Academic Overview

The American High School (+AP) Program (AHSP) was created in 2008 to offer elite Chinese students an internationally competitive alternative to the traditional Chinese curriculum. The program, designed with the support of the College Board and the California State Board of Education, brings American teaching methods and educational technology into China via niche magnet school programs embedded within some of the country's most prestigious public high schools. The 3-year program's curriculum is based on the U.S. Common Core curriculum, supplemented by a growing number of AP classes. 

Chinese students preparing for undergraduate studies abroad need different knowledge than the average high school student, and particularly need strong English skills. The U.S. Common Core curriculum that our schools follow gives students much of the same knowledge as students in an American school, while the all-English classroom environment helps them quickly develop the skills necessary to express themselves at the appropriate academic level. 

As the curriculum is based on U.S. standards, AHSP pedagogy is primarily American. Success or failure of an imported curriculum, however, often requires an ability to adjust for local specifics. This means teachers must to be flexible in their presentation, adapting teaching styles to connect with the real-life experiences of their students. 

The first year is a foundation year during which students take U.S. Common Core classes to familiarize themselves with the system. Years 2 and 3 of the program immerse students in a characteristic American high school program with the option of a full load of AP classes. Our AP classes have all undergone the AP Course Audit, a collaborative effort among secondary schools, colleges and universities, and the College Board to confirm that the courses labeled “AP” provide the appropriate level and range of college-level course content. 

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