The American Program at Tirana: A Global Education Rooted in Excellence

The American Program at Tirana is built on the foundation of high-performing American high school districts, drawing from their proven structures, rigorous curriculum, and student-centered best practices. Accredited through the Cognia Performance Standards, and drawing on current best practices like the Next Generation Science Standards, the program delivers a strong, standards-based education for students in grades 6 through 12, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in both local and international university settings.

Our curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies, while offering a broad range of electives—including German, Albanian, the arts, and technology—that encourage exploration and creativity. With an emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability, students develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape.

At the same time, we are deeply committed to fostering global-mindedness and cross-cultural understanding, helping students grow into thoughtful, adaptable citizens of an interconnected world.

Through diverse learning experiences, international perspectives, and a welcoming school culture, the American Program supports academic excellence while nurturing empathy, respect, and collaboration across cultures.
Students are further enriched through opportunities in student government, service learning, community engagement, and a comprehensive advisory program that supports social and emotional well-being. These experiences foster leadership, responsibility, and personal growth—hallmarks of the American educational experience.

Though referred to as the American High School Program, the curriculum is intentionally adapted for a globally minded, international student body. It embraces cultural diversity and prepares students to thrive in both Albanian and international contexts. Many students choose to supplement their studies by taking the Albanian Matura exam, ensuring broader access to universities locally and abroad.

Middle School (Grades 6–8)
In middle school, students build a strong academic foundation in core subjects while exploring personal interests through electives such as music, art, German, Albanian, and a one to one technology integration. Emphasis is placed on collaboration, creativity, and self-awareness, with opportunities to participate in sports, student clubs, and advisory sessions that support both academic and personal development.

High School (Grades 9–12)
High school students follow a credit-based American curriculum aligned with Cognia standards, with increasing academic rigor and a range of elective courses that allow for personalized learning paths. Outside the classroom, students engage in sports, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service, all of which enrich their learning and enhance their readiness for higher education.
Our personalized academic counseling helps students—whether Albanian, international, or third-culture—identify and pursue pathways to colleges and universities worldwide, including those in Albania.