Compare American Curriculum International Schools in Nicaragua

Instructs in English, Spanish

Fees $126,540 - 375,180

Type Co-educational

St. Augustine Preparatory School Managua is a private, Catholic, coeducational, college-preparatory school offering a U.S.-accredited high school diploma with NEASC accreditation. Located in Managua, it operates a bilingual program spanning Preschool through High School, guided by a Core Knowledge curriculum in the early grades and a rigorous AP-based pathway in secondary years. Preschool centers on language, literacy, and foundational life skills; Elementary and Middle School follow the Core Knowledge Sequence; High School provides AP courses across languages, math, science, history, and the arts, plus the AP Capstone Diploma. The school became the second AP Capstone school in Central America in 2018, and in 2023, 85% of seniors earned the Capstone Diploma. Additional options include the Nicaragua Bachillerato Diploma, a College Counselor, and a broad Student Life program with sports, clubs, and service opportunities. The María Auxiliadora Chapel is open daily, and facilities support research, arts, and community service initiatives worldwide.

Location

Managua, Nicaragua. Campus address: Club Terraza 2.4 Km al Sur, 400 Mts al Oeste, Managua, Nicaragua.

Stages

Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School

Type

Private, Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory school

Additional learning support

Learning Support Services provide personalized Student Support Plans with a dedicated Learning Support Counselor; supports students with ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Language Support includes two full-time English Language Learners (ELL) teachers for elementary and secondary levels, using MAP Screener and placement tests; also a Spanish Language Learner program.

Country affiliation

United States (U.S.-accredited high school diploma; NEASC accreditation)

Religious affiliation

Catholic

Application and Registration Fees
- Entrance (Cuota de Entrada) for new students (PK3–12): C$ 148,400.00.
- Annual registration (Matrícula Anual), non-refundable (PK3–12): C$ 14,840.00.

Tuition – monthly, per year group (Colegiatura mensual, base 12 meses)
- PK3: C$ 10,545.00 per month. Annual total (12 months): C$ 126,540.00. Semester (6 months): C$ 63,270.00.
- PK4: C$ 13,690.00 per month. Annual total (12 months): C$ 164,280.00. Semester (6 months): C$ 82,140.00.
- Kindergarten: C$ 23,125.00 per month. Annual total (12 months): C$ 277,500.00. Semester (6 months): C$ 138,750.00.
- Grades 1–5: C$ 27,380.00 per month. Annual total (12 months): C$ 328,560.00. Semester (6 months): C$ 164,280.00.
- Grades 6–8: C$ 30,895.00 per month. Annual total (12 months): C$ 370,740.00. Semester (6 months): C$ 185,370.00.
- Grades 9–12: C$ 31,265.00 per month. Annual total (12 months): C$ 375,180.00. Semester (6 months): C$ 187,590.00.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Standard monthly billing period: August through July (12 monthly installments). Students who attend any part of a semester are billed 100% of that semester (6 months equals one semester).
- Grade 12 students pay their tuition in 10 installments (August through May).
- Payments are due within the first five business days of each month. Payments more than 10 days late incur a 10% penalty.
- If a student withdraws before the end of the academic year, the family must settle the full 12-month tuition obligation in order for the student to receive final grades.
- An 8% discount is offered for payment in full of the annual tuition; the deadline to qualify is the first day of classes. Payment plans are offered.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable. No boarding (internado) program or boarding fees are published for the school; the school operates as a day school.

Other annual or one-off fees and mandatory charges (per student)
- Parent Association fee: C$ 1,000.00 per year.
- Technology fee: PK3 — C$ 7,791.00 per year; PK4–12 — C$ 12,985.00 per year.
- Co-curricular fee (K–12), mandatory for all K–12 students: C$ 5,342.00 per year. This fee applies to all K–12 students regardless of actual participation in extra-curricular programs.
- Optional extended hours (PK3, PK4): C$ 5,565.00 per year.
- Graduation fee (Grade 12): C$ 7,420.00.
- Family tuition discounts (applies only to tuition): third student 20%; fourth student 30%; fifth student 40%.

Refund and withdrawal rules
- The annual registration (matrícula) is non-refundable.
- If a student leaves during the school year, the full 12-month tuition obligation must be settled before final grades will be released. Semester attendance rules require payment of 100% for any semester in which the student attends any portion of that semester.

Fee payment options and account management
- Family billing and online account access are handled through the school's family/parents portal (RenWeb/ParentsWeb) and the FACTS billing system; families use the FACTS/ParentsWeb portal to view invoices, enroll in payment plans, and make payments.
- Typical payment methods available through FACTS include automatic bank withdrawal (e-check/ACH) and credit/debit card payments (availability and any convenience fees depend on the school's FACTS configuration). On-campus or local-bank payment options are administered by the Finance Office as directed by the school.

Notes on uniforms and incidental costs
- The school enforces a uniform dress code; uniform specifications are in the Student Handbook. Families are responsible for purchasing required uniforms and paying incidental costs (textbooks, extracurricular trips, specific activity fees), which are billed separately as applicable. Specific uniform purchase prices are not published in the tuition table.

Curriculum

Preschool PK3 & PK4 builds a foundation in language, literacy, and essential life skills, fostering academic, social, emotional, and spiritual development. Elementary School (K–5) uses the Core Knowledge Sequence across Language Arts, Math, Visual Arts, History & Geography, Science, and Music. Secondary School comprises Middle School (6th–8th) and High School (9th–12th) with more than 17 Advanced Placement courses, Mathematics Honors, and the Nicaragua Bachillerato Diploma (7th–12th). AP offerings include Languages and Literature (AP English Literature and Composition; AP English Language and Composition; AP French Language and Culture; AP Spanish Literature and Culture), Math and Science (AP Precalculus; AP Statistics; AP Calculus AB; AP Physics 1; AP Biology), History and Social Sciences (AP European History; AP Comparative Government and Politics; AP Macroeconomics; AP Psychology), and Arts (AP Art and Design 2D; AP Art and Design Drawing; AP Art History). The AP Capstone Diploma Program includes AP Seminar and AP Research, and in 2023, 85% of seniors earned an AP Capstone Diploma.

Student Teacher Ratio

9:1 student-teacher ratio; average class size 18.

Exam Results

AP participation over the last five years (2020–2024) includes 70% of 10th–12th graders taking AP courses and 920 AP exams taken, with an AP exam passing rate of 77%. In 2023, 85% of seniors earned an AP Capstone Diploma.

Higher Education Progression

College Placement data show acceptances of the last five graduating classes to 217 universities with offers of over $73 million in financial aid and scholarships.

Gifted and Talented

Becas Oportunidad al Talento (Talent Opportunity Scholarships) are partial scholarships to support secondary students who show outstanding academic performance, high English proficiency, and excellence in values, character, and leadership; open to students entering grades 6, 8, 9, and 10.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school has a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) program that supports students in developing knowledge of themselves and the world. SEL is integrated with the Advisory program, the secondary school version of Pod Meetings. Community Time is a daily period where students pursue service, independent study, and clubs, with weekly Mass and Advisory groups. This structure supports student growth and well-being through consistent guidance and opportunities for reflection and service.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school has Learning Support Services to help every student thrive. The program supports learners with ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Ms. Adriana Callejas, the Learning Support Counselor, leads the counseling team in developing Student Support Plans with parents and teachers, coordinating with outside professionals as needed. Language Support includes English Language Learners (ELL) support with two full-time ELL teachers and a Spanish Language Learner program.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school has two full-time English Language Learners (ELL) teachers who work with English Language Learners at the elementary and secondary levels. The Language Support program's objective is to bring students up to their grade level in English proficiency, with English level determined by MAP Screener and a placement test administered by the ELL teacher. The ELL program covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and the ELL teacher collaborates with the student's homeroom teacher and counselor to determine when to exit the program. The school also offers a Spanish Language Learner program.

Mental Wellbeing

The school has mental wellbeing support through a dedicated Learning Support Counselor and counseling team who develop Student Support Plans with families and teachers. The SEL program supports emotional development and self-awareness. Secondary students participate in Community Time daily, which includes Advisory, Mass, Study Hall, and Interest Club meetings. Religious formation is integrated into the curriculum and student life. The school engages students in service and leadership activities that support well-being and resilience.

Admissions

1. Fill out and submit the Admission Application and the complete original documentation to the school offices, addressed to Ms. Francis Guevara (fguevara@csa.edu.ni). 2. Students who meet all requirements will be invited to take the Admission Exam (mathematics and English) and to attend Admission Interviews. 3. Parents of students who reach the final stage will be invited to an interview. 4. Students who will receive scholarships will be informed by the school and will be invited to sign the scholarship agreement with their parents.

Scholarships

The 'Oportunidad al Talento' program is a partial scholarship program to support secondary students with outstanding academic performance, high English proficiency, and excellence in character, whose families cannot cover the full tuition. The program is open to students entering grades 6, 8, 9, and 10. Applicants must have advanced English language proficiency and a minimum average of 90 over the last three years. Applicants must demonstrate excellence in values, character, and leadership in their current school.

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Lincoln International Academy

Instructs in English, Spanish

Type Co-educational

Lincoln International Academy is a Catholic private bilingual, co-educational, college‑preparatory school serving preschool through grade 12 in Las Colinas Sur, Managua, Nicaragua. The school follows a STREAM framework—integrating Science, Religion, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics—across PreK–12, with English and Spanish as a Second Language programs to support language development. It is accredited by Cognia (SACS) with Cognia STEM Certification and Cognia American School Certification, and also holds MINED accreditation. Founded in 1991, the school is celebrating 35 years in 2026–2027 and has produced graduates who study or work around the world. Facilities include a redesigned Media Center with zones: Kidz Zone, Recording Studio, MS/HS Zone, Makerspace, and a Multipurpose Room, a computer-equipped library, and a cafeteria serving meals. The athletics program offers soccer, volleyball, swimming, track and field, gymnastics and basketball, with championships. Strong college counseling and service-learning opportunities connect students to universities and community impact for college admissions worldwide.

Location

Lincoln International Academy is located in Managua, Nicaragua. The campus address is Las Colinas Sur, Managua, Nicaragua. The Las Colinas Sur area hosts the campus.

Stages

Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School

Type

Catholic private, bilingual, co-educational, college preparatory

Additional learning support

Specialized Learning Program

Country affiliation

Nicaragua

Religious affiliation

Catholic

Application / Entrance fee

- A mandatory one‑time entrance (enrollment) fee is required for each new student. This fee is set in U.S. dollars using the current U.S. dollar exchange rate established by the Nicaraguan Central Bank.
- The entrance fee may be paid in full at enrollment or amortized in monthly installments under a payment plan. Once a payment plan is committed and the Enrollment Contract is signed, the obligation for the entrance fee is irreversible and remains payable even if the student later withdraws.
- The entrance fee is refundable only if the student has not started attending classes.

Tuition fees by school year / grade

- Tuition is charged as an annual tuition fee, and the school's published admissions materials and parent handbook describe the billing structure and categories of annual charges. The school's publicly available materials do not publish specific numeric tuition amounts by grade or per term on the tuition & fees pages. Parents receive the official fee amounts through the school's enrollment/fee documentation and billing statements.
- Monthly tuition is structured as installment payments rather than per‑term invoices for most families (see Billing schedule and payment terms below for installment timing).

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Standard tuition billing is made in 10 equal monthly installments, billed from August through May. Debits are made on the first day of each month and payments are due no later than the 10th of each month. If a student attends only part of a semester, 100% of that semester's tuition remains payable.
- In exceptional cases the school may authorize a 12‑month payment plan (August–July); preschool and grade 12 accounts follow the 10‑month schedule.
- Advanced Placement (AP) class fees and special course fees have separate deadlines: AP fees are payable before the second week of September and special course fees are payable before September 10. These charges are set by the school and billed separately.
- Late payment and collection: payments received after the 10th of the month are subject to a 10% late fee on the overdue amount. Additional charges apply after 30 days of outstanding balances. Students with one or more months overdue may be suspended; final report cards and certain school services will be withheld for families not in good financial standing.

Boarding / Residential fees

- No boarding program or residential fees are listed in the school's published materials. The school operates with day‑school services (transportation by school bus is described for enrolled students), and no dormitory/boarding charges are published.

Other costs and recurring charges

- The school identifies a set of annual/extra charges in addition to base tuition. These categories include: Events fees, Technology fees, Preschool materials, Retreats, Lincoln Parent Association (LPA) support, Infrastructure, and Security. These are treated as annual fees or program charges in addition to tuition. Exact amounts for these categories are set and billed by the school.
- Bus/transportation: a school bus service is operated for families enrolled in that service; terms and behavioral rules for the bus service are stated in school materials and use of the service is restricted to registered bus users (bus costs, if any, are billed separately).
- Exam and program fees: AP exam fees, special course fees, and fees for particular extracurricular activities or trips are billed separately and must be paid by the stated deadlines.
- Uniforms and supplies: the school enforces a uniform policy and requires uniforms and grade‑appropriate supplies; these are additional family costs (uniform policy and supply expectations are documented in the handbook).

Refund information

- Entrance (enrollment) fee refund: the one‑time entrance fee is refundable only if the student has not begun attending classes. Once classes have started the entrance fee is not refundable.
- Outstanding balances and refunds: the school withholds report cards and may interrupt services for accounts not in good standing; standard school policy ties clearance, transcript release, and final documentation to full settlement of outstanding charges.

Fee payment options and procedures

- The school's published materials state that tuition is processed as recurring monthly debits (debits are made on the first of each month with payment due by the 10th). Specific accepted payment channels (for example, bank transfer, card, or online payment portal) are not itemized in the publicly available tuition & fees pages and parent handbook; families receive payment instructions and the official fee schedule as part of the enrollment/billing documentation.
- Parents sign an Enrollment Contract at registration that specifies the selected payment arrangement and obligations; by signing the contract families accept the financial terms for the student's enrollment period.

Summary points for parents

- A non‑refundable (once classes begin) one‑time entrance fee is required and may be amortized under a plan; the entrance fee is refundable only if the child has not yet started classes.
- Tuition is typically collected as 10 monthly installments (August–May); the school debits on the 1st and requires payment by the 10th of each month. Late payments incur a 10% penalty and extended overdue accounts can lead to suspension and withholding of school records.
- The school publishes categories of additional annual fees (technology, events, materials, retreats, infrastructure/security, etc.) and charges for AP/special courses, bus service, uniforms, and extracurriculars; these are billed in addition to base tuition.

(References: Lincoln International Academy — tuition & fees page and Parent & Student Handbook — financial regulations and billing terms.)

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms are mandatory for all students. Preschool uses an official white polo with the teddy bear logo, khaki skirts for girls or khaki shorts for boys, white socks, and black shoes, with a PE uniform on PE days. From Elementary through High School, students wear the LIA official uniform (white polo shirt) with level-appropriate bottoms; twelfth grade students wear khaki pants with a seniors polo shirt, a brown belt, and brown shoes; PE uniforms are worn on PE days and virtual learning requires wearing the uniform.

Food Options

Food is provided through the school cafeteria; snacks may be brought from home or purchased in the cafeteria. Kindergarten lunch lasts about 35 minutes and a hot-food menu is offered, with the menu posted on the LIA webpage.

House System

LIA has a four-house system: Lionhearts of St. Ignatius of Loyola; Griffins of St. Theresa of Avila; Wolves of St. Francis of Assisi; Golden Cobras of St. Patrick.

Governance and Ownership

The school is privately owned and Catholic. It is MINED-accredited and Cognia-accredited, and holds Cognia's STEM Certification and Cognia American School Certification.

Curriculum

Lincoln International Academy is a Catholic, private, bilingual, co-educational, college preparatory school serving preschool through 12th grade. It uses a STREAM framework across Pre-K–12, integrating Science, Religion, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics across the curriculum; English and Spanish as a Second Language Programs support language development; the school is accredited by Cognia (SACS) with Cognia STEM Certification and Cognia American School Certification.

Student Teacher Ratio

PK2: 3:6; PK3-K: 2:10; 1st-2nd: 2:10; 3rd-5th: 1:21

Higher Education Progression

Graduates have gained university acceptances to 779 universities in 54 countries, with more than US$163.7 million in scholarships and financial aid; 1,218 Lincoln graduates have completed higher education placements worldwide.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Growth Mindset development; Bullying Prevention and Empathy Promotion; Socio-Emotional Development with the Second Step Program; Campaigns to promote well-being and raise awareness of relevant issues in students' lives.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English as a Second Language (ESL) is offered to students who enroll not knowing how to speak, read or write English. Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) is offered to students who come not knowing how to speak, read or write Spanish. Depending on the previous experience in English or Spanish, students are placed at a beginning or intermediate level. ESL helps students acquire basic academic English language skills to initiate their education in a bilingual environment. Transition from ESL/SSL to regular classroom environment is planned progressively.

Mental Wellbeing

Well-being is a central focus of the Safe Environment Program. Socio-emotional development is supported through the Second Step Program, with campaigns to promote well-being and raise awareness of relevant issues in students' lives. Growth Mindset development and anti-bullying efforts are included. The program aims for students to feel valued, safe, and cared for in a welcoming school community.

Safeguarding

The Safe Environment Program includes child protection for students, teachers, and parents. A child protection manual guides practices. A Code of Ethics is in place. Comprehensive hiring measures are implemented. Training in making good decisions is included.

