Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQs For Pre-primary Programme (PP)

What resources should my child bring to school?

Pre-primary students do not need to bring a backpack. Instead, they will receive a blue file to carry their books. However, they must bring a lunchbox. Additionally, please make sure to include a spare set of clothes along with the items mentioned on the supplies list.

Does my child have to wear the school uniform every day?

All pre-primary students must wear the school uniform from Sundays to Wednesdays. However, every Thursday, pre-primary students are allowed to wear clothes of their choice instead of the uniform.

Where can I find the homework assigned to my child?

  • A homework slip is issued to all students every week (Sunday) for the Pre-primary classes.
  • Pre-primary students will be given a printed copy of the homework slip.
  • All students and parents can access the homework slip through the JKS Portal by following the below steps:
    • Login to JksPortal.net using your child’s login details provided in the letter which was issued on the first day of school
    • From the Menu, select Students and Parents
    • Select Homework Slips
  • You will also be able to access previous homework slips through the same page.
  • Students must complete the homework on the assigned day and submit it to the teacher as scheduled on the homework slip.

When and how will my child be assessed?

In the PP, Assessments take place continuously throughout the quarter following the IB strands. End of quarter assessments also take place four times a year. Schedules, Notifications and Revision Packs are released 2 weeks in advance through the JKSPortal, under the Students and Parents Tab.

When and how can I see my child’s report card?

Performance is reported comprehensively at the end of every quarter for all grade levels. You will be notified via email and SMS when the report is available and can be accessed through the PlusPortals-Parent Tab through JKSPortal.

What programs does JKS offer?

JKS is accredited by the Council for International Schools (CIS), New England Association for Schools and Colleges (NEASC) as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB).

JKS is the first IB continuum school in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia authorized to offer the three IB programmes:

  • Primary Years Programme: offered for students aged 3 to 12, which at JKS corresponds to grades 1 to 5.
  • Middle Years Programme: offered for students aged 11 to 16, which at JKS corresponds to grades 6 to 10.
  • Diploma Programme: offered for students aged 16 to 19, which at JKS corresponds to grades 11 and 12.

What are the advantages of an IB education?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a globally recognized leader in the field of international education.

Aligned with JKS’s mission for academic excellence, the IB helps students develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to participate actively and responsibly in a changing and increasingly interrelated world. The IB encourages students to be active learners, well-rounded individuals and engaged world citizens. Its coherent and comprehensive curriculum framework is carefully designed to support the personal, social and emotional well-being of the students as they establish their identity and build their self-esteem.

The IB motivates students and helps them to achieve success both in school and in life beyond the classroom. The IB programmes allow students to build on their strengths and to embrace challenges in subjects in which they might not excel.

What is the IB learner profile and what role does it have in my child’s education?

The IB’s learner profile describes a broad range of capacities and responsibilities that shape the future active members of the world and which go beyond academic success. They imply a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them. The profile aims to develop learners who are:

  • Inquirers
  • Knowledgeable
  • Thinkers
  • Communicators
  • Principled
  • Open-minded
  • Caring
  • Risk-takers
  • Balanced
  • Reflective

How is the PP Curriculum designed?

The Preprimary curriculum is designed with an IB and Montessori approach to learning, following alongside the Standard of Learning provided by the Southern region states of the United States. Using those guidelines as a foundation our curriculum is diverse and allows learners to have an interactive approach to unique learning styles, being accessible to all forms of young learners; Visual, Auditory, Read/Write, or Kinesthetic learners. Our goal is to provide each learner with the tools to drive their understanding of taught material.

Where can I find more information?

Additional information can be found through the JKS Website, the JKS Portal, and the Parent-Student Handbook (under the School Information Tab). Should you require any further details, please send an email to jksinfo@jks.edu.sa.

FAQs For Primary Years Programme (PYP)

What is the 8-Day scheduling Cycle?

  • The 8-Day scheduling Cycle runs over 8 school days (excluding weekends).
  • Instead of the weekdays (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, etc), our cycle days are referred to as Day One, Day Two until Day Eight.
  • At the end of the 8th day, Day 1 will restart for the next 8-day cycle.
  • The 8 Day cycle calendar is available in the student planner and on the portal.

Where can I find the homework assigned to my child?

  • A homework slip is issued to all students every week (Sunday) for the Pre-primary to Grade 5 classes.
  • Pre-primary to Grade 6 students will be given a printed copy of the homework slip.
  • All students and parents can access the homework slip through the JKS Portal by following the below steps:
    • Login to JksPortal.net using your child’s login details provided in the letter which was issued on the first day of school
    • From the Menu, select Students and Parents
    • Select Homework Slips
  • You will also be able to access previous homework slips through the same page.
  • Students must complete the homework on the assigned day and submit it to the teacher as scheduled on the homework slip.

When and how will my child be assessed?

In the PYP, Assessments take place continuously throughout the quarter following the IB strands. End-of-quarter assessments also take place four times a year. Schedules, Notifications and Revision Packs are released 2 weeks in advance through the JKSPortal, under the Students and Parents Tab.

How can I follow up on my child’s academic performance?

Parents can access the PlusPortals-Parent Tab through JKSPortal to view their child’s grades throughout the quarter. These grades are based on the submission of homework and assignments, completion of classwork, and assessments carried out. These grades are continuously revised and updated during the quarter and are considered final only upon the release of the report card.

When and how can I see my child’s report card?

Performance is reported comprehensively at the end of every quarter for all grade levels. You will be notified via email and SMS when the report is available and can be accessed through the PlusPortals-Parent Tab through JKSPortal.

What programs does JKS offer?

JKS is accredited by the Council for International Schools (CIS), New England Association for Schools and Colleges (NEASC) as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB).

JKS is the first IB continuum school in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia authorized to offer the three IB programmes:

  • Primary Years Programme: offered for students aged 3 to 12, which at JKS corresponds to grades 1 to 5.
  • Middle Years Programme: offered for students aged 11 to 16, which at JKS corresponds to grades 6 to 10.
  • Diploma Programme: offered for students aged 16 to 19, which at JKS corresponds to grades 11 and 12.

What are the advantages of an IB education?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a globally recognized leader in the field of international education.

Aligned with JKS’s mission for academic excellence, the IB helps students develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to participate actively and responsibly in a changing and increasingly interrelated world. The IB encourages students to be active learners, well-rounded individuals and engaged world citizens. Its coherent and comprehensive curriculum framework is carefully designed to support the personal, social and emotional well-being of the students as they establish their identity and build their self-esteem.

The IB motivates students and helps them to achieve success both in school and in life beyond the classroom. The IB programmes allow students to build on their strengths and to embrace challenges in subjects in which they might not excel.

What is the IB learner profile and what role does it have in my child’s education?

The IB’s learner profile describes a broad range of capacities and responsibilities that shape the future active members of the world and which go beyond academic success. They imply a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them. The profile aims to develop learners who are:

  • Inquirers
  • Knowledgeable
  • Thinkers
  • Communicators
  • Principled
  • Open-minded
  • Caring
  • Risk-takers
  • Balanced
  • Reflective

How is the PYP Curriculum designed?

In the Primary Years Programme (PYP), students acquire knowledge of important concepts through units of inquiry. The PYP encompasses six interconnected themes that shape the units of inquiry and constitute a year-long curriculum. These themes are as follows:

  1. Who we are
  2. Where we are in place and time
  3. How we express ourselves
  4. How the world works
  5. How we organize ourselves
  6. Sharing the planet

Units of inquiry integrate subject areas such as mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies. This approach empowers students to establish connections between what they learn in fundamental subjects and its relevance to the world they live in.

What is the Grade 5 Exhibition?

The exhibition is the final event of a Primary Years Programme for an IB learner. The exhibition is a thorough examination of a global issue that also has local and/or regional consequences. The topic and research are chosen by the students and presented at the end of their fifth-grade year. The entire school community and the wider community are welcome to attend. The exhibition encompasses all of the interdisciplinary skills that the students have developed during the Primary Years Programme.

Where can I find more information?

