Exciting News! Shanghai Singapore International School (SSIS) is thrilled to announce the introduction of the Advanced Placement (AP) program, starting from the AY2526 academic year (August 2025). This addition will serve as an alternative academic pathway for our Senior School students, complementing the existing IBDP curriculum and expanding their academic options.
The AP program, widely recognised for its academic rigor and college-level coursework, will offer our students even more opportunities to customize their educational journey according to their strengths, passions, and future aspirations.
By presenting the AP program, SSIS is expanding its already diverse array of academic pathways. Now, students and families can choose between the globally renowned IBDP and the new AP option. This ensures that SSIS remains at the forefront of educational innovation, empowering every student to pursue excellence in a way that best suits their individual learning needs and ambitions.
‘The IB program focuses on inquiry-based learning and critical thinking. The AP program offers a specialized, subject-centered approach, giving students flexibility to deepen their knowledge in areas of interest. Together, these two programs create a balanced and strong academic option, preparing students for success in global university systems and beyond.’ According to Mr Steven GAYNOR, Senior School Principal.
As SSIS Head of School Mr David SHIRLEY says, ‘We are confident that the introduction of the AP programme will further strengthen our commitment to nurturing the future global leaders of tomorrow. This is a time of exciting growth and opportunity for SSIS, and we are proud to be offering more choices, more flexibility, and more avenues for success for every student in our community.’
We can’t wait for you to join us on this thrilling journey of growth. Empowering students to shine, we strive for excellence as a family. More paths to success await!
Q1 What is AP?
AP can refer to Advanced Placement. It is a program in the United States that offers college-level courses and exams to high school students. These courses allow students to gain advanced knowledge in various subjects and the opportunity to earn college credits if they perform well on the AP exams.
Q2 The benefits of taking AP courses and exams
Students who do well in AP courses and exams can gain several advantages, such as demonstrating their academic ability to colleges, potentially earning college credits, saving on college tuition costs by skipping some introductory courses, and being better prepared for the academic challenges of college.
Q3 How are AP exams scored?
AP exams are scored on a 5-point scale. A score of 3 or above is generally considered passing, and many colleges accept scores of 3 or higher for college credit, although some prestigious universities may have higher requirements, such as accepting only scores of 4 or 5.