Admissions

1. Inquire and tour. Prospective families start by getting to know Lincoln International Academy, and a campus tour can be booked to begin the admissions process. The Admissions Office emphasizes a personalized, guided process designed to support families every step of the way. To initiate the process, book a campus tour through the provided scheduling link.

2. Placement and readiness evaluation. Placement for younger students involves interviews and skills assessments tailored to the level. PK2 and PK3 require an interview with the Preschool Coordinator and/or counselor; PK4 and Kindergarten require an interview plus a Test of Basic Skills. These placement steps help determine appropriate level and readiness before enrollment.

3. Enrollment Contract. For enrollment, parents sign Lincoln International Academy's Enrollment Contract, and a copy is provided to the family. By signing, parents accept the contract's terms for the duration of the student's attendance.

4. Entrance fee. All students enrolling pay a mandatory one-time entrance fee at enrollment. The entrance fee can be paid in full or in monthly installments, and it is non-refundable if the student has started attending classes.

5. Annual fees and monthly tuition. Enrollment includes an annual tuition/fees structure plus items such as Events, Technology, Preschool Materials, Retreats, LPA Support, Infrastructure, and Security. Monthly tuition is charged in 10 equal installments from August to May, with specific payment deadlines and conditions outlined in the enrollment contract.

6. Payment timelines and consequences. Monthly debits occur on the first day of each month and must be canceled by the 10th; late payments incur a 10% late fee after the 10th, and 30 days of outstanding balances may trigger additional charges. Report cards can be withheld and school services interrupted if payments are not current. AP classes and other special courses have separate payment timelines (AP due by the second week of September; special courses due by September 10).

7. Final clearance and reporting. To obtain the school's clearance and be entitled to receive the report card, the balance for the enrollment charges and other outstanding items must be fully paid. This ensures the student's records can be finalized and reported.

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American Nicaraguan School

Instructs in English, Spanish

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees $139,172 - 318,631

Pupils 893

Type Co-educational

Founded in 1944, the American Nicaraguan School (ANS) is a premier, private, co-educational day school located on a vast 26-acre campus in the Lomas de Monserrat neighborhood of Managua. Serving approximately 893 students from over 30 nationalities, the school offers a highly rigorous, US-accredited American curriculum to students from age 3 through 12th grade. Instruction is delivered entirely in English, and graduates benefit from a Dual Diploma program that awards both a US High School Diploma and the Nicaraguan Baccalaureate. ANS provides extensive academic enrichment through its robust Advanced Placement (AP) program. The campus features unparalleled facilities in Nicaragua, including a 28,500-volume lending library, modern science labs, and comprehensive athletic complexes. With a deep emphasis on community service, robust arts programs, and competitive AASCA sports, ANS comprehensively prepares students to enter top-tier universities worldwide.

Location

The school is located in Managua, Nicaragua.

Stages

The school is divided into Early Education Center (Pathways), Primary School, and Secondary School, with a Specialized Learning Program.

Type

The American Nicaraguan School is a private co-educational international day school with Catholic affiliation.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Diversity includes Nicaraguan 70.10%, USA & Canada 19.15%, Asian 5.82%, Latin American (exc. Nic) 3.70%, European 1.12%, Africa 0.11%, Dual citizens (U.S./Nicaraguan) 27.44%.

Additional learning support

A Specialized Learning Program is available for students requiring additional support.

Country affiliation

The school has an American educational affiliation.

Religious affiliation

The school has a Catholic affiliation with a Catholic Life programme.

School day structure

The 2024–2025 calendar has two semesters totaling 180 instructional days; the first semester runs from mid-August to mid-December, and the second from mid-January to early June.

Application / Entrance Fee
• Entrance fee (Cuota de Ingreso): C$ 219,745.80 (approx. USD equivalent; no entrance fee for PK3–PK4).

Tuition Fees (Monthly and Optional Annual Payments)
• PK3 / PK4: C$ 13,917.23 per month.
• Kindergarten: C$ 23,073.31 per month.
• Grades 1–5: C$ 28,383.83 per month.
• Grades 6–8: C$ 30,764.41 per month.
• Grades 9–12: C$ 31,863.14 per month.
Families may pay tuition monthly, quarterly, by semester, or annually. An 8% benefit applies for tuition paid in advance (annual payment).

Annual / One-Time Fees
• Registration fee (all students): C$ 14,649.72.
• Activities & extracurriculars fee: C$ 8,789.83.
• Technology fee: C$ 8,057.35 (PK3–Kindergarten) or C$ 12,818.51 (Grades 1–12).
• PTO fee: C$ 366.24 per student.
• Scholarship fund fee: C$ 1,831.22 per student.
• Graduation fee (Grade 12): C$ 5,493.65.

Special / Support Program Fees
• Specialized English (ELL) or Spanish (SLL) language programs: C$ 10,987.29 per semester.
• Specialized Learning support: ranges from C$ 10,987.29 to C$ 20,143.37 per semester depending on level and weekly frequency.

Discounts and Multi-Child
• Discounts on monthly tuition are available for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th children enrolled, varying by level (e.g., C$ 1,062.10 off for a 2nd child in Grades 1–5).

Boarding
• The school is a day school and does not offer boarding.

Billing and Payment Terms
• Tuition must be paid within the first 10 days of each billing period. An 8% late fee applies to overdue payments. Payments by credit card are accepted only through the school’s automatic debit program.

Refunds
• The entrance fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. If a student attends any portion of a semester, 100% of that semester’s tuition is due.

Payment Options
• Payments are typically made in Córdobas; tuition may be paid monthly, quarterly, by semester, or annually. Credit card payments are processed via the Automatic Debit Program; bank transfers and checks are subject to additional fees if drawn on international accounts.

All fees are current for the 2026–2027 academic year and are quoted in Nicaraguan Córdobas (C$). Approximate USD conversions vary with exchange rates.

Uniform Requirement

Secondary students (grades 6-12) must wear the school uniform. The formal uniform consists of a white and green polo-style shirt with the school emblem, navy dress pants, and an official ANS white sweatshirt (purchased at the Tiger Store); a P.E. uniform is worn for physical education.

Food Options

The Hungry Tiger food service and school bistro/cafeteria are available.

Governance and Ownership

The American Nicaraguan School is a non-profit, coeducational institution governed by a seven-member Board of Directors, primarily elected by the parent community and supplemented by a U.S. Embassy appointee. It is accredited by Cognia and the Nicaraguan Ministry of Education.

Admissions

1. To apply, complete the Student Admission Request Form or the PDF version. The Shared Teacher Recommendation Form must be submitted for all applicants, and for PK3–5th grade include the Parent Questionnaire for the appropriate grade. Official school transcripts and/or report cards from previous schools should be provided, along with recent standardized test scores if available. 2. Submit a copy of the birth certificate, copies of both parents' IDs, and immunization records. Recent sight and hearing exams are required for PK3 through 5th grade, and Educational Support Documentation should be provided if applicable. 3. After submission, the Admissions Committee reviews the application and provides feedback on next steps. The review ensures alignment with program requirements and readiness for the next phase. Families should be prepared to supply any additional information requested. 4. An official decision is communicated by email from the Admissions Office. The email outlines any enrollment actions required and the timeline for next steps. Families should respond promptly to confirm the next steps. 5. The school offers rolling admissions, allowing families to join at any time during the year. This flexibility accommodates varying start dates due to relocation or travel plans. The Admissions team can assist with arranging tours or information sessions as needed. 6. Originals should be submitted upon arrival in Nicaragua. The Admissions Office will acknowledge receipt and provide guidance on next steps.

Scholarships

The school has a Fondo de becas (Scholarship Fund). A Scholarship Fee per student is C$1,831.22.

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Nicaragua Christian Academy International

Instructs in English

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees $203,631 - 309,841

Pupils 280

Type Co-educational

Nicaragua Christian Academy International sits on a seven-acre campus three miles southwest of Managua. It offers preschool through secondary education in an American, college-preparatory program with a North American calendar and AP courses. The school is evangelical and non-denominational, nonprofit, and affiliated with the United States education system; it is accredited by Cognia (AdvancED) and ACSI, and was the first ACSI-accredited school in Central America. The curriculum blends English instruction with Spanish and Nicaraguan studies, using textbooks from Pearson, McGraw-Hill, BJU Press, ACSI, and Christian Schools International. An Accelerated Reading program supports English literacy for grades 1–8. The campus has six classroom buildings, the Eagle Center, libraries, labs, and athletic facilities for soccer, basketball, volleyball. Extracurriculars include Drama Club, National Honor Society, Student Councils, HACIA Democracy, community service, field trips and retreats. AP offerings include Calculus AB, English Language and Composition, English Literature, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature/Culture, and Statistics.

Location

Located at Km 11.2 Carretera Vieja a León, Managua, Nicaragua. The campus sits just outside Managua on the main highway. It is easily accessible by road.

Stages

Preschool, elementary, and secondary.

