ISA Stories

Raised in Aberdeen and choosing an international education at ISA, read how Molly overcame major health challenges with dedicated support to gain her IB Diploma on her way to Northeastern University London with a semester in Boston.

Moving to ISA from Norway for Grade 11 and achieving an impressive 39 IB points taking Higher Level Maths, Chemistry, and Physics, read how Leonardo navigated international university applications to study Engineering at Belgium’s prestigious KU Leuven.

Securing top IGCSE and IB results on her way to studying Biomedical Sciences at the University of Edinburgh, read how Giovanna benefitted from ISA’s supportive high school curriculum and hands-on lab work as she worked towards her career goals.

From gaining his Climbing Wall Instructor qualification to volunteering with local charities, discover how Daniel’s DofE and CAS at ISA inspired him to take a hands-on Gap Year in Norway.

From researching her heritage through the IB Extended Essay to navigating the US application process with dedicated counselor support, read how Kristina secured her place at the University of Southern California (USC).

Heading to Abertay University to study Ethical Hacking, read how Jonathan built his tech portfolio, hands-on programming skills, and cybersecurity passion at ISA.

Having spent seven years at ISA after moving from Beirut, Gaianeh is now heading to Sciences Po Menton to study Law and Economics. Read how her complete ISA journey nurtured her passion for global politics and international relations.

Completing his two-year IB Diploma journey at ISA and now heading to Oxford to study Law, read how Amir developed key skills, global perspectives, and academic confidence along the way.

Discover how Grace turned her passion for hands-on learning into a mechanical engineering apprenticeship, showcasing the diverse pathways and tailored career support available at ISA.

From Head Ambassador to Glasgow University student, read how Finlay’s time at ISA combined local roots with global perspectives to build lasting leadership skills and international connections.

Congratulations to Daria, ISA’s top IB scholar for 2026! Read how her time at ISA inspired her academic success and prepared her for the future.

Fatin joined ISA part of the way through Grade 10 after an international move, and completed her IB diploma qualification here in 2025. She is currently studying at Monash University in Malaysia.

Oleksii fled his home in Ukraine at the age of just 15. Read how a warm welcome and studying at ISA for the IB diploma helped him build a new life.

ISA feels like a second family for former student Marla. Read more about how the school’s ethos shaped her choice of university.

Julia received a full bursary to join ISA in Grade 9, after attending local schools. Read how the opportunity to complete high school at ISA opened doors.

Small class sizes helped Joseph to settle into life at ISA after he joined us in Grade 7. Read more about how he uses his love of animation to help with his schoolwork.

The people at ISA and our values are important to student Saoirse. Read more about how our diversity gives her the opportunity to experience different cultures and beliefs from across the globe.

As US expats, the Hewitt family chose ISA to provide a grounding balance for their children to grow up Scottish but with a strong global mindset. Read more about how life here provides an education which echoes their own experience and aspirations.

Coming from Nepal, Aarambha has found a sense of belonging and inclusivity at ISA which makes him feel like he’s at home. Read more about how he has settled in and made special friends.

Middle school student Maggie loves PE lessons and is a talented footballer. Read more about the sporting opportunities this brings, including a trip to Norway to play in a tournament.

Rose has made the most of opportunities to travel while at ISA, including living with a Spanish family on language immersion trip to Madrid and Alicante. Read more about the incredible experiences she has enjoyed.

When Ashley’s family first arrived in Aberdeen, they intended to stay for just six months, yet 10 years later she was walking across the stage at ISA’s graduation ceremony. Read more about how ISA’s education would shape her future.

Ivan received offers from both the University of Cambridge and the London School of Economics. Read how the ISA’s small class sizes and high quality teaching helped his learning journey.