It all began with just two students and a bold vision for education. Back in 1993, the American International School of Vilnius (AISV) opened its doors, becoming Vilnius’ first international school. Fast forward three decades, and that humble beginning has transformed into a thriving institution that serves over 400 students from more than 30 nationalities.
Walking through AISV’s modern campus today, it’s hard to imagine its modest roots. From its state-of-the-art facilities—complete with gyms, a music studio, and outdoor learning spaces—to its deep connections with embassies and local businesses, AISV stands as a testament to growth and resilience. But beneath the surface of this impressive infrastructure lies something even more powerful: a commitment to shaping compassionate, globally-minded leaders.
Stéphane Ruz, the school’s Director, reflects on what makes AISV special: “Our accreditation by NEASC and CIS is not just a badge of honor. It’s a promise to our students and families that we are committed to excellence and continuous growth. This culture of reflection and improvement drives everything we do.” Indeed, these accreditations ensure the school’s curriculum meets the highest international standards, preparing students for success in universities and careers around the world.
AISV has achieved remarkable milestones over the years. In 2013, it became an IB World School, offering the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. With a 90% IB diploma success rate and a 100% university acceptance track record, the school’s academic reputation is well-earned. More recently, in 2022, AISV expanded with a purpose-built Lower School, further solidifying its place as a leader in international education.
Celebrating 30 years in 2023, AISV remains a beacon of opportunity for students in Lithuania and beyond. “It’s not just about academics,” adds Ruz. “We emphasize experiential learning to ensure our students are not only high achievers but also well-rounded individuals ready for an interconnected world.”
From its early days to its current standing as a globally respected institution, AISV embodies a story of transformation, dedication, and community. It continues to be a place where students are empowered to excel, explore, and lead.
Rooted in Excellence, Built on Community
What makes a school stand out over decades? For the AISV, it’s a combination of academic excellence, personalized attention, and an unwavering sense of community. From its very beginning, AISV has been about more than just classrooms and textbooks—it’s about people. Ruz puts it succinctly: “At AISV, we don’t just teach. We connect, inspire, and empower.”
Over the years, AISV has embraced change without losing its essence. The school’s mission to “Connect, Inspire, and Empower” has shaped a culture that values curiosity, creativity, and global citizenship. Students here don’t just learn facts—they learn to care. Empathy, accountability, and open-mindedness are as integral to the curriculum as math and science.
AISV’s partnerships with embassies, local businesses, and the global community provide students with rich, real-world learning experiences. Grants from the U.S. State Department and collaborations with the U.S. Embassy ensure a steady flow of resources, guest speakers, and opportunities that enrich the curriculum. These connections bridge cultures and open minds, making AISV more than just a school—it’s a gateway to the world.
After 30 years, AISV remains at the forefront of international education in Vilnius, not because it rests on its laurels, but because it continually evolves. Whether it’s introducing the International Baccalaureate (IB) program or expanding its facilities, the school is always looking ahead. “Our adaptability is our strength,” adds Ruz. “We are preparing our students not just for today, but for tomorrow.”
Excellence in Action: The IB Advantage
For many AISV students, the IB Diploma Program is more than a qualification—it’s a rite of passage. It’s challenging, rewarding, and transformational. With over 90% of graduates earning their diplomas, the program reflects AISV’s unwavering commitment to helping students succeed.
At the heart of this success is the school’s team of dedicated, experienced IB teachers. They go beyond standard teaching, offering personalized strategies that cater to each student’s strengths and challenges. Ruz highlights the school’s approach: “The IB is rigorous, but we provide the tools and guidance to make sure our students are set up for success—not just academically, but holistically.”
AISV’s support system is designed to meet every student’s needs. One-on-one consultations, study workshops, and a focus on skills like time management and critical thinking ensure students are well-prepared. Resources such as libraries, labs, and mentoring create a well-rounded learning environment, while a balanced focus on well-being ensures students maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The IB isn’t just about grades—it’s about growth. Through this program, AISV students leave not only with prestigious diplomas but also with the confidence and skills needed to excel in higher education and beyond.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Imagine a classroom without walls—a place where every project, every activity, every question connects to the real world. At AISV, this is not just a vision but a reality. Experiential learning is woven into the fabric of education here, giving students opportunities to explore, question, and engage in meaningful ways.