Type

evangelical, non-denominational, non-profit preschool, elementary, and secondary educational institution.

Pupil Nationality Mix

67 percent of students are Nicaraguan, 20 percent are North American, and 6 percent are Asian; the student body represents 19 countries.

Country affiliation

Affiliation with the United States education system; Accredited in the United States by Cognia (AdvancED) and ACSI; follows North American standards and the North American school calendar.

Religious affiliation

evangelical, non-denominational

School day structure

The School Day runs 7:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. for Preschool and Kindergarten; 7:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. for Elementary and High School.

Entrance / Application Fees
- Entrance Fee (one-time, new students): C$ 146,497 (USD 4,000). This fee is required of all new students and is nonrefundable. The entrance fee may be paid in full at enrollment or in ten monthly payments.
- Registration Fee (annual): C$ 9,522 (USD 260). This annual, nonrefundable registration fee covers textbooks, workbooks, classroom materials, and student accident insurance and must be paid to reserve the student's place.

Annual Tuition (standard family-subsidized rates)
- PK1 (age 3 by Sep 30): C$ 146,497 (USD 4,000) per year.
- PK2 (age 4 by Sep 30): C$ 186,784 (USD 5,100) per year.
- Kindergarten (age 5): C$ 194,109 (USD 5,300) per year.
- Grades 1–6: C$ 249,045 (USD 6,800) per year.
- Grades 7–12: C$ 263,695 (USD 7,200) per year.

Corporate / Full-cost Rates (when an employer or organization pays full cost)
- Entrance Fee (one-time, corporate rate): C$ 183,122 (USD 5,000). This fee is nonrefundable and is due upon entrance.
- Registration Fee (annual, corporate): C$ 9,522 (USD 260).
- Annual Tuition (corporate rates):
- PK1: C$ 190,446 (USD 5,200).
- PK2: C$ 241,720 (USD 6,600).
- Kindergarten: C$ 263,695 (USD 7,200).
- Grades 1–6: C$ 333,281 (USD 9,100).
- Grades 7–12: C$ 369,905 (USD 10,100).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Available payment plans for annual tuition:
- One single payment before August 30 (3% discount on tuition).
- Two payments (August and January).
- Four payments (August, October, January, March).
- Ten monthly payments (August–May).
- The registration fee must be paid to reserve space; the entrance fee may be paid in full or in up to ten monthly payments (standard rate). Corporate entrance fee is due upon entrance.

Other annual and recurring fees
- Technology fee (P–12): C$ 7,325 (USD 200) per year.
- Graduation fees: Kindergarten/6th grade C$ 3,662 (USD 100); 12th grade C$ 7,325 (USD 200).
- ELD (English Language Development), if applicable: C$ 21,975 (USD 600).
- Activities (per semester): Sports (Grades 1–6) C$ 1,831 (USD 50); Sports (Grades 7–12) C$ 3,479 (USD 95).
- Bus service is available but is contracted and billed separately by the transportation provider (Transportes Cruz). Families pay the transport provider directly.

Multi-child discounts and promotions
- Tuition discounts for multiple children in the same family: 3rd child receives 25% off tuition; 4th child and beyond receive 35% off tuition.
- Preschool promotion for 2026–2027:
- Permanent discount for PK1 students enrolled in 2026–2027: USD 250 off per year for each year through graduation (applies from preschool through high school).
- Entrance fee discount: if the entrance fee is paid in full before Kindergarten graduation, the entrance fee is reduced to USD 3,000.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable. The school operates as a day school; transportation is arranged through an external bus provider billed separately.

Refund information
- The Entrance Fee (one-time) is nonrefundable.
- The Registration Fee (annual) is nonrefundable.
- No additional tuition refund terms are listed in the published tuition table.

Fee payment options
- The published tuition table specifies available payment schedules and discounts but does not list accepted payment channels (for example: credit card, in-person cash, or bank transfer). Families should confirm accepted payment methods directly with the school's finance office or admissions office.

Curriculum

Comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum at all levels. It follows a North American school calendar year and is based on a United States and international school framework with integration of Spanish and Nicaraguan social studies. Textbooks come from Pearson Education, McGraw-Hill, BJU Press, ACSI, and Christian Schools International. The Spanish program uses Nacho Nicaragüense and Roger Matus Lazo Ediciones. An Accelerated Reading program is incorporated into English language arts for grades 1–8.

Student Teacher Ratio

Preschool 15–20 students per class; Elementary 22–24 students per class; Secondary 22–25 students per class. Each level is taught by a certified teacher with several teacher assistants.

