Frequently Asked Questions

Here, we answer the most frequently asked questions about our admission process from families interested in joining the International School of Panama.

What is your school calendar?

School generally starts beginning or mid-August of each year. School usually ends mid-June of each year. Visit our academic calendar for details.

What are your school hours?

Class Schedule

PK3: 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
PK4 to Grade 12: 8:00 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
On Fridays, all students leave at 12:30 p.m.

After-school activities & Athletics (K-12)

After-school activities (ASA): 3:00 p.m. to 4:10 p.m.

Athletics:

Mon – Thu: 3:00 p.m. to 4:10 p.m (some sports practice until 5:10 p.m.)
Fridays: 1:10 p.m. to 3:10 p.m.

What is the curriculum?

After intensive exploration, our standards are selected from the best in the world. Our selections are based on best research and pedagogical practices from around the world. We thoroughly review each subject area on a five-year cycle, and the review process allows for enhancements and adaptations to be made throughout the cycle. ISP subject area teachers and specialists work collaboratively to design units and assessments. Click here to learn more or go into each division for specific information:

What is the cost of tuition at ISP?

Click here to see our tuition and fee schedule.

Does my child have to join ISP on a specific date?

As an international school, we offer rolling admissions to accommodate families throughout the year. While we encourage students to begin at the start of a semester when possible, we have strong systems in place to support mid-semester transitions. Our Enrollment Committee meets monthly to ensure a smooth integration for families joining during the school year. Contact our admissions team to set up a timeline that works for your family.

How is grade level placement determined?

As a school based in Panama, we must strictly comply with the Ministry of Education (MEDUCA) regulations regarding the placement of students.

To enroll in PK3, students must be three years of age before July 31st
To enroll in PK4, students must be four years of age before July 31st
To enroll in Kindergarten, students must be five years of age before July 31st

From first grade onwards, placement will be determined by the grades they have completed in their previous schools and are certified by our local Ministry of Education.

All students incoming from abroad who will be enrolling in second grade onwards are required to complete a convalidation process with MEDUCA within six months of enrolling in ISP.

Please find more information on the documents that must be presented directly to the authorities here.

For students transitioning from a school calendar that runs from March to December (or similar) they must enroll in the same grade they have completed (if enrolling in January) or in the same grade they are currently enrolled in (if enrolling in August).

Please click here to find our school age placement guide.

Does ISP have a wait-pool list?

Yes, when necessary. As with many international schools around the world, demand can fluctuate but is often high. This means that, at the time of application, our classes may be full. In these cases, we place students in a wait-pool list for the grade level involved. Our Admissions Office will be happy to explain to you how we operate our wait-pool list should you have further queries.

Do you require ISP students to wear uniforms?

According to Panamanian law, all students in schools must wear uniforms. We offer the ISP uniform for sale at Galapagos, a local clothing chain. We also provide detailed information once your child is admitted to the school. The uniform consists of the following:

PK3 & PK4: school t-shirt (blue or gray) with PE shorts.
K-12th Grade:
- A polo-style shirt (light blue or white) with the ISP school emblem
- Navy blue shorts, pants, or a plaid skirt.
- 11th and 12th grade students can opt for a dark blue trim polo.
We require physical education (PE) uniforms at all age levels. This is a unisex uniform consisting of navy blue knit shorts, an ISP t-shirt and sweatpants.
Shoes must be closed and have rubber soles.

Do you have a lunch program?

Yes, there are two cafeterias on-campus. One for students in Elementary School and another one for students in Middle and High School. Both cafeterias offer meal plans, and accept debit and credit card payments (no cash).

Do you have transportation services?

ISP refers parents to transportation companies that establish a direct service relationship with parents. Students enjoy door-to-door buses and a staff member providing assistance to ensure safety during transport.
The transportation buses offer service for regular dismissal as well as through the after school program.

Where do your students go after high school graduation?

ISP graduates attend some of the most prestigious universities throughout the world.
Click here to view our school profile.

Didn’t find the answer to your question?

We’re happy to help! Visit our contact section, fill out the form with your details, and let us know your question, request, or concern.