CISM’s high schools in Manila prepare students for global university success through rigorous academics, leadership opportunities, critical thinking, life skills development, and holistic growth that equips them for success both inside and outside the classroom.
The High School consists of students from Grade 9 to 12 who range from 15 to 19 years of age. CISM’s High School curriculum is designed to offer equity and quality in education in order to prepare students for university level success and opportunity, making it one of the most respected private high schools in Metro Manila.
As with our other sections, our High School program is aimed to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of our students. In addition to a rigorous academic syllabus, distinct emphasis is placed on developing the students to be analytical, open-minded, reflective, compassionate, creative, principled, global, and confident thinkers and doers. We continue to encourage the pursuit of passions beyond the classroom, helping CISM stand among the best private high schools in Manila and one of the best schools in Manila for senior high education.
Options and programmes in Grades 9 and 10 are designed to seamlessly link with our matriculation programs in Grades 11 and 12. Community service projects remain central to our program. Based on the principle of mutual respect, our experienced and dedicated teachers strive to bring out the best in each student, establishing in their classes an atmosphere of open dialogue, focused questioning, meaningful learning, and intellectual engagement that stimulates curiosity, inquiry, and critical thinking. This approach has strengthened CISM’s reputation among leading high schools in Manila, trusted Manila private high schools, and recognised good senior high schools in Manila for globally focused learning experiences.
Abstract Artist
Mother of 2 CISM students and 1 CISM Alumnus
The Mathematics Department at CISM thrives on a strong culture of collaboration and shared purpose. As a team, we engage in meaningful weekly meetings and uphold rigorous standards through careful review and refinement of instructional materials. This collective approach ensures both consistency and excellence in the quality of our work. ... We also place great importance on continuous improvement, regularly evaluating our curriculum and lesson progression, with a comprehensive review conducted at the end of each academic year to ensure alignment with best practices and learning outcomes. Equally important is the value we place on the insights of our parents and students. Their feedback plays a vital role in shaping our approach, as we remain committed to delivering an international-standard Mathematics education. Guided by dedication and a genuine passion for teaching, we strive to give our very best to our students—the CISM Dragons. Read More
Academic Coordinator - Mathematics
Guidance Counselor
CISM Middle and High School
CISM is a truly unique international school in Manila. While our name reflects strong connections with the Asian community, our campus is home to a diverse mix of students and families from around the world. Many Western families are drawn to CISM for its strong academic foundation, including the U.S. Common Core Standards and the IB Diploma Program. In this ... multicultural environment, our students grow into confident global citizens who are academically prepared, culturally aware, and ready to make a positive impact in an interconnected world. Read More
Head of School
CISM emphasizes a nurturing environment with small class sizes and specialist teachers, helping students become confident, kind, resilient and curious learners. And the curriculum is very intensive which prepares my kids for their future endeavors. In addition, the school is truly international with several students from ... various countries. They promote global citizenship, empathy, respect and cross-cultural understanding which may benefit the kids with how they interact with other people. I highly recommend CISM for parents out there who want a holistic learning approach! Read More
Marketing Head
Mother of 2 CISM students
Businesswoman
Mother of 1 CISM student and 1 CISM Alumnus
"My wife and I initially chose CISM for our children on reputation alone. It is consistently named as one of the top schools in Manila. After three years at the school, we can say that its reputation is well earned. At CISM, the academics are top notch. Our children’s math skills far exceed students at other schools and learning Mandarin is invaluable in this modern world. Combine that ... with great extracurricular activities and lifelong friendships and we couldn’t be happier with our choice of CISM". Read More
Executive Chef and Restaurateur
Father to 2 Elementary CISM students.
