High School
Welcome to Xiamen International School,
Our school is a vibrant community committed to fostering an inclusive environment where each student is empowered to reach their full potential and discover their passions. We are proud to be an IB Continuum school, which speaks to our unwavering commitment to high educational standards and excellence. Our outstanding IB educators are dedicated to guiding our students through a rigorous curriculum that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and a global perspective.
At Xiamen International School, we live by our mission to provide a holistic education that nurtures intellectual curiosity, compassion, and global citizenship. I wholeheartedly believe in this mission and the vision we have laid out for our students—one that encompasses being Empowered, Prepared, and Confident in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.
I encourage open communication between the school and our families. Your involvement is crucial in creating a thriving educational environment. Let us build strong partnerships that will enhance the learning experience for our students, preparing them to become thoughtful, informed leaders of tomorrow.
As we move forward together, let us embrace the values that make Xiamen International School a special place for learning and growth. Please explore our website and experience the quality programs and support that XIS offers
Cal Stuart
Secondary Principal
“…we aim to empower our students to take ownership of their learning, prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow, and instill in them the confidence to navigate their futures successfully.”
-Cal Stuart, Secondary Principal
View Our High School Profile
Learn About Our College Guidance Program
View the Secondary School Parent Handbook
The IB Diploma is a rigorous, academic high school program that is designed to broaden students’ perspectives, strengthen key skills, and provide challenge to students.
“The MYP allows students to not only learn about subject-specific content, but to also make interdisciplinary connections between subjects and have opportunities to apply their learning to the real world.”
-Laura Bell, MYP Coordinator
High School Program Overview
Grades 9-10
During the first two years of high school at XIS, students engage in a challenging and academically focused program framed by the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and informed by North American and international standards.
The MYP is a holistic framework that allows students to not only learn about subject-specific content, but to also make interdisciplinary connections between subjects and have opportunities to apply their learning to the real world. In grade 10, students complete a Personal Project, a culmination of the MYP and a substantial work of creativity driven by personal interest reflecting knowledge and skills gained throughout the program.
Learn more about the MYP Programme.
Grades 9-10 Courses and Classes
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English Language and Literature or English Language Acquisition,
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Mathematics (Standard or Extended)
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Science
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Individuals and Societies
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Physical and Health Education
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Design
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Arts (Visual Arts and/or Music)
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Mandarin or Korean
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Homeroom and Counseling/Advisory Classes
High School Program Overview
Grades 11-12
The curriculum in grades 11-12 is centered on the IB Diploma Programme. The IB Diploma is a rigorous, academic high school program that is designed to broaden students’ perspectives, strengthen key skills, and provide challenge to students.
A successful IB Diploma student gains access to universities across the globe and is better prepared to succeed in future studies compared to their peers. Students become self-aware, critical thinkers who can effectively apply knowledge and understanding to new situations. IB Diploma students develop not only academically, but holistically, gaining an appreciation of internationalism, global issues and serving the community.
At XIS, we adopt an IB-for-All approach where all students are challenged to complete either the IB Diploma or IB Courses alongside their XIS High School Diploma. Both are academically challenging routes that provide pathways for continued study after high school.
Learn more about the IB Diploma Programme.
“The IBDP is the most rigorous high school program in the world and the most rewarding.“
-James Sutcliffe, IBDP Coordinator
IB Courses and Requirements
- Language A (English, Mandarin, Korean, or School Supported/Self-Taught Arabic, Dutch)
- Language B (Mandarin, Spanish – online)
- Mathematics
- Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Individuals and Societies (History, Psychology, Economics, Business Management)
- Arts (Visual Arts, Music, Film)
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
- Extended Essay
- CAS (Community, Activity, Service)
The XIS Difference
Why is XIS the international school of choice in Xiamen?
Over 80% of our faculty hold advanced degrees, and the average number of years of teaching experience is 11.
We are a diverse community with over 40 nationalities represented.
XIS develops independent, confident, and open-minded thinkers.
Our students attend reputable, well-known universities around the world. XIS University Acceptances 2016-2021
XIS is accredited by WASC (for 20 years) and authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (15 years).
We are an IB World School, the only school in Xiamen offering all three of the prestigious and internationally recognized IB programs.
An average of 74% of XIS seniors earn a bilingual IB Diploma—the world average is 25%.
We have a warm community, family environment where every child is valued.
XIS students participate in international school regional athletics, arts, and cultural leagues and conferences: ACAMIS, SCISAC, & ISCMS.
We are the longest established international school in Xiamen, delivering a world-class education for 25 years.