2–5), students build strong foundations in core subjects including reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. The American curriculum, grounded in American standards and international best practices, emphasizes curiosity, collaboration, and deep conceptual understanding.

Ages 11–13

Middle School

Middle School at ASP (Grades 6–8) broadens students’ academic experience with a comprehensive and well-structured American curriculum. Students explore a wide range of disciplines, develop critical habits of mind, and engage in interdisciplinary learning experiences that support both intellectual and personal growth.

Ages 14–18

Upper School

In Upper School (Grades 9–12), students can choose from multiple academic pathways aligned with their goals and aspirations:

  • The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme
  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • A combination of IB and AP
  • The American High School Diploma

This flexible approach enables students to pursue internationally recognized credentials that support admission to universities worldwide.

Diplomas

All students who meet graduation requirements earn the American High School Diploma. In Upper School, students may also complete IB and AP coursework as part of their chosen academic pathway.

With a wide range of course options in Grades 9–12, ASP supports diverse student interests and academic ambitions while preparing students for post-secondary education.

The curriculum is designed to provide continuity for internationally mobile families, enabling students to transfer smoothly to their new schools.

Results-driven

ASP students consistently perform above global benchmarks in both IB and AP programs. In Grades 3–8, students participate in Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Growth assessments, where our students' scores consistently exceed worldwide grade-level norms

These results reflect both the quality of instruction at ASP and the effectiveness of an American-style education designed for a global context.

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From here, go anywhere

To support globally mobile and expatriate families, ASP’s curriculum and educational pathways are designed to ensure academic continuity across grade levels and school systems.

Whether students complete their full educational journey at ASP or attend for a shorter period, the structure and recognition of the American curriculum, together with IB and AP options, allow for confident transitions between education systems.

This approach ensures that students are well prepared to continue their education wherever their family’s journey may take them.

FAQ — Curriculum & Diplomas

What curriculum frameworks does ASP follow?


ASP’s curriculum is built on two main pillars: established American standards and the Understanding by Design framework. By integrating these with global educational practices, we provide a consistent, mission-aligned experience that prepares students for success anywhere in the world.

Is French taught alongside English?

Yes. While English serves as the primary language of instruction, French is an integral part of the curriculum for every student. Language learning begins in Early Childhood and continues through Upper School, with instruction tailored to each student’s specific

proficiency level.

How does ASP support students who are new to English?

ASP provides a comprehensive EAL (English as an Additional Language) program designed for students at all stages of English acquisition. This support is integrated into the student experience to foster both social confidence and academic success, ensuring that language is a bridge to their education.

Can students transfer easily to other international or national school systems?

Yes. The curriculum is designed to be globally transferable because we follow rigorous, recognized standards, the learning objectives are highly compatible with other school systems, ensuring a smooth transition for your child.

Do all students graduate with the same diploma?

All ASP graduates receive an American High School Diploma when they meet graduation requirements. Upper School students may also pursue IB and AP pathways in addition to the diploma.