Academic Excellence | Transition to an International School after the High School Entrance Examination, Growth and Breakthrough of 10th Grade Students
After the high school entrance exam, should you continue with traditional domestic education or switch to international programs? This is not only a change in learning methods but also an important decision for your future growth path.
In the face of the diverse global education trends, more and more families are beginning to consider: beyond the traditional education model, is there a learning approach that better suits their children's growth?
Lyn zhang, a 10th grader at CIS, is one such explorer. After the high school entrance exam, she chose to transition from the traditional system to the CIS British-oriented international curriculum. Here, she not only faced academic challenges but also found a learning and development path that suits her in an open educational environment.
In a recent interview, she shared her experience of choosing CIS after the high school entrance exam, breaking through the traditional learning model and preparing herself thoroughly for future admission to top global universities.
Breaking the Mold
Embracing a Diverse
Path to Education
After the high school entrance exam, most students follow their scores into domestic high schools, continuing to focus on the Gaokao. However, Lyn zhang wanted to find a learning approach that better suited her personal development needs. She hoped to explore her interests and cultivate an international mindset in a diverse and open learning environment.
"There are many possibilities in life. CIS provides an open and diverse platform that allows me to explore my interests, try new learning methods, and not just follow a predetermined path," she said.


Choosing CIS means embracing a system that is globally recognized and emphasizes the development of interdisciplinary skills,encouraging students to foster critical thinking and creativity. For Lyn, this is not only an academic challenge but also a new attempt at self-exploration.
A New Classroom Experience
Fostering Thinking
and Communication Skills
After joining CIS, Lyn's most immediate impression was the revolutionized classroom model. From "teacher speaks, students listen" to "interactive classrooms,"CIS's teaching method provided her with more opportunities to think, ask questions, and engage in discussions.
"In schools with traditional teaching models, the classroom atmosphere is relatively one-way. But at CIS, teachers encourage us to think actively, ask questions, and even discuss different viewpoints with classmates. This has helped me improve my communication skills and logical thinking," she said.

In addition, the full English-language teaching environment was a significant challenge. However, CIS's teachers provided patient guidance and continuously encouraged students to express their ideas confidently. Through interactive learning in class and proactively seeking help from teachers after class, she gradually adapted to the new learning model. This approach not only enhanced her academic abilities but also boosted her confidence.
Diverse Science Learning
Exploring Deeper Knowledge
At CIS, Lyn zhang chose the British International Curriculum (A-Level), focusing on business while also taking multiple core courses to build a well-rounded academic background. Her courses include Business, Mathematics, Global Perspectives, Art and Design, Biology, Physics, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and ESL English enhancement, ensuring that she not only delves deep into business but also develops interdisciplinary thinking skills.

CIS has received official accreditation
from Cambridge International Education.
Among them, her favorite is Biology, taught by the foreign teacher Mr. G. His teaching style is lively and engaging, encouraging students to ask questions and deeply understand scientific concepts. This interdisciplinary teaching approach not only nurtures students' logical thinking but also enhances their critical analysis skills.



CIS's learning approach breaks traditional subject boundaries, fostering a global perspective and laying a solid foundation for future university applications and career development.
Personalized College Guidance
Clear Planning for the Future
At CIS, the dedicated college counseling office helps students create personalized academic plans. When Lyn zhang first enrolled, she wasn't yet clear about her college choices and future plans. However, the guidance provided by the college counseling director, Zoi, helped her gradually clarify her direction.
"Whether it's course selection, university applications, or career planning, the college counselors are always there to help. I had many questions about my future, and the teachers provided personalized advice, helping me create feasible plans," she said.


CIS College Counseling Office
CIS not only focuses on students' academic progress during their time at school but also helps them prepare for university, paving the way to top global institutions.
Advice from
"Those Who Have Been There"
for Students Considering
a Transition
For students considering transitioning from the high school entrance exam system to international programs, Lyn zhang shared the following three pieces of advice based on her own experience:
✔Know what you like — International programs are more flexible and open, requiring students to actively choose and plan their academic development. Finding subjects that interest you will help you make the most of CIS's resources and enhance your learning efficiency.
✔Improve Your English Skills — CIS uses full English instruction, which may be challenging at first. However, with more practice in listening and speaking, and by expressing yourself confidently in class, you will gradually improve. Teachers and classmates will encourage you, and there’s no need to be afraid of making mistakes.
✔ Adjust your learning mindset — International programs focus more on understanding, expression, and practical application rather than rote memorization. Be proactive in thinking, asking questions, and practicing, gradually adapting to the new learning approach.
CIS Special Scholarship
for High School Entrance
Exam Students
"After joining CIS, I realized that learning is not just about exams, but something full of exploration and enjoyment," said Lyn zhang.
Lyn zhang's experience at CIS has shown her another possibility of education — an environment that encourages independent thinking and deep exploration. For students and parents seeking international program opportunities, CIS offers not only academic support but also a comprehensive growth experience.
To encourage more outstanding students to join CIS, the school has established a special scholarship. The scholarship aims to reward students with excellent academic performance and achievements, helping them embark on a broader international education path. Lyn was also awarded this scholarship due to her exceptional academic performance, using it as a solid step towards her future academic and personal development.

If you want your child to experience a more challenging and future-oriented education, we welcome you to visit CIS and explore our curriculum, teaching philosophy, and diverse growth opportunities.
CIS always welcomes families with dreams, and we look forward to meeting you to embark on your child's international education journey together!