The Adams International School admission process begins with a visit to the school. Parents are given a tour of the school's facilities, a description of Montessori education and a chance to experience the daily rhythm of our school. A prospective student will have a chance to visit the classroom, spend time with the lead teacher and work with the materials. Parents and the AIS faculty will then work together to determine if AIS is the best fit for the child's learning needs. Families may apply for admission at any time throughout the year. Our open admission window and year-round schedule are designed to let children begin their education at AIS whenever they are ready.

We are glad that you are considering Adams International School for your child and family. The AIS admission process is dependent upon the age of the entering child. Please read the sections below depending upon which pertains to your child.


For Children’s House Community (ages 2.5-6)

There are four steps to the admissions process for children age 6 and under. Please see steps below. 

  1. School Showings: Attend a school showing. Showings offer an overview of Montessori history, philosophy, and curriculum in the classroom setting. This is an excellent opportunity to learn generally about Montessori education and Adams International School in a short amount of time. Please refer to our school calendar or call for the next showing date. Because School Showings are held in a Children's House (2.5-6 year old) classroom that has been meticulously prepared for the children's arrival the next day, we ask that you please make childcare arrangements for all children other than very young infants in arms.

  2. Classroom Observations: Schedule an observation with us. You should attend a School Showing before scheduling an observation.

  3. Application: Submit an admissions application with a one-time non-refundable application fee of $100. Families may apply for admission at any time throughout the year. Our open admission window and year-round schedule are designed to let children begin their education at AIS whenever they are ready.


For Elementary Community (ages 6-12)

There are five steps to the admissions process for children age 6-12. 

  1. Parent Information Night: Open to the public as well as current student families, these evening sessions are held throughout the year and offer information on  the principles, strategies and methods of Montessori as well as topics such as the Ecology of Learning and Dyslexia.  

  2. Parent Inquiry: Following your initial email or phone contact, we would like to welcome you to take a tour of the campus.

  3. Classroom Observations: For parents to see the Montessori environment in action, it is essential to be right in the middle of it. You can schedule your 30-45 minute morning observation with the Office Administrator at 804-784-0141 Ext. 102.

  4. Application: Submit an admissions application with a one-time non-refundable application fee of $100. Families may apply for admission at any time throughout the year. Our open admission window and year-round schedule are designed to let children begin their education at AIS whenever they are ready.

  5. Prospective Child Visit: For the older child, the chance to experience the community in action is as vital a component to the admissions process as any other. Following your application submission, we will be in contact with you to schedule your child’s visiting day. In some circumstances the staff may ask that a child visit the classroom community more than once.

We welcome the opportunity to share our school and offer interested parents a chance to tour AIS. For a tour, or to begin the admission process, please call 804-784-0141 or email AIS.

Education is a social process. Education is growth. Education is not a preparation for life; education is life itself.
— John Dewey