Presented by American International School of Johannesburg

Why South African parents are choosing AISJ boarding

 ·9 Dec 2025

The American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ) is the school of choice for ambassadors, business leaders, expatriate families, and South Africans. 

It draws students from Steyn City, Fourways, Dainfern, Copperleaf, Sandton, Kyalami, Waterfall, Waterkloof, Silver Lakes, Woodhill, Midstream, and the greater Johannesburg and Pretoria regions.

Furthermore, it receives students from across South Africa, the continent, and the world.

This is because the parents of today are looking for more than a school – they are seeking a community that feels like home and prepares their children for a global future. 

The AISJ Johannesburg campus offers a boarding program for Grades 8 – 12 that provides exactly that.

Balanced lifestyle and healthy growth

AISJ boarding fosters a truly balanced way of life, where academics, sports, creative pursuits, and personal development are valued equally. 

Structured daily routines help students develop independence, time management, and responsibility, while strong friendships and a sense of belonging naturally emerge within a supportive community.

Weekends offer a mix of relaxation and exploration, ranging from on-campus social activities to supervised excursions that showcase South Africa’s natural beauty, culture, and vibrant experiences.

Comfortable living and thoughtful care

Boarding students enjoy private ensuite bedrooms to ensure personal space, alongside shared common areas that build connection and community. 

Nutritious meals are freshly prepared each day, and the safe, gated school campus is supervised 24/7 by dedicated residential staff.

Students have easy access to:

  • Study spaces and the library
  • Creative arts studios
  • Athletics and training facilities
  • Reliable digital learning resources

Academic excellence and pathways for every student

AISJ offers multiple academic pathways to support individual strengths, interests, and aspirations:

  • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) – globally recognized and academically rigorous, providing access to selective universities around the world. 
  • High School Program (HSP) – a US-equivalent high school diploma, providing access to a wide range of universities internationally.
  • Advanced Placement Courses (AP) – an option that allows high school students to take university-level courses and exams to earn university credit, strengthening university applications, and preparing them for future academic success.
  • Hybrid model – a flexible combination of IBDP and HSP courses, potentially including AP courses.
  • Learner-Specific Pathways (LSP) – a personalised and modified program of support, embracing neurodiversity and inclusion for a wide range of learners.

Evening study sessions, access to tutors, and teacher availability help students stay on track academically. 

Students can also participate in a wide range of sports, arts, leadership, and co-curricular activities, developing confidence, teamwork, and character in the process.

The university counselling team guides students and parents through global university admissions – from portfolio building to standardised testing and application strategy.

Where every student thrives

AISJ is committed to supporting diverse learning profiles, including students who are neurodivergent. 

A small student-to-staff ratio ensures that students receive individualised attention and meaningful mentorship. 

Students develop essential life skills, including resilience, empathy, leadership, and creativity, through daily experiences in community life, athletics, the arts, and service.

Opening doors to the world

AISJ students benefit from a connected, international alumni network – opening opportunities, friendships, and pathways that continue long after graduation. 

With Johannesburg’s global travel access, families also enjoy convenient international connectivity.

At AISJ, boarding is not just where students live – it is where they grow into capable, confident, and compassionate young adults.

It is a home away from home that nurtures potential and opens pathways to the world.

Click here to learn more about AISJ.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter