Alberta's education system is recognized internationally as one of the best learning systems in the world. As such, a number of schools overseas are interested in offering the Alberta curriculum and giving their students the opportunity to graduate with an Alberta high school credential. These schools may cater to Canadian students who are temporarily out of the country or to foreign students who wish to achieve an Alberta High School diploma and potentially continue their studies at a Canadian post-secondary institution.
To date, Alberta Education has accredited three out-of-province schools. To achieve accreditation, all schools underwent an extensive application, review and inspection process and continue to work closely with the Department.
The International School of Macao was accredited in 2006 and has continuing accreditation status with Alberta Education.
The Christian Alliance P.C. Lau Memorial International School of Hong Kong was accredited in September 2007 and has preliminary accreditation status.
The Neuchatel Junior College in Neuchatel, Switzerland was accredited in December 2007. It holds preliminary accreditation status and will begin offering the Alberta Programs of Study in September 2008.
To become accredited by Alberta Education, out-of-province schools and school authorities must meet the accreditation standards outlined in the Accreditation of Out-of-Province Schools Operational Manual. The manual also contains Alberta's Accreditation of Out-of-Province School Policy (2004), information on the application process and costs involved.