The IB program at AISV exemplifies this hands-on approach. Whether through the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, the Extended Essay (EE), or Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), students learn by doing. They don’t just study concepts; they experience them. “Learning happens when students connect with the world around them,” says Ruz. “That’s why experiential learning is at the heart of everything we do.”
For younger students, programs like Reggio Emilia encourage curiosity and collaboration through hands-on exploration. Across all grade levels, project-based learning (PBL) helps students tackle real-world problems, blending academic knowledge with practical application. From field trips to science experiments, every activity is designed to spark curiosity and develop critical thinking.
This approach doesn’t just prepare students for exams—it prepares them for life. By balancing rigorous academics with experiential learning, AISV ensures its students are ready for the complexities of an interconnected, ever-changing world.
Pathways to Success: Preparing for the Future
For AISV students, the journey doesn’t end at graduation—it’s just the beginning. With a 100% university acceptance rate, the school ensures its graduates are ready to take on the challenges of higher education and beyond.
Career and university guidance at AISV is more than a checklist—it’s a deeply personalized process. Using the American School Counselor Association model, the school’s college counselor works closely with students to help them discover their strengths, passions, and goals. “It’s about understanding each student as an individual,” explains Ruz. “We want them to leave AISV with a clear sense of who they are and where they’re going.”
Starting as early as the ninth grade, students participate in sessions designed to build skills like CV writing, workforce understanding, and career planning. For IB students, the support continues through “core class,” a dedicated time for college counseling and application guidance. Informational nights for parents and students ensure that families are involved and informed every step of the way.
With this level of support, AISV graduates don’t just enter universities—they thrive. Equipped with academic rigor, practical skills, and a strong sense of purpose, they leave AISV ready to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Where Cultures Converge
AISV is more than a school; it’s a vibrant mosaic of cultures, with students from over 30 nationalities coming together under one roof. This cultural diversity isn’t just a statistic—it’s the heartbeat of the school. Every classroom, every discussion, every project carries the rich flavor of global perspectives.
“Our students don’t just learn about the world; they experience it through each other,” says Ruz. From lively discussions in inquiry-based learning to dynamic Community, Action, Service (CAS) projects, AISV fosters a deep sense of connection. These initiatives often encourage students to address real-world issues while considering multiple cultural lenses.
Walking through the hallways during International Day is an eye-opener. Flags, food, and stories from across the globe fill the air, reminding everyone that diversity isn’t just celebrated—it’s lived every day. At AISV, differences don’t divide; they enrich and unite, shaping students into empathetic, globally minded individuals.
Leaders in the Making
At AISV, leadership isn’t a title—it’s a mindset. From Grade 4 student ambassadors giving confident school tours to high school students debating global issues at Model United Nations (MUN), opportunities to lead abound.
“Leadership at AISV is about integrity, empathy, and collaboration,” Ruz explains. Through project-based learning and activities like the National Honor Society (NHS), Multilingual Tournament, and student government, students are challenged to step up and make an impact.
AISV’s approach to leadership isn’t confined to school walls. Students are encouraged to engage with their communities, understanding that leadership begins with listening and inclusion. This blend of skill-building and social responsibility ensures that AISV graduates are equipped to lead with compassion and confidence in an interconnected world.
More Than Just a Campus
AISV’s facilities go beyond functionality—they inspire. Step into the professional music studio, and you’ll find budding musicians composing, collaborating, and finding their creative voices. The gyms and fitness rooms aren’t just for workouts; they’re spaces where students build resilience, teamwork, and lifelong healthy habits.
The climbing wall, an unexpected highlight, challenges students to push past their limits, developing problem-solving skills and perseverance in the process. And then there are the art rooms—spaces brimming with color, creativity, and self-expression.
“These spaces are where students discover who they are outside the classroom,” says Ruz. AISV’s holistic approach ensures that every child grows not just academically but emotionally, creatively, and physically, ready to take on life with a balanced mindset.
Beyond the Bell
Extracurricular programs at AISV are where passions ignite and talents flourish. For younger students, after-school activities range from sports to language learning, ensuring that everyone finds something they love. The joy on their faces as they explore new hobbies is contagious.