Additional information can be found through the JKS Website, the JKS Portal, and the Parent-Student Handbook (under the School Information Tab). Should you require any further details, please send an email to jksinfo@jks.edu.sa.

FAQs For Middle Years Programme (MYP)

What is the 8-Day scheduling Cycle?

  • The 8-Day scheduling Cycle runs over 8 school days (excluding weekends).
  • Instead of the weekdays (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, etc), our cycle days are referred to as Day One, Day Two until Day Eight.
  • At the end of the 8th day, Day 1 will restart for the next 8-day cycle.
  • The 8 Day cycle calendar is available in the student planner and on the portal.

Where can I find the homework assigned to my child?

  • A homework slip is issued to all students every cycle (Day 1) for the Grade 6 to Grade 10 classes.
  • Grade 6 students will be given a printed copy of the homework slip.
  • All students and parents can access the homework slip through the JKS Portal by following the below steps:
    • Login to JksPortal.net using your child’s login details provided in the letter which was issued on the first day of school
    • From the Menu, select Students and Parents
    • Select Homework Slips
  • You will also be able to access previous homework slips through the same page.
  • Students must complete the homework on the assigned day and submit it to the teacher as scheduled on the homework slip.

What is ManageBac? (Grades 6-12)

ManageBac is a Learning Management System adopted by the school which facilitates the following:

  • Enrolment of students into subject-specific classes
  • Student access to the resources (presentations, videos, worksheets, answer keys…) which are being used in class by the teacher
  • Additional resources to extend student learning
  • Announcements and reminders posted by the teacher
  • Submission of assignments in digital format when required

The site can be accessed by clicking on the ManageBac icon through JKSPortal.

When and how will my child be assessed?

  • Assessments take place continuously throughout the quarter for all grade levels.
  • A quiz schedule and lesson notification are released every quarter ahead of the scheduled dates for the quizzes. These are accessible through the JKS Portal under the Students and Parents Tab.
  • End-of-quarter assessments also take place four times a year for all grade levels. Schedules, Notifications and Revision Packs are released 2 weeks in advance through the JKSPortal, under the Students and Parents Tab.

How can I follow up on my child’s academic performance?

Parents can access the PlusPortals-Parent Tab through JKSPortal to view their child’s grades throughout the quarter. These grades are based on the submission of homework and assignments, completion of classwork, and assessments carried out. These grades are continuously revised and updated during the quarter and are considered final only upon the release of the report card.

When and how can I see my child’s report card?

Performance is reported on comprehensively at the end of every quarter for all grade levels. You will be notified via email and SMS when the report is available and can be accessed through the PlusPortals-Parent Tab through JKSPortal.

What programs does JKS offer?

JKS is accredited by the Council for International Schools (CIS), New England Association for Schools and Colleges (NEASC) as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB).

JKS is the first IB continuum school in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia authorized to offer the three IB programmes:

  • Primary Years Programme: offered for students aged 3 to 12, which at JKS corresponds to grades 1 to 5.
  • Middle Years Programme: offered for students aged 11 to 16, which at JKS corresponds to grades 6 to 10.
  • Diploma Programme: offered for students aged 16 to 19, which at JKS corresponds to grades 11 and 12.

What are the advantages of an IB education?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a globally recognized leader in the field of international education.

Aligned with JKS’s mission for academic excellence, the IB helps students develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to participate actively and responsibly in a changing and increasingly interrelated world. The IB encourages students to be active learners, well-rounded individuals and engaged world citizens. Its coherent and comprehensive curriculum framework is carefully designed to support the personal, social and emotional well-being of the students as they establish their identity and build their self-esteem.

The IB motivates students and helps them to achieve success both in school and in life beyond the classroom. The IB programmes allow students to build on their strengths and to embrace challenges in subjects in which they might not excel.

What is the IB learner profile and what role does it have in my child’s education?

The IB’s learner profile describes a broad range of capacities and responsibilities that shape the future active members of the world and which go beyond academic success. They imply a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them. The profile aims to develop learners who are:

  • Inquirers
  • Knowledgeable
  • Thinkers
  • Communicators
  • Principled
  • Open-minded
  • Caring
  • Risk-takers
  • Balanced
  • Reflective

 

How is the MYP Curriculum designed?