Higher Education Progression

About 60% of NCA graduates enroll in four-year universities in the United States; about 30% continue studies in Nicaragua; remaining 10% attend universities in Europe or Asia, enter military service, or begin their careers.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

NCA International integrates a Biblical worldview in every class and promotes spiritual and social growth through structured programs. Bible classes are offered across all levels, including Old Testament, New Testament, Biblical Foundations, Faith and Discipleship, Biblical Ethics, and World Religions. Chapel programs involve the school chaplain and regular worship activities, with students participating in small groups to discuss Scripture and pray, fostering healthy relationships and leadership development. The school encourages service and community engagement through Faith in Action and various community service opportunities. Retreats and a Student Leadership framework provide ongoing opportunities for spiritual growth, leadership, and peer community under the oversight of the Spiritual Life initiatives.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

NCA International runs an inclusive SOAAR Program that supports students with a range of learning needs, including those with disabilities, within general education classrooms wherever possible. Students may have an individualized education program (IEP) or accommodation plan (AP) to tailor learning in a least restrictive environment, with services such as modified or adapted curricula, behavior and social skills support (including Circle of Friends), reading remediation (Wilson Reading Program), and access to a SOAAR classroom or resource support. Additional provisions include after-school tutoring, alternative assessment options, and consultations with experts in speech and language, occupational, and physical therapy through Tesoro de Dios and other providers, plus classroom assistant support as needed. The program is designed to welcome English-speaking students with disabilities, with a dedicated Student Support Team guiding admissions on a case-by-case basis. The SOAAR staff includes certified specialists and a school counseling team to support learning and well-being.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The program of study follows the North American school calendar and provides an accredited North American liberal arts, English-language education, preparing students to enter higher education worldwide. Instruction is delivered in English and the school is accredited by Cognia (AdvancED) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing is supported through dedicated counseling resources and a faith-centered, community-based approach to student life. The SOAAR Program includes the school psychologist and a high school counselor as part of its staff, providing evaluations, counseling, and guidance. Spiritual Growth activities—Bible classes, chapels, small groups, and youth group—support emotional and relational health within a Christian context, complemented by servant-leadership and community service opportunities.

Safeguarding

The school promotes healthy and safe development of all students and adheres to a Child Protection Policy, as reflected in the Family Covenant and school policies. The Family Covenant requires parents to uphold child-protection standards and to collaborate with the school using Biblical principles, while the Inclusion and Non-Discrimination statements affirm a commitment to safe, respectful learning environments for all students. The ATODS policy (Alcohol, Tobacco, Other Drugs and Sexual Activity) governs student conduct, with clear notification and reporting procedures. Together, these policies establish safeguarding, clear reporting channels, and ongoing policy adherence within the school community.

Admissions

NCA International enrolls about 300 students from preschool through twelfth grade, with roughly 55% from Nicaraguan families and most of the remainder children of international missionaries. Admission requires an age-based placement with a September 30 cutoff (PK1 for 3-year-olds, PK2 for 4-year-olds, Kindergarten for 5-year-olds; first grade should be six years old; children who do not turn three by September 30 are not eligible). English fluency is required for entry into PK2 and above, as determined by an entrance evaluation and interview. A family partnership is required; a family interview is conducted for all new families, and the school emphasizes commitment to its Christian philosophy, expectations, and policies. Classes are capped at 15 in PK1, 18 in PK2, 20 in Kindergarten, 22 in Grades 1–3, and 24 in Grades 4–12. The school primarily serves evangelical missionary families, but all families are welcome to apply. Admission steps include submitting documents, an entrance evaluation (either a recent English-language test for transfers from American schools or an on-site evaluation; PK1 does not require an evaluation but must be potty-trained and 3 by Sep 30), and family/student interviews (student interviews for Grades 7–12). For the normal admissions cycle, all steps should be completed by the third Friday in April, with decisions communicated by email before May 15; late and midyear applications are considered only if space is available. Upon acceptance, families meet with the business administrator, sign a payment contract, and pay a non-refundable registration fee of $260 per student.

Scholarships

Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial support to families; about 20% of students receive TAP, and assistance can cover up to 75% of tuition. TAP is funded both by internal tithing and external gifts, and it is not a single-child sponsorship; there is a formal process to review TAP applications. Donations to TAP can be made through Resourcing Christian Education (RCE) International for U.S. contributions. The program operates as a partnership between the schools and supporters to help families in need access the program.

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