Welcome aboard the educational voyage at International School Suva (ISS), where our ISS High School Diploma (HSD) is globally recognized by colleges and universities, thanks to our accreditation by the Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC). This diploma offers a comprehensive education from Years 9 through 12 which can be pursued solo or alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) certificate courses.
Navigating a successful course through the ISS HSD requires students to earn credits, with each semester subject worth 0.5 credits upon achieving a passing grade of three or higher. Over the course of the final four years, students must chart a course to obtain at least twenty-four credits. In Years 9 and 10, students embark on eight subjects, while in Years 11 and 12, they focus on six subjects.
The ISS HSD curriculum encompasses core subjects essential for holistic development: English, Mathematics, Science, Language Acquisition, and Individuals & Societies which form the foundation of the diploma, each contributing a specified number of credits towards graduation.
Additionally, students have the freedom to explore their interests through electives, which constitute the remaining portion of the diploma. These electives encompass a diverse range of disciplines, including The Arts (Visual Arts, Music, & Theater), Design, and Physical and Health Education (PHE) allowing for a well-rounded and personalised educational experience. Tailored adjustments are available for students joining in Years 10 or 11 or those with unique learning needs.
| Subject | Credits |
| English | 4 |
| Language Acquisition/ Second Language | 3 |
| Individuals & Societies/Humanities | 3 |
| Mathematics | 4 |
| Science | 3 |
| Electives | 7 |
Credit breakdown of the ISS HSD for Years 9-12. Adjusted breakdowns are applied to students joining ISS in Year 10-11, or for students with unique learning needs.
For those navigating the seas of academic challenges, credit recovery opportunities are available. If a student achieves a grade of two or lower in a subject, credits will not be awarded; however, targeted interventions and additional coursework will be offered to help them regain their bearings. Credit recovery runs parallel to the student’s standard subject load, ensuring they master essential content and skills. If necessary, ISS supports students in selecting online courses through accredited agencies for credit recovery.
All ISS HSD students, as well as obtaining 24 credits, must complete Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) and Tertiary Prep (Career Counselling, IELTS/TESOL preparation, SAT preparation etc) in order to graduate with a ISS High School Diploma.
The CAS requirement is a fundamental part of the program providing a refreshing counterbalance to academic studies. Creativity is interpreted broadly to include a wide range of arts activities as well as the creativity students demonstrate in designing and implementing service projects. Activity can include not only participation in individual and team sports but also taking part in expeditions and in local or international projects. Service encompasses a host of community and social service activities. Some examples include helping children with special needs, working on environmental protection projects, and working with refugees or homeless people. Students are expected to be involved in CAS activities for the equivalent of at least three hours each week during the final two years of the program. A system of self-evaluation encourages students to reflect on the benefits of CAS participation to themselves and to others, and to evaluate their understanding and insights acquired.
The ISS HSD allows students to fulfil their requirement to graduate from high school and embark on their next adventure.
We look forward to supporting you on your learning journey with us and to celebrating your successes.