Admissions Process

• Our OpenApply application form is how your family introduces themselves to us.
• To make the process more convenient, all applications are completed and submitted online.
• By creating an online account, your family can return to the application at any time.
• Each child requires a separate application to be submitted.
• All the necessary supporting documents will be made available during the online application process.
• Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance.

To gain a better understanding of your child, we request a number of supporting documents. These can be conveniently submitted as part of the online application process. During this stage, all relevant documents are reviewed and checked for accuracy:

• School records
• Passport copies
• Any supporting documents
• A confidential reference from a teacher (transfers from within China only)

Once we receive your online application and all supporting documents, our Admissions Team will schedule an interview to determine if NIS is good fit for your family and your child's learning needs. This interview includes:

• An in-person interview to get to know your child, as well as provide an opportunity for them to ask questions about our school.
• Students in Grade 3 and above will be assessed on reading, writing, maths, and language either during or after the interview stage.
• Although face to face is preferred, initial online interviews can be conducted for those outside Nanjing.
• A second interview may be arranged for additional information.

As an inclusive school, we strive to provide each individual student with the best possible support for their learning. Admissions testing at NIS is for diagnostic purposes only and does not have a bearing on student eligibility.

• All applicants for Grade 3 and above will need to take a MAP assessment, which measures a student's proficiency in maths and literacy against grade-level standards.
• If English is not their home language, Grade 9 and above are required to take the WIDA English language test. This will determine if they would benefit from English Language Learning (ELL) support.

Our Primary or Secondary Principal will meet with your family. Depending on age and other criteria, they may be accompanied by a Learning Support specialist. In Primary, our Deputy Primary Principal is also present for this interview.

Upon completion of the Principal Interview, our Admissions Committee will review the application package and interview results and make a recommendation to our School Director, who makes all admissions decisions.

• Families will be notified of the admissions decision through an OpenApply email notification generally within one week of the Principal Interview.