For older students, the stakes and excitement grow. AISV’s participation in regional and international leagues like CEESA and VISSA brings unique opportunities for competition and camaraderie. Whether it’s debating at MUN, strategizing in a basketball game, or performing at a cultural festival, AISV students are constantly challenged to grow beyond academics.
“Extracurriculars are an extension of our mission to connect, inspire, and empower,” Ruz shares. These activities, coupled with the school’s innovative spirit, make AISV a thriving hub of discovery and growth, nurturing students who are as passionate as they are well-rounded.
The Heart of Well-being at AISV
At AISV, well-being isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a central tenet of the school’s philosophy. Recognizing that thriving students are happy and healthy students, AISV provides an array of programs designed to nurture mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
The school’s dedicated counselors play a pivotal role, offering tailored support to students across all grade levels. Through one-on-one sessions, group discussions, and workshops on topics like stress management and resilience, they ensure that every student feels heard and supported. “At AISV, we believe that a well-supported student is an empowered student,” shares Ruz.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is another cornerstone of this approach. By integrating SEL into the curriculum, AISV equips students with vital life skills—empathy, communication, and self-awareness—that go beyond academics. Programs like mindfulness activities, peer support groups, and well-being days create moments for students to pause, reflect, and connect with themselves and others.
But well-being doesn’t stop at the emotional level. Physical health is prioritized through robust physical education and extracurricular programs, promoting active lifestyles and teamwork. Together, these efforts create an environment where students not only excel academically but thrive emotionally and socially—a true testament to AISV’s holistic philosophy.
A School Where Every Student Matters
Inclusion and individual support are the bedrock of AISV’s ethos, creating an environment where every student feels valued and empowered. Through a combination of personalized learning pathways and inclusive practices, AISV meets students where they are, helping them reach their fullest potential.
One of the standout initiatives is the Advisory Program, where students join small groups led by faculty advisors. These groups foster deep personal connections, offering mentorship and guidance on academic, social, and emotional fronts. It’s a safe space where students can voice their thoughts and grow under consistent, caring supervision.
AISV’s commitment to personalized learning shines through its inquiry-based curriculum. Students explore topics that resonate with their passions and cultural identities, encouraging curiosity and intellectual engagement. Ruz elaborates, “By valuing their unique perspectives, we inspire students to see themselves as contributors to their own education.”
For upper-grade students, the personalized approach extends to college counseling. AISV’s dedicated counselor collaborates closely with each student to set academic goals, chart career paths, and identify the best-fit universities. Whether aiming for a top-tier institution or an unconventional career, students receive the guidance they need to succeed.
Cultural diversity is celebrated at every turn. School events such as Arts Fest and heritage celebrations provide vibrant opportunities for students to honor their individuality and share their traditions with peers. And with equitable access to learning opportunities, from fine arts to service projects, every student finds their niche, developing both intellectually and as empathetic global citizens.
AISV’s Vision for the Future
The future is bright for AISV as it embarks on an ambitious journey of growth, innovation, and excellence. With plans to expand its student body to 500 while maintaining the hallmark quality of education, AISV is poised to redefine its role as a leader in international education in Vilnius.
At the heart of these plans is the renovation of the historic Upper School building. The transformation will create a state-of-the-art campus that matches the modernity and functionality of the recently completed Lower School. Ruz describes this as “a space designed for the learners of tomorrow—one that inspires creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.”
AISV’s focus on project-based learning will also deepen, with hands-on, inquiry-driven opportunities in STEAM, entrepreneurship, and leadership. These initiatives aim to prepare students not just for university but for the evolving demands of a global workforce. Alternative pathways, emphasizing innovation and adaptability, will provide students with the tools to thrive in both traditional and non-traditional career trajectories.
Inclusivity and well-being remain at the core of this vision. By fostering a culture of belonging and care, AISV continues to create an environment where every student feels valued. “We want our students to graduate as compassionate, capable individuals who are ready to shape the future,” shares Ruz.
Beyond academics, the school will sustain its commitment to extracurricular excellence. From sports and leadership activities to artistic endeavors and the prestigious IB Diploma Program, AISV will continue to offer a well-rounded education that develops both intellect and character.
AISV isn’t just preparing students for the next step—it’s shaping a generation of leaders, innovators, and empathetic global citizens who will make a meaningful impact on the world.
For More Info: https://www.aisv.lt/