A typical ISA school uses an international curriculum, such as the IB programme, or a national curriculum that is different to the host country. Schools may be accredited, members of an international school association or be aspiring to become an international school.
The ISA is especially appropriate for schools offering an IB programme. Around two-thirds of participating schools use one or more of the IB programmes. ISA tests can be broadly aligned with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP).
Schools using the assessment are situated in many countries around the world, as shown on the map below. Refer to our Participating Schools List to learn more.
The proportion of schools participating from different regions can be seen below.
| Region | Percentage of schools |
| Africa | 5% |
| Americas | 10% |
| Asia Pacific | 51% |
| Europe | 27% |
| Middle East | 7% |
The profile of participating schools is described further in terms of students’ first language. The table below shows the proportion of students with an English-speaking background (ESB) at the participating schools.
| Students with an English-speaking background | Percentage of schools |
| 15% or less | 36% |
| 16-35% | 19% |
| 36-55% | 14% |
| More than 55% | 31% |