The emphasis on developing the qualities of a global citizen, alongside CISM’s core values, plays a vital role in shaping students like me into the leaders of tomorrow. CISM consistently encourages us to engage in experiences beyond the prescribed curriculum—opportunities that deepen our understanding of both local and global issues, and challenge us to think about how we can respond meaningfully. ... Through this support, students are given countless opportunities to strengthen essential skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and reflection—skills that will serve us well as we transition into the professional world. More importantly, this environment of empowerment has allowed me to recognize my strengths and build the confidence to create positive social change within my community and beyond. Read More
CISM Student
& Student Council President
At CISM, I have discovered that leadership isn’t simply taught - it is ignited. From day one, CISM's culture of embracing bold challenges paired with their unwavering support has encouraged me to go outside of my comfort zone,empowering me to turn ideas into meaningful action and to also take charge of it. ... Throughout this journey, CISM has equipped me with the tools to navigate through tough decisions, collaborate effectively, and build confidence that drives a real impact in my community and beyond. Read More
CISM Student and
Student Council Vice-President
The CISM community has empowered me by opening meaningful avenues to build friendships and intellectual connections. It has nurtured in me, a strong sense of belonging,even within diverse environments and communities. This inclusive atmosphere has encouraged me to confidently share my ideas, experiences, ... and perspectives, while also learning from others. Each interaction becomes a genuine exchange of worldviews—one that reflects the essence of global citizenship and fosters a deeper sense of connection to a broader international community. Read More
CISM Student and
Student Council Secretary
The Early Years (EY), encompassing Nursery, Pre-Kindergarten, and Kindergarten, is a formative stage for children aged 3 to 5.
Our Elementary School program, spanning Grades 1 to 5 for students aged 6 to 10, builds strong academic foundations.
The Middle School program builds upon the key learning aspects of the Elementary School program.
Our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP), designed for students aged 16 to 17.
For families seeking the best secondary education in the Philippines, the strongest options combine an internationally recognised curriculum, quality accreditation, and a clear university admissions pathway. Chinese International School Manila (CISM) in BGC, Taguig, is regarded among the leading high schools in Manila, offers a two-phase secondary education: the American Core Curriculum in Grades 6 to 10, followed by the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12 — one of the most globally respected pre-university qualifications available. CISM is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and authorised by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), and its graduates have been admitted to universities including Johns Hopkins University, New York University, Vanderbilt University, and Imperial College London.
Yes. Eligible international applicants may apply, provided all documentation is submitted.
The Philippines adopted the K to 12 curriculum in 2013 under Republic Act 10533 (the Enhanced Basic Education Act) to align the country’s education system with international standards and address a longstanding gap: prior to K to 12, the Philippines was one of only three countries in the world with a 10-year basic education cycle. The reform extended basic education to 13 years (Kindergarten plus 12 grades) to give students more time for academic mastery, practical skills development, and better preparation for higher education or employment. This also strengthened the structure of senior high Philippines education by introducing specialised academic and career tracks. For international schools in Manila, K to 12 is the contextual framework within which they operate — CISM follows its own internationally accredited American Core Curriculum, which meets or exceeds K to 12 benchmarks while also preparing students for university entry abroad.
Many high schools in Manila offer Senior High School (Grades 11–12) programmes, including both public schools under the DepEd K to 12 framework and private and international institutions. Among international high schools, Chinese International School Manila (CISM) in BGC offers the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11 and 12 — an internationally recognised alternative to the standard K to 12 Senior High track that is accepted by universities across the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Asia. International schools offering senior high programmes in Metro Manila include ISM, British School Manila, and Brent International School, each with different curriculum frameworks suited to different family needs and university ambitions.
Many senior high schools in Manila offer High School (Grades 11–12) programs, including both public schools under the DepEd K to 12 framework and private and international institutions. Among international high schools, Chinese International School Manila in BGC offers the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11 and 12 — an internationally recognised alternative to the standard K-12 track that is accepted by universities across the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Asia. Other International schools offer senior high school programs in Metro Manila each with different curriculum frameworks suited to different family needs and university ambitions.
CISM’s High School program spans Grades 6 to 12. Grades 6 to 10 form the Middle School / Junior High phase, following the American Core Curriculum adapted for CISM’s international, multicultural context. Grades 11 and 12 form the Senior High, where students study the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) — a rigorous two-year pre-university qualification offered by the International Baccalaureate Organization and recognised by universities worldwide. Students completing the IBDP at CISM may pursue either the Full IB Diploma or individual Diploma Program Courses, depending on their academic profile and university goals.
CISM’s High School co-curricular program is broad and purposefully designed to develop the whole student alongside academic achievement. Activities span sport, the arts, student leadership, service learning, and language clubs — many of which are student-initiated and student-led. For IB Diploma students, the Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) requirement is met through CISM’s structured co-curricular framework, ensuring every senior student develops a portfolio of experiences that universities value. The private high school in Manila also facilitates field trips, residential experiences, and community partnerships that extend learning beyond the classroom. Specific clubs and teams are updated each academic year; families are encouraged to speak with the school directly for the current activity listing.
