United Nations International School
General Information
About United Nations International School
The United Nations International School (UNIS) is a private, co‑educational day school located in Manhattan, New York, offering programmes from Pre‑K through Grade 12. Founded in 1947 by a group of United Nations parents seeking an international education that honoured diverse cultural heritages, UNIS has grown into a globally recognised Pre‑K‑12 institution. Its mission emphasises academic excellence, cross‑cultural communication, creativity and innovation, aligned with the ideals of the United Nations. Situated on a campus overlooking the East River, the school draws students representing more than 100 countries and home‑languages, thereby fostering a truly global learning environment. As a college‑preparatory institution with the International Baccalaureate diploma as its culmination, UNIS aims to prepare students for admission to top universities worldwide while nurturing global citizens committed to peace, compassion and sustainability.
Contact Information for United Nations International School
Address: 24‑50 FDR Drive, New York, NY 10010 USA
Phone: (212) 584‑3071
Email: admissions@unis.org
School Facts for United Nations International School
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1947 |
| Motto / Guiding | “Under the auspices of the United Nations and guided by its ideals” – rigorous international program, inclusive and diverse learning environment. |
| School Type | Private, non‑sectarian, co‑educational day school (Pre‑K to Grade 12) |
| Campus Location | Manhattan, New York City, overlooking the East River |
| Student Population | Approximately 1,450 students |
| International Reach | Students from ~109 countries, ~91 home languages spoken |
United Nations International School Rankings
| Ranking Scope | Position/Detail |
|---|---|
| State / Private K‑12 (NY) | Ranked among the “Most Diverse Private K‑12 Schools in New York” (#11 of 158) |
| Graduation Rate | Reported 100% of students go on to 4‑year college programmes |
| Global School Rankings | As a K‑12 day school, not typically ranked globally in university tables; emphasis is on international curriculum and IB diploma rather than global school ranking. |
United Nations International School Academics
United Nations International School Faculties / Departments
- Junior School (Pre‑K to Grade 4)
- Middle School (Grades 5‑8)
- Tutorial House / High School (Grades 9‑12)
- Modern Languages Department (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian)
- Sciences Department
- Mathematics Department
- Humanities / Social Studies Department
- Arts (Visual & Performing) Department
- Athletics and Physical Education Department
- Technology / Computer Science Department
- Student Support & Learning Services Department
United Nations International School Courses and Programs / Majors
- International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (Grades 11‑12)
- IB Courses in subjects such as Math Analysis, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Visual Arts, Film, Music, Theory of Knowledge
- Language A & B options in English, French, Spanish, and Language C in Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian
- Core programmes in Junior School and Middle School designed to build inquiry, critical thinking, global awareness
Online Learning
While UNIS is fundamentally a day school rooted in in‑person learning, the institution reports readiness for virtual learning environments and hybrid learning, with technology‑enabled classrooms and provisions for online instruction when necessary.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Score/Detail |
|---|---|
| SAT Average | ~1370 (based on 120 responses) |
| ACT Average | ~31 (based on 56 responses) |
| IB Diploma Success | As an authorised IB school, UNIS participates in the IB Diploma Programme; specific average score not publicly published. |
Retention and Graduation Rates
UNIS reports a strong retention pattern: for example the website notes that the average annual attrition rate over five years is only around 10 %, and over 60 % of the graduating class has been enrolled since kindergarten. The school also reports that its graduates virtually all advance directly to four‑year colleges, signalling a 100 % graduation to college matriculation rate.
United Nations International School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
While UNIS does not publish a formal GPA admission range in the same way universities do, successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic performance against rigorous international curricula, strong language skills, and readiness for the IB programme. SAT scores of 1300‑1400 + or ACT scores 30+ represent competitive ranges based on publicly reported averages.
United Nations International School Acceptance Rate
| Year | Estimated Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Latest (approx.) | ~10 % |
United Nations International School Application Requirements
Applicants to UNIS should submit the completed application form, academic transcripts or school reports, standardized test or assessment results (as required for grade level), teacher recommendations where applicable, and participate in an evaluation or interview to determine fit for the IB‑based, international programme. The school also reviews language proficiency and alignment with the school’s mission of global citizenship. Priority is given to children of United Nations staff, though admission is open to other families as space permits.
Application Process
- Complete UNIS online or paper application form
- Submit previous school records/transcripts
- Provide relevant standardized assessment or testing data
- Arrange for teacher recommendation and language assessment if necessary
- Attend interview or assessment at the school
- Receive admissions decision and confirm enrolment
- Submit re‑enrolment or deposit fees upon acceptance
United Nations International School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Application Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Entry 2026‑27 Main Cycle | Application opens 1 September; due 15 November 2025 |
| Mid‑Year Entry | Applications by 1 March 2026; enrol by 17 March 2026 |
Essay Prompt
As part of its admissions process, candidates may be asked to submit a personal statement or essay reflecting on their international experience, language learning, cultural perspective, and how they envisage contributing to a diverse global learning community aligned with the UNIS mission.