The MYP curriculum framework comprises eight subject groups, providing a broad and balanced education for early adolescents. Students take the following courses:

  • Language and literature – offered in both English and Arabic
  • Individuals and societies
  • Mathematics
  • Sciences
  • Physical and health education
  • Arts – offered as Visual and Performing
  • Design – offered as Digital, Product and ICT
  • Language acquisition – French and Spanish offered in Grades 9 and 10

A unique feature of the programme is that it places the students at the centre of learning, extending the traditional curriculum to include a focus on conceptual learning, contextual learning, approaches to teaching and approaches to learning. They are drawing connections between all subject areas, completing a minimum of one Interdisciplinary unit in each year of the programme. In the MYP, students’ learning experiences are explicitly linked to the world around them, infusing global points of view wherever possible to promote an understanding of other cultures, an awareness of the human condition and an understanding that there is a commonality of human experience.

 

What is the Personal Project?

Students complete a personal project during the last year of the MYP (Grade 10), which is an independent piece of work completed over an extended duration with the guidance of a supervisor, the personal project leader and the MYP Coordinator. Students are encouraged to select a topic of personal interest and present their exploration in a creative format such as an original work of writing, an artistic production, an original scientific investigation, a business plan, the undertaking of a service project or another form of expression. The entire school community and the wider community are welcome to attend.

Where can I find more information?

Additional information can be found through the JKS Website, the JKS Portal, and the Parent-Student Handbook (under the School Information Tab). Should you require any further details, please send an email to jksinfo@jks.edu.sa.

  1. On the first day of school, your son received an envelope containing instructions on how to log in to his student portal. He should use the same password he had when he was in PYP. If he has forgotten his password, he can reset it through the portal or by contacting IThelpdesk@jks.edu.sa. Once his password has been reset, please ask him not to change it again as it will affect the Turnitin and IXL platforms. 
  2. On 9 September, all students received an email with their ManageBac passwords and login details from Ms Ayesha Shams. Your son can find this information in his jksmail. I have twice demonstrated to all grade 6 students where to find it and how to log into ManageBac. Please note that when he clicks on ManageBac from the portal, it will take him to a login page for ManageBac.
  3. When your son clicks on Turnitin, he will automatically be logged in. He does not need a password as Turnitin has been linked to his portal login. If Turnitin asks for a password, it means that your son has changed his portal password. Our IT department will then need to link the accounts again for it to work. Please note that this has also been demonstrated to all grade 6 classes individually by me as well as the English teachers. Every cycle, there will be one writing piece that must be submitted via Turnitin to check for similarities or plagiarism. This assignment is on the Homework slip.
  4. Please be aware that grade 6 students receive homework slips each day 1, which they are expected to place in their student planners.
  5. Every afternoon, I remind the students to pack their books to study for quizzes and complete their homework.
  6. It’s important to note that your son does not have one homeroom teacher who stays with him throughout the day. Instead, he has six different subject specialist teachers. This information was explained during our parent introductory meeting. It is expected that your son now takes responsibility for packing his books in the afternoons, just like the other students.
  7. Please remember that all the textbooks can be accessed from the Keith books tab on the portal.

FAQs For Diploma Programme (DP)

What is the 8-Day scheduling Cycle?

  • The 8-Day scheduling Cycle runs over 8 school days (excluding weekends).
  • Instead of the weekdays (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, etc), our cycle days are referred to as Day One, Day Two until Day Eight.
  • At the end of the 8th day, Day 1 will restart for the next 8-day cycle.
  • The 8 Day cycle calendar is available in the student planner and on the portal.

Where can I find the homework assigned to my child?

  • A homework slip is issued to DP students every cycle (Day 1).
  • All students and parents can access the homework slip through the JKS Portal by following the below steps:
    • Login to JksPortal.net using your child’s login details provided in the letter which was issued on the first day of school
    • From the Menu, select Students and Parents
    • Select Homework Slips
  • You will also be able to access previous homework slips through the same page.
  • Students must complete the homework on the assigned day and submit it to the teacher as scheduled on the homework slip.

What is ManageBac? (Grades 6-12)

ManageBac is a Learning Management System adopted by the school which facilitates the following:

  • Enrollment of students into subject-specific classes
  • Student access to the resources (presentations, videos, worksheets, answer keys…) which are being used in class by the teacher
  • Additional resources to extend student learning
  • Announcements and reminders posted by the teacher
  • Submission of assignments in digital format when required

The site can be accessed by clicking on the ManageBac icon through JKSPortal.

When and how will my child be assessed?

  • Assessments take place continuously throughout the quarter for all grade levels.
  • Quizzes for different subjects are assigned on a set day of the cycle. The quiz schedule can be found on the homework slip.
  • End-of-quarter assessments also take place four times a year for all grade levels. Schedules, Notifications and Revision Packs are released 2 weeks in advance through the JKSPortal, under the Students and Parents Tab.

How can I follow up on my child’s academic performance?

Parents can access the PlusPortals-Parent Tab through JKSPortal to view their child’s grades throughout the quarter. These grades are based on the submission of homework and assignments, completion of classwork, and assessments carried out. These grades are continuously revised and updated during the quarter and are considered final only upon the release of the report card.

When and how can I see my child’s report card?

Performance is reported on comprehensively at the end of every quarter for all grade levels. You will be notified via email and SMS when the report is available and can be accessed through the PlusPortals-Parent Tab through JKSPortal.

 

What programs does JKS offer?

JKS is accredited by the Council for International Schools (CIS), New England Association for Schools and Colleges (NEASC) as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB).

JKS is the first IB continuum school in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia authorized to offer the three IB programmes:

  • Primary Years Programme: offered for students aged 3 to 12, which at JKS corresponds to grades 1 to 5.
  • Middle Years Programme: offered for students aged 11 to 16, which at JKS corresponds to grades 6 to 10.
  • Diploma Programme: offered for students aged 16 to 19, which at JKS corresponds to grades 11 and 12.

 

What are the advantages of an IB education?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a globally recognized leader in the field of international education.

Aligned with JKS’s mission for academic excellence, the IB helps students develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to participate actively and responsibly in a changing and increasingly interrelated world. The IB encourages students to be active learners, well-rounded individuals and engaged world citizens. Its coherent and comprehensive curriculum framework is carefully designed to support the personal, social and emotional well-being of the students as they establish their identity and build their self-esteem.

The IB motivates students and helps them to achieve success both in school and in life beyond the classroom. The IB programmes allow students to build on their strengths and to embrace challenges in subjects in which they might not excel.

What is the IB learner profile and what role does it have in my child’s education?

The IB’s learner profile describes a broad range of capacities and responsibilities that shape the future active members of the world and which go beyond academic success. They imply a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them. The profile aims to develop learners who are:

  • Inquirers
  • Knowledgeable
  • Thinkers
  • Communicators
  • Principled
  • Open-minded
  • Caring
  • Risk-takers
  • Balanced
  • Reflective

What are the diplomas offered at JKS?

Students can choose to graduate with one of the following diplomas:

  • Full IB Diploma (All IB courses)
  • Full American Diploma (No IB courses)
  • American Diploma with IB courses (Some IB courses)

What is the Diploma Programme?

The Diploma Programme (DP) is a curriculum framework designed by the International Baccalaureate (IB) for students in the last two years of high school. IB students graduating with the IB diploma can study at universities all around the world, often with advanced credit. Full IB Diploma Programme students study six subjects (three at the standard level and three at a higher level or 2 two at the Standard level and 4 at a Higher level) over two years and complete three additional requirements: the theory of knowledge (TOK), the extended essay (EE) and CAS—creativity, activity and service tasks outside of the classroom. In addition to these requirements, students must earn a minimum of 24 points out of a possible 45 points on the final assessments which are externally marked and moderated by the IB, to receive an IB diploma.

What is the American Diploma?

