Bangkok Christian International School vs Sarasas Ektra School
Bangkok Christian International School and Sarasas Ektra School are both in Bangkok, about 19 km apart. Both schools offer American programmes. Bangkok Christian International School also offers Advanced Placement (AP) and Christian, and Sarasas Ektra School also offers Bespoke. Published annual fees are close, at THB 84,000 - 136,000 for Bangkok Christian International School and THB 67,000 - 151,200 for Sarasas Ektra School. Bangkok Christian International School takes pupils from 5 to 18, and Sarasas Ektra School from 3 to 17. Sarasas Ektra School is the larger school, with around 2,900 pupils to Bangkok Christian International School 's 400. Typical class sizes are 18 at Bangkok Christian International School and 25 at Sarasas Ektra School.
Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Curriculum
American Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
400
Pupils
2,900
Typical class size
Typical class size
18
Typical class size
25
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English, Thai
Opened
Opened
1997
Opened
1995
Bus service
Bus service
Yes
Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
BCIS is situated in Suan Luang, Bangkok, on Phatthanakarn Road near residential neighborhoods and within easy reach of local amenities.
Location
Sarasas Ektra School is located at 336/7 Sathupradit Rd., in Bangkok’s Bang Phongphang sub-district of Yan Nawa. It’s in an urban neighbourhood with easy access to Bangkok’s road network and served by multiple bus routes and a school van service.
Stages
Stages
The school is organised into Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School and High School.
Stages
The school caters to Nursery (age 2) through Year 12, aligned with Thailand’s NC–G12 system. It’s structured into Nursery, Kindergarten (KG1–KG3), Primary (Years 1–6), and Secondary (Years 7–12).
School type
School type
Bangkok Christian International School is a co-educational day school with no boarding facilities.
School type
Sarasas Ektra is a co-educational day school, and does not offer boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
BCIS supports students with learning differences through its Learning Support Programme, which includes:
EFL (English as a Foreign Language) instruction for non-native speakers (especially in Grades 1–6). Pull-out and in-class academic support. Support from Learning Support Assistants.
In some cases, the school offers accommodations such as extended test time or modified assignments. They also assess students for possible learning gaps and offer targeted literacy or numeracy interventions.
Additional learning support
The school does not publicly outline any dedicated learning support or SEN programs on its website.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Country affiliation
The school has no formal affiliation to any particular foreign government.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
BCIS is a Christian school, founded by the Thai–Korean missionary community. While grounded in Christian values, the school welcomes students of all faiths.
Religious affiliation
There is no explicit religious affiliation stated on the school's official website.
School day structure
School day structure
The school does not have their day structure publicly available.
School day structure
While general campus opening hours are provided, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (during term time), there is no public breakdown of the student timetable by year group or level.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school offers a bus service.
Bus service details
Yes, the school offers a school van service managed through a private "School Van Club" provider.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Preschool & Elementary K1–K2 Application: THB 5,000 Admission: THB 120,000 Tuition: THB 101,000–102,000 Lunch: THB 10,900 General Fee: THB 13,400 Activity Fee: THB 3,300 Technology Fee: THB 550 Graduation Fee (K3 only): THB 1,000 Total for New Students (Semester 1): THB 254,150–257,150 Total for Returning Students: THB 129,150–132,150
Grades 1–5 Tuition: THB 84,000–97,000 Lunch: THB 11,300 General, activity, and technology fees: THB 17,000–19,000 Graduation Fee (Grade 5): THB 1,500 Testing Fee: THB 2,000 New student total per semester: Up to THB 282,300
Junior & Senior High School (Grades 6–12) Tuition: THB 128,500–136,000 General, activity, tech, and testing fees apply Graduation Fee (Grade 12): THB 3,000 Total for New Students (Semester 1): THB 303,000–311,500 Returning Students per semester: THB 158,000–166,500
Optional Fees EFL (English as a Foreign Language): THB 19,000 per semester
Not available for elementary students
Discounts Sibling Discount: 2nd child: 10% tuition discount, THB 20,000 off admission 3rd child: 15% tuition discount, THB 40,000 off admission 4th child: 20% tuition discount, THB 60,000 off admission K2 and K3 returning students: THB 20,000 tuition discount per semester Pastors/missionaries' children: THB 10,000 discount per semester
Refund Policy All fees are non-refundable once paid, including tuition, application, admission, and semester-related fees.
No refund is given even if the student withdraws after payment.
There is no formal exception policy stated for withdrawals due to emergencies or visa issues.
Payment Methods Payments must be made in full before the semester begins to secure a seat.
Accepted methods: Bank transfer to the school’s official account (details provided upon enrollment) In-person payment at the BCIS finance office
Annual Tuition Fees Nursery (NC): THB 67,000 Kindergarten 1 (KG.1): THB 85,000 Kindergarten 2 – Year 1: THB 94,000 Year 2 – Year 4: THB 114,000 Year 5 – Year 6: THB 115,000 Year 7 – Year 9: THB 118,200 Year 10 Bilingual (Science–Math): THB 95,200 Year 10 Extra Class (Language): THB 120,200 Year 10 GAC: THB 151,200
Additional Fees School Uniforms and Textbooks: additional charges apply School Development Fee: THB 20,000 (first-year entry charge) Summer Course Fees (Optional) NC – Year 3: THB 8,300 Years 4 – 9: THB 8,800 Year 10: THB 9,000
Payment Methods Payment can be made via QR Code scan, Bank transfer, or in person at the school administration office. *Note: Payments made after 10:00 AM will be recorded as paid on the next day.
Refund Policy Tuition, registration, and summer course fees are non-refundable under any circumstances.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
Uniforms consist of a school uniform and PE uniform, with three sets by year group: KG1–Y4, Y5–Y9, and Y10–Y12. A Scout uniform is also used. Hair ribbon colors and plaid patterns are assigned by year (Y1 through Y12 have distinct plaid colors).
Food options
Food options
The school provides lunch on-site; monthly BCIS lunch menus are published. The Lunch Menu page lists monthly BCIS and BICN menus (e.g., Aug 2025, Sept 2025) for BCIS and for the Kindergarten division, underscoring that meal options are offered on campus.
Food options
A weekly menu is published for meals.
House system
House system
The school has a House Teams program with four houses by color: Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow. Team captains and co-captains lead house activities, with events such as basketball slam jam, quiz bowls, talent shows, fashion shows, Sports Day, and spelling bees to promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and Christian character.
House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
BCIS is guided by a Christian mission and educational philosophy. It is accredited by the Thai Ministry of Education (MOE) and Cognia (AdvancED), with Cognia accrediting NCA CASI, SACS CASI, and NWAC. It is affiliated with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and is a member of the International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) and the Thailand International Schools Activities Conference (TISAC).
Governance and ownership
The Sarasas Ektra School operates as part of the Sarasas Affiliated Schools network. The licensee is Mr. Piboon Yongkamol, and the manager and director is Mr. Pisut Yongkamol. It is categorized as a Regular Academic School by the Ministry of Education.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
BCIS follows an American curriculum from Kindergarten through Grade 12, culminating in a U.S. high school diploma. In Kindergarten and Elementary levels, the curriculum covers core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies, taught through a thematic and skills-based approach. In Middle School, students continue to develop in core academic areas while taking on more responsibility for their learning and gaining exposure to a broader range of subjects. At the High School level, students complete coursework required for graduation and have the option to take Advanced Placement (AP) classes in subjects such as calculus, biology, and U.S. history, which can offer college credit. Christian education is integrated throughout the school, with daily Bible classes and weekly chapel sessions.
Curriculum details
Sarasas Ektra School offers a bilingual curriculum based on the Thai Ministry of Education standards, with English instruction integrated throughout all levels. In Nursery and Kindergarten 1, instruction is evenly split between Thai and English (50:50). From Kindergarten 2 onward, English instruction increases progressively, reaching a 70:30 ratio (English:Thai) from Primary through Secondary levels. Core subjects such as Math, Science, and Social Studies are taught in both languages, with additional language instruction in Chinese (Y2–Y3) and Chinese or Japanese (Y4–Y6). In upper secondary (Year 10), students may enter one of three pathways: the Bilingual Science-Math track, the Extra Class Language stream, or the Global Assessment Certificate (GAC) program, which is aligned with American-style university preparation. English-taught lessons are delivered by foreign teachers, with a focus on listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
BCIS incorporates social and emotional development into its curriculum via character education and chapel services. Students engage in activities like the weekly chapel sessions that focus on values such as kindness, responsibility, and respect, classroom discussions around empathy and self-control, and participation in community service projects that foster compassion and a sense of purpose.
Social & emotional learning
The school incorporates aspects of social and emotional development through its readiness assessments for new students, which include emotional, physical, intellectual, and social components. These assessments are part of the entrance process for all year levels and are used to evaluate each student's developmental needs. In the early years, activities such as music, creative movement, free play, and outdoor exploration are used to foster emotional and social growth. However, no specific SEL framework, dedicated SEL staff, or standalone programmes are publicly disclosed.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
BCIS supports students with learning differences through the use of Learning Support Assistants, in-class modifications, and guidance counseling. While it may not have a formal SEN programme with separate facilities, the school provides targeted help on a case-by-case basis, particularly for students with mild learning needs.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding how it supports students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school offers EFL (English as a Foreign Language) support for non-native English speakers, especially in the lower grades (Grades 1–6). Instruction focuses on building foundational language skills and helping students access the regular curriculum.
English as an additional language
The school does not explicitly mention a dedicated EAL programme or targeted support for students who are new to English.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Bangkok Christian International School (BCIS) supports students’ mental health through its school counselors. They offer one-on-one counselling, help with academic and career planning, and teach mental health topics in class. Students can talk to counselors privately if they need help. The school also runs sessions for parents to help them support their children’s wellbeing at home.
Mental wellbeing
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding mental wellbeing services.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
BCIS enforces strong campus security measures: 24/7 security guards, CCTV, face/fingerprint access control, and strict visitor ID protocols. The school implements a closed‑campus policy, where departure requires permission. It holds full accident insurance and coverage for all school trips. BCIS operates under a formal child‑protection framework, which aligns with Thai law and UN conventions. Staff and volunteers receive training in identifying and responding to abuse, and an anonymous reporting system is available via the school website. Attention is paid to air quality for outdoor activities, restricting them at certain pollution levels.
Safeguarding
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding its safeguarding or child protection policies.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
The Bangkok Christian International School offers K-12 education with an American-style, college-preparatory curriculum taught in English, with an English as a Foreign Language program for non-native speakers. The safety and security of students are prioritized with 24/7 security guards, CCTV coverage, and a face/fingerprint entry system; the campus operates as a closed campus. Arts and music are integrated into the program, with opportunities in Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and music instruction including band, choir, and ensembles. The school supports athletics through Thailand International Schools Activities Conference (TISAC) membership, with sports programs and a qualified coaching staff. All classes are taught in English, with EFL available for non-native speakers.
Facilities overview
The school operates across multiple buildings: 8 Building, 9 Building, 6 Building, 4 Building, Dominic 1 Building, and Dominic 2 Building. A playground is on campus for outdoor activities. There is a kitchen room on campus. There is a vegetable garden on site. Classrooms are located within these buildings.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The school participates in the Thailand International Schools Activities Conference (TISAC), enabling inter-school athletic and cultural events for Grades 1–12. The High School department notes that the school provides excellent sports amenities. Coaching staff are highly qualified. Sports offered include badminton, football, basketball, track and field, volleyball, and table tennis.
Sports facilities
The school has a playground on campus for outdoor activities.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
BCIS offers an American-style, college-preparatory curriculum for grades K-12 taught in English, with an EFL program for non-native speakers. The school is accredited by the Ministry of Education (Thailand), AdvancED, and NCA CASI. It is affiliated with KFCS and ACSI and is a member of ISAT and TISAC. LA and Math are aligned to the Common Core State Standards, and NGSS is used for grades 1-5. Guidance and Counseling, university acceptance support, Special Needs Support Services, and AP/AB courses are provided. AP and AB courses are offered in high school.
Academic facilities
Classrooms are located within multiple buildings. The campus comprises named buildings including 8 Building, 9 Building, 6 Building, 4 Building, Dominic 1 Building, and Dominic 2 Building. Infants, primary, and secondary levels are offered on campus. The on-site kitchen room and vegetable garden support practical learning.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Enrichment programs include Sport Achievements, Athletics and Sports Activities, Christian Life, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Community Service, House Team Activities, and Club Activities. Club Activities include Creative Writing, Dance, Guitar, Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Arts and Crafts, Home Economics, Performing Arts, and Reading Support. Club Activities run after school from 3:10 to 4:00 p.m. Sports programs include badminton, football, basketball, track and field, volleyball, and table tennis. Enrichment supports student leadership and service through Student Council and community outreach.
Extra curricular facilities
A vegetable garden is available for hands-on learning. A kitchen room supports meal preparation and related activities. The campus includes multiple buildings that host a range of extracurricular spaces. Facilities support extracurricular and practical learning activities.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Bangkok Christian International School (BCIS) was established in 1997 by a group of Christian missionaries and educators, primarily from the Thai–Korean community. The school was created to offer an affordable, faith-based American education to both local and expatriate families. Starting with only a few students, BCIS gradually expanded its facilities and academic offerings, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. The school has remained committed to small class sizes, a strong Christian ethos, and academic support for students with different levels of English proficiency. While modest in size compared to larger international schools, BCIS is known for its community feel and emphasis on character development, service, and cross-cultural understanding.
History
“Sarasas Ektra” was founded in 1995, evolving from the earlier “Extra Class” bilingual track started in 1993 at Sarasas Pittaya School. It was the first bilingual (Thai–English) school licensed by Thailand’s Private Education Commission and joined the Sarasas Affiliated Schools group. In 2010, the school introduced the GAC program via a partnership with ACT Education Solutions.
Community
Community
BCIS maintains a tight-knit school community centred around Christian faith. Regular community events include weekly chapel, mission projects, and multicultural celebrations. The school seeks to instil values such as respect, compassion, and cultural understanding.
Community
The school community celebrates Thai cultural occasions (e.g., Loy Krathong, Mother’s Day, Wai Kru), hosts regular music concerts and science fairs, and runs charity initiatives like charity toy donations and blood drives . These events encourage participation from students, parents, and staff.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
While BCIS does not have a formal PTA, it does maintain an active parent engagement structure that serves a similar purpose. The school regularly organizes parent–principal coffee chats, which act as informal forums for feedback, questions, and updates.
Class-level parent representatives support communication between parents and teachers and help coordinate class activities and events. Moreover, parents are involved in volunteering for school functions, student support activities, and some decision-sharing around community events.
Parent teacher association
There is no public information on the school website detailing a PTA structure, specific parent–teacher committees, or organized parent-led events.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
BCIS has a Kindergarten, Elementary, and High School program, plus an EFL (English as a Foreign Language) program for non-native English speakers. The Kindergarten curriculum focuses on developing a love for learning and the holistic development of the child; the Elementary curriculum aims to build global citizens and leaders integrated with Christian values; the High School curriculum emphasizes dynamic involvement in learning and excellence within a respectful, family-like environment; the EFL program supports students with beginner-level English skills.
Academic & intellectual
The school provides a bilingual program and describes itself as the first school in Thailand to offer a bilingual program. The Kindergarten program is bilingual with an emphasis on four areas of development. The Infants Level focuses on developing abilities across eight intelligences and on critical thinking; Primary Level emphasizes in-depth study, a variety of activities, and educational quality for all students; the Secondary Level enrolls NC through Year 12.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
BCIS provides enrichment in performing arts and visual arts as part of its broader program, with dedicated sections for these areas under Enrichment.
Arts & creative
The school highlights music as a notable activity, with Sarasas Ektra music students earning recognition such as at the Bangkok Singing Awards 2025. Percussion workshops and other music-related activities are mentioned on the site.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
The admissions process offers language selection for applications (Thai, Korean, Chinese), reflecting multilingual access to the admissions process; BCIS is affiliated with international and regional school networks.
Cultural & language
The school offers bilingual education and identifies itself as the first bilingual program in Thailand, indicating a focus on language integration within its curriculum.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Enrichment includes clubs and house activities, as well as athletics and sports programs, which support social engagement and hobbies beyond core academics.
Social & hobbies
The school participates in community and leadership activities, including student involvement in community service, leadership awards, and related activities documented in school updates.
Community & service
Community & service
The school provides community service and Christian life programming as part of its enrichment offerings, integrating service with its Christian mission.
Community & service
Community service is part of student activities, including programs led by the secondary department and related initiatives highlighted in school communications.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The curriculum emphasizes global citizenship, leadership development, and a structured environment designed to foster self-worth, self-esteem, self-discipline, and leadership for the 21st century.
Leadership & professional
Leadership recognition is featured, including the Sarasas Youth Leadership Award 2025, reflecting opportunities for student leadership development and civic engagement.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The High School aims for a respectful, family-like culture and a caring Christian atmosphere that supports students' personal well-being and growth.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The campus operates with defined semester hours, including Mon–Fri from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the school provides contact details and location for families. The Year 6 Scout Camp and other student activities also appear in the school's activity updates.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
All classes, except foreign language classes, are taught in English. The English as a Foreign Language (EFL) program is designed to meet the needs of newly accepted students who are non-native English speakers with beginner level English skills. The school serves grades K-12 with an American-style, college-preparatory curriculum; Language Arts and Math use the Common Core State Standards, and Science follows the Next Generation Science Standards for grades 1-5.
Language provision
Thai language is taught as a core subject across Thai-language programs. English is taught as a second language in the bilingual program, and many subjects are taught in English or in English–Thai bilingual formats. Chinese and Japanese are offered as third languages, with Chinese available from Primary 2 and a choice between Chinese or Japanese in Primary 4–6. The program for secondary levels includes bilingual instruction in Science and Mathematics (50:50 in Matthayom 4–6) and English-language coursework is emphasized in the GAC program.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
The school uses a bilingual Thai–English curriculum. English-taught subjects include English language, Science (Chemistry, Biology, Physics), Social Studies, Physical Education, and Mathematics. Chinese is introduced from Primary 2, and from Primary 4 to 6 students choose whether to continue Chinese or switch to Japanese. Nursery has a 50:50 teaching ratio, Primary 1–6 is 70:30, and Matthayom 1–3 is 70:30; Matthayom 4–6 is 50:50 for a Science–Mathematics bilingual program.
Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
The Global Assessment Certificate (GAC) program is offered for Years 10–12 and is delivered in English as a university-preparation curriculum through ACT Education Solutions; classes aim to develop English fluency and independent learning for entry to international universities. The program runs for three years (Year 10–Year 12) with class sizes limited to 25 and a school day from 08:00–16:00; IELTS preparation is typically in Year 12, and graduates may gain entry to over 100 universities worldwide. The school also operates the Second Generation Project as a bilingual Extra Class to increase English competence (English–Thai, ratio 70:30).
Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.
Awards
Sarasas Ektra School’s website does not list any awards given to the school.
Accreditations
Accreditations
Accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED, including NCA CASI and SACS CASI)
Accredited by the Thai Ministry of Education
Member of ISAT (International Schools Association of Thailand) and TISAC (Thailand International School Activities Conference)
Affiliated with the Korean Federation of Christian Schools (KFCS) and Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
Accreditations
Global Assessment Certificate (GAC): Accredited by ACT Education Solutions (USA/China), the GAC certifies that the school’s Years 10–12 program meets standards commonly required for university admission in English-speaking countries.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Submit Application Form & Register Request an application form and pay the application fee.
2. Submit Completed Application Include required documents such as previous school reports, ID/passport, and photo.
3. Assessment Day / Testing Students may sit for placement tests in English and Mathematics, followed by an interview with administration or faculty.
4. Notification & Offer Accepted students receive an official offer letter along with an invoice for the enrollment fee.
5. Confirmation & Payment Families confirm their child’s place by paying the enrollment fee, tuition deposit, and completing registration procedures.
6. Orientation & Induction The school organizes orientation sessions for new students and parents to familiarize them with school routines and expectations.
Admissions
Schedule a visit or tour (optional). Parents are welcome to visit the school in person from Monday to Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Visits must be scheduled at least one day in advance. The tour allows families to view school facilities and speak with staff about placement options.
Submit an application and required documents. Applications open in September for the following academic year and are accepted for Nursery through Year 10. Required documents include a copy of the child’s birth certificate, school records, a student photo, and for secondary levels, character references and academic transcripts. A non-refundable application fee of THB 600 is required at submission
Attend the entrance assessment. Testing is scheduled by year group and includes developmental assessments for early years and academic assessments (Thai, English, Math, Science) for Years 1–10. Students will also complete interviews and English-language readiness assessments with foreign teachers
Wait for result notification and confirm enrollment. Results are announced within 3 working days of the assessment. Once results are released, families have 7 days to confirm enrollment by completing the registration and payment of relevant fees. Specific appointments for enrollment must be booked in advance with the school office
Scholarships
Scholarships
The BCIS Scholarship Programme provides scholarships to entering Years 3–9 in the categories of Academic Excellence (10 awards), Creative & Performing Arts (5), and Sport & Athletics (5). Awards may cover partial or full tuition and additional resources.
Scholarships
The school does not offer scholarships, fee waivers, or academic financial aid schemes.
Waitlist
Waitlist
BCIS operates on an open enrolment policy. Applications are submitted and processed year-round. Admissions continue until the school reaches capacity in a given grade, at which point students may be placed on a queue system and admitted when space opens.
Waitlist
The school does not publicly disclose whether it operates a waitlist or pool system.