United Nations International School Scholarships
UNIS offers a limited range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities intended to support families aligned with the school’s mission and demonstrating need. Applicants are encouraged to apply for financial assistance as part of the admissions process. Specific details vary by year and availability.
United Nations International School Tuition and Fees
| Grade Level | Annual Tuition (2024‑25) |
|---|---|
| Pre‐K to Grade 4 | US $45,500 |
| Grades 5‑6 | US $45,834 |
| Grade 7‑8 | US $46,463 |
| Grade 9 | US $48,021 |
| Grade 10 | US $48,021 |
| Grade 11 | US $48,473 |
| Grade 12 | US $49,206 |
Additional fees apply including admissions fee, security deposit, new parent levy, capital surcharge and optional program costs.
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
UNIS enrols students across age bands from Pre‑K (typically age 4) up to Grade 12 (age 17‑18). Gender balance is co‑educational; while specific gender percentages are not publicly detailed, the school emphasises balanced and inclusive admission. Regarding ethnicity and race, the student body represents more than 100 countries and approximately 91 home languages, indicating high cultural and linguistic diversity.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
UNIS maintains support services for students with varied learning needs and promotes inclusion across its student body. While the school does not publish detailed statistics on low‑income students, its financial aid programmes and commitment to inclusive education reflect an awareness of access and equity. The school’s mission emphasises fostering an inclusive environment where all students, including those with learning differences, are supported.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approx. 1,450 – 1,500 students |
| International Students | Students represent ~109 countries and ~91 home languages |
| Student‑Teacher Ratio | Approximately 5:1 |
University Diversity
At UNIS, diversity is a core pillar. The school community brings together students and families from a vast range of cultural, linguistic, national and socio‑economic backgrounds, creating a rich environment of global perspectives and dialogue. With students from over 100 countries and dozens of languages spoken at home, the daily learning experience is inherently international. This diversity is intentionally leveraged in the classroom and beyond—students engage in collaborative inquiry, language learning, Model UN conferences and community service projects that draw on different perspectives. The inclusive ethos is tied to the school’s mission of fostering peace, compassion and sustainability through education. In such a context, students learn not just subject matter, but how to work across differences, respect varied worldviews and contribute to a global society. The multicultural setting enhances global awareness, critical thinking and adaptability—key traits for success in a diverse and interconnected world.
Average Earnings
Although UNIS is a K‑12 institution and does not directly publish post‑secondary earnings data as universities do, graduates are well‑prepared for admission to competitive universities worldwide and subsequently for careers that yield strong earning potential. By virtue of rigorous academic preparation (IB diploma, high standardized test averages, multilingual skills) and strong university placement, alumni are positioned for professional success in global fields such as business, technology, international relations, law, medicine, arts and more. The combination of international credentials, language proficiency, and global mindset enhances their earnings trajectory over time, even though specific salary figures are not publicly detailed.
United Nations International School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
UNIS employs a highly qualified faculty and staff complement, including teachers with advanced degrees, international backgrounds and experience in the International Baccalaureate system. The school emphasises small class sizes, personalised instruction and multilingual teaching. For example, junior school classes range from 12 to 23 students, often with two full‑time teachers; middle and high school classes typically range up to 24 students. Staff roles extend beyond classroom instruction to include student support, language learning, global programs, extracurricular coordination and university counselling.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at UNIS often hold advanced degrees and bring international teaching experience, reflecting the global orientation of the school. As an authorised IB World School and member of various international school associations, the teaching staff are equipped to deliver a rigorous international curriculum. Many faculty members lead innovative programmes in languages, sciences, global affairs, arts and service learning. Their achievements include guiding students to IB excellence, facilitating Model UN activities, and fostering cross‑cultural learning environments. The school’s leadership emphasises continuing professional development and multicultural competence, aligning faculty expertise with the school’s mission of shaping global citizens.
United Nations International School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Although UNIS is a day school (non‑boarding) in urban Manhattan, campus life is vibrant and global. Students participate in a wide range of co‑curricular activities, clubs, travel programmes, service initiatives and arts and athletics teams. Facilities include science labs, art studios, two theatres, music practice rooms, gyms, sports fields and running track. Day students may commute from the region; there is no on‑campus boarding housing for full‑time residence. The cost of attendance (tuition) reflects the comprehensive programme and urban location but specialized housing options are not applicable.
Transportation
Located at 24‑50 FDR Drive in Manhattan, UNIS is accessible via city public transportation (subway, bus) and offers convenient commuter access for day students. The urban campus footprint and proximity to major transit routes facilitate arrival from many parts of New York City and surrounding suburbs. The school also provides information and coordination for families relocating internationally, including transportation logistics and student support. After‑school care and programmes are available for students requiring extended day services.