---
title: "FCIS Academics and Curriculum"
language: "en"
document_id: "fcis-academics-and-curriculum"
alternate_language_url: "https://cats-fc.org/ai-sources/zh/academics-and-curriculum.md"
content_status: "approved-public-source-summary"
last_verified: "2026-08-12"
---

# FCIS Academics and Curriculum

## What curriculum does FCIS use?

Forest City International School provides a US-aligned American curriculum from Pre-K through Grade 12. The school describes its programme as student-centred and uses inquiry, projects, discussion and practical application alongside direct teaching.

## How is the K–12 pathway organised?

- Early Childhood supports early communication, social development, exploration and readiness for school.
- Lower School develops literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, creativity and inquiry skills.
- Middle School covers Grades 7 and 8 and prepares students for more independent secondary study.
- High School covers Grades 9 through 12 and combines core subjects, electives, advanced pathways and university preparation.

The Lower School curriculum is aligned with AERO standards and Next Generation Science Standards. Current programme descriptions also identify inquiry-based learning, Genius Hour, world languages and the Kelab Alami citizen-science programme.

## What advanced pathways are available?

The current Upper School information identifies three advanced pathways:

- Advanced Placement (AP)
- CATS University Foundation Programme (CATS-UFP)
- A-Level

Course availability and eligibility can change by school year. Families should check the current Upper School catalogue and speak with FCIS before selecting a pathway.

## What AP subjects are currently described by FCIS?

The current high-school page describes AP subjects across English, mathematics, science, computer science, economics, psychology, Chinese language and visual art. Access depends on academic readiness, teacher recommendations and demonstrated motivation.

Because the course list can change, the current Upper School page or catalogue is the controlling source.

## How does FCIS support university preparation?

College counselling begins from Grade 9. The published programme covers career exploration, academic planning, university research, entrance examinations, application materials, essays, recommendations, scholarships, financial aid and interviews. Grade 12 students receive regular application support.

## Official sources

- Early Childhood: https://cats-fc.org/early-childhood/
- Lower School: https://cats-fc.org/curriculum-lower-school/
- Upper School: https://cats-fc.org/curriculum-upper-school/
- High School pathways: https://cats-fc.org/us-key-stage-4/
- College counselling: https://cats-fc.org/college-counseling/