Academic Readiness Framework

A Pre-Arrival Academic & Cultural Preparation Model  
for International K-12 Students

The Framework Modules represent the core preparation components of the Academic Readiness Framework. Each module addresses a specific readiness domain and is designed to support pre-arrival academic and institutional alignment for international K–12 students entering U.S. schools.

Modules may be applied individually or in combination, depending on identified readiness needs and institutional context.

How the Modules Work

The modules are designed as flexible preparation components rather than a fixed or linear curriculum. They support different student profiles and institutional expectations by addressing specific readiness gaps prior to school entry.
Modules align with the three-stage structure of the Academic Readiness Framework and are designed to address identified readiness gaps prior to school entry.
By structuring readiness into clearly defined modules, the framework supports targeted preparation prior to arrival while remaining adaptable to different student profiles and institutional contexts.

Modules Overview

01
Academic Expectations & Assessment Literacy
Introduces students to common academic expectations, grading practices, and assessment formats used in U.S. K–12 classrooms.

Focus areas may include:

  • Grading systems and performance evaluation
  • Assignment structure and academic deadlines
  • Assessment formats and feedback interpretation
02
Academic Communication & Classroom Participation
Addresses communication norms and participation practices commonly observed in U.S. classroom environments.

Focus areas may include:

  • Classroom discussion norms
  • Question-asking and clarification practices
  • Student–teacher communication expectations
03
Analytical Reading & Academic Writing Foundations
Supports the development of foundational skills required for analytical reading and structured academic writing.

Focus areas may include:

  • Reading comprehension strategies
  • Evidence-based responses
  • Structured written expression
04
Learning Independence & Study Skills
Focuses on skills related to learning autonomy and academic self-management.

Focus areas may include:

  • Time management and workload planning
  • Independent study expectations
  • Organization of academic tasks
05
STEM Readiness Foundations (Contextual Alignment)
Addresses contextual differences in STEM instruction and expectations between international and U.S. K–12 education systems.

Focus areas may include:

  • Problem-solving approaches
  • Instructional formats and pacing
  • Application of conceptual knowledge
06
School Culture & Behavioral Norms
Introduces institutional culture and behavioral expectations commonly observed in U.S. schools.

Focus areas may include:

  • Classroom conduct and collaboration norms
  • Academic integrity expectations
  • School policies and behavioral frameworks
07
Pre-Arrival Orientation to U.S. School Systems
Provides contextual orientation to structural and operational aspects of U.S. K–12 education systems.

Focus areas may include:

  • School organization and scheduling
  • Academic calendars and reporting structures
  • Support services and student resources
08
Family Readiness & Transition Awareness
Supports families in understanding academic and institutional transitions associated with U.S. school entry.

Focus areas may include:

  • Family roles in academic support
  • Communication with schools
  • Transition expectations during early academic months

Relationship to the Framework

Each module supports one or more stages of the Academic Readiness Framework. Together, the modules form a cohesive preparation model that enables readiness development before arrival while remaining adaptable to different institutional and student contexts.
This structure supports scalability across different school models and education systems without requiring institutional restructuring.

Access and Use

The modules are developed as part of an open-access academic initiative and are intended for non-commercial, educational use. The framework and its modules are designed to support readiness alignment and institutional planning rather than replace school-based instruction, admissions processes, or academic evaluation.
The initiative is designed to complement existing institutional processes and contribute to system-level readiness alignment rather than individual admissions outcomes.

To explore how the framework supports institutional readiness and educator implementation, see For Educators.

Academic Readiness Framework

An open-access academic initiative focused on pre-arrival preparation
for international K–12 students entering U.S. schools.
© 2026 Academic Readiness Framework