The American Diploma Program is one of the three international educational systems conducted in English and recognized nationally and internationally. It allows the implementation of the International Standards of Learning and is considered a rich system originating from the diversification of the educational systems existing in the United States of America. It is recognized and accepted in the most rigorous universities around the world. This system more than adequately prepares students for the academic challenges of university and that of a constantly changing world.

All students are required to sit for SAT (Math and English), an external additional examination in Grade 11.

 

Do students need to choose between the American and the IB diploma?

All students enrolled at JKS will graduate with the American diploma, including those who take full IB. The non-IB courses offered at JKS follow the same curriculum as the IB courses which ensures that all students are receiving the highest quality of education. Students taking the Full IB Diploma can also apply to universities with their American Diploma.

What’s the difference between the Full IB diploma and courses?

Not all students choose to take the IB Diploma. Instead, students have the option to take courses in areas where they have a particular interest or strength. Certificates are awarded on a course-by-course basis to students who choose not to do the full programme. Students who satisfactorily complete a DP course earn a certificate and may be eligible for some university credit.

What is TOK?

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is an interdisciplinary course designed to help students question and understand how they know what they know. Students study how individuals from various disciplines view the world to develop their ways of thinking. By stimulating analysis of knowledge across disciplines, TOK seeks to help students make sense of school and the world.

What is CAS?

Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) is an experiential learning component of the DP. Students complete a wide variety of extracurricular, community service and athletic options to fulfil this requirement.

What is EE?

The extended essay (EE) introduces students to the demands and rewards of independent work. Emphasis is placed on doing personal research and communicating ideas effectively to write a 4,000-word essay in an area of personal interest.

Are there any fees for the IB Diploma Programme?

Full Diploma and courses students must take IB examination in May of Grade 12. Examination fees for the IB diploma vary for depending on the number of examinations they take.  (IBO sets all testing fees and they do change yearly). The exam fees are determined by the IB organization and paid to them.

When are the IB fees paid?

IB examination fees are paid at the beginning of Grade 12.

Can students change the subject at any time of the year or take different subjects in Grade 12?

Students are required to choose their courses in Grade 10. Changes in subjects are only allowed during the first week of DP 1 (Grade 11). DP courses are two-year courses hence, changes in subjects after the first week are not possible due to the number of hours required for each course over two years.

How do I choose my subjects in Grade 11?

Students are required to choose 6 subjects of which 4 subjects are compulsory from below:

  • English (HL/SL/Am)
  • Arabic (A HL /A SL/ B HL/ B SL/ A Am/ B Am)
  • Math (Algebra/Precalculus/ Math AA SL/Math AI SL/ Math AA HL)
  • Science (Biology (HL/SL/AM or Physics HL/SL/Am or Chemistry HL/SL/Am).

The remaining 2 subjects are chosen from the electives below:

  • Economics (SL/Am)
  • Business (HL/SL/Am)
  • Visual Arts (HL/SL/Am)
  • Spanish ab initio (SL/Am)
  • French ab initio (SL/Am)
  • Psychology (HL/SL/Am)
  • The Second Science subject is different from the first one.
  • Third Science subject (different from the first and second one)

What is a self-taught subject?

A student can take a 7th subject as self-taught (1 year only) either in Grade 11 or Grade 12, should he wish to take an additional science course for university requirement purposes.

What is a sub-elective?

Please keep in mind that in Arabic American we offer 2 courses:

Arabic A Am (6 periods)

Arabic B Am (3 periods) with sub-elective (3 periods).

Students can choose one of the following sub-electives Auto-engineering, Software application, Media & Film studies, Culinary Art, Interior design, or Textile and fashion.

How do colleges and universities view the Diploma Programme?

The DP is internationally recognized as representing one of the highest standards in university preparatory education. Universities around the world have recognition policies on how they weigh it in admissions, advanced standing, college credit and scholarships. A list of colleges and universities that grant credit, scholarships and/or advanced standing for DP diplomas and certificates is available at www.ibo.org.

What is the GPA and how is it calculated?

A Grade Point Average (GPA) is a system for evaluating a student’s overall academic performance in high school. At JKS, each grade 9 – 12 student’s cumulative grade point average includes all high school grades and is weighted based on the course’s credit. It is updated and included on the official transcript each year, and used for university admissions.

Does the school help with the university application?

Yes, students will be guided through the application process, and required documents will be prepared and sent upon request including the transcript, predicted grades and teacher recommendations.

When is the deadline for the university applications?

Students must check for the application deadline with the university they are applying to.

Can the student send the transcripts to the universities they are applying to on their own?

University admissions officers will only accept a transcript either directly uploaded to an application, sent through BridgeU or the Academic College Counsellor.

How do students apply to the USA?

Applications to the USA are through CommonApp. JKS students have a BridgeU account through the school which is linked to CommonApp. Applications and the required documents are sent through Common App and BridgeU only.

Do all universities in the USA use CommonApp for their applications?

No, not all universities use CommonApp.  The University of California branches have their portal for applications but most universities in the USA use CommonApp.  Students need to check each university’s method of application.

SAT, TOEFL iBT, and Academic IELTSUKVI:  why are these tests required and how to register for them?

Students will need these tests for MISK, the government Scholarship and for University applications.

  • SAT and TOEFL for the USA
  • IELTS for UK
  • SAT registration through the CollegeBoard
  • IELTS registration through the British Consulate

Is the SAT mandatory even if I am planning to attend university locally?

Yes, the SAT is a JKS graduation requirement.

What is the National Center for Assessment “Qiyas”? How can I know more about the GAT “Qudurat” & SAAT Science “Tahsili”?

The GAT is a national test carried out by the National Center for Assessment that targets local secondary school graduates who wish to pursue their studies in institutions of higher education. It measures several aspects that are related to the educational process, such as a student’s analytical and deductive skills. The test is composed of two sections: verbal (language-related) and quantitative (mathematics). It can be conducted 5 times throughout G 11 & 12.

 

What is SAAT? One of the objectives of the different education stages is that students, after completing each academic stage, acquire knowledge of the basics of each subject they study. The General Secondary School Certificate is the last stage of general education, after which students move to university education, which requires that the academic knowledge of secondary school students qualify them to engage in university education. The Achievement Test is a unified measure for all secondary school graduates; it has been designed to be a fair and accurate standard for all, which helps educational institutions beyond the secondary school stage to choose the highest achieving students in secondary school subjects.

The questions of the different test sections focus on general concepts in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Math.

How can I apply for Fast Track at King Abdulaziz University?

Refer to the website for the latest requirements https://www.kau.edu.sa/

What is the balanced average at King Abdulaziz University?

The balanced average is the sum of the grades of High School + GAT + SAAT giving specific weight and percentage for each as illustrated on their website.

What are the educational pathways offered at JKS?

Refer to the JKS Educational Pathway available on the JKS portal (Students and Parents Tab, G9 to 12 General Academic Plan) and compare it to the University requirements of your chosen university.

How can I get a national scholarship?

Refer to the Safeer website.

https://safeer2.moe.gov.sa/Portal/

What Is the Waed Program?

Waed is the Fast-track program at King Abdulaziz University.

English link

https://admission.kau.edu.sa/Files/210/Files/162695_WAED_Program.pdf

Arabic link

https://admission.kau.edu.sa/Pages-WAEDprog.aspx

What is a Brag Sheet?

A brag sheet provides teachers with information about the student’s interests, achievements and extra-curricular involvement to write a recommendation letter to support their university application.

What is MISK and what they will provide?

The Distinctive College Prep program is a 2.5-year journey that builds capabilities and supports ambitious and high-performing school students in securing places at prestigious top-tier universities. Please refer to the following link for further information about the program.

https://hub.misk.org.sa/programs/leadership/distinctive-college-prep-program/

How can I know more about the university applications and requirements?

Refer to the College Counselling Handbook available on the JKS portal (Students and Parents Tab, G9 to 12 College Counselling Handbook).

Where can I find more information?

Additional information can be found through the JKS Website, the JKS Portal, and the Parent-Student Handbook (under the School Information Tab). Should you require any further details, please send an email to jksinfo@jks.edu